|
|
 |
Read what 2009 Ford Fellows, have said about the program.
"The 92nd Street Y] was intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking. Learning happened in the true sense of the team, as group members represented qualities that were complementary. The program helped me to reflect on a number of issues including my own role in the group. I believe I am a changed person in the positive sense and shall contribute to the success of the program in any possible way I can. In addition to the actual program, I have learned a great deal in terms of planning, communication, and coordination from the Y team.”
-– Firew Kefyalew Mekonnen
" have no words to express this experience. It was a wonderful time for me to know good-hearted people with a strong passion to change the world into a better place.
—Anonymous
"ldquo;The 92nd Street Y will remain in my memory as a small land of happiness and development, where human beings of different cultures feel comfortable and happy and enjoy being together and learning from each other.”
– Jhale Hajiyeva
"Through participation in the Picker Center at SIPA Columbia University, I learned new approaches and practices of leadership, the professional role of the manager, managing financial resources, creating professional relations with media and other stakeholders. Also I got appropriate advice for my own case and strategic vision which will contribute to the future life of my organization.
—Anonymous
"The visits were opportunities to learn about how NGOs function in NYC. I have gotten ideas that I will be using in my work. The visits rendered a practical angle to the whole Fellowship program. –Firew Kefyalew Mekonnen
"All of these activities gave us a profound sense of the American experience and the landscape, both physical and cultural, of New York City. It was very helpful to see successful models in New York and encouraging to see the symbiosis of brain and heart in these admirable organizations.
–Elisabeth Chouraqui-Chemla
"[The trip to Ford Motor Company Fund in Dearborn] was the best ending for our experiences. I think this trip showed us the professionalism and responsibility in their jobs and in the relationship between the company and the community. They are a role model of a company that practices corporate social responsibility!
—Anonymous
"To see in flesh and blood how business can have a human face!
—Anonymous |
|
Read what 2008 Ford Fellows, have said about the program.
“It was a learning and sharing experience about NGO’s [from] around the world. This experience will take us to the next level of leadership and management.”
“The humane nature of the 92nd Street Y is amazing-- the model of a center that cares for all family members (very holistic). Keep it up—it’s a learning model.”
“I sharpened my leadership saw.”
“Stripping [my role] as a manager/ leader and helping me to synchronize the head and the heart with the gut in order to take the organization to greater heights.”
“A hard-to-find opportunity to meet and interact and befriend like-minded people from other countries and the opportunity to attend classes in such an important educational institute.”
“I really learned a lot, and as an emerging leader, I feel so empowered and fortunate to have been part of such an excellent program.”
“It was an AMAZING experience, not only did I learn a lot, but I got to know interesting and wonderful people from the U.S. and the world. The level of the contacts is incredible. I couldn’t believe we met so many CEO’s and head executives. I’m sure the bonds established between all the fellows will keep us in communication for a long time and will result in future collaboration.”
“It’s a life changing opportunity, but only if you decide to make the choice.”
“It’s invaluable to our work, not to feel alone out there...”
“The “Y Family” was amazingly warm and kind to the fellows--- with no exception.”
“Fuel to the soul”
“It was like a professional rehabilitation for me. Coming from a worn-out, burnt-out experience, the program allowed me to re-find the passion, energy and motivations I have for changing the world for the better.”
“[The courses] were even more than I expected. Intelligent teachers, open and friendly atmosphere. Knowledge I needed.”
“I am going back revitalized, enriched and eager to pursue more dreams. I have also been given many of the tools to do so.” |
|
Read what 2007 Ford Fellows, pictured above, have said about the program.
"My home is home to any Ford Fellow" |
|
| From the Fellowship, one Fellow gained "many new future ideas, renewed energy" and was "happy to see people from all corners of the world having fun for three weeks." They "shared some sad moments together" but "seeing a Jewish Israeli guy having fun with a Muslim Sudanese... It is all possible, and we must not give in to all prejudice." |
|
| "Amazing opportunity, I feel so privileged to be part of it. I learned so much, felt I was with people who understood the world I am in." |
|
| "New perspectives, new energy, sharing of ideas, global perspective, new contacts. I'm refreshed!" |
|
| "I just want to say thank you. I cannot believe this is all over. I am glad I was chosen to be a part of the program and I know I will either be able to use or share the experience with others. It's not easy, trying to change the world for the better. And yet there is nothing better than to be involved in the movement!" |
|
| "I am so inspired by so many things—the interaction with other countries, the studies, the care. The inspiration is both short and long term, things I want to do now and in five years. I discovered qualities in myself which I have been missing for a long time and the program really gave me the tools to both believe in and affect change." |
|
| "The program is so well organized it amazed me everyday!! Well done guys—your contacts are amazing and the opportunities you opened up for us were much appreciated. I think one of my favorite experiences was the country presentations—amazing opportunity to learn and share. And spending time with the other fellows—what else can I say, amazing!!" |
|
"I am going home tired but with the persistence to change this world for the better"
"I believe in myself a little more. I have more people to lean on for advice, support and care."
"Nothing is impossible... Believe in it and you can change the world."
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
