Makala Rose Forster

January 8, 2015
Every story has a unique path, and my story begins on a small farm on an island. My
childhood focused on local community, and my perception of how the world works was
based on this. As I moved into adolescence I began to work at an entirely different level. I
worked with the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) Major
Group for Children and Youth for seven years. This international policy level opened my
eyes to the delicate geopolitical arena. Additionally, the UN CSD showed me the
incredible diversity of experience, thought, and individuality that permeates international
politics.
My past experiences internationally have been a huge part of shaping who I am today and
what I want to do with my life. Through broadening my horizons both at home and
abroad I have been able to be more successful in my work within my own community.
My focus professionally and academically has been, and will continue to be, social
change. Social change is most successful when positive solutions are approached from
international, national, and local levels. My future professional goals are to eventually
work for the State Department or the United Nations, imbedding myself in the
international policy arena.
Currently, I am working as a co-coordinator for a fellowship called Lead Now. I am
focused primarily on empowering youth by providing resources, mentorship, and
trainings for youth around the United States working on sustainable development projects
in their local communities.
My active participation over the past eight years on athletic teams, specifically varsity
soccer, and school leadership has translated into how I conduct myself in all my
interpersonal relationships.
Overall, I have a background in research and using social media tools to benefit the goals
of projects. My background has provided extensive experience in cross-cultural
communications, both in person and virtually. The common denominator to my
experience has been sustainable solutions and working to connect people at local,
national, and global levels through innovative techniques and sharing best practices.
I strive to grow through learning from every experience, whether it is a success or failure,
and to continue to work with people and organizations that strive for positive, sustainable
social change. Through sharing my story, and learning from other peoples stories by
actively listening and engaging in meaningful dialogue, I hope to be a part of a bigger
story.