A New Chapter of the International Leadership & Business Internship Begins

The International Leadership & Business Internship officially welcomed a new group of interns to Georgetown University, marking the start of another exciting week filled with leadership development and global collaboration. As students arrived from across the country, they began a journey that will challenge them to think creatively and make a real impact alongside entrepreneurs in Bauchi State, Nigeria.

Throughout the week, interns will work directly with Nigerian business owners to develop marketing and infrastructure recommendations that address real business challenges. Guided by experienced mentors and staff, participants will collaborate across cultures while learning from professionals and business leaders from both the United States and Nigeria. Through these experiences, interns will strengthen their leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while gaining a deeper understanding of international business and entrepreneurship.

After moving into their residence halls, interns gathered for the program's official welcome session. Marshall Bailly, Executive Director of Leadership Initiatives, introduced the mission of the International Leadership and Business Program and shared what participants could expect throughout the week. Interns were then welcomed by Eli Seiden and Zac Clark, Directors of the International Leadership and Business Program, along with Annie Jin, Anisha Buxi, and Danielle Saborio, Assistant Directors of the Business Program, who introduced themselves and explained the roles they will play in supporting interns throughout the internship.

The welcome session concluded with remarks from Umar Muhammad, Leadership Initiatives' Nigeria Country Director, who introduced interns to the entrepreneurs they will be supporting in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Umar discussed the realities of running a business in the region, the challenges many entrepreneurs face, and the lasting impact the interns' consulting projects can have in helping businesses grow through practical and sustainable solutions.

To conclude the day, interns traveled to the National Mall, where they visited the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial with their consulting teams. As they explored these iconic landmarks, students had the opportunity to get to know one another, begin building strong team relationships, and experience some of Washington, D.C.'s rich history before officially beginning their consulting work.

As the first day came to a close, interns had already begun forming new friendships and gaining excitement for the week ahead. With an inspiring introduction to the program and a shared commitment to making a difference, they were ready to begin an unforgettable week of leadership and global impact.