Meet this year’s Outstanding Supporter Award Honoree, the American India Foundation!
This award is given to a supporter who is held in high regard for their support to Atlas Corps and to our community of leaders, and their passion for serving others.
We are grateful for the American India Foundation (AIF) for investing in the professional development of rising social changemakers. Their immense support towards our AIF Banyan Impact Fellows and Scholars has been instrumental in helping us create career pathways for diverse and talented leaders who want to serve others. Thank you, AIF, we are honored to serve alongside you.
On behalf of the organization, Björn Technau, Program Manager, Banyan Impact Fellowship, shares more on our partnership and offers words of impact for future generations of leaders
At Atlas Corps, we have a tradition of stating our “Five Facts” when introducing ourselves to new people. What are your five facts?
 | Name: Björn Technau Hometown: From Mainz, Germany; Lives in New York, U.S.A. Role at Organization: Program Manager, Banyan Impact Fellowship Social Issue/Interest Area: Environment; Animal Protection Fun Fact: I worked as a shepherd in Canada in 2004. |
When and how did you first hear about Atlas Corps, and why did you decide to support Atlas Corps?
I learned about Atlas Corps when I joined AIF last year. It is a wonderful collaboration that has rendered the AIF Fellowship truly binational. We are grateful for the mutual support, and we are excited to continue and expand our collaboration.
Why is it important