The Global Sustainability Scholars program, managed by Penn State Global and Penn State Sustainability, selects 10-15 students annually who will use their study abroad experience to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Scholars engage with the sustainability community at Penn State before departure, build global sustainability knowledge abroad, and apply these skills upon return. Applications are due in mid-September each year; please check the website for details!

During my time in Masai Mara, Kenya, I witnessed the amazing connection between the Maasai community, nature, and sustainability. One standout moment was experiencing their community-driven approach to land conservation and the preservation of wildlife, both fundamental to their way of life. The Maasai’s collaborative agreements with local wildlife reserves demonstrated that sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into everyday practices.

The Maasai build homes from earth, sticks, and cow dung, using renewable materials and minimizing waste. Their diet showcased their deep understanding of the land’s resources. Beyond sustenance, the concept of community is central to their culture. Shared responsibilities, such as herding livestock, crafting jewelry, and participating in traditional ceremonies, foster unity and resilience within villages. Livestock, including cattle, goats, and chickens, also play a crucial role in their lives. These animals are more than just sources of food; they represent trade, wealth, and are central to ceremonial practices.

These experiences highlighted a unique approach to sustainability, rooted in traditional knowledge yet integrated with innovation to address modern challenges. The Maasai’s ability to nurture their environment while preserving cultural identity left me in awe, showing me that true sustainability arises when people and nature coexist in mutual respect.

One of my most memorable experiences was visiting the village and seeing the markets, where Maasai women displayed their handmade crafts, using materials sourced directly from nature. They transformed beads, stones, and other natural elements into intricate jewelry, baskets, and others. Each piece carried a story and cultural significance. It was beautiful to see how they utilized their resources so innovatively.

I left the Masai Mara not only with a newfound appreciation for their world but also deeply inspired by how warmly they embraced me, taught me, and shared their wisdom, leaving me in awe of their enduring spirit and creativity.

This experience in Masai Mara has significantly shaped my perspective on global sustainability, in terms of how it can be both locally and globally relevant. The Maasai approach emphasized the interconnectedness between land, people, and wildlife. Learning from their land management and conservation efforts highlighted how indigenous practices are key in the fight against climate change and ecosystem degradation, offering real-world examples that can inspire global solutions. It showed me that sustainable practices need to be adaptive in a cultural context, which can challenge more mainstream models. For global sustainability initiatives to succeed, they need to take an approach that includes social, economic, and environmental dimensions.

As a student on a pre-medicine track, my time in Masai Mara highlighted how closely sustainability and health are intertwined. I was struck by how the Maasai community’s approach to land conservation and traditional practices was not just about environmental health, but also the health of their people. Health systems that are ecologically and socially sustainable will be key to reducing disparities and ensuring health equity in underserved communities. A critical lesson I am bringing with me is that the health of a community is not just determined by access to healthcare but by the holistic health of their environment, culture, and relationship with nature.

To the next class of Sustainability Scholars, my advice is to approach sustainability with an open heart and mind. Take the time to listen to communities and understand how they define sustainability. Another lesson I am bringing back with me is the power of indigenous knowledge in shaping sustainable futures. The Maasai have demonstrated that long-term sustainability does not always require the latest technology or innovation but can be found in practices that are often overlooked in modern discussions. In my own work moving forward, I plan to integrate these perspectives into how I approach sustainability challenges, always considering the people and culture behind the practices. This trip deepened my understanding of the importance of sustainable systems. These are not just ecological concerns; but are critical to improving the health outcomes of underserved communities as a whole.