Alumni Susie (left) and Dil (right)

This interview was conducted by Susie Ni (ALC 2016 alumna).

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Dilrabo Saidalieva, from Tajikistan. I joined the ESI (Exploring Social Innovation) program in July of 2016.

Where are you living now? 


Kazakhstan, Almaty, to attend school.

What is your current occupation?

I’m a sophomore majoring in Business Management.

In what ways has your VIA experience impacted your career and who you are today? 


VIA has expanded my horizons, and I have much more value for opportunities to learn things. I believe I can do anything!

What is the most important thing you learned during your VIA program?

You do not have to take very long time to start your journey, you can start right now.

What was your favorite moment from your VIA experience? 


I really like the VIA community is like a family living together, building connections, and making me feel very close to people.

Are you still in contact with anyone you met at VIA? If yes, in what way? 


Yes, I am still in contact with my school mates who joined VIA, I meet them at school in person. In terms of long-distance VIA mates, I usually connect with them via social media.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I think I will be graduated and start working in 5 years. I really hope I could make an influence in whatever field I will be working at.

What advice do you have for future VIA participants?

Always stay in touch with your friends, no matter if it’s during or after the program.

Describe VIA in 3 words:

Future, Freedom, Fun