Trailblazers on the World Stage: Six UIN SSC International Office Interns Selected for Harvard Aspire Leader Program, Paving Pathways for Global Leadership
Cirebon, October, 23rd 2025 — In a remarkable achievement that highlights the global caliber of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon, six outstanding interns from the International Office and Partnership have been selected for the Harvard Aspire Leader Program 2025. Among them, Mitsni Uswatun Hasanah successfully joined Cohort 4, while Muhammad Azkiya Bahtsulkhoir, Septiani Lu’luatul Fajriyah, Wulan Putri Islami, Nurhusni Yumna and Muthi’eah Umuril Adyan will proudly represent Cohort 5. This selection marks UIN SSC’s growing presence in the international academic landscape, emphasizing the strength of its students’ leadership, intellect, and global engagement. Lala Bumela, Ph.D., Director of the International Office, expressed his admiration by saying, “Their achievement is not just personal — it reflects the spirit of our university to nurture global-minded leaders who embody both excellence and empathy.”
The journey to such recognition, however, was far from effortless. As part of their internship, these students had to meet international standards of performance, professionalism, and cultural competence. Their work at the International Office demanded more than administrative skill — it required diplomacy, collaboration, and an understanding of global perspectives. From preparing for cross-cultural workshops to assisting in international conferences, they learned that leadership in a global context is a delicate balance between confidence and humility. This process pushed them beyond comfort zones, shaping their character as leaders ready to serve not only locally but on the world stage.
Reflecting on their growth, Lala Bumela, Ph.D., stated, “What makes their journey special is not only their selection but the way they grew into it. They learned that true leadership begins with service — to others, to knowledge, and to purpose.” His words resonated deeply with the interns, many of whom described their experience as transformative, teaching them that leadership is built on empathy and self-awareness rather than authority alone.
Throughout their internship, the six students took part in a range of interdisciplinary activities — from handling foreign student correspondence and facilitating university partnerships to conducting research on eco-digital literacy. These experiences became the foundation for their Aspire Leader applications, where they showcased projects that integrated community service, innovation, and educational impact. The rigorous selection process of the Aspire Leaders Program — which emphasizes personal growth, academic potential, and social contribution — became a natural extension of their work at UIN SSC. By engaging in both theory and practice, they developed a holistic understanding of leadership that bridges academia and real-world problem-solving.
Now standing as part of a global network of young changemakers, the five interns are set to represent not only UIN SSC but also Indonesia’s voice in international dialogue. Their success signifies how a university rooted in values of faith, intellect, and openness can compete on the world stage through its people. The Aspire Leaders Program will further connect them with mentors and peers from Harvard University and beyond, empowering them to design initiatives that uplift communities and promote equitable access to education worldwide.
Summarizing the spirit of this milestone, Lala Bumela, Ph.D., concluded, “This is not the end — it’s the beginning of a larger journey. These students have proven that leadership grows from courage, service, and vision. They are the reflection of what global education should be — grounded in values, yet reaching for the world.” His reflection captured the heart of UIN SSC’s mission: to inspire young leaders who combine academic excellence with moral integrity, and to pave the way for a future where knowledge transcends borders and unites humanity.
Author: Muhammad Azkiya Bahtsulkhoir