Inside the Open Dreams Summer Academy: Leadership, Essays, and the Power of Expression | Emmanuel Kum

There’s something deeply fulfilling about standing in front of a room full of young, determined students eager to learn, question, and challenge the status quo. At this year’s Open Dreams Summer Academy, I had the privilege of leading an interactive session on Leadership, Crafting Essays that Stand Out, and the Art of Professional Communication through Emails.

The conversation on leadership started with a simple but powerful question: “What does leadership look like in your world?” The answers were as diverse as they were inspiring; some spoke about leading by example, others about being the voice for the voiceless, and a few saw leadership in everyday acts of kindness. Together, we unpacked what it means to lead with authenticity, empathy, and vision.

When it came to essay writing, the students were surprised to learn that great essays are not just about perfect grammar but about telling your story in a way that is raw, real, and unforgettable. We dissected examples, shared personal stories, and talked about how the best essays often come from moments of vulnerability.

And yes, we went beyond the usual classroom lessons to discuss a skill that is often overlooked but incredibly powerful, drafting and sending professional emails. From the importance of subject lines to structuring your message in a way that demands attention and respect, we had fun role-playing email scenarios (some of which had everyone laughing at how not to write an email).

Watching these students soak up knowledge, ask bold questions, and confidently share their dreams reminded me why I do this work. These are the leaders of tomorrow, dreamers, problem-solvers, and change-makers in the making.

To every student who attended: Never underestimate the power of your story or the impact of your voice. The world is waiting to hear from you.

• Emmanuel Kum | Open Dreams