UWC Thailand Future Women Leaders Scholarship Reflection
Through the kindness and generosity of Gary and Parinda Nevin, the UWC Thailand Future Women Leaders Scholarship has provided life-changing opportunities to young female change-makers. These scholarships were awarded to students who exemplify strength of character, a commitment to equality, mindful leadership, service, and academic excellence. The recipients are those who, through their words and actions, embody the mission, values, goals, and objectives of UWC Thailand and the broader UWC Movement.
The gratitude shown for these scholarships serves as a reminder to maintain a connection to UWC Thailand and the UWC Movement, inspiring future generations of students in Thailand and abroad to contribute to securing a more peaceful and sustainable future.
UWC Thailand Future Women Leaders
Graduated May 2021
Nationality
College / University Trinity College, Ireland
Alisa Vipulakom Larissa Al Kseiri
Thailand
Syria
New York University Abu Dhabi, UAE
Graduated May 2022 Phattiya (Nice) Matrakul
Thailand
Bates College, USA Colby College, USA
Lethyce Gamiao
Philippines
Katie Logue
Ireland
Lake Forest College, USA
Graduated May 2023 Ungchuthaporn (Kimyong) Jittamai
Thailand Cambodia
Trinity College, USA
Mengheang Eang
Purpose Year
Graduated May 2024 Ornkanya (Jill) Kaengkan Mehregan Alizadsane
Thailand
Lake Forest College, USA
Iran
Ithaca College, USA
10th Scholarship ISAK Japan Transfer Fund
Alisa Vipulakom (Thailand) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2021 | Trinity College, Ireland
During her time at UWC Thailand, Alisa: • Participated in service-minded and service-centred community activities • Was involved in ‘Because I’m a Girl’ project to raise funds and host school workshops • Worked with the Banya Literacy Center for migrant Burmese children • Organised a service project to the non-profit Stairway Foundation in Puerto Galera • Developed a passion for supporting issues like child exploitation, period poverty, and education and healthcare rights
At UWC Thailand, I learnt to truly appreciate and understand Kurt Hahn’s words, ‘Strive for the absolute best and never settle for anything less’.
Since graduating, Alisa: • Has delved into Special Care Dentistry and secured her first root canal patient • Is co-head on her year’s dental overseas volunteer mission to Kenya in summer of 2025 • Will volunteer as a Step-Up Mentor at the Solas Project • Has been actively exploring new interests like marine life conservation and the stray animals of Thailand • Aims to travel to every country in the world by staying in contact and visiting her fellow UWC friends on her breaks • Is confident in her ability to master the next two years and thrive in Ireland
ALISA
LARISSA
Larissa Al Kseiri (Syria) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2021 | New York University Abu Dhabi, UAE
During her time at UWC Thailand, Larissa: • Participated in the UWC Thailand MUN club • Focused on environmentally-concerned trips and projects • Encouraged younger students to adopt environmentally-friendly habits • Contributed to the Sustainability Committee, implementing a food-waste reduction policy
Caring drives action. At UWC Thailand, I learned that caring makes it easier to be principled, committed, and reflective. A community thrives when everyone contributes, turning ideas into reality.
Currently, Larissa: • Is in her junior year at NYU Abu Dhabi, majoring in Mechanical Engineering
• Chose to stay at NYU Abu Dhabi during the summer due to regional political tension at home • Works as a Research Assistant in the SHORES Lab, focusing on Computational Mechanics • Is exploring both academia and industry to determine post-graduation plans
Phattiya (Nice) Matrakul (Thailand) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2022 | Bates College, USA
During her time at Bates College in Maine, Nice has: • Enjoyed camping, rock climbing, and hiking in Maine • Joined the Bates choir • Is planning to major in Biochemistry with an Engineering track
UWC Thailand helped me discover myself and take on new challenges. It sparked my interest in the environment and well-being. Thank you for the opportunity to study there.
