Connect Program Impact: Spring 2024
“The best part of the Connect program was the friendships I made. Every Wednesday night when I would be getting ready for bed, I would find myself overly excited about the next day Soliya's meeting with my group members, preparing for what we would talk about. Then after the two-hour meeting, I would be on a high, telling my husband and other family members what we talked about. This may sound like an exaggeration, but I truly do not think I have had this amount of enriching and healthy academic dialogue. Many of the group members exchanged social media to follow each other on and keep in contact.”
– Participant, Female, 27, American, University of Texas San Antonio
Post-program Feedback
92% Believe Connect Program improved their interest in and/or knowledge of global events
92% Report they would recommend Connect Program to friends and colleagues
90% Agree their personal and/or professional skills increased as a result of participating
“The most important thing I learned in the Soliya Connect Program was the value of cross-cultural communication and understanding. Engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds helped me to appreciate different perspectives and challenged me to think critically about my own viewpoints. This experience has significantly enhanced my intercultural communication skills, teaching me how to effectively convey my ideas and empathize with others in a global context.”
– Participant, Male, 20, Libyan, University of Benghazi
What Participants Gained
Majorities agree or strongly agree that participating in Connect Program significantly improved skills crucial to thrive in today’s world.
85% Increased teamwork and collaborative problem solving
94% Improved cross-cultural communication skills
85% Increased critical thinking
“The impact of attending the Connect Program on my students is profound and far-reaching. It enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills, fosters collaboration and communication, cultivates creativity and adaptability, and promotes digital literacy. As a result, individuals who undergo such a program are better equipped to thrive in the modern world, contributing positively to their home university, classroom, and society at large. By investing in our human capital, we not only emphasize these skills but also enable individuals to unlock new opportunities and build a foundation for lifelong success. Thank you!”
– Implementer, Bethlehem University, Palestine
Participant Inclusion
80% Report that they built meaningful relationships during the live sessions
95% Felt they could be true to themselves throughout the program
99% Felt included in all aspects of Connect Program
“What motivates me to facilitate with Soliya is the safe space it gives to the participants to shine. As a former participant, I learned to be more self-confident, open minded, and aware. I also gained new skills like active listening, critical thinking, neutrality, and multipartiality that I never heard of before. Soliya offered me new perspective and a better community, which I feel that I finally found home. I would love to help other participants to have their own experience and find what they need in Soliya”
– Facilitator, Female, 27, Egyptian
Are you ready to initiate dialogues within your campus and join the Connect Program community?