Tuesday night I sat on a plane returning from Global Social Impact House 2023, a fellowship program hosted by the University of Pennsylvania for social impact entrepreneurs. Twenty-one strangers from around the world, chosen from 150 applicants, traveled to the Macaw Lodge in Costa Rica ready to learn and grow our respective ventures. 

In academia, the term fellowship is a description of the type of program. What we found on this adventure was much more profound. 

Though we each come from very different backgrounds, countries, and cultures, what we share is a soul-level desire to make a difference in the world. We share deep empathy, caring, and strength that can’t be measured. 

In the awe inspiring natural environment, surrounded by dramatic scenery and the sounds of life, we communed professionally and personally. The conversations were deep and meaningful, the classes thought provoking and elevating. We bonded in ways I’ll be processing, and sharing with you all, for weeks, possibly months. 

Who am I kidding, I’ll be talking about this trip for the rest of my days.  

The world class academic support and experiencing the majestic environment are both life changing in their own right, but it is the relationships that will make it all stick in my heart as I move forward. Each of my fellow fellows have the most beautiful hearts I have ever encountered. There was not a hint, not a moment of judgment from anyone. In this pure environment we all blossomed like the nature around us. The adventures and experiences we shared have created a family.

As I slowly put my feet back on the ground in Pittsburgh, my mind is energized and ready to get back to work maximizing impact, doing more good in this world. My cup is full and I am ready to share this transformational experience alongside the programs I have created. My work and my soul have been amplified, lifted, refined, and reinforced. 

It is always my goal to make my clients and students feel truly seen, heard, understood, and supported. This time I was on the receiving end of that gift. I witnessed healing, I received healing myself. I found sisters and brothers I will value for a lifetime. I will be forever grateful to the University of Pennsylvania staff, you are an amazing team, and to my cohort members, this is all just the beginning of the greatness we will achieve together. We have found the true meaning of fellowship. I love you all.

Cheers to more! 

#GSIH2023 #socialimpactentrepreneur #DigitalBridges #FullFlavorLeadership