At her summer internship, Nice has: • Received funding from Bates to intern at the Thailand Environmental Institute • Learned about environmental policy in Thailand • Attended international conferences on the environment
On-Campus Work: • Nice has started working as a Chemistry tutor, lab assistant, and restorative practice advisor
NICE
Lethyce Gamiao (Philippines) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2022 | Colby College, USA
During her time at Colby College, Lethyce is: • Double majoring in Biology (concentrating in Neuroscience) and Economics, with a minor in Chemistry • W orking as a research assistant under 7 Lakes Alliance with two PhD professors and two other PhD professionals for 10 weeks • Undertaking a personal project for a senior thesis Outside of Colby, I volunteer as co-chair of student affairs for UWC Philippines NC, helping current scholars with their UWC experience and university applications. My UWC journey is precious to me, and I am committed to giving back. Sophomore Year Highlights: • S tudied abroad for a month in Oman and the UAE, exploring the intersection between Art, Economics, and History • Served as Executive Coordinator for the International Club, the largest club at Colby Personal Achievements: • Became financially independent; working on campus to sustain education and daily life • Gained a new perspective on managing life and responsibilities
LETHYCE
KATIE
Katie Logue (Ireland) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2022 | Lake Forest College, USA
After graduating from UWC Thailand: • Katie took a six-month break before starting college in Ireland • Worked full-time to support her mother and reflect on the impact of her time abroad
I am determined to pay it forward by striving for excellence and making meaningful contributions to society. Your generosity will always hold a special place in my heart.
Enrolled at Lake Forest College in Illinois Katie is: • Studying Biochemistry and Molecular Biology • Enjoying the proximity to Chicago and the opportunities it offers • Forming deep connections with friends, many of whom are also UWC alumni
On-Campus Work: • Working at the college library to pay off taxes and save money for a trip home
KIMYONG
Ungchuthaporn (Kimyong) Jittamai (Thailand) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2023 | Trinity College, USA
Kimyong’s Influences and Activities: • Benefited from UWC’s intercultural education to explore the world from a different perspective • Pursued a passion for human rights • Took part in Global Politics classes, volunteered in local communities • Initiated school clubs such as Amnesty International and Sexuality and Gender Alliance
Human Rights and Global Studies Pathway, Kimyong has: • Connected with like-minded individuals passionate about social justice activism • Joined the “Students Against Mass Incarceration” Executive Board
I will continue my role as a female leader beyond graduation, using my experiences and connections to create a better world for everyone, regardless of identity or socio-economic status.
After graduating from UWC Thailand, Kimyong: • Enrolled at Trinity College in Connecticut • Is double majoring in Political Science and Public Policy
Mengheang Eang (Cambodia) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2023
Thriving at UWC Thailand, Mengheang: • Was elected as co-leader of the discussion group “Because I am a Girl” (BIG), focusing on women’s rights from diverse perspectives • Participated in school events like the Festival of Light, selling handmade products made by women from Good Shepherd, thereby generating income for women artisans • Formed lasting friendships and gathered memorable stories through these activities
Looking back on my memory-filled two years, I see immense personal growth. This positive change and the connections I made during this time are core memories I will always cherish.
After graduating from UWC Thailand: • Mengheang took a purpose year
• Supports Seametrey Children’s Village, Cambodia, where she attended school • Is passionate about Khmer music and wants to look into music production • Aims to support the National Committee of Cambodia with their UWC selections
MENGHEANG
JILL
Ornkanya (Jill) KAENGKAN (Thailand) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2024 | Lake Forest College, USA
Performing Arts: • Played the role of “Sharpay,” the antagonist in High School Musical • Assisted cast members with choreography and led dance sessions Volunteer and Leadership Roles: • Lead volunteer for Volunteers In Action • Taught English to underprivileged Thai students at Barnhem House • Manager of Shaka, a student-run coffee shop
• Met the Governor of Phuket with Plastic Free Phuket • Actively involved in promoting Plastic Free Phuket • Volunteered at Earth Home during a Student-Initiated Trip to Chiang Mai • Visited Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and a museum to learn about northern Thai culture
As a leader of Plastic Free Phuket, I’m excited to welcome new leaders. While stepping down is bittersweet, I’m confident the next generation will achieve great things for our environment and sustainability.
After graduating from UWC Thailand: • Jill will be attending Lake Forest College, Illinois, USA where she will study Finance
Mehregan Alizadsane (Iran) Graduated UWC Thailand in May 2024 | Ithaca College, USA
Achievements at UWC Thailand: • Member of the Student Council and elected as Head of Residential Life • Worked with the Director of Residential Life ensuring efficient communication in boarding • Leader of MUN (Model United Nations) • Jointly organised an inter-island conference in Phuket
• Prepared the advanced MUN team for a conference in Bangkok • Led one of the largest Co-Curricular Activities on campus
Thanks to the “Future Women Leadership Scholarship,” I embraced numerous leadership roles, growing and thriving in ways I never imagined possible.
After graduating from UWC Thailand: • Mehregan will enrol at Ithaca College to study Legal Studies with a Dance minor
MEHREGAN
ISAK Japan Transfer Students
In January 2022 UWC Thailand warmly welcomed transfer students from UWC ISAK Japan.
