Week VII: Sincerely Swiss
Grant Grind
This week was a real milestone in my internship with IBJ as I focused on advancing a major grant proposal at the center of my work here. The funding opportunity comes from the U.S. Embassy in Kigali's Public Diplomacy Program, which supports projects that strengthen U.S.-Rwanda connections by promoting professional skills, English proficiency, and positive engagement with youth audiences.
IBJ's proposal aims to enhance reintegration outcomes for incarcerated and at-risk youth in Rwanda through a holistic approach that emphasizes education, mentorship, and pathways to meaningful opportunities.
After researching the grant requirements and coordinating with our Kigali office to confirm the program concept, we finally sat down and developed a strong working draft. I took a full work-from-home day to avoid the usual office buzz and focus on refining the narrative to ensure it aligns with the Embassy's priorities.
A key part of this process was collaborating with Julie in Kigali. We exchanged ideas over WhatsApp and email, integrating local needs to ensure the proposal was grounded, realistic, and responsive to the team's on-the-ground experience.
Of course, as with any grant-writing process, there were the usual administrative hurdles, like deciphering federal identifier requirements and ensuring all registrations were current. Even tracking down updated login credentials felt like a small win some days. But overall, it was rewarding to see the proposal take shape in a way that will help secure meaningful support for IBJ's work in Rwanda.
Next week, we'll finalize the narrative, build out the detailed budget, and send everything for initial approvals so we're well-positioned to meet the August 2nd deadline.
A Quick Trip to Poland (on Paper)
In the middle of grant work, I was also asked to do a quick research sprint on Poland's technology-related work at the UN after Karen attended a conference where their delegation stood out. I even joked with my supervisor, Andrew, that maybe I got the assignment because of my Polish roots.
It was a fun mini-project that offered a change of pace. I pulled together notes on Poland's focus on secure digital infrastructure, equitable health technology access, and responsible AI governance, reminding me how even small research tasks can support IBJ's broader advocacy goals.
Beyond Work
This being my third time in Switzerland, I wonder if I'm officially feeling a little Swiss myself.
One of the highlights this week was cheering on Switzerland at a Women's EURO match against Finland. We had incredible seats right behind the goal, so close I didn't realize how prime they were until we sat down. Sitting next to the Finland fan section, I jokingly asked my friend why they were "spelling Finland wrong" in their cheer before realizing they were spelling Suomi, Finnish for Finland.
The game ended in a classic display of Swiss neutrality, a 1–1 tie, but that was enough for Switzerland to advance. I couldn't help joining the crowd in a hearty Hopp Suisse chant.
Later in the week, I explored the Patek Philippe Museum, soaking in Geneva's deep watchmaking tradition. From early wristwatches to a cello shaped pocket watch with a built-in roulette wheel, it was the perfect blend of precision and artistry.
And, of course, I had to lean into the classic Swiss experience with raclette, melted cheese served over potatoes, at a cozy local spot.
This week was simply extra Swiss and a meaningful step forward as I helped move the grant proposal closer to completion while navigating the usual coordination challenges. It also reminded me how valuable clear communication is in cross-border work.
À la semaine prochaine,
Sydney