SMU Pathfinders Programmes (Overseas)

UNIVERSITY SCHOLARS LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM (USLS)

The annual University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS) brings hundreds of youth delegates together, where ideas grow, collaborations take place and diverse voices unite for a better world. At USLS, delegates get the opportunity to network with like-minded peers from around the world who are passionate and committed to positive social change. USLS nurtures emerging world leaders by giving them the confidence to lead sustainable development projects to address issues such as poverty, climate change and inequality.

Since 2023, SMU Pathfinders Programme has brought a group of SMU undergraduate students to be part of USLS every year. Apart from attending the USLS, this trip also includes curated visits to social enterprises and non-profit organisations. These visits give participants an opportunity to learn more about how these organisations strive for and create positive change in their communities.

The learning objectives for the USLS would be for participants to:

1. Embark on a transformative journey on leadership in social change
2. Apply transferable skills, such as critical thinking, leadership, and collaboration
3. Network with like-minded peers from around the world committed to positive social change
4. Reflect on your purpose in creating a better world
5. Initiate socially meaningful projects to address issues such as climate change, poverty and inequality

For more information on USLS, you may refer to Humanitarian Affairs Asia's website here.

WHAT DID PAST PARTICIPANTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCE?

"I now realize that all it takes to start a change is by doing something small. Oftentimes, we have our own self doubts regarding our abilities and skills when facing difficult challenges. These fears prevent us from actually contributing. All it takes is just a simple idea/action, as long as we know what our intentions are. There's no use to delaying, because by then, we'll be spending too much time delaying instead of doing something real. I have learned to take the leap of faith and committ to a cause larger than me." – Bernardinus Matteo Woenardi, Year 1 Student from School of Computing and Information Systems

“I learnt from inspiring humanitarian speakers. What stood out as a common thread among them was their powerful stories, each showcasing their resilience and optimism when faced with challenges. Seeing their ability to transform challenges into stepping stones became a motivation for me to emulate a similar mindset in every stage of my life. From these captivating speakers, I not only cultivated a deeper sense of empathy, but also an appreciation for the privileges I have been fortunate to enjoy. My participation in Service Day further amplified my gratitude and instilled a greater sense of empathy. Furthermore, my engagement with the two NGOs enriched my understanding of Bangkok's marginalized communities. The encounters with individuals from slum areas and highly vulnerable children were eye-opening, serving as harsh reminders of the extensive work that remains crucial to uplift these communities. This journey revealed to me that there is an ample amount we can contribute to enhance the conditions of these less fortunate areas. Ultimately, it is imperative to leverage our resources and privileges to aid those who are less advantaged. This realization underscores the responsibility we have to create a more equitable world by extending a helping hand wherever possible." – Faith Lam, Year 2 Student from Lee Kong Chian School of Business

IMMERSION PROGRAMMES

The SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme is meant for students who are passionate and committed to effecting positive change in society. In this programme, participants will engage with local communities and changemakers to exchange cultural insights and learn how they are agents of change to address poverty, inequality and sustainability. Through discussions with local communities and within the student team, there are opportunities to collaboratively ideate solutions for societal changes.

The first SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme takes place in July 2025. 

The learning objectives for the SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme would be for participants to:

1. Develop self-awareness through cultural immersion and engagement with social issues
2. Apply principles to understand real-world challenges and global perspectives
3. Develop skills needed to effect positive and meaningful change 
4. Reflect on your role as a global citizen

For more trip information in SMU Pathfinders Change Agents Immersion Programme 2025, click here.