A Journey of Discovery: Past Reflections and Hopes for the Future

One of our 2024 Graduates, Nouhaila Bensghir of Morocco, has paved the way for herself over the course of her time at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB).

This past autumn, the DFL team caught up with Nouhaila to celebrate her graduation from the 2-year Master’s in Political Sciences, International Relations program offered by the university’s Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences. Despite a six-hour time difference between Brussels and DFL’s Toronto office, the conversation was deeply insightful and offered Nouaila the space to reflect on a journey that took her across the globe as a DFL Scholar.

Reflecting on Growth, Extending Gratitude

Nouhaila made it a point to start by expressing her gratitude for both DFL and ULB, acknowledging the pivotal role both parties played in creating her scholarship opportunity. “They opened an opportunity that I couldn’t otherwise access,” She said, expressing that DFL’s belief in her made the difference and left a deep impression.

When looking back on her early days at ULB and in the heart of the EU’s capital city, she reminisced on an initial sense of surprise.

“I was really surprised by the multiculturalism of ULB and Brussels in general and really appreciated that,” Nouhaila shared. According to her, the experience pushed her to become more independent and adaptable, which marked a change for her as someone who was previously closely knit with her family. Studying abroad posed Nouhaila her first major challenge, which offered the opportunity for her to grow, mature and become more open-minded.

Nouhaila pictured in Brussels, attending her graduation ceremony in October 2024.

The Dream to Give Back

As a student who pursued international relations, giving back was on Nouhaila’s mind as she looked towards the future and began the first steps in evaluating her goals. “I think one of my dreams, to be honest, is to contribute in a positive way,” She began, “Whether that is in my country or the Middle East more broadly. I want to see more women reach their full potential, and I believe that education has the power to transform women’s lives. If I can, I want to contribute to creating a more equal society.” Although Nouhaila has yet to cement her plans, contributing to her community back home, and Middle Eastern women broadly remain a clearly defined centrepiece.

Present Reflections and A Graduate’s Wisdom

Currently, Nouhaila is actively seeking roles in the international development sector with the hopes of applying all she learned in the classroom on the global stage for the betterment of governments, local organizations and systems. She took a moment to address future scholars, newapplicants and Middle Eastern women in general who will walk in her footsteps, in future generations of DFL Scholar cohorts.

“Make the most out of your time once you get your scholarship,” Nouhaila expressed. “Be open to any experience, whether it’s good or bad. It’s going to make you more confident and more resilient.”

She also offered a key tip to applicants and scholars interested in ULB, or any Belgian institution. “Regarding ULB [and other foreign universities], be sure to get your administrative and supporting documents taken care of early. This will help you focus on your studies.”

We’re deeply proud of all that Nouhaila has been able to achieve during her studies, and cannot wait to see her grow and progress as a professional.