A Born Leader: Lessons from the SDG Overview Course at Ubiquity University

If you had told me before I started my University BUILD experience at UTS that I would be helping to achieve the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Goals, I would say keep dreaming!

In my first year of university, I joined BUILD to expand my global mindset and think like a global leader so that one day I will have the chance to make a substantial impact in the world. I was always passionate about pressing issues such as social justice and humanitarian affairs; however, I didn’t know that I could turn this passion into proactive decisions that would help me to act like a world leader. I joined build to collaborate with like-minded people, learn how to make a real difference in the world, and ultimately challenge my own perspective about the world around me. As of recent, the BUILD program continues to push my academic and personal boundaries, providing me with the necessary skills and mindset to become a global leader.

As a member of BUILD, I came across the “United Nations SDG Overview Course” sourced by Ubiquity University. This course outlined the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and, more importantly, taught me how to act as a global leader in everyday life to achieve them. One notable lesson I learnt from the course was the importance of tackling challenges and taking global matters into your own hands. I found myself questioning my everyday choices and, particularly, modifying them to help achieve the goals. For example, I have reduced my car usage by 50% now to help in reducing emissions and contribute to a positive, sustainable environment. While this may be such a small change in the Grand scheme of things, I learnt that if we all do our part, we can all tackle the monumental challenge we collectively face. Learning about SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) made me re-evaluate my habits at work, at home and while on the UTS Campus. I take pride in knowing that now I am amongst thousands of others who have also reconsidered their consumption habits in advance of the 2030 United Nations 17 sustainable goals.

The whole calibre of the BUILD program aligns with my leadership values. Empowering others, diversity and inclusion, social and environmental sustainability, and social justice are all values I carry as a leader. I am grateful for the BUILD program and its initiatives. I endeavour to partake in similar courses that further expand my knowledge about the 17 sustainable goals so I can continue making my mark in today’s world. Additionally, I am looking into careers that advocate for social justice and human rights. I look forward to keeping you, my fellow reader, updated on more exciting courses, projects and initiatives that I will be involved in. For anyone who is in two minds about joining BUILD, don’t be. You will make new friends, gain hands-on experiences, expand your academic boundaries and, best of all, think and act like a global leader. This is a program designed for those who want to make a difference in today’s dynamic environment. I encourage you to utilise this program to do just that.

Natalie Yaacoub
Bachelor of Law and Business