What does it take to tackle global inequities head-on? For Baffoe-Essilfie Baffoa, it meant immersing herself in research and development work in Malawi. Through hands-on experiences and cultural exchanges, she uncovered how collaboration and innovation can drive meaningful change. Get inspired by her reflections and the transformative lessons she brought back.
” Through my work, I want others to see that sustainable change is possible when we listen to and integrate diverse perspectives. “
What is the name of the program that you participated in this past summer?
Empowering Change: Research Strategies for Politics and Development in Malawi
Can you explain the background and learning goals of the program to us?
The program was designed to equip students with practical research methodologies, specifically tailored to understanding political and economic issues in Africa. We were trained in techniques like key informant interviews, focus group discussions, random sample surveys, field experiments, and impact evaluations. The program also emphasized ethical practices and engaged us in experiential learning through cultural visits and interactions with local communities, giving us hands-on exposure to the real-world challenges in Malawi.
What makes you excited about being a GRDI Scholar?
Being a GRDI Scholar excites me because it aligns perfectly with my passion for promoting diverse perspectives and respectful disruption in global education. The program empowers me to challenge inequities and outdated systems with innovative ideas. It’s not just about learning but also about actively applying these principles in real-world situations, creating impactful and positive change within communities.
What do you hope to accomplish through the GRDI Leadership Program?
I hope to develop a deeper understanding of how to implement respectful disruption strategies within international development and community initiatives. I want to improve my skills in leadership, advocacy, and coalition-building, so I can better contribute to creating more equitable systems, particularly in the areas of global education and policy development. Ultimately, I aim to bring back new ideas and implement them in my community and professional endeavors.
“Studying abroad and engaging in global programs like mine can truly change your perspective.”
What’s the most important thing you hope to help people learn through your efforts?
I hope to help people understand the power of inclusive collaboration and the importance of elevating underrepresented voices. Through my work, I want others to see that sustainable change is possible when we listen to and integrate diverse perspectives. I believe that by showing how global issues like poverty, education, and economic development are interconnected with local cultures, we can inspire more empathy and effective solutions.
Why do you think global respectful disruption is important in 2024 and beyond more than ever before?
In 2024 and beyond, the need for global respectful disruption is more critical than ever. As we face growing social, economic, and environmental challenges, it’s essential to question systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice. Respectful disruption allows us to challenge the status quo with empathy, inclusivity, and understanding, creating space for innovative solutions that prioritize fairness and unity over division. It’s a way to ensure that global efforts are not only transformative but also sustainable and just for all communities.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us / with the GoAbroad.com community?
Studying abroad and engaging in global programs like mine can truly change your perspective. The value of stepping outside your comfort zone and immersing yourself in different cultures is unparalleled. It’s an opportunity to not only grow as an individual but to contribute to something bigger—whether that’s in research, education, or community development. I encourage everyone to seek out these experiences, as they can be a transformative force in both your personal and professional life.
Any comments or questions?
My commitment to social justice and leadership has been a guiding force throughout my academic and professional journey. Starting as a community organizer with the City of Columbus, I learned the importance of grassroots efforts in driving change. My experience as a panelist for Ohio State’s orientation helped incoming students navigate involvement, fostering an inclusive environment. Serving as the African Youth League’s Secretary and Historian, I developed organizational skills and amplified the voices of marginalized communities. My internship with Innovation Ohio honed my ability to connect advocacy and policymaking, allowing me to address local, state, and federal issues through strategic campaigns.
In my role on Ohio State’s Council of Student Affairs and as a Voting Student Representative, I influenced policy decisions that impacted students’ lives, ensuring equity and representation were central to discussions. Being elected the first Black woman Speaker of the 54th General Assembly in the student government was a personal milestone, where I led initiatives addressing diversity and inclusion on campus and advocated for underserved communities. Additionally, my involvement as a Board Member for Buck-I-SERV and my leadership in organizing the African American Heritage Festival allowed me to further develop programs that celebrate cultural diversity and promote community engagement.
Through my internship with JPMorgan Chase, I developed financial skills by helping a minority-owned bank create solutions to avoid predatory lending, which sparked my interest in the intersection of finance and social justice. This experience exposed me to the power of financial services to make a positive impact on communities and allowed me to see how economic policies can drive real change.
The GRDI program has empowered me to further amplify these efforts. Its focus on respectful disruption aligns with my mission of challenging unjust systems through innovative, inclusive approaches. My study abroad experience in Malawi, where I learned research methodologies to understand political and economic outcomes in Africa, gave me practical tools to apply on a global scale. I conducted field experiments and engaged with local officials, gaining a deeper understanding of how research drives international development efforts and how to apply these skills in real-world contexts.
Through these roles and my academic focus on political science, I am dedicated to researching and implementing strategies that address political and economic inequities globally. Moving forward, I will continue to leverage my leadership, advocacy, financial knowledge, and research experiences to disrupt systems of injustice with a vision of creating a fairer world for future generations. The GRDI community provides the perfect platform to foster these skills while collaborating with like-minded individuals to create lasting, impactful change.
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