The Micro-Grant Mentorship Project

My professional journey is characterized by a robust background and extensive experience in crafting, evaluating, and refining project proposals to ensure their viability and efficacy. This trajectory has honed my analytical prowess and critical thinking faculties, which are indispensable assets in steering the organization.

In 2023, I spearheaded the conceptualization and execution of a project underwritten by the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Embassy in Vientiane’s Public Diplomacy, Small Grants division. This initiative afforded me invaluable insights into the intricacies of government-funded grant management, wherein I navigated essential project management principles encompassing budgetary allocation, meticulous monitoring and evaluation, and seamless stakeholder engagement. The outcome of our concerted efforts culminated in the fulfillment of crucial departmental requisites, thereby bridging resource lacunae and facilitating enhanced English language pedagogy.

Drawing from my tenure as a technical specialist within both headquarters and field-level developmental capacities at the U.S. Agency for International Development, I have consistently offered adept technical and policy counsel in strict adherence to institutional guidelines. Additionally, my involvement in founding, procuring funding for, and steering the operations of a social enterprise in the United States has fortified my aptitude for orchestrating localized initiatives of public import, thereby effectuating substantive societal impact.

As the procurement manager and project coordinator overseeing a project funded by the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Embassy in Vientiane’s Public Diplomacy, Small Grants division, I budgeted for and procured essential supplies and materials for the National University of Laos (NUOL). This endeavor was instrumental in addressing critical shortages within the Department of English Language at NUOL, and helped to bolster the extant educational infrastructure while supporting enhanced learning environments.

Furthermore, as the former Director of International Partnership for the Asia region at Leading Women of Tomorrow, I am proficient in cultivating and nurturing relationships with international stakeholders. This role has afforded me invaluable experience in navigating and fostering partnerships to advance shared objectives.

With a cumulative four years of experience in teaching English as a Second Language and GED classes, I also bring to the table a nuanced understanding of second language acquisition methodologies. These competencies, coupled with my diverse background in project conception, initiation, and procurement, equip me with the requisite expertise to drive the organization forward.

As an alumnus of the YSEALI Spring 2022 program on Civic Engagement at Arizona State University, I have cultivated a robust understanding of community engagement and leadership principles. Leveraging my experience as the vice secretary of ASEAN Rising Youth Leaders, I have collaborated closely with emerging leaders from across ASEAN nations to champion causes such as peace, sustainable development, and global cooperation.

Furthermore, in my capacity as the project manager and founder of the Giving a Better Chance program, I have spearheaded initiatives aimed at providing underprivileged students in rural Laos with free English lessons and additional support services. Through these efforts, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of second language acquisition and its pivotal role in facilitating access to formal education.

Drawing from these diverse experiences, I am equipped with the requisite skills and insights to meaningfully advance the goals of the organization

As an ardent advocate for social work and youth empowerment, my professional journey has been dedicated to fostering meaningful connections with young individuals to amplify their voices and effect positive societal change. My role as a Public Diplomacy Fellow for the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane and my volunteer work with ChildFund Laos have provided me with a rich tapestry of experiences and skills in leadership, communication, and community engagement—assets that directly contribute to the objectives of our project.

Throughout my tenure in these roles, I have honed my ability to lead with empathy and insight, effectively communicate across diverse stakeholders, and engage communities in collaborative endeavors. These experiences have not only deepened my understanding of the nuanced dynamics of youth development but have also equipped me with the practical tools necessary to navigate the complexities of community-based initiatives.

Moreover, my unwavering dedication to youth empowerment is complemented by a robust proficiency in grant and scholarship writing. This expertise allows me to assist participants in the intricate process of designing and implementing community development projects, ensuring that their endeavors are not only impactful but also sustainable in the long term.

With a background as a Global UGRAD alumna and a graduate of the National University of Laos, I possess firsthand insight into the myriad challenges faced by Laotian youth. However, it was my tenure as a Subject Matter Expert in Development Innovation at the United Nations Development Program Laos that truly deepened my understanding of effective project conception and community development strategies.

In this pivotal role, I led exploratory initiatives aimed at pioneering innovative approaches to address pressing societal issues. Through rigorous research and experimentation, I identified novel solutions and harnessed cutting-edge technologies to drive sustainable change. To this extent, my background and competencies will allow me to offer unparalleled insights and contribute significantly to the empowerment of Lao youth.

As a graduate of Lao higher educational institutions with dual Bachelor’s Degrees, I possess a profound understanding of the prevailing challenges confronting youth development in Laos. During my tenure as the Marketing Manager at The Crowne Plaza Hotel Vientiane, I acquired invaluable expertise in marketing strategies and communication methodologies.

This multifaceted skill set positions me adeptly to optimize the social impact of MMP.

I’m Deth Ienlisak, a marketing major at the National University of Laos in the Faculty of Economic and Business Management. I am passionate about leadership, youth empowerment, and community service. I actively contribute to my community through volunteer groups like the Community Club and Zero Waste Laos, and I am also a co-founder of N-Gen Progress. In my free time, I enjoy running, playing guitar, playing football, reading, and listening to podcasts.

I am Maipheng, an economics student in the Faculty of Economics & Business Administration at the National University of Laos. I am passionate about and am actively involved in youth empowerment and community service. Currently, I volunteer with UNFPA Laos and work as an English tutor for P2P at the American Center Vientiane.

My name is Yervang Xiapao, but you can call me Lucy. I am 19 years old, and I am originally from Xaisomboun Province, but currently live in Vientiane Capital to pursue my studies. I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English at Logos Institute. Aside from studying in the mornings, I also teach English in the evenings. Additionally, I serve as a volunteer community leader for the Xiang Miang Organization and other large community initiatives.

I am Soukthavone Douangdala, a passionate student dedicated to community development. I am the founder and leader of LYPS (Lao Youth Power for Sustainability), a team focused on promoting educational accessibility for Lao children in English education, environmental conservation, and poverty eradication. I strive to bring creativity, leadership, and a drive to make a meaningful impact in my community. I have been actively involved in various community development and youth engagement initiatives, such as good Hands Laos, Zero Waste Laos, UNFPA Laos, and Phamai. As a Youth Ambassador, I look forward to exchanging ideas and experiences while building strong relationships with other participants.

My name is Phavadee Philavanh, but you can call me Donut. I am 20 years old and currently a senior majoring in English at the National University of Laos. I have been a volunteer teacher for a year, teaching English at primary schools in underserved areas. I am also a member of a group called “LYPS” (Lao Youth Power for Sustainability).