I am a Critical Realist researcher in the Sociology of Education, developing a theory of Positive Organisational Culture. My research explores how organisational environments shape people's experiences, opportunities, and sense of belonging, with an initial focus on the transition to secondary schooling and wider implications for organisations beyond education.

Hi! I’m Sophie Kleina, a Psychological and Behavioural Sciences student at the University of Cambridge. I’m passionate about language learning and preservation, which is why my Laidlaw research project focuses on the Kashubian language- a regional and Indigenous language of northern Poland, and a heritage I’m proud to be part of. My academic interests span sociology, linguistics, psychology, and education, and I’m especially drawn to work that supports cultural diversity, educational access, and meaningful social change. I care deeply about doing work that helps people, strengthens communities, and protects the richness of human language and identity. I’m always eager to learn from others and collaborate on projects that make a difference- feel free to connect!

The Border Community Alliance (BCA) provides immersive, educational experiences in the U.S.–Mexico borderlands, centred on Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora. Its programmes explore the region’s histories, cultures, and policy realities while dispelling common myths about life at the border. Learn more at https://bordercommunityalliance.org/ Responsibilities & Ideal Background Support community immersion and learning through activities such as language/translation, attending and helping facilitate educational talks and site visits, and assisting with light coordination and outreach. A good fit is someone with at least intermediate Spanish and a strong curiosity about border issues. Interests in art, history, politics, migration, economics, and related fields are helpful. You should be open-minded, respectful in diverse community settings, and comfortable learning across perspectives. LiA Champion Our LiA Champion is Allie Schlicht. Curious about this project but not sure where to start? Allie can share candid insights from their experience—what the work involved, skills that proved useful, and pointers for exploring a good fit. You can contact Allie directly at ars395@georgetown.edu. You can also view her profile here: https://laidlawscholars.network/users/aliyah-schlicht Organisation Contacts If you’d like to reach the Border Community Alliance about potential placements or programme details, you can contact: Celia Bavier, Executive Director – cbavier@bordercommunityalliance.org Amy Tice, Borderlands Ambassador Program Supervisor – amytice@bordercommunityalliance.org

A global community that connects engaged citizens, entrepreneurs and organizations to build an inclusive and sustainable society together. Through the re_action for impact programme, scholars take part in a six-week full-time summer experience with local partners to mobilise communities and deliver concrete actions on social and environmental challenges. Explore toolkits, videos and past scholar reflections: https://laidlawscholars.network/rooms/make_sense-re_action? Country focus In Medellín, scholars engage with creative-industries innovation to strengthen social cohesion and inclusion. Working alongside social enterprises and cultural organisations, you’ll co-create projects that build opportunities for youth in vulnerable communities, foster neighbourhood ties, and contribute to long-term peace and social resilience through arts, culture, and design-led interventions.

A global community that connects engaged citizens, entrepreneurs and organizations to build an inclusive and sustainable society together. Through the re_action for impact programme, scholars take part in a six-week full-time summer experience with local partners to mobilise communities and deliver concrete actions on social and environmental challenges. Explore toolkits, videos and past scholar reflections: https://laidlawscholars.network/rooms/make_sense-re_action? Country focus In Mexico City, scholars work at the intersection of climate change and its social impacts and gender violence. You’ll partner with grassroots organisations to enhance urban resilience (e.g., water management, equitable adaptation) and to support community-driven initiatives that empower women and advance gender equity. Expect deep field immersion, co-design with local partners, and leading volunteer teams to test concrete solutions.

Human Sciences finalist at University of Oxford, with a particular interest in health promotion and creation. Away from my studies, I am a keen triathlete, and love reading, tennis and cooking!

INCAE’s social impact research division promotes ethical, sustainable leadership informed by current development challenges. The ALSALUS partnership aims to increase breast-cancer screening for rural women in Costa Rica. Responsibilities & Ideal Background Qualitative, research-oriented work tailored to interests, with strong supervisor support and an independent work environment. A good fit is social, outgoing, and hard-working—able to self-manage deadlines. Work is likely more qualitative than quantitative; communication, research, and language skills are valuable. LiA Champion Our LiA Champion is Katherine Ward. Curious about this project but not sure where to start? They can share candid insights from their experience—what the work involved, skills that proved useful, and pointers for exploring a good fit. Please contact them via the Laidlaw Scholars Network: https://laidlawscholars.network/users/katherine-ward Organisation Contact INCAE – Social Impact / ALSALUS Email: ignacio.sanchez@incae.edu