The first time I truly understood the power of global connection was on a warm 2024 July morning in Sri Lanka. Last year I stood in front of a classroom of eager children, teaching them English with nothing but flashcards, enthusiasm, and a heart full of hope. I was volunteering with Travelteer, as I taught underprivileged kids who taught me more about resilience than any textbook ever could. Amidst all the joy of teaching, I witnessed something that stirred a different kind of awareness, piles of plastic near riverbank, no power, or clean water, and this experience forever shaped how I approached every global opportunity that followed. That is why this summer 2025, I will be based in Chiang Mai, Thailand for four weeks, joining the Think Pacific Global Team Internship. This program designed to help local NGOs and social enterprises while contributing directly to UN Sustainable development goals. I will be collaborating with fellow UK students and others around the world, to bring diverse ideas to develop innovative, and community driven solutions. Our projects will include real consulting challenges, from designing marketing campaigns for eco-conscious businesses to developing education and health initiatives. I see this global team internship, not just a work experience, but also a platform for turning learning into action. Through each project, I will keep sustainability at heart, from travelling to work in Thailand. I will be offsetting the carbon emissions of my flights through a verified reforestation project. I’ve opted for locally owned, eco-friendly accommodation that supports the community. I will use refillable bottles, reduce single-use plastics, and choose a plant-based and locally sources meal where possible. These small actions, will make a lasting impact. I also believe that sustainability goes beyond just the environment, it is about relationships, impact and growth. This is why I plan to document my journey, not just for my reflection, but to inspire other students. My previous experiences, roles, and social impact projects are all detailed in my linkedin profile, https://www.linkedin.com/in/raghavgoyal010205 . The BUTEX scholarship will empower me to pursue my internship in a way that reflects my values and amplifies my voice. It’s more than just financial support, it’s an investment in a future built on purpose, responsibility, and meaningful change.