UWC ISAK Japan faced insurmountable challenges during the time of the pandemic and border restrictions meant that many of their students were not allowed entry into the country. When the UWC ISAK team made an unimaginable decision to offer their grade 11 students the opportunity to transfer to another UWC School or College, UWC Thailand jumped at the chance to support them. We sought to offer as many places as possible and were able to be a landing place for their students. The transfer process was not an easy one, with complicated visa applications, flights and Covid protocols it took hundreds of hours of manpower over the December holiday and a tremendous level of financial support. Students made their way from Hong Kong, Turkey, Nepal, Israel, Myanmar, Indonesia, Estonia, Malaysia, United States of America, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Uganda, Russia, Morocco, France, Mauritius, Bolivia, Egypt, Tanzania, Ghana, Ecuador and Paraguay.
The boarding house underwent a very fast renovation, adding extra rooms, modifying current rooms, and knocking out a wall to add an outdoor decking area which would soon become a popular hang out area for all boarders. Beds were purchased, uniforms were prepared, and our new students were individually welcomed with very emotional arrival ceremonies for all involved.
Your support of our transfer students made so much of this unprecedented gesture possible. We express our sincere gratitude for your kindness and for your support of this very special UWC Thailand cohort, who journeyed to us only after starting their UWC journey as ISAK Japan scholars, making them the only cohort of students to ever attend two UWCs!
Thank you!
Round Table Guest Speakers
Dr Benita Perch As the Managing Director and Senior Partner at IMI, Dr Benita Perch is a Naturopathic Physician with over a decade of experience. She specialises in integrated healing through conventional pathology, modern diagnostics, functional medicine, pharmacology, homeopathy, herbal medicine, and clinical nutrition. Ja Wuttithamrong Ja is an experienced reporter and producer and has worked with Nation Media Company, Turner Broadcasting Systems, and CNN International, where she launched the interview programme “TalkAsia.” Naita Chialvo The former Director of Finance at UWC Thailand, Naita, holds a Master’s in Peace Education from UPEACE in Costa Rica, a Diploma in Social Innovation from UPEACE, and a professional Certificate in Social Entrepreneurship from INSEAD Singapore. Natasha Garcha Senior Director of Innovative Finance at Impact Investment Exchange (IIX), Natasha leads gender lens investing initiatives and impact measurement, focusing on IIX’s Women’s Livelihood Bond series.
Elisa Gorodetskiy A UWC Thailand graduate of 2021, Elisa is currently studying at the Erasmus School of Economics in Amsterdam. She was one of the first-year female students accepted into the Bachelor Honors Class and aims to pursue a PhD in Economics. Faith Abiodun As the Executive Director of UWC International, Faith brings extensive experience as an education and social enterprise leader. He has worked at the African Leadership Academy and founded The Speech Academy and Future Africa. He holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Syracuse University. Lural Ramírez The former Head of School at UWC Thailand, Lural has over 20 years of experience leading educational institutions in the USA, Costa Rica, and Thailand. She holds dual Bachelor’s degrees from Linfield University, a Master’s degree from Oregon State University, and certificates in Educational Leadership and Administration. Additionally, she is an IB examiner and consultant.
Pauline Chong With a diversified career in finance, Pauline transitioned from Investment Banking to Private Equity and Venture Capital. She holds an MBA from INSEAD and a BBA from the University of Singapore. Previously a member of the Singapore rock band ‘SideshowJudy’, she is now an athlete and charity organiser. Tapiwa Chikungwa The Director of Residential Life at UWC Thailand and a UWC Mahindra alum, Tapiwa Chikungwa is originally from Zimbabwe. She studied at Kalamazoo College in the US as a Davis Scholar and is dedicated to mental health, wellbeing, and supporting students through creativity and art. Iris Ramos Originally from Los Angeles and recently relocated from Singapore to Phuket, Iris co-founded DoGoodLab.org. She is a pioneer in payments technology and a champion for diversity and inclusion, focusing on community-driven solutions and mentoring others.
As a staunch champion for getting more women into leadership roles, I had an incredibly inspiring experience speaking to the UWC Thailand Future Women Leaders. It was invigorating to have candid conversations about the trials and triumphs of being a female entrepreneur with exceptional grade 11 students from a range of backgrounds. Witnessing their determination fuels my resolve to cultivate the next generation of female
trailblazers. ~ Iris Ramos
Your generous support has empowered our Future Women Leaders to become global citizens and future change-makers.
We are eternally grateful.
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