Congratulations to Sashane Dassanayake from Sri Lanka for winning the 2025 ESU International Public Speaking Competition! And to Rishabh Barve, ESU US Delegate, and all the students who embarked on this journey, and the international friendships, public speaking and critical thinking skills they gained along the way. Special thanks to the ESU of the Commonwealth and its staff for hosting an incredible week filled with inspiring speeches, global connections and unforgettable moments and to all the ESU IPSC teachers, coaches, esteemed panel of judges and support of the Axe-Houghton Foundation. For more information and to donate, go to: https://www.esuus.org/what-we-do/international-public-speaking-competition/ (fb)

Welcome Home to Kennedy Williams! ESU 2024-25 Luard Morse Scholar who just returned from her semester abroad at Queen Mary University of London continuing her studies in Biology. "I can truly say that this experience has transformed me into a more globally open-minded individual. I look forward to sharing what I’ve learned with my peers, mentoring future ESU scholars, and serving as an advocate for public health equity," Kennedy shared. "One of the highlights of my experience was connecting with a Global Health Senior Lecturer at Queen Mary's Whitechapel campus. On Fridays, I commuted there to contribute to a public health and social engagement project. This culminated in a meaningful day of dialogue with East London residents about drug policy and its connection to global health. Outside the classroom, I fully embraced British culture and formed strong friendships. I’m especially grateful to the ESU for the cultural exchanges and connections that will stay with me forever including visiting Hungary, Greece, and Morocco." Since 1969, the ESU has provided full scholarships to students attending an Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to study in the UK during their Junior Year. To find out more about the ESU Luard Morse Scholarship, go to https://www.esuus.org/luard-morse-scholarship-college-juniors/ (fb)