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Urmila Palla - India

Major: Public Health

Hello future leathernecks, I'm an International student pursuing a Master's in Public health. I grew up in a country that celebrated unity in diversity, where people from various backgrounds and cultures lived together. This gives me the ability to easily connect with people from different walks of life. As an International Student Ambassador, I warmly welcome everyone to our vibrant, diverse campus community. I try to make everyone feel included and valued for who they are by keeping an open mind and a cheerful smile on my face. My passion lies in promoting health equity by raising awareness about wellbeing. I love learning about different cultures and creating an environment where people from all backgrounds can thrive academically and personally. You can find me at cultural events or just around campus, always ready with a cheerful greeting. Let me know if you need any help navigating resources or getting involved - I'm here to support your journey!

Email: u-palla2@wiu.edu

Gbeminiyi Ogunwale - Nigeria

Major: MS Community and Economic Development

I am a seasoned Social and Community Development Worker with a proven track record of success in the humanitarian, professional training, and coaching industries. Skilled in sustainable development, economic strengthening, livelihood support programming, child protection and advocacy, community development, social welfare, Social Work practices and risk management strategies.

I enjoyed meeting people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs systems. Also, helping people make complicated life situations simple as much as possible has always been my heart desire.

I understand how difficult it can be to adjust to a new environment, system, and culture, and as someone who has been there before, I would be delighted to share my knowledge to assist prospective international students in settling into the Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ»community. I am looking forward to meeting you!

Email: ge-ogunwale@wiu.edu

Prince Asare Owusu - Ghana

Major: MS in Geographic Information Science & Cartography

As an international student, I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges of adapting to a new culture and academic environment. My leadership roles and passion for cross-cultural engagement have equipped me with the skills to support and guide fellow students. I am committed to making Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ»a welcoming space where international students feel valued, informed, and empowered. As an International Ambassador, I will actively foster inclusivity, connection, and a smooth transition for new students.

Email: Pa-owusu@wiu.edu

Philip Ambe Omiah - Cameroon

Major: Physics

Hi, I am Philip Ambe Omiah from Cameroon, West of Africa. I am a Graduate student and a Teacher Support Assistant in the Physics Department at Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ» (WIU), Macomb.

I had fears that leaving my home country to the USA and to a town where I knew no one may lead to challenges like homesickness, language barriers (especially the accent), financial strains, loneliness and isolation. But I now realize that there was no need to have such fears and presumed challenges. All I needed to do was to ask questions. Many associations/clubs at Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ»has helped me to connect with others, share backgrounds, cultures and interests, find a supportive environment to share challenges and get necessary help.

As someone who had common fears of relocating and has been greatly helped and I have found my way, I am very much willing to guide any international student especially my brothers and sisters from Cameroon who wish to overcome their fears, follow their dreams and reinvent themselves.

Email: pa-omiah@wiu.edu

Enyonam Adjoa Neku - Ghana

Major: Master of Public Health

Embarking on an international journey is a bold and life-changing adventure, one that I know firsthand. I left home quite early as a teenager, and throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to receive kindness and support from others who helped me settle in. Now, I believe it’s my time to give back and extend that same support to new students. As an international student at WIU, I have embraced the excitement, challenges, and opportunities that come with studying in a new environment. My passion lies in making this transition seamless and fulfilling for others. With extensive experience in international student affairs, cultural integration, and event coordination, I am dedicated to helping students navigate campus life, housing, food, and essential resources. My mission as an International student Ambassador is to build bridges across cultures, create unforgettable experiences, and ensure every student feels not just welcomed but truly at home. Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ»is more than a university; it’s a family, and I can’t wait to help you find your place in it!

Email: ea-neku@wiu.edu

A S M Zaki Faisal - Bangladesh

Major: Political Science

Stepping into a new country is an adventure filled with excitement, challenges, and endless opportunities. As an international student from Bangladesh, I understand the journey of adapting to a new culture, navigating university life, and finding a sense of belonging. I am passionate about community engagement and fostering inclusivity. WIU’s diverse and welcoming environment has given me the chance to connect with people from all walks of life, and as an International Student Ambassador, I want to extend that same warmth to incoming students. My goal is to help you navigate campus life, embrace cultural diversity, and make the most of your experience at WIU. Whether you need guidance, have questions, or just want a friendly face to talk to, I’m here to support you. Let’s make this journey unforgettable together!

Email: z-faisal@wiu.edu

Douglas Mang'anda - Malawi

Major: Public Health

Hello! My name is Doug, from Malawi, Africa. I’m passionate about creating spaces where people feel connected, empowered and supported. These values not only define my professional work but also reflect who I am as a person. Coming to Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ» has been a journey of growth, and I’m excited to share that journey with others, especially fellow international students finding their way in a new environment.

As your International Student Ambassador, I’m here to walk alongside you through your Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ»experience. I believe true growth happens when we stretch beyond our comfort zones, try new things, and embrace change even when it feels a little scary at first. Adjusting to a new country and culture can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Â鶹´«Ã½ÄÚÄ»is a warm and inclusive community filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed and I’ll be here to help you settle in, build community, and make the most of your time here. Welcome to the Leatherneck family!

Email: d-manganda@wiu.edu

Shobnom Ani - Bangladesh

Major: Sociology

Hey, fellow leathernecks! I am Shobnom from Bangladesh, a small South Asian country rich in nature, culture, music, and food. I am currently doing my MA in Sociology at Western. When I’m not busy unraveling the mysteries of society, I miss the street food on a rainy day in Bangladesh. I love singing, dancing, travelling, reading books, and exploring foods from different cultures. What excites me most, however, is meeting people from all corners of the world and learning their incredible stories. Feel free to say hi and reach out to me. I am excited to meet and learn about you. Welcome to WIU!

Email: s-ani@wiu.edu

Aminat Kareem (she/her) - Nigeria

Major: MSc. College Student Personnel (CSP)

Hi! I grew up in the vibrant city of Lagos and love connecting with people of diverse backgrounds. Having experienced firsthand the excitement of coming to a different country and the difficulties of adjusting to a new environment, I would love to be a bridge for you by offering guidance, resources, and a friendly face as you settle in. I hope to learn from you and help ease your transition from home to Western!

Email: ao-kareem@wiu.edu