Professional Fellowship Programs

During my fellowship in New Orleans, I really grew to appreciate the city's amazing and diverse culture. I witnessed how history, community, and traditions are part of everyday life. This experience reminded me that public health isn’t just about systems and services; it’s about respecting the unique identities and strengths of the people we serve. New Orleans taught me that resilience comes from culture, connections are essential for health, and that community truly makes a lasting difference.” Aleksandar Stevanović, Serbia, Medical Doctor and Teaching Assistant at the Institute of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade

Aleks was placed with Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine and his placement host was Caitlin Moore, Senior Program Manager

The Republic of Georgia is increasingly facing intense natural disasters. As a member of the Environmental Protection Committee, I am involved in drafting the country’s first national climate law. My time in New Orleans offered valuable insights into how an effective emergency response system is built - from coordination across agencies to the crucial role of community involvement. Seeing how an entire city can come together in times of crisis deeply resonated with me. I plan to apply this knowledge to help shape a legal and institutional framework in Georgia.”

Ana was placed with the Greater American Leadership and her placement host was Tatiana Begault, Executive Director.

“Ana was a true genuine asset to my organization, and amplified the mission to fulfill its purpose. She reviewed cultural discrepancies and shared valuable insights into our regional challenges. I highly encourage organizations to have thoughtful discussions and embrace fellows as partners in progress .“

- Tatiana Begault, Executive Director

My time in New Orleans showed me how powerful international exchange can be. It gave me a front-row seat to the challenges and opportunities of accelerating clean energy in the Gulf region. It reinforced how much we can learn from each other when communities collaborate across borders.” Filip Koprcina, Croatia, Founder and CEO of Energy Shift.

Filip was placed with the Gulf States Renewable Energy Industries Association (GSREIA) and his placement host was Monika Gerhart, Executive Director

“We had the pleasure of hosting Filip Koprčina, founder and CEO of Energy Shift, a climate-tech company democratizing access to renewable energy by enabling individuals and communities to invest directly in solar projects. Recognized with the EU Sustainable Energy Award and featured on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, Filip brought fresh insights on community-based energy ownership and innovative ideas to our many projects. We’re incredibly grateful for his contributions and collaboration.”

- Monika Gerhart

“I felt truly safe and welcomed in the community. Everyone I met was kind, open, and willing to talk to us. I had some wonderful conversations, and I keep telling people back home how polite Americans are. I also learned how important small talk is - you never know where a simple conversation can lead or what opportunities it might open.”

- Aliya Kazandzhieva, Bulgaria, Manager and Photographer at Art Aliya Ltd.,

Aliya was placed with placed with Gali Du Art, her host was Gali Du, Founder.

“I collaborated on initiatives promoting waste reduction and sustainable design for events, especially Mardi Gras. I researched creative reuse strategies, explored sustainable product development using recycled materials, and shared insights from my work with UPGREEN Vietnam on transforming plastic waste into meaningful cultural products. We developed ideas to introduce eco-friendly products from Vietnam for upcoming New Orleans festivities.

Working with Grounds Krewe was truly inspiring. I loved seeing how the team turns big ideas into real, measurable impact for the city. My favorite meeting was our brainstorming session on sustainable Mardi Gras throws — it made me realize how innovation and culture can grow hand in hand. This community made me feel welcomed, supported, and part of something meaningful.”

- Kimmi Ha, Vietnam, Founder and CEO of UPGREEN Vietnam

Kimmi was placed with Grounds Krewe, and her host was Brett Davis, Founding Director

“I focused on assisting Startups to develop business ideas, preparing the seminar for SEED (Student Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development), and facilitating partnership agendas. It’s not a Fellowship, it's a family time with you guys!” Surya Utama, Indonesia, Head of Human Resources, Mataram Health Department.

Surya was placed at the Beach at the University of New Orleans, and his host was Nina Balan, Director of Innovation & Educational Partnerships and Shafin Khan, Vice President of Innovation and Technology Commercialization

“Through Global New Orleans and YSEALI PFP Fellowship, innovators like Surya plug into our StartupUNO community, learning alongside founders, exploring our city’s challenges, and sharing insights from their own. You always have a home here in New Orleans. We were so proud to do this. We look forward to hosting more Fellows.”

- Nina Balan