My IVLP Experience: A Journey of Learning, Inspiration, and Renewed Purpose

millytechvision
Oct 13
3 min read

*Adding my voice to a global dialogue on leadership and community development.*

In 2023, I had one of the most transformative experiences of my life, being selected to participate in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) under the NGO Management Scheme. For three remarkable weeks, I joined other passionate changemakers from around the world to explore how nonprofits in the United States drive social impact and empower communities.

It still feels surreal that I was nominated by the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos. To be recognized for the work we do through Milly-Tech Vision Empowerment Foundation, even in our modest efforts, was both humbling and motivating. I represented the foundation as its Founder and CEO, carrying with me the dreams of the young people we serve back home in Nigeria.

Exploring Five States, Countless Lessons

Our journey took us across five U.S. states, Washington D.C., New York City, Albany, Kansas City, and Los Angeles. Each offering a unique blend of culture, innovation, and humanity in action. We visited several NGOs, government institutions, and community-based organizations, exchanging ideas and learning from their models.

Everywhere we went, I saw one common thread: people caring for one another, not waiting for the government to do everything. The level of intentionality, collaboration, and commitment to community service was deeply inspiring. It reminded me that real change doesn’t always start from the top, sometimes it begins with you and me, deciding to do the right thing regardless of what the system looks like.

The Visit That Stood Out: WeCode KC

Among the many inspiring organizations we visited, WeCode KC in Kansas City left the deepest mark on me. Watching children being groomed in technology from an early age was heartwarming. Big tech companies were already supporting and sponsoring these kids, not just out of charity, but because they believed in their potential and planned to employ them in the future.

I watched as parents dropped off their children each morning, eager for them to learn, explore, and create. The same way they would with a regular school. The dedication of those parents and the enthusiasm of the children moved me deeply. It was a beautiful example of what intentional community investment looks like.

We also visited Science City, Guadalupe Center, Inner-City Arts, Youth FX and several other inspiring organizations, each reinforcing the importance of teamwork, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership.

Lessons That Resonate Deeply

One session I’ll never forget was with a remarkable leadership coach who challenged us to dream big. He shared something that has stayed with me ever since:“ If you can already figure out how to achieve your dream, then it’s not big enough.”

That struck me deeply. It reminded me that the biggest dreams often scare us, but they also stretch us beyond our comfort zones. Since then, I’ve held onto that mindset, to dream boldly, even when the path isn’t clear.

Another important takeaway was this: Never lose sight of your purpose. Passion is the compass that guides every leader in service. I learned the value of building a team that shares your values and rewarding yourself along the journey, because even changemakers need care and balance.

Reflections from the Heart

Throughout the program, I felt a mix of emotions. Excitement, inspiration, motivation, and, at times, sadness when comparing how systems work differently back home in Nigeria. But above all, I felt hopeful. Hopeful that one step at a time, one empowered youth at a time, we can build the change we dream of.

The friendships I made with fellow participants, mentors, and our amazing liaison officers were an added blessing. The entire experience was not just educational; it was personal, emotional, and life-changing.

A Renewed Commitment

Returning home, I came back with a stronger conviction that doing the right thing starts with me. Through my work at Milly-Tech Vision Empowerment Foundation, I’m even more committed to empowering young people because they are the true leaders of tomorrow.

Grooming their mindset and skills gives me hope for a brighter Nigeria and a better world.

Would I recommend IVLP to others? Absolutely. I wish everyone could have such an experience, one that shifts your mindset completely and reminds you that leadership, service, and impact are universal languages.

#IVLP #USConsulateLagos #MillyTechVisionFoundation #Leadership #NGOManagement #YouthEmpowerment #GlobalExchange Written by: