UConn Empowers Young Social Entrepreneurs Globally

Coconuts dominate life in Purwokerto, Indonesia, where Sefirstya “Sabrina” Shabrinazzahrani has turned coconut waste into an opportunity. Her plant shop, Simungil Cactus, repurposes discarded husks into pots, addressing environmental concerns, reducing dengue risks, and creating jobs. This small initiative symbolizes her belief that even modest efforts can drive big change.

Shabrinazzahrani joined 26 fellows from 11 Southeast Asian nations at UConn’s Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) this fall. Sponsored by the U.S. State Department, the program trains young leaders in social entrepreneurship to tackle pressing issues like malnutrition, sustainability, and economic inequality in their home countries. Fellows receive specialized business training, develop pitches, and learn from UConn professors, mentors, and community organizations.

Since 2015, UConn’s Global Training and Development Institute (GTDI) has hosted YSEALI’s social entrepreneurship program, producing graduates who create sustainable solutions for local problems. Through initiatives like seed grants and ongoing mentorship, UConn empowers these leaders to translate their ideas into impactful ventures. GTDI’s reach continues to grow with programs in Uzbekistan, India, and beyond, cementing UConn’s role in fostering global innovation and cross-cultural collaboration.