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Emerging Education Leaders Conclude Professional Exchange in Omaha 

The three Fellows represent the inaugural cohort of a program designed to strengthen professional capacity, foster cross-cultural understanding, and build lasting connections between Asia and the United States.

International Programs at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) welcomed the inaugural cohort of the Sieu Mei Tu Professional Fellows Program (PFP), a new international exchange initiative supported by the Sieu Mei Tu Endowment. The month-long program provided a professional and cultural immersion experience focused on education, community engagement, and leadership development.

The 2026 Fellows and respective host organizations are:

  • Ravee Suksawat of Thailand partnered with Service-Learning Academy at UNO
  • Sokthearoath Kong of Cambodia partnered with Completely Kids
  • Tahani Sofia binti Abdul Hamid of Malaysia partnered with Partnership 4 Kids

The three Fellows represent the first cohort of a program designed to strengthen professional capacity, foster cross-cultural understanding, and build lasting connections between Asia and the United States. Over the past four weeks, the Fellows have collaborated on community service projects, engaged in local cultural exchange experiences, and delved into customized professional placements.

The Sieu Mei Tu Professional Fellows Program reflects the enduring legacy of Sieu Mei Tu, whose life story embodies resilience, sacrifice, and a deep belief in the transformative power of education. Her family’s endowment supports initiatives that promote international engagement and educational opportunities.

“Sieu Mei Tu's legacy of resilience and her family's generosity reflect what makes Omaha special — a community that grows by welcoming the world in. International Programs at UNO is proud to lead that work, building global connections that bring emerging leaders here and carry Omaha's spirit of innovation and engagement back out into the world.” 

 Dr. Andrea Stiefvater, Associate Vice Chancellor for Global Engagement at UNO

During their time in Omaha, the Fellows were embedded within local education-focused organizations where they gained hands-on professional experience while sharing their own expertise and insights. The program also included community service activities, meetings with local leaders, and opportunities to engage with the broader Omaha community.

Each Fellow developed an Action Plan based on lessons learned during the program and will implement it in their home community following their return from the fellowship. The projects are intended to extend the program’s impact beyond the exchange experience and support positive change in education and community development.

Fellow Perspectives

Ravee Suksawat (Thailand)

“Education has the power to transform lives. Through this fellowship, I have learned, shared experiences, and built connections that will create positive opportunities for students in Thailand.”

Sokthearoath Kong (Cambodia)

“Through my participation in this program, I have gained a deeper understanding of cultural dynamics and global communication. I have also developed a clearer perspective on the challenges educational institutions face and how communities collaborate to support one another. I look forward to bringing this invaluable exchange experience home to build a better contribution for our community in Cambodia.”

Tahani Sofia binti Abdul Hamid (Malaysia)

“This experience has provided valuable opportunities to build meaningful connections and gain fresh perspectives through collaboration and knowledge sharing. It has strengthened my confidence and inspired me to continue serving my community by developing impactful initiatives that can empower and be adapted to the Malaysian context.”

The Fellows concluded the program with presentations highlighting their experiences, key lessons learned, and plans for implementing their Action Plans in Cambodia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

About the Sieu Mei Tu Professional Fellows Program

The Sieu Mei Tu Professional Fellows Program is administered by UNO International Programs and made possible through the generosity of the Sieu Mei Tu Endowment, which supports students, faculty, and programs that promote international engagement and opportunities connected to Asia.