Why "Strengthening personal development"

Personal initiative and the ability to reflect are of pivotal importance if we are to have an active, tolerant, and high-performance society. In order to achieve this kind of lively community, we also need the creativity and inspiration required to bring about change. In turn, there can only be a willingness to change if dedicated and self-confident individuals are allowed to think critically and freely.  In our Personal Development program area, we wish to foster precisely these skills. Our aim is to break down barriers that impede the development of young people. Otherwise, society will lose proactive drivers of change and vocal citizens.

Education studies continue to show a lack of equality when it comes to educational access. The correlation between origin and social status on the one hand and educational achievement on the other still remains a problem. Support for individual talents and interests is often accessed by socially privileged young people, because these kinds of models are recognized and appreciated in their world. They also have the requisite level of self-confidence. Other young people are just as gifted, however.

The aim of our work is to provide support by means of grants, exchange programs, and neighborhood projects while building up networks and making a lasting positive impact on educational careers as a whole. We want everyone to get the support that’s right for them. This might be support to help them graduate from high school or prepare for their exams. Alternatively, it might be funding for trainees. As a degree is not the only foundation for pursuing a successful educational career, we believe in offering tailored support at an early stage. We want people to encounter a range of viewpoints at an early age and gain experience, especially in terms of looking beyond the social and cultural environment they are familiar with. We even give them the opportunity to experience life in different countries. Intercultural competence acquired abroad is a key qualification when it comes to finding your way in an increasingly globalized world.