Connect Program Impact: Spring 2026

“It was remarkable to discover just how aligned our perspectives can be, even when we come from drastically different cultures. Growing up in a very European environment, I found it valuable to hear directly from people in Southeast Asia and the United States. This cross-cultural exchange gave me a better understanding of other cultures and how to be more respectful, understanding, and open-minded in a day-to-day exchange with my peers.”

– Participant, Female, 23, Austrian, University of Portsmouth

What Participants Gained

93%

Improved cross-cultural
communication skills

92%

Improved their knowledge and/or interest in global events

86%

Improved
critical thinking skills

87%

Improved teamwork &
problem-solving skills

“Throughout my life, I have had the opportunity to meet many people from different cultural backgrounds, and we have often talked about cultural differences. However, these conversations were never as deep as the ones I experienced during this program. The Connect Program has been very valuable for my personal growth, especially in developing my communication and listening skills. More importantly, it helped me understand that engaging with different perspectives requires not only openness, but also the ability to question one’s own assumptions. I would gladly repeat this experience, as it allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of both others and myself.’’

– Female, 22, Italian, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Participants' Sense of Belonging

93%

Felt valued by the other young
people in the Connect Program

92%

Felt valued by the facilitator
in the Connect Program

92%

Felt included in all aspects of
the Connect Program

90%

Felt belonged in
the Connect Program

“The best thing about the Connect Program was the opportunity to connect with other students and professionals in a supportive environment. It created a sense of community and made it easier to share experiences, learn from others, and build meaningful relationships. The program also provided valuable guidance, resources, and activities that helped me develop both academically and personally. Through these experiences, I felt more confident, motivated, and prepared for future opportunities.”

– Participant, Male, 21, Moroccan, HEM Business School

Inspiring Action

92%

Agreed or strongly agreed that
they shared what they learned
with their community

92%

Felt motivated to learn how
dialogue can address tensions
in their communities

91%

Would recommend
Connect Program to friends
and colleagues

  • “The most important thing I took away was that disagreement doesn't have to be uncomfortable. I learned that you can hold your perspective firmly while still genuinely listening to someone who sees things differently, and that the conversation is actually richer for it.”

    Participant, Female, 23, American (US), Morgan State University

  • "Through the Connect Program, I learned that regardless of someone’s birthplace, religion, or ethnic background, meaningful communication and dialogue are always possible if there is a genuine willingness to connect. I also realized the importance of listening carefully, reflecting on why someone thinks or behaves in a certain way, and then responding thoughtfully with constructive feedback."

    Participant, Male, 28, Moroccan, American Language Center in Marrakesh

  • “What struck me most about the Connect Program was the idea of sitting at home and yet connecting with people from all over the world, genuinely listening to one another. I learned that building real relationships starts with being yourself; you can't really connect with people unless you express your thoughts and show who you are. I also learned that it's completely normal to be different, and that people can accept each other as they are.”

    Participant, Female, 20, Palestinian, An-Najah National University

  • “I really enjoyed the opportunity to build long-term relationships with group members. Our facilitator created a safe and comfortable environment that helped us engage with each other. It was especially interesting to hear participants speak about their own countries, because the media doesn't always do a country justice.”

    Participant, Female, 26, Tunisian, American Corners in Tunisia

  • “Facilitating with Soliya has been more than a role for me — it has been a deeply transformative journey. Skills that I learned extend beyond the sessions. I find myself applying them in my professional work as an educator, in my daily interactions, and even in challenging personal contexts.”

    Facilitator, Female, 44, Iraqi

  • "One of my students had a conversation with a peer in the West Bank and was able to ask her thoughts on some of the material we had learned about; other students shared the power of seeing firsthand how the war with Iran was impacting members of their groups in Lebanon and Iraq. Another student bonded with a student in Iraq over shared interests in sports. You can't plan for these kinds of interactions, but when they happen it can be magical, and these conversations made what we talked about in class a lot more real and relevant."

    Implementer, Niagara University, USA

The Soliya Connect Program is offered exclusively through partnered universities and programs.

Our curriculum is rigorously evaluated and evidence-based.

Bring CONNECT to Your Campus

Maybe we’re already at your institution? Connect Program Institutional Partners