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WHAT IS DLF?

The Dalai Lama Fellows (DLF) program at CU Boulder is hosted by the Crown Institute and offered to Leeds School of Business students. It is a local program, connected to the global DLF program. DLF is a unique one-year leadership program for emerging social change makers designed to help them cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and compassion; broaden their cultural perspectives; learn how to engage with complex systems; and work with local communities in sustainable ways.

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ABOUT ME

Hello! I'm Erica Carlos Perez (she/her/hers), a recent graduate with a degree in Business Analytics and Information Management and a minor in Information Science. I am a Leeds Diverse Scholar and a first-generation student. On campus, I worked at the Center for Inclusion and Social Change (CISC) as a Peer Educator. I'm passionate about fostering inclusivity and creating positive social change.

WHY DID I BECOME A DALAI LAMA FELLOW?

What truly drew me to the Dalai Lama Fellows Program was the statement of: “...how to interweave their own transformation with meaningful service and social change for their communities.” It spoke to my values and my vision of who I strive to be as a leader. My top two values are curiosity and growth. I love to ask questions about people, concepts, phenomena, and such. With that knowledge, I seek to grow as an individual, citizen of the world, and leader. I saw myself really transform and improve myself through the program.

The next that drew me to the fellowship was the unique "Head, Heart, and Hands" curriculum. As I read the curriculum, I personally defined the three to be: 1) obtaining knowledge with awareness and understanding, 2) utilizing passion and seeking meaningful connections, and 3) a mutual exchange of uplifting one another through actionable work. I was excited to be part of a program that encouraged a holistic approach to learning and social impact.

GOALS AND INTENTIONS

• Self-Development and Self-Reflection: I wanted to build confidence as a social change maker while also learning how to navigate stress and burnout.
• Finding and Building New Communities: I aimed to discover new communities on campus and connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for social change.
• Giving Back: It was important to me to find ways to give back to the community and make a meaningful impact.

THE WORK I DO

The work I do is deeply community-based and focuses on education and bridging gaps within diverse groups. By building and teaching curriculum to current and future leaders, I help cultivate the next generation of changemakers. Providing them with the tools and knowledge to address pressing social issues to contributes to a culture of curiosity, growth, and sustainable social impact. During the fellowship, I embarked on a project aimed at bridging gaps in communities. By fostering dialogue and understanding between diverse groups, my goal is to create a more inclusive and cohesive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. My work not only builds leaders but also educates and creates brave spaces to discuss Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) concepts and issues.

Empowering Future Leaders: My work in education ensures that future leaders are well-prepared to tackle challenges in their communities with confidence, empathy, and resilience. It's about inspiring them to believe in their ability to make meaningful change.

Strengthening Social Fabric:

By bridging gaps in communities, my work strengthens the social fabric, helping to build trust and understanding among diverse groups. This, in turn, leads to more cohesive and inclusive communities that can collaborate effectively for social change.

Creating Sustainable Impact:

The community-based approach ensures that the work is not only impactful but also sustainable. By involving the community directly, we can address their unique needs and create solutions that are both relevant and lasting.

Fostering Resilience & Engagement:

The skills of self-care, resilience, and engagement that I develop as a Fellow translate directly into my work. They ensure that I approach challenges with a positive mindset, stay connected to my purpose, and remain engaged in creating impactful social change.

Promoting Brave Spaces:

By creating brave spaces to discuss DEI concepts and issues, I empower individuals to engage in meaningful conversations, challenge biases, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable community.

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GLOBAL ASSEMBLY: SUMMER 2023

                                                                                                                   @ *The* *University of Virginia*

At the beginning of my fellowship, I had the privilege of attending an assembly that truly set the basis for my journey. This transformative experience brought together passionate individuals who shared a common vision, and it deeply resonated with me. The assembly challenged my perspectives and inspired me to reflect on my goals, ultimately reshaping my approach to both my work and personal growth. Surrounded by an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation, I found myself profoundly moved by the stories of resilience and creativity shared by fellow participants. This pivotal gathering not only solidified my commitment to the fellowship's mission but also set the basis for my fellowship journey, transforming me as a person and instilling a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the impact we can create together.

DISCOVERIES & INSIGHTS