From Tanzania to Triumph: Ninah Dickson Kiraya’s Inspiring Journey at Queens University of Charlotte

Embracing New Horizons: A Journey from Tanzania to Queens University

Ninah Dickson Kiraya’s journey to Queens University of Charlotte was driven by a desire to explore new horizons and embrace opportunities that would help her flourish, both personally and professionally. Originally from Tanzania, she knew that stepping outside of her comfort zone was the key to fulfilling her aspirations. As a Davis United World College (UWC) Scholar, Ninah became the first UWC student to enroll at Queens, marking the beginning of an inspiring chapter that would lead to global connections and lifelong impact. She graduated in May 2024 with a double major in Health Education & Promotion and International Relations & Affairs.

A Historic First: Becoming the First UWC Scholar at Queens

At Queens, Ninah quickly realized that the university was more than just an academic institution—it was a launchpad for her dreams. With its intimate class sizes and dedicated faculty, Queens provided her with a nurturing environment where she thrived. Her enrollment as the first UWC student at Queens not only represented a personal milestone but also marked a broader journey of cross-cultural learning and achievement.

The Queens Path: Building Skills for Real-World Impact

One of the most pivotal aspects of her experience was the university's general education program, The Queens Path. This unique program emphasizes intellectual agility, civic engagement, and global awareness, preparing students to tackle complex, real-world challenges. Through this program, Ninah gained the tools to think critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and approach global issues thoughtfully.

Beyond the Classroom: Internships at the United Nations and World Bank

Through a combination of internships, community-engaged learning, and study abroad opportunities, students like Ninah develop a holistic understanding of their chosen fields. It was this comprehensive approach that led Ninah to internships at prestigious global institutions like the United Nations Foundation and the World Bank Headquarters. These experiences allowed her to put her academic knowledge into practice on a global scale.

Empowered by Community: Support from Faculty and Peers

According to Ninah, "The university has been instrumental in providing me with a plethora of enriching opportunities that I might not have encountered elsewhere. Queens empowered me to elevate my skills and share my insights with the community. I’ve made valuable friendships not only with my peers and classmates but also with professors and mentors who cheer me on as I navigate this complex world.” The small, supportive community at Queens created an environment where Ninah felt encouraged and motivated to reach her highest potential.

Cultivating Global Leadership and Cross-Cultural Collaboration

Queens’ commitment to fostering global engagement and leadership was pivotal to Ninah’s development. Her time on campus was marked by active participation in initiatives that encouraged cross-cultural collaboration and dialogue, helping her become a well-rounded, globally minded leader. Through hands-on learning and real-world experiences, Queens equipped Ninah with the skills and knowledge to tackle pressing global issues, giving her a solid foundation for her future career.

Reflecting on Growth: From a Dream to Reality

As she reflects on her time at Queens, Ninah is quick to emphasize the role the university played in shaping her career trajectory and preparing her to face the complexities of the global landscape with resilience, empathy, and a drive for positive change. “I have truly broken out of my ‘young girl from Tanzania’ shell and lived my American college student dream,” she says, grateful for the transformative experiences that have defined her journey.