Brooke Johnson, a junior majoring in Agricultural Business, Madisyn Henderson, a sophomore in Agricultural Business and Ryleigh Obrecht, a junior majoring in Agricultural Business, are this year’s three recipients of Maktoum Al Seiari Scholarship for Excellence in Cultural Understanding and Global Citizenship. All three recipients participated in the Culture and Economic Diversification program to the United Arab Emirates in the Fall of 2024. This trip was led by program directors Dr. Ebby Luvaga and Mr. Jean-Pierre Taoutel.
This scholarship was established in 2022 by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates to the United States, in memory of Maktoum Al Seiari. Maktoum Hamad Al Seiari graduated from Iowa State University (ISU) with a degree in chemical engineering in Spring 2019. Maktoum was very passionate about the betterment of understanding between cultures. He was one of the first UAE students to actively participate in Iowa State study abroad program; The Culture and Economic Diversification program to the United Arab Emirates and continued to do so until his death. Each year, he contributed time and resources to the pre-trip orientation, and to welcoming nearly 30 students and faculty into his home in Abu Dhabi, further illustrating the generosity of the UAE culture. While in his home, the food, desserts, tea and gifts never stopped flowing. Iowa State University students were amazed and delighted by the level of generosity he and his family exhibited.
My experience studying abroad in the United Arab Emirates was truly transformative. It broadened my view of the world and deepened my appreciation for the richness of global cultures. I am incredibly grateful to have received the Maktoum Al Seiari Scholarship in honor of such a remarkable individual. One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the home of the Al Seiari family. Their warmth and hospitality left a lasting impression, and interacting with them gave me deeper insight into Emirati culture and traditions. Hearing about Maktoum’s generosity and kindness from my professors, then witnessing the same qualities in his family, made me realize the profound impact one person’s legacy can have on future generations. This study abroad experiences not only expanded my horizons but also reaffirmed my commitment to promoting cultural understanding and global citizenship. The lessons I learned in the UAE will stay with me throughout my life, and I am proud to carry forward Maktoum Al Seiari’s spirit of kindness, generosity, and cultural appreciation. - Madisyn Henderson
My experience in the United Arab Emirates was nothing short of extraordinary, offering me a unique perspective on cultural diversity and global interconnectedness. My knowledge of agriculture has expanded significantly through firsthand observations of innovative farming techniques like vertical farming and how others do organic farming. Witnessing how the UAE overcomes its harsh desert environment to ensure food security has given me a new appreciation for the resilience required to sustain agricultural production in resource-scarce regions. Additionally, visiting local markets and farms provided a closer look at how traditional practices coexist with cutting-edge technology, reflecting the nation’s commitment to sustainability and modernization. As a global citizen, this experience has broadened my understanding of my role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and addressing global challenges. Learning about the UAE’s sustainability initiatives and its efforts to build a diversified economy has motivated me to think critically about the importance of collaboration and innovation in tackling shared concerns like climate change and food security.
I am deeply grateful for the generosity of the donors and their commitment to empowering students like me. This scholarship has been instrumental in enabling me to pursue my academic and personal goals, allowing me to focus on my studies while immersing myself in enriching cultural experiences. - Brooke Johnson
My experience in the United Arab Emirates deepened my understanding of what it means to be a global citizen. I was able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds which taught me the value of mutual respect, open communication, and the importance of finding common ground despite our differences. During my visit, I had the privilege of meeting the family of the late Maktoum. I was able to hear the family’s stories about their son’s vision for supporting global citizenship which was truly inspiring. This scholarship provided me with the opportunity to engage with a global network and gain a global perspective. - Ryleigh Obrecht