New Delhi, Dec 18 : Marking its second anniversary, U-GO successfully hosted the U-GO India Summit 2024 in partnership with the Milaan Foundation. Held from December 9-11 in Bangalore, the summit welcomed 199 first-generation college scholars pursuing STEM education under the theme “Together We Rise.” The event celebrated the resilience of young women scholars while fostering mentorship, community building, and actionable solutions for a brighter future.
Participants, many stepping outside their villages for the first time, hailed from Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. The summit provided a platform for these young women to share their journeys, exchange guidance, and find support in overcoming academic and professional challenges. The event kicked off with an inspiring keynote by Swayta Murarka and Manmeet Sandhu, setting an empowering tone for the summit.
Renowned women leaders, including Divya Narayanan, Manju Rangarajan, and Meenu Bhambani, led mentorship sessions, offering personal insights and practical strategies to help scholars overcome barriers and shape impactful careers. Adding a global perspective, U-GO and Room to Read founder John Wood addressed the scholars via Zoom. His words, “Talent is universal, opportunity is not,” resonated deeply, inspiring participants to dream big and harness their full potential.
Rati Misra, Executive Director of the Milaan Foundation, shared her thoughts: “This summit showcased the incredible potential of young women when given the right tools and opportunities. It wasn’t just about learning or networking—it was about amplifying their voices, recognizing their struggles, and celebrating their dreams. By fostering a sustained ecosystem of mentorship and empowerment, we aim to inspire these young women to break barriers and uplift others, creating a ripple of change that will strengthen inclusive communities.”
A highlight of the summit was the “Mulaqat” sessions, where accomplished women shared their stories of perseverance and success. Scholars, in turn, expressed their admiration through heartfelt letters. One such scholar, Bheema from Karnataka, shared: “Hearing the stories of women leaders who overcame immense challenges gave me the courage to persevere, no matter the obstacles. Their achievements inspire me to believe that I too can one day mentor and guide others, helping them achieve their dreams.”
The summit also featured workshops on practical skill-building and community-driven initiatives, highlighting the collective power of young women to drive meaningful change. Sessions included guidance on scholarship renewals and career strategies, equipping participants with the tools to build aspirational futures.
Key areas for improvement identified during the summit included the need for trained counselors, ongoing mentorship programs, and region-specific support. Attendees suggested incorporating speaker orientations and translators for future events to ensure broader participation and engagement.
