Application process is still open to nominate FISU Student Ambassadors for season 2025/26.
With one month to go before the start of the 2025/26 FISU Student Ambassadors programme on 12 September, FISU Education is reviewing submissions and encourages member federations to submit candidate applications. At the same time current participants are reflecting on their journeys in the programme, including this account from Mama C Diallo, 2023 and 2024 FISU Student Ambassador for Mali.
Before becoming a FISU Student Ambassador
Everything started in October 2020 when I heard about FISU for the first time. I was invited by Mali’s first FISU Student Ambassador, Sadickou Mamadou Dembele, to whom I am eternally grateful, to join one of the main activities of his action plan, ‘an experience sharing session’. At the end of the session, I got basic information on FISU and my NUSF and from that special moment was built an inner conviction to become the next candidate. I couldn’t have realised that this simple decision was just the beginning of a unique adventure that is going to impact my life forever.
Participant
Becoming a FISU Student Ambassador in 2023 was one of those rare experiences in life. It was quite far from being a simple role but was the key to opening a secret door. I felt like a new world opened to me, a new world of opportunity, real leadership training, learning, improvement, networking, and friendship. Everything was beyond my expectation. My new title was a new world of responsibility and I was taking part in real decisions within the programme itself while also influencing things at FEMASSU, our national federation. If I were not in the programme, I believe that by this moment I would simply be another student with a university diploma, with no important responsibilities, no real impact, and no international experience that shaped me.
Mentee
One of the incredible experiences I had was to be part of the FISU Springboard Programme, or what I personally call ‘the crème de la creme’. Imagine being paired with a mentor who isn’t just skilled, but is living the exact dream career you’re chasing. Isn’t that magical? As a mentor I was blessed to get FISU Education Committee member Renata Bojczuk. She always made time for me in her busy schedule, empowering me through every conversation and every piece of advice. It enabled me to see my potential mirrored in someone who’s already walked the path. Maintaining that connection with her, even after the end of the programme, is equally amazing.
Recruiter
Being entrusted with the role of recruiter was an immense responsibility for me. In conversations with those from Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania and the Americas, I got to hear stories of passion and ambition, dreams and hard-work. This great position taught me the importance of active learning, and provided me confidence for my own future interviews by revealing interview secrets I am sure to use.
Team leader
Serving as the team leader for 2024-2025 was another stage in my experience. Working in tandem with Johanna from Sweden made the journey easier and interesting due to her openness, kindness, and positive attitude throughout the term. I played a key role assisting my group during proposal writing and in turning ideas into strategies. But what really made it special was the one-on-one work with other Student Ambassadors. Helping them craft their individual action plans and seeing their visions take shape is where the real magic happened. It was challenging, rewarding, and exactly the kind of hands-on leadership experience that stays with you forever.
Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games team official and volunteer
What a blessing it was to attend the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games! Volunteering as an attaché for the Malian delegation, and at the same time as an official of FEMASSU, was an incredible experience that allowed me to contribute to the success of this unique event and to remain in the heart of my NUSF’s activities. Attending the FISU Games was an unprecedented opportunity of networking and of strengthening relationships with my fellow FISU Student Ambassadors, with whom I have been working for several years behind the scenes. The Rhine-Ruhr experience influenced me deeply and made me eagerly desire to attend the next FISU Games in 2027 in Chungcheong, Korea and take on other roles to actively contribute to the event’s success.
Written by FISU Student Ambassador from Mali, Mama C Diallo
With one month to go before the start of the 2025/26 FISU Student Ambassadors programme season, those from member federations interested in the programme are encouraged to submit applications. FISU Education is currently reviewing submissions and welcomes more. Please contact ambassadors@fisu.net for more information.