Baobab Summit 2023
Here. Now. Using Our Voices, Shaping the World.
The Baobab Summit is a gathering of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, where our Scholars, Alumni and partners come together to connect, co-create, share, learn and reflect.
The 2023 Virtual Baobab Summit has been thoughtfully designed based on the desires and aspirations of our Scholars and Alumni.
This year’s theme, “Here. Now. Using Our Voices, Shaping the World,” was co-created by the Scholars themselves. It celebrates the power of individual and collective action in making a positive impact.
It celebrates the power of individual and collective action in making a positive impact. This Summit aims to provide a platform that resonates with their unique journeys, offering them the chance to engage with topics and sessions of profound importance to them.
This year’s virtual summit is by invite only but we encourage you to join the ongoing conversation on social media with #Boabab2023. In addition, we will be posting highlights of the conversations here. Watch this space!
Baobab Summit 2023
Event 1: Here. Now: The Art of Courage
The 2023 Baobab Summit kicked-off with Here. Now: The Art of Courage. Hosted by Rosine Mukabagorora, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar Program Alumna, the virtual session opened with the awe-inspiring poem “The World Through My Imperfectly Perfect Vision” written and performed by Roza Abrham Abate, the brilliant winner of the “Speak Your Mind” competition.
Roza’s words were not merely poetry; they were a resounding call to action. Roza painted a vivid picture of a world brimming with love, justice, and equality. She reminded us that we hold the power to create positive change, and to be the architects of the world we envision.
Reeta Roy's Keynote Address
Next, Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, delivered a moving keynote address. With eloquence and wisdom, she illuminated the profound significance of courage.
Reeta acknowledged the turbulent world we inhabit today, marked by stark disparities, imbalances of power, climate challenges, and conflicts. In the face of such daunting issues, she asked the fundamental question: Where does courage originate, and how can we summon it? Reeta’s perspective was enlightening, emphasizing that courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the acknowledgement of its presence. Drawing from American Professor and Author Brené Brown’s wisdom, she traced courage’s roots to its Latin origins, meaning “core” or “heart.” In essence, courage is about telling the story of your heart, of who you indeed are.
Ask-Me-Anything Session
We opened up the conversation to our Scholars and Alumni to ask Reeta about her journey. She delved into the essence of purpose, kindness, and courage, offering impactful insights:
Discovering Your Purpose: Reeta emphasized the importance of discovering one’s purpose, an odyssey often commencing with self-discovery. “Your purpose,” she explained, “is the essence of your being, distilled into a simple yet profound calling.” It’s about having the courage to embrace your dreams, regardless of how audacious they may seem.
Watch Our Highlights Of The Conversation Here
Here. Now. Using Our Voices, Shaping the World.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Our transformative network of young people and institutions driving inclusive and equitable socio-economic change in Africa.
