Designing and implementing the Community Leaders in Africa Internship program was undoubtedly a highlight for Anusha Somani, who has been engaging with MCW Global since 2017 when she first attended MCW Global’s Fellowship as a mentee. 

The following year, she interned with MC-Tanzania for three months. While there, she completed a comprehensive community needs assessment in Arusha, assisting MC-Tanzania’s Country Manager to develop the organization’s three-year strategic plan. 

In 2019 Anusha returned to the Fellowship Program as a mentor. In the same year, she was also one of the panelists at MCW Global’s Annual Gala as part of a 20-year celebration, sharing the organization’s journey and its focus on leadership.

This gives her a multifaceted perspective on the role of MCW Global and its Affiliates’ work. 

“It [Community Leaders in Africa Internship] was not only the result of unwavering trust and support from the leadership but also a testament to the great things that can happen when we pay close attention to the needs of the community and the lessons learned from implementing our programs”.

Anusha believes that more than anything her path with MCW Global taught her to step out of her comfort zone.

“It may sound like a cliché, but it’s true in this case. It enabled me to think creatively and critically about my work and grow as a person.”

She adds, “The organization truly wants to ensure that you feel valued and are becoming a better version of yourself.”

While at MCW Global, she took on more projects that aligned with the organization’s vision and mission, bringing her a deep sense of fulfillment and excitement. 

“For example, Regina Leichner, Director, of Strategy & Impact, and I started working on streamlining the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) processes. This experience significantly expanded my knowledge base in M&E, to the point where, during my Master’s degree at the University of Chicago, I referenced the work and benchmarks set by MCW Global in my studies and field placements.”

Even as a team member, she has always admired MCW Global’s healthy work culture and the team’s true spirit of seeing each other grow. 

“Although I’m not a team member anymore, I will forever remain an alumna!” she concludes.

While the organization and its supporters celebrate the 25th anniversary, Anusha leaves us with an uplifting message. 

“Time and again, MCW Global has demonstrated through its work that the communities it serves are the paramount focus of its efforts. I hope the organization will continue to thrive, create a lasting impact in these communities, and even expand its reach to other cities and countries!”

Transforming Communities for 25 Years: Looking Back, Moving Forward Project brings to you a series of exclusive articles celebrating the 25th Anniversary of MCW Global. The stories and reflections shared represent the experiences and perspectives of individuals involved with the organization in various capacities, starting from alumni, board and team members, affiliates, supporters, and donors.