BALDEH OMAR (APU Student／Republic of The Gambia)｜Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

After I graduate, I aspire to enroll in a graduate program that will equip me with more knowledge in Culture, Society, and Media. My primary goal after completing graduate studies is to return to my home country, The Gambia. I am eager to make a real difference in the cultural and social landscape of The Gambia. I plan to work with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to promote cross-cultural understanding and collaboration within and outside The Gambia. I am passionate about promoting girl-child education, we can empower young women to achieve their dreams, contribute to their communities, and drive national development. "When you educate a girl child, you educate the world." Those words resonate with me deeply. I want to help build a more inclusive and equitable society in The Gambia, where we respect traditional culture but also embrace progressive values. With my future work, I hope to inspire others and play a part in creating a society that values girl child education and inclusivity.

Regarding my time at APU, I have my sights set on three main goals: academic excellence, personal growth, and cultural exploration. Firstly, I want to do well in my studies because that is what sets me up for future success. I am engaging with my classes and making the most of everything APU has to offer in terms of resources. I am also looking to get involved in extracurricular activities. Joining clubs and organizations will be a fantastic way to sharpen my leadership skills, make lasting friendships, and discover new interests. APU's diverse and multicultural vibe is something I am excited about, this will make me see the world from different perspectives, learn about various traditions, and share a bit about my own culture. I plan to join campus events and initiatives that celebrate APU’s multicultural identity. APU is a community perfect for growing both academically and personally. By fully engaging with all the opportunities at APU, I hope to craft a rich and fulfilling student experience that will set me up for whatever challenges and opportunities come my way.

My experience at APU has been nothing short of amazing. The academic facilities, and the rich multicultural community all make it a great place to be. It is a learning space that encourages you to grow intellectually while also diving into the beauty of different cultures. APU is the perfect University for anyone looking to flourish. What stands out to me is how APU connects students from all over the globe, creating this tiny world where various perspectives are shared and appreciated. My impressions have been deeply enriching, Japanese culture, with its focus on respect, discipline, and harmony, is truly inspiring. I have found myself drawn to the delicate beauty of traditional practices like tea ceremonies, greeting, and eating manners. The Japanese language has been such an engaging adventure. It has helped me grasp the cultures and values woven into the language. In a nutshell, both APU and Japan have widened my horizons and enriched my view of the world.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the donors who made the Global Leadership Scholarship possible. Seriously, your kindness has not just opened doors for me, but for so many other students chasing their dreams at APU. For a lot of us, this scholarship is much more than just financial help; it is proof of your faith in the power of education and the ability of young leaders to make a difference. Without this amazing support, many of us might not have had the chance to study in such a vibrant, globally-minded environment. APU is truly a fantastic place for academic excellence, cultural exchange, and developing leadership skills, and this scholarship allows students from different backgrounds who may otherwise struggle financially to access that opportunity. Your contributions reach far beyond individual lives. They are investments in a generation of leaders, who are ready to tackle global challenges, promote understanding, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond. I am incredibly grateful for this chance, and I promise to make the most out of it by studying hard and giving back in meaningful ways. Thank you for believing in us and supporting our potential to make positive changes.