Marking a Milestone: U-GO’s 2nd Anniversary
U-GO celebrated its 2nd anniversary by hosting the U-GO India Summit 2024 from December 9-11 in Bangalore. Organized in partnership with the Milaan Foundation, the summit brought together 199 first-generation college scholars pursuing STEM education under the theme “Together We Rise.”
Fostering Mentorship and Community Building
The event provided a platform for scholars from Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, many stepping outside their villages for the first time, to share their journeys, receive guidance, and navigate academic and professional challenges.
The summit opened with an inspiring keynote by Swayta Murarka and Manmeet Sandhu, followed by mentorship sessions led by esteemed women leaders, including Divya Narayanan, Manju Rangarajan, and Meenu Bhambani, who shared personal insights and practical advice.
Inspiring Words from U-GO Founder John Wood
Addressing the scholars via Zoom, John Wood, the founder of U-GO and Room to Read, said,
“Talent is universal, opportunity is not.”
His words resonated deeply, encouraging young women to dream big and work towards unlocking their true potential.
A Space to Empower Voices
Rati Misra, Executive Director of Milaan Foundation, emphasized the significance of the summit, saying:
“This summit brought to life the incredible potential of young women when given the tools and opportunities to thrive. It wasn’t just about learning or networking. It was about creating a space where their voices were heard, their struggles acknowledged, and their dreams celebrated.”
Highlights of the Summit
“Mulaqat” Sessions: Stories of Perseverance
One of the key highlights was the “Mulaqat” sessions, where accomplished women shared their stories of resilience and success. Scholars expressed their responses through heartfelt letters, showcasing how these narratives inspired them to face challenges like financial struggles, domestic violence, and gender discrimination.
Scholar Bheema from Karnataka shared:
“Listening to the stories of women leaders who overcame incredible challenges gave me the courage to push forward, no matter the obstacles. Their success makes me believe that one day, I too can inspire and guide girls like me.”
Workshops for Skill-Building and Community Impact
The summit also featured workshops focusing on practical skill-building, scholarship renewals, career strategies, and community-driven initiatives. These sessions emphasized the collective power of young women to bring meaningful change to their communities.
Identifying Areas for Improvement
Participants highlighted areas for further development, including:
- The need for trained counselors.
- Region-specific support systems.
- Speaker orientations and translators for broader engagement in future events.
A Vision for the Future
The U-GO India Summit 2024 stood as a testament to the transformative power of support and opportunity for young women. By nurturing resilience, fostering connections, and driving actionable change, the summit laid the foundation for a generation of leaders ready to shape a brighter and more inclusive future.
