The Dalai Lama once said, if you feel you are too small to make any changes, try living with mosquitoes (just for a few hours will do) 😊. First and foremost, we are not looking to be HUGE, we are looking to be impactful.

Back in 2019, I started with a small group of Excos when I was given the task to execute the Global Village agenda. These few principal Excos were so passionate about helping others while polishing their own leadership skills, and everything that comes with it – intercultural competency, decision-making, and especially, emotional intelligence. This was when some realized that happiness is actually a skill.

At USMi, we champion the discipline of intercultural competency through discipline and guided decision-making. Navigating through diverse cultures requires more than just knowledge, or mere tolerance; it demands a profound understanding and respect for differences. We strive to equip every member with the skills to make thoughtful decisions that honor these diversities.

We also deeply value humility and being humble. In a world bustling with achievements and accolades, we encourage taking a step back to appreciate the broader perspective. Humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.

Embracing the 'Global Village' agenda, we aim to make USMi a small representation of this big world. We seek to break down the silos that often constrain society's work, fostering a seamless integration of ideas and cultures. Imagine a village where every voice is heard, every tradition is respected, and every joke is appreciated – even the dad jokes!

From an Islamic perspective, we hold firm to the belief that we are all equal in the eyes of our Creator. Islam teaches us that when we pass from this life, three things remain: our charitable deeds, beneficial knowledge we've shared, and prayers from our righteous offspring. These teachings remind us of the enduring impact of our actions – not the wealth, the status or the social class we are in.

So, let’s laugh a little, learn a lot, and build a community where everyone can thrive because in our global village, every member is a key part of the story.

I always remind my Excos that they do not have to change their accent, bleach their skin, ditch your Salwar Kameez, Baju Melayu, or Cheong Sam and completely become another person just to be accepted. When you are true to yourself, the world will sing true to you.

Strength is found in differences, not similarities.

Syaheerah Lebai Lutfi, Ph.D

Founder and Principle Advisor,

USM International (USMi)

Deputy Director,

International Mobility and Collaboration Center (IMCC)

Universiti Sains Malaysia