Finally, the Open Dreams Summer Academy 2023, "Batch of Gratitude," has been concluded in Yaounde, marking the end of an incredible six-week journey for a remarkable group of students from various regions of Cameroon. Throughout the academy, these students received rigorous training in college preparation, essay writing, leadership, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. The sessions were perfectly facilitated by Open Dreams Scholars, mentors, and counselors within Cameroon and abroad.
One of the highlights of the program was the Open Dreams Hackathon, a collaborative learning experience in which the students were grouped into teams. Each team was tasked with identifying and addressing a specific community problem. The enthusiasm and dedication displayed by the students were truly inspiring as they worked diligently to develop innovative solutions. Their hard work culminated in a series of outstanding presentations during the closing ceremony, showcasing their impactful projects. As one of the facilitators for the #ODSA2023 in Yaounde, I feel immense joy and satisfaction. It was an amazing and exciting experience to witness the growth and development of these talented young individuals. The students' eagerness to learn, their passion for making a difference, and their unwavering commitment to their projects were commendable.
The Open Dreams Summer Academy provided a platform for these students to not only enhance their academic skills but also foster their leadership abilities and entrepreneurial mindset. By engaging with mentors and counselors, both local and international, the students gained valuable insights and guidance to navigate their educational and career paths successfully.
The impact of the academy extends beyond the classroom. The students' involvement in community engagement activities allowed them to recognize the power they possess to effect positive change. Through their projects, they demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges faced by their communities and showcased innovative strategies to address them.
The success of the Open Dreams Summer Academy is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved, including the students, facilitators, mentors, and counselors. It is collaborative efforts like these that we can empower the next generation of leaders, change-makers, and problem-solvers in Cameroon and beyond.
In conclusion, being a facilitator for the #ODSA2023 in Yaoundé was a genuinely fulfilling experience. Witnessing the exceptional talent, passion, and drive of these students was a constant source of inspiration. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to their educational journey and help shape their futures. The Open Dreams Summer Academy has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the lives of these students, and I am confident that they will continue to make a positive difference in their communities.
To the entire Batch of Gratitude, #ODSA2023, I sincerely appreciate and am grateful for your profound admiration. It was an honor to be part of your journey, and I do not doubt that every one of you will achieve remarkable things in the future.
Congratulations on your outstanding accomplishments, and may you continue to inspire others with your passion and dedication.
- By Claude Tomoh | Program Facilitator
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