My name is Sara Varela, and I’m a proud Cape Verdean woman, an immigrant, and a graduate student in Project Management at Wentworth Institute of Technology. My journey has been shaped by resilience, purpose, and a deep desire to build a better world for women—especially those who are often unseen and underestimated. Growing up in Cape Verde, I witnessed the strength of women firsthand. My grandmother, mother, and neighbors were the backbone of our community, often carrying the weight of households, businesses, and education with limited recognition or support. Their sacrifices lit a fire in me: I knew I wanted to grow up and change systems, not just for myself but for them—for all women who are told to wait, to be quiet, or to expect less. I began pursuing that mission early. After finishing in studies in Computer science and Artificial intelligence, i returned to Cape Verde and dedicated in co-founded iFome, a mobile app that connected local food vendors to customers. What started as a small startup expanded into a nationwide platform serving restaurants, pharmacies, and supermarkets—especially critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of our vendors were women who suddenly had access to income, visibility, and independence. That experience showed me the power of technology and entrepreneurship as tools for social equity. Now, through my graduate studies, I’m preparing to launch the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council, a nonprofit initiative that will foster mentorship, access to funding, and business development for women and immigrant entrepreneurs. My goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem of support for women across the Cape Verdean diaspora and beyond. I believe that by empowering women economically, we uplift families, communities, and future generations. . . My career will be dedicated to creating platforms—digital and real-world—where women are not just included but centered. Whether through launching community programs, investing in women-led startups, or mentoring the next generation, I want my work to make tangible, lasting impact. I envision a world where women lead in boardrooms, in government, in tech, and in social innovation—confidently and without apology. . . Receiving this scholarship would help me complete the final stage of my education and move forward with building the systems I’ve dreamed of. It would affirm that I’m not alone in this mission—that others also believe in the power of women’s dreams. . Because when we support women, we don’t just change their lives—we change the world.

I love math because it’s both a science and an art—a beautiful balance of structure and creativity. Math helps me understand how things work beneath the surface. Whether it’s managing a business budget, analyzing project data, or creating efficient systems, math is always at the core. It sharpens how I think and how I solve problems in my personal, academic, and professional life. Growing up in Cape Verde, I didn’t always have access to the best educational tools, but math was something I could rely on. It didn’t require perfect conditions—just a pencil, paper, and focus. I was drawn to the way numbers could build entire systems, explain patterns in nature, and support powerful innovations. The logic behind math gave me confidence, and the process taught me patience and precision. As I moved into entrepreneurship and now project management, my appreciation for math only deepened. It’s the silent force behind scheduling, budgeting, forecasting, and decision-making. It allows me to lead with clarity and structure, and to think several steps ahead. Math makes me feel empowered. It gives me tools to create solutions that are efficient, impactful, and sustainable—and that’s why I love it. It’s more than numbers. It’s a language for building the future.

My name is Sara Varela. I am from the Cape Verde, an island nation in West Africa where innovation often grows from scarcity, and resilience is a way of life. I’m a dreamer, a builder, and above all, a woman of purpose. I care deeply about empowering others—especially women, immigrants, and underrepresented communities—and everything I do is guided by a personal mission: to create systems of opportunity where people are seen, heard, and valued. I’m driven by a passion for inclusive development and by the belief that no one should be left behind simply because of where they come from or what they look like. That belief stems from my own journey as a Black, immigrant woman navigating unfamiliar spaces—from co-founding a startup in Cape Verde to pursuing a Master’s degree in Project Management in the United States. One real-world issue I feel deeply connected to is the lack of access to economic opportunities for marginalized communities—especially for immigrant women. I’ve seen incredibly talented women remain stuck in cycles of poverty, not because they lack ability, but because they lack resources, mentorship, and access. This matters to me because I’ve lived it. I’ve had to fight for every opportunity, every open door, and I know the difference a helping hand can make. If I had the power to make lasting change in this area, I would build an international support ecosystem for women entrepreneurs—starting with the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council, which I’m currently developing. This digital-first nonprofit will connect women-led businesses with funding, training, and mentorship, both in the U.S. and in Cape Verde. I envision an online platform that provides startup resources, real-time coaching, and a marketplace to help women scale their businesses across borders. Eventually, I want to replicate this model for other diaspora communities around the world. I chose to study Project Management because I saw a gap between brilliant ideas and effective execution—especially in social impact