Connect Program Impact: Spring 2026

“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.”

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

Knowledge & Skill Building

93%

Improved cross-cultural
communication skills

92%

Improved knowledge
of global events

86%

Improved
critical thinking skills

87%

Improved teamwork &
problem-solving skills

“I gained so many skills by facilitating! General confidence, public speaking, active listening, asking good questions, practicing empathy and ensuring that the participants feel respected and listened to. I have been applying these skills in my everyday life, including my professional work and personal relationships.”

– Female, 25, Polish

Inclusion Highlights

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.”

– Male, 21, Moroccan, HEM Business School

Activation & Empowerment

92%

Shared learning with
peers and communities

92%

Felt motivated to learn dialogue
for stronger communities

  • “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.”

    Female, 44, Iraqi

  • “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.”

    Female, 23, Austrian, University of Portsmouth

  • “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.”

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

  • "The best thing about the Connect Program was seeing students become more confident and engaged when interacting with peers from different cultural backgrounds. It was particularly rewarding to observe their improvement in communication skills and their growing openness to alternative perspectives during discussions in the Soliya Connect Program.”

    Nebil Khiari, Esprit Bussiness School, Tunisia

  • "I would like to give my student an international platform where they can use their English skills to share their linguistic identity and their experience living under occupation with the rest of the world. My students do not enjoy the freedom to travel, so being able to connect and make friends with international peers is great for their language, communication skills, and psychological well-being."

    Abdalkarim Zawawi, An Najah University, Palestine

  • "Yesterday we held a celebration event for students who completed the course and I can not express just how much they enjoyed the course. They have made life long friends and have developed so many transferable skills. They found the programme was well organised and structured - whilst at the same time giving them the ownership when required."

    Gary Dalton, Portsmouth University, UK

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