The Lazord Fellowship program is one of the programs implemented by mySTARTUP Business Incubator under the INJAZ organization. It’s a special opportunity for recent graduates in the world who want to make a positive difference in their communities. The program runs in Jordan, Egypt, Tunisia, and Greece and only 12 people are chosen each year from each country through a four-step selection process.
Building Connections and Growth at the Lazord Conference 2024-2025
After a long anticipation, the Lazord International Conference 2024-2025 was an unforgettable experience. As a fellow, I had the opportunity to connect with 50 fellows from Egypt, Greece and Jordan leaving a profound impact on me. The conference was held in the stunning city of Aswan, which offered a scenic backdrop and allowed us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant Nubian culture. From its captivating music and delicious food to the unique language and traditions, Aswan became an integral part of our experience.
Our journey began by getting to know each other, forging meaningful relationships among the cohort. This initial connection set the stage for discussions and collaborative learning. The sessions, ranging from responsible leadership to fostering an appreciative mindset, helped us reflect on our personal and professional journeys while equipping us with practical tools for the future. One of which is how to encourage the appreciative mindset and a more constructive approach to challenges. In addition to that, we gained tools like active listening and effective communication strategies, which helped us build stronger teamwork and enhance our collaborative problem-solving skills. Each session reinforced our previous acquaintances, and we walked away with new perspectives and an understanding of leadership and personal growth.
The Cultural Night
One of the impactful moments of the conference was the cultural night, where fellows from all three countries showcased their traditions. Everyone wore their traditional attire and shared small souvenirs that represented their deep-rooted cultures and customs. This evening not only provided an opportunity to learn about each other’s history but also highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and appreciation in a diverse global community.
The Community Day
Additionally, a memorable part of the conference was the Community Day, where we visited three community-based organizations (CBOs), Ganoubia Hora, SWA and The Women’s Cooperative Association for Handicrafts and Heritage Production. These visits allowed us to connect with grassroots organizations working on the ground to make a difference in people’s lives. These three local CBOs focus on empowering women in the region, many of whom were fighting for their basic rights in a society still governed by strict customs and traditions. It was eye-opening to meet these women, who were not only advocating for gender equality but were also developing their skills, leadership, and self-reliance. Visiting these organizations made me feel how our issues in the region are connected, as one of the latest advocacy campaigns in the JFE training advocates for women working in agriculture in the Ghor Al-Mazra’a area and suffer from the problem of low wages and the denial of their right to an adequate standard of living.
The visit to these local organizations profoundly shifted my perspective on activism and social change. It was remarkable to witness the resilience and determination of women in rural areas who, despite facing significant barriers, were constantly advocating for their rights and uplifting their communities. The conference reinforced the importance of community-based work and the power of collective action in creating lasting change.
Overall
In addition to the enriching cultural and community experiences, the conference provided opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. The fellows brought diverse ideas and solutions from their own countries, and we found common ground in our shared passion for leadership and social impact. We discussed ways to overcome societal challenges, and brainstormed strategies for creating positive change. As a result, I left the conference with lifelong connections and a renewed sense of purpose and direction in my own professional journey.
The Lazord International Conference 2024-2025 proved to be an exceptional experience that expanded my horizons both personally and professionally. The knowledge gained, the relationships formed, and the shared experiences with fellows from Egypt, Greece, and Jordan were invaluable.