work. I wanted to learn how to lead complex projects, manage resources efficiently, and design scalable solutions to real problems. My background in technology and entrepreneurship inspired this path, but it was my desire to serve that solidified it. I believe project management is more than charts and timelines—it’s about vision, strategy, and leadership. With this degree, I can launch and manage high-impact initiatives that empower others and create sustainable change. One of my goals in the next five years is to fully launch and scale the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council and turn it into a functioning nonprofit organization with partnerships, grant funding, and measurable outcomes. To get there, I plan to graduate by April 2026, apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), secure professional experience in a nonprofit or international development organization, and continue building the council on the side until it becomes sustainable. I’ll seek out mentors, apply for fellowships, and remain deeply rooted in both my Cape Verdean and American communities. Education has been my anchor. Every course I take, every paper I write, and every challenge I overcome brings me closer to understanding who I am and why I’m here. Education has sharpened my ability to think critically and act strategically, but more importantly, it has affirmed that I belong in the rooms I once feared I wasn’t good enough for. It’s helped me find my voice and use it to advocate not only for myself, but for others who don’t yet feel empowered to speak. Being a woman has shaped every part of how I move through the world. It means constantly navigating systems that weren’t built for me and still showing up with confidence and grace. As a woman in business, in tech, and in leadership, I’ve had to work harder to be heard and taken seriously. But I’ve also learned to lead with empathy, emotional intelligence, and integrity—traits often overlooked but immensely powerful. I take pride in being a woman, not in spite of the challenges but because of them. They’ve made me resilient, compassionate, and courageous. To me, leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about impact. I’ve led teams, launched startups, mentored peers, and taken initiative in spaces where no blueprint existed. At iFome, the mobile app I co-founded in Cape Verde, I helped expand our services from food delivery to pharmacies and grocery stores during the COVID-19 pandemic. That pivot helped us support thousands of people during a national crisis. Leading through that moment taught me that real leadership means being present, decisive, and human in times of uncertainty. One moment that tested my resilience was moving to the U.S. alone to pursue my degree, with very limited financial support. After a few months, I was denied an internship, lost an opportunity to earn extra income, and faced immigration-related limitations. I felt defeated. But I refused to give up. I sought out community, asked for help, and learned how to manage my resources more wisely. I turned to prayer and reflection, and remembered why I came: to build something greater than myself. That season taught me how to endure and adapt—and to believe in my own ability to rise, even when things fall apart. If I’m awarded this scholarship, it would lift a heavy financial burden and allow me to complete my final semester without interruption. But more than that, it would be an investment in someone who is committed to giving back. I won’t just use this education to better my life—I’ll use it to change lives. From building women-led businesses to launching community platforms, my dreams are big—but they are rooted in service, and I know exactly how to bring them to life. Thank you for considering my story and my vision. I hope to honor this opportunity by becoming a leader who not only achieves, but uplifts—and who uses her voice, skills, and heart to make a difference in this world.

One technology that inspires me deeply is mobile applications—especially their ability to democratize access to essential services and drive economic resilience. While mobile apps may not seem as revolutionary as AI or blockchain, they have transformed lives in powerful ways, particularly in developing countries like mine and that has been the reason i first studied computer science and AI As a co-founder of iFome, I helped launch a mobile app in Cape Verde that initially connected local food vendors to customers. But as the need grew, so did our impact. iFome quickly expanded beyond restaurants to include pharmacies, grocery stores, and supermarkets—becoming a critical delivery and e-commerce platform that served the entire country. During the COVID-19 pandemic, iFome played a vital role in helping small businesses survive and ensuring families could safely access food and medicine. We didn’t just build an app—we built a lifeline during a national crisis. This experience changed my life and showed me the transformative power of technology when it’s guided by purpose. It also solidified my passion for tech-enabled entrepreneurship and inclusive development. Now, as a Master’s student in Project Management, I am building the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council, a digital-first nonprofit initiative to connect African diaspora entrepreneurs, empower immigrant communities, and expand economic opportunity through technology. Technology inspires me because of its potential to bridge global gaps—and I believe women must be at the forefront of this movement. Not just as developers, but as founders, project leaders, and visionaries. I intend to be one of them. Receiving this scholarship would empower me to continue using technology to make the world more equitable, connected, and inclusive—especially for women and underrepresented communities who deserve a seat at every table.

