As a first-generation student from Jersey City, the opportunity to work with Inkululeko opened my eyes to a world I had only imagined. The idea of students thousands of miles apart, united in their educational pursuits yet shaped by vastly different cultures, ignited a curiosity that burned brighter than I could have predicted.

In January 2024, I took my first international flight to Makhanda, South Africa - a transformative journey that shed light on perspectives I had never encountered. For one immersive week, I was humbled by the resilience of the local community and enriched by their unique traditions. From savoring unfamiliar cuisines to witnessing the daily lives of my South African colleagues, each moment chipped away at my narrow worldview.

As the lead editor for Inkululeko's powerful podcast bridging students in Syracuse and Makhanda, I've had the privilege of amplifying voices across this geographic and cultural divide. Through poignant interviewings with learners, educators, lawyers and beyond, their poignant stories have not only heightened my appreciation for the educational opportunities so abundant in America, but have also fundamentally reshaped how I approach my journalistic work.

While I may have arrived in Makhanda as one person, I returned forever transformed - a metamorphosis sparked by the profound human connections forged through this extraordinary experience. No longer can I take the simple things for granted, having witnessed the tenacity and zest for knowledge that transcends systemic barriers. My time with Inkululeko has imbued me with a deeper sense of purpose to uplift the narratives that truly illuminate our shared human experience.