From Ethiopia to United World Colleges–Support Yonas! ✨

Thank you for being here!

My name is Yonas, and I am an incoming IB Diploma student at United World Colleges (UWC). After a rigorous selection process, I was awarded a scholarship to attend UWC for the 2025–2027 academic years. I am deeply passionate about harnessing technology for social good, with a focus on artificial intelligence, bio-computing technologies, and sustainable energy. Throughout my journey, I’ve published research in the International Journal of High School Research (IJHSR) and other national journals, and presented my projects at prestigious international conferences like the Indigo Academic Conference 2024 and PanAfriCon AI 2023. Additionally, the University of California, Santa Barbara, has recognized my leadership in research by awarding me college-level credits. This summer, I’ll be attending the Yale University Young African Scholars Program (YYAS '25) – another incredible opportunity to continue growing.

But the journey hasn’t been easy, and it all started with my roots in Ethiopia.

Growing Up in Ethiopia: A Spark for Change

In Ethiopia, where more than 80% of the population lives in rural areas, access to electricity is a constant challenge. In the summer of 2020, I had the chance to visit northern Ethiopia, where many communities rely on traditional farming practices. It was heartbreaking to witness how families struggled due to the lack of basic infrastructure, especially access to electricity.

One of the most profound moments came when I saw mothers cooking with wood and animal dung. The resulting smoke caused devastating health problems like cataracts, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even lung cancer. The pain in their eyes was hard to bear, but it also ignited a fire within me. I knew that I had to do something—something that could change lives and lift these communities out of darkness.

Turning Compassion into Action

This experience led me to start a volunteer initiative called Birhan Lehulu ("Light for All"). The goal was simple but powerful: bring electricity to rural communities. Partnering with the Ethiopian Electric Utility, local governments, and volunteers, we were able to provide electricity to two villages and teach others about biogas.

I’ll never forget the look on the faces of those resilient mothers as they experienced electricity for the first time. Witnessing the joy radiating from the faces of resilient mothers who had endured the hardships caused by the smoke from their wood fires, I couldn't withhold my tears. They no longer had to breathe in harmful smoke, and I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and purpose. This is what I want for the future: a world where every person, no matter their circumstances, has access to clean, sustainable energy.

My Dream: United World Colleges (UWC)

After years of hard work and determination, I received my acceptance letter from United World Colleges. It was a moment of pure joy and triumph—a testament to the power of perseverance. UWC is an institution that aligns perfectly with my mission to build a sustainable future. With their motto, “UWC makes education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future,” UWC will be the ideal platform for me to take my passion and research to the next level.

At UWC, I will be able to explore and expand on my research with sustainable energy, particularly focusing on photovoltaic cells and smart grid systems. But I need your help to make this journey a reality.

Why I Need Your Support

The total cost for two years of IB at UWC is $120,000. I have been awarded a 90% scholarship, but I still need to raise $12,000 to cover the remaining 10% tuition plus visa, travel, insurance, and other expenses.

To begin my UWC journey, I need $4,000 by July 15, 2025.

I am asking for your support to help me take this next step. This education will not only shape my future but also enable me to help countless others who are still living without electricity. Together, we can make a difference!

How You Can Make a Difference

Your generosity can fuel my journey and bring my dream closer to reality. Here’s how you can help:

• ✨ Donate – Any amount, no matter how small, will make a huge impact and bring me closer to my goal.
• ✨ Share My Story – If you're unable to donate, sharing my story with your network is just as valuable. The more people who know, the greater the chance of reaching my goal.
• ✨ Believe – Your support fuels not just my education, but a brighter future for countless families.

Together, We Can Light the Way

This isn’t just about me—it’s about empowering a generation. With your help, I’ll return to Ethiopia equipped to transform energy access and lift communities out of darkness.

Your support means the world to me. Thank you for believing in me and in the power of education and sustainable development. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Yonas ✨