As a dedicated graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Project Management at Wentworth Institute of Technology, I am deeply committed to using my education to create meaningful, lasting change in underserved communities. Maintaining a strong academic record with a GPA of 4.0 reflects my dedication to excellence and my belief that education is the foundation for impactful leadership. Receiving the OMC scholarship would be a transformative step in my journey. As an international student facing significant financial challenges, this support would relieve the burden of tuition and living expenses, enabling me to focus fully on my studies and professional development without distraction. It would also accelerate my path to graduation, helping me complete my program on time and begin applying my skills in real-world projects and organizations that drive social impact. My career goal is to lead initiatives that bridge the gap between technology, entrepreneurship, and community development. I am currently developing the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council, a nonprofit initiative that will foster economic cooperation, mentorship, and business opportunities between Cape Verde and the United States. This council aims to empower entrepreneurs, especially immigrants and women, by providing access to resources that are often scarce in underserved communities. By completing my master’s degree, I will gain critical skills in project planning, risk management, and team leadership, which are essential to managing complex initiatives like the Business Council. These skills will enable me to design programs that create jobs, support small businesses, and build sustainable economic growth. My education will also open doors to professional opportunities in the nonprofit and international development sectors, where I hope to contribute to projects with a global reach and tangible social benefits. The OMC scholarship aligns perfectly with my academic and professional goals because it supports students who demonstrate both potential and a commitment to making a difference. As a low-income international student, I face financial barriers that could delay or prevent the completion of my degree. This scholarship would provide the financial stability I need to remain focused on my studies and pursue internships, leadership opportunities, and networking that will enrich my education and career. Moreover, receiving this scholarship would be a vote of confidence in my potential to contribute meaningfully to society. It would reinforce my resolve to lead with integrity, empathy, and excellence — qualities I believe are essential for today’s leaders. In summary, the OMC scholarship will not only support my academic journey but also empower me to use my graduate education as a tool for social change. I am passionate about leveraging my skills and experiences to build bridges across cultures and communities, and with your support, I will be able to make a greater impact in my field and beyond. Thank you for considering my application

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." — Psalm 23:1 I was born in Portugal and growing up in Cape Verde, faith was the cornerstone of my family and community. My grandmother was a devout Christian, and from a young age, I observed how her belief in God shaped every aspect of her life — from how she cared for her family to how she treated neighbors and strangers alike. Her faith was not merely spoken but lived daily through kindness, generosity, and unwavering hope even amid hardship. Watching her, I learned that Christianity is not a set of rules or rituals but a relationship — one that sustains, comforts, and empowers. Despite this foundation, my personal journey into Christianity was not instantaneous or straightforward. As I grew older and encountered new environments and challenges, my understanding of God evolved deeply. It was during my move to the United States for graduate studies that my faith transformed from a cultural inheritance into a lifeline. Leaving Cape Verde was bittersweet. I was excited about the possibilities but also frightened by the unknown. In Boston, I faced a world very different from my home — different culture, language barriers, and at times, a sense of invisibility. I encountered moments of loneliness, financial struggles, and the overwhelming pressure of academic and personal expectations. In these moments, my faith was tested. One of the most profound realizations I had was that faith is not about the absence of struggle but the presence of God within it. When I felt alone, I learned to turn inward and upward, to seek God not just in the church or sacred spaces but in quiet moments of prayer, in the kindness of a friend, and in the resilience I found within myself. This understanding gave me peace and renewed strength to keep moving forward. I came to appreciate that Christianity is deeply personal. It doesn’t look the same for everyone, and no one’s path is identical. Pastor Thomas Rorie Jr.’s example embodies this truth beautifully. Though I never had the privilege of meeting him, his life of service, generosity, and unconditional love reflects the heart of Christian discipleship. His ministry was not about judgment or dogma but about meeting people where they are — acknowledging their unique experiences with faith and God. This inclusive and compassionate approach resonates with me profoundly. My faith journey continues to be a source of motivation and direction. It inspires my academic and professional goals. As a Master’s student in Project Management, I am committed to using my education to serve communities that often lack