Aminatou Supports the Youth in Niger

Born and raised in Niger, my lifelong passion has revolved around community development and gender empowerment. Following my undergraduate studies in international relations at Michigan State University, I aspired to acquire not only practical skills and knowledge but also to cultivate a robust network that would enable me to initiate my own community development initiatives and help solve global challenges.

Sciences Po was the right place to achieve those objectives. I am a proud PSIA alumna, having recently graduated from a Master’s degree in International Development.

Enrico Letta, a former Dean of PSIA, once eloquently said, "PSIA excels in bridging the gap between theory and practice, offering an ideal platform for future leaders to thrive as innovative and responsible actors in a challenging global landscape." These words continue to resonate with me as I reflect upon my experience at PSIA.

Currently, I serve as a policy associate at Abdul Latif Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), focusing on the empowerment and education of girls in West Africa. The courses I engaged in, including those in development economics, randomised evaluations, and policy analysis, have proven instrumental in equipping me with the knowledge and skills required for my current role. Furthermore, PSIA provided me with the opportunity to engage with influential figures, including global change-makers, activists, presidents, and diplomats, individuals I might never have encountered otherwise. 

In many developing countries, including Niger, children are among the most vulnerable individuals. Due to the worsening social and economic conditions of families, some children are forced to beg on the streets for survival, often being denied their basic rights.

The project aims to promote the social and economic integration of 10 street children aged from 12 to 18, some of them are orphans or have disabled parents, by engaging them in income-generating activities. These children are particularly affected as they lack access to formal education or vocational training. Our goal is to equip these young individuals with knowledge and skills through activities of their choice, such as makeup, fashion design, and creating art from dry waste. The project is ongoing, with a focus on providing more extensive and high-quality training.

The “Scholars community” represents a vibrant and diverse network of individuals who share a common passion for learning, growth, and positive impact. This community is not merely a collection of students from all over the African continent. It is a supportive ecosystem where ideas flourish, cultures converge, and friendships are forged. It's a place where we inspire and empower each other to overcome obstacles, pursue our dreams, and make a meaningful difference in our respective communities.

The scholar’s community is a source of invaluable connections, mentorship, and shared experiences that transcend borders and backgrounds, reminding us of the global perspective we all carry. 

My short-term objective is to continue working with researchers and policymakers through my current position at J-PAL. Working on projects designed to empower women and girls has always been my passion.

Beyond my career aspiration, I harbour a profound desire to take concrete steps towards effecting positive change within my home country of Niger. My vision is to orchestrate a series of innovative projects that place the youth at the very heart of transformative endeavours, thereby channeling their energy, creativity, and potential toward shaping a brighter future for our society. Doing so will drive sustainable development, foster a sense of agency and empowerment among the youth, and ultimately pave the way for enduring progress in Niger and beyond.   

Should I offer guidance to an aspiring student, my first advice would be to use the Alumni as part of your resources. Their insights can serve as an invaluable resource in crafting a robust application. Furthermore, I would like to emphasise the significance of cherishing one's unique experiences.

Every individual possesses a distinctive blend of talent, perspectives, and accomplishments; It is imperative not to underestimate the richness of your own journey. I encourage future students to recognise the worth of their own unique narrative and the potential it holds for enriching the broader educational experience.