Members of the Student Leadership Program at AUS recently completed an intensive six-week leadership and cross cultural training program at the Global Village for Future Leaders of Business and Industry held at Leigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA. The program gave students the opportunity to meet with business leaders and learn from their leadership practices. 

The program allowed students to engage with a diverse student population and gave them the chance to become part of a network of over 1,250 professionals from more than 119 countries around the world. The program offered a diverse learning experience that encompassed interactive courses, networking, meetings and discussions with business leaders, participation in local business trips, consulting projects and an amazing cultural experience. 

Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs said, "Our mission is to develop student leaders with an ability to inspire and positively influence individuals for the common good of our community, country and world. This experience has taught students to put all their differences aside and work together in realizing similarities in humanity." She said, "We are happy with the feedback received from the students and plan to continue to provide them with enriching opportunities that enhance their leadership ability through meaningful participation."

This year's program overlapped with a few days of the holy month of Ramadan and students from AUS were given the opportunity to present and educate the group about Ramadan practices and explain why Muslims fast, allowing them to share and create an awareness and understanding of Islam.

"Living with 101 students from 52 different countries and religions was an amazing experience. Everyone was keen to learn about each other's religion and culture. This experience made me change the way I look at people from other parts of the world and it gave me an insight into how people in other parts of the world live," said Faisal Al Shehhi, a junior studying finance.

The six weeks were rigorous but provided a meeting point for students from all over the world and helped them gain an understanding of what it takes to become successful and respected leaders.