representation and resources. My current project, the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council, aims to foster economic empowerment and cultural exchange between my home country and the United States. This council will create opportunities for entrepreneurs, especially immigrants and women, to access mentorship, funding, and networks essential for success. This work is more than just a career aspiration; it is a calling rooted in Christian values of stewardship, service, and justice. I believe God calls us to be agents of change — to build bridges where there are divides and to uplift those marginalized by society. This scholarship, which honors Pastor Rorie’s legacy, is a beacon of hope for students like me who live out their faith through action and leadership. Financially, I face significant challenges in completing my degree. Although I have worked hard and sought all possible resources, the cost of tuition and living expenses threaten to delay or prevent my graduation in April 2026. Receiving this scholarship would relieve a tremendous burden and allow me to focus fully on my studies and the launch of the Business Council. It would also empower me to continue living out my faith authentically, balancing academic excellence with service to others. Beyond finances, this scholarship represents a shared commitment — a recognition that faith and education together create transformative power. Just as Pastor Rorie dedicated his life to guiding and uplifting his community, this scholarship helps nurture the next generation of leaders who embody those same values. To be a recipient would be both an honor and a sacred responsibility. My future plans include graduating with my master’s degree, expanding the Business Council to create sustainable programs, and securing professional opportunities aligned with my mission. I also plan to invest in real estate ventures to create safe and affordable housing for immigrant families, providing stability and hope. Additionally, I am passionate about mentoring young women from Cape Verde and similar communities, helping them navigate the challenges of education and entrepreneurship with confidence and faith. Throughout my journey, the lessons of Christianity — love, perseverance, humility, and grace — have been my compass. They shape how I approach every challenge and opportunity. I am inspired daily by the words of Jesus in Matthew 25:40: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This verse motivates me to see every act of service as an act of worship and every person as deserving of dignity and respect. . Pastor Thomas Rorie Jr.’s legacy lives on through this scholarship and the students it supports. By awarding this scholarship, you are investing not just in my education but in a vision for a more just and compassionate world. I am committed to honoring that vision through my faith, my work, and my life. . In closing, I thank you sincerely for your consideration. I pray that I may continue to grow in faith and leadership, empowered by God’s grace and the support of generous benefactors. If granted this scholarship, I will carry Pastor Rorie’s spirit with me — serving with love, leading with humility, and striving to make a difference for those who need it most. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." – Eleanor Roosevelt Graduating with my master’s degree in Project Management from Wentworth Institute of Technology will mark the fulfillment of a deeply personal mission — one rooted in resilience, ambition, and a desire to serve. For me, higher education is not just a means to an end; it is a platform for empowerment and transformation. I am determined to use this degree to build a career that supports underserved communities, drives cross-cultural collaboration, and creates opportunities for people like me — immigrants, women, and aspiring changemakers — to lead and thrive on a global scale. I was born and raised in Cape Verde, a small island nation where innovation is often stifled by limited resources. But even in an environment where opportunities were scarce, I always felt a calling to do more, to create something meaningful. That drive led me to co-found a tech startup called iFome, which connected local food vendors to customers through a mobile app. It wasn’t just a business — it was a solution to a real need, one that empowered small business owners and gave them access to a new market. That experience lit a fire in me: I saw the power of entrepreneurship and technology as tools to transform lives and build inclusive, sustainable progress. However, I quickly realized that passion alone wasn’t enough to scale that kind of impact. I needed formal training, global exposure, and a deeper understanding of how to manage complex initiatives. That’s what led me to the United States — to pursue a master’s degree that would equip me with the tools to lead on a much larger scale, with greater impact and long-term sustainability. Moving to the U.S. as an international student was both exciting and terrifying. I was filled with purpose but also weighed down by uncertainty — financial, emotional, and professional. Over the past two years, I’ve juggled coursework, immigration challenges, cultural adjustment, and economic hardship. And yet, I’ve never once lost sight of my “why.” Every lecture, every group project, every late night spent on assignments is an investment in the future I’m determined to create. My long-term goal is to work at the intersection of international development, entrepreneurship, and social innovation. I want to design and lead projects that create jobs, support immigrant communities, and promote economic growth in underrepresented regions — particularly those with ties to the African diaspora. One of the projects I am most excited about is the creation of the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council, an initiative I have already begun to develop. The goal of the council is to foster trade, investment, mentorship, and cultural exchange between the United States and Cape Verde. It will support small businesses, empower young entrepreneurs, and connect Cape Verdean immigrants in the U.S. to meaningful opportunities for impact in their home country. This vision is only possible if I can complete my degree. Unfortunately, I am currently facing serious financial obstacles that may prevent me from enrolling in my final semester. I only have four courses left to graduate, but without additional funding, I risk delaying or even derailing this crucial step. I’ve explored every option available to me — applying for on-campus jobs, seeking temporary aid, and cutting personal expenses — but a scholarship is now the most realistic and essential path forward. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to finish what I started. It would ensure I can stay enrolled, complete my capstone project (which is directly tied to the launch of the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council), and graduate in April 2026 as planned. More than that, it would free me to focus fully on building the next chapter of my life — pursuing work authorization, applying for OPT (Optional Practical Training), and entering the professional world ready to lead. I am committed to using this degree not for personal gain, but for public good. I want to support other immigrants like myself in navigating their journeys. I want to launch programs that provide training, resources, and funding to women-led businesses. I want to one day establish a foundation or scholarship fund to give back to students in Cape Verde who dream of studying abroad but lack the means. I want to be the person I needed when I was younger — someone who believed in possibility even when the odds were stacked against them. This scholarship would not just fund tuition; it would be an investment in everything I stand for. It would be a vote of confidence in my ability to lead, to serve, and to pay forward the opportunities I’ve received. I have the passion, the vision, and the experience — but I need support to cross the finish line. My future plans are bold, but they are not abstract. With this degree, I will: Graduate in April 2026 with a Master’s in Project Management. Launch the U.S.–Cape Verde Business Council as a registered nonprofit. Secure employment through OPT in a mission-driven organization. Use real estate investment as a long-term strategy to empower immigrant communities. Mentor young women from Cape Verde and create pipelines of support for them in tech, business, and education. Every step I’ve taken until now — from co-founding a startup in Cape Verde to pursuing this graduate degree in Boston — has been guided by purpose. I am not here just to succeed; I am here to make a difference. And with your support, I will. In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude for considering my application. I know that scholarships are highly competitive, and I do not take this opportunity lightly. If awarded this scholarship, I will carry your belief in me through every challenge, every project, and every future success. I will work not just for myself, but for everyone who has ever been told they couldn’t — and for everyone still waiting for their chance to begin. Because when one of us rises, we all rise — and I’m ready to rise, with purpose, for all of us.

"Whisper or Risk Her" is a flirty, high-stakes challenge that tests trust, exposes secrets, and shakes up relationships — all while giving Islanders the chance to earn game-changing rewards. It blends mystery, temptation, and a dose of drama to keep the villa on edge. Each couple is called up one at a time. They receive a sealed Secret Envelope containing a personalized question based on past villa drama, flirtation, or loyalty issues. These are spicy but not scandalous — just enough to stir curiosity (e.g., “Who in the villa would you couple up with if your current partner wasn’t here?” or “Have you ever faked a connection in the villa?”). The Islander must then make a choice: WHISPER: Share the secret answer privately with their partner while the rest of the villa watches in silence. Their partner wears headphones with loud music so no one else hears the whisper — just sees facial reactions. RISK HER: Say the answer out loud to the entire villa — and receive a tempting prize. Rewards can include: A private date with their partner or another Islander of their choice Immunity at the next recoupling Access to secret public vote results A video preview of what someone has said behind their back The Twist: If the Islander chooses to Whisper, producers play back a distorted audio clip of the whisper to the whole villa. The voice is scrambled and no names are mentioned — but now everyone’s guessing who said what. The suspense and speculation keep tensions high. If the Islander chooses to Risk It and speak out, the entire villa hears the raw truth. Jealousy, honesty, attraction, and strategy collide in real time. The idea: Trust Test: Forces couples to decide whether to protect each other or play for power. Flirt Factor: Teases connections and crushes, fueling tension and new possibilities. Gameplay Strategy: Rewards add real stakes and influence decisions beyond the challenge. Unpredictable: Whether Islanders whisper or risk it, the aftermath keeps the villa buzzing. Duration: 30 to 40 minutes.