Meet the 2023 SUSI on Civic Engagement Participants: Part 2!

The Study of the US Institute (SUSI) for Student Leaders on Civic Engagement includes 20 undergraduates from Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

During the 5-week program, the group travels to Washington D.C. and Seattle to study civic engagement and participate in volunteer activities, leadership workshops, and cultural excursions.

Program themes include civil rights, grassroots student activism, volunteerism, political leadership, citizen advocacy, and minority political engagement. Throughout the program, participants take part in intensive project planning seminars to prepare them to develop and lead projects that benefit their home communities.

This is a program of the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, with funding provided by the U.S. Government, administered by Meridian International Center and FIUTS. The 2023 program will run from January 10-February 10 in Seattle and from February 11-15 in D.C.

Get to know some of our SUSI participants below! If you’re a university or college student who would like to sign up to be an ambassador, click HERE! If you’re a community member interested in hosting some of our SUSI participants, click HERE or contact Jason at jason@fiuts.org for more information!

My name is Allan Chipoyi and I am a youthful Zimbabwean Human Rights Defender fighting against autocracy in Zimbabwe and beyond. I am also the Chairperson of the Project Vote 263, an organization which was formed in Zimbabwe by young people to educate people on why it is important to register to vote. I am the current University of Zimbabwe Student Representative Council (SRC) President. I am a firm believer of the rule of law and freedom of expression and association.

My name is Wisney Sumalgy, I’m 20 years old and I’m from Maputo, Mozambique. I study architecture and urbanism. I have 5 brothers and I’m the middle child. I live with my mother and my sister.I am a member of a movement called The Word and part of the creative team at my church. I really like to get to know new people, places, cultures and take pictures while experiencing new things!

My name is Edna Miranda Respeito. I'm from Maputo, Mozambique. My area of study is public health and my favorite subject to study is education. I look forward to making new friends during my time in Seattle!

My name is Ega Gagoope Duduzile Nkoni from Botswana.I am a fourth year International Business student at the University of Botswana. Aside from school, I am very interested in volunteer work because I believe it boosts one's self confidence, self esteem, and life satisfaction. I began volunteering with the SRHR Africa Trust (SAT). SAT assists adolescents and young people in Southern Africa in developing healthy, happy, confident, and safe adulthood pathways. I also educate the youth about the different contraceptive methods that are offered by the organization and educate about and encourage HIV testing and STI screening. I also joined Youth Power Hub as one of Botswana’s Representatives. Youth Power Hub is also an international organization that prides itself in teaching youth and adults about social accountability. In Botswana, under Youth Power Hub, I host seminars for young people to teach them about social accountability and how they can hold policy makers accountable for the different policies they have made.

 My name is Ngadzi Goitsemang and I am  a fourth year student from Botswana aiming to get my Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences by majoring in psychology and sociology. I find meaning in giving back to the community and am a research assistant, mentor, and tutor. I like rose planting, baking, jogging, and puppies.

My name is Chemila Cássimo Nivale, I am from Cabo Delgado, the Pemba city. I am currently a student of geological engineering at Lúrio University. In addition to my training area, I seek to leverage my knowledge through complementary courses and extracurricular work. In my free time, I like to draw, read and watch my favorite shows.

My name is Adilson Kassanga. I'm from Lubango Province in Angola. I study law and English language teaching.

My name is Chelsia Dala and I am from Luanda, Angola. I am currently studying Accounting and Administration at the Catholic University of Angola. I am fascinated by marketing and communication. I am excited for this new experience in my life and hope that it not only changes my life but the life of those surrounding me as well.

My name is Wangu Kose Mahama. I’m a training logistics & supply chain management professional from Botswana, Africa. I have a keen interest in topics related to tourism, business administration, innovation as well as science & technology. I am also an athletic individual who enjoys adrenaline filled activities. In my spare time, I travel, prepare the best meals, watch movies, some F1 races, and stay updated with the latest global trends.

We hope you enjoyed getting to know some of our upcoming SUSI on Civic Engagement participants! You can read about the first half of the participants HERE: https://www.fiuts.org/blog/2022/12/20/meet-the-2023-susi-on-civic-engagement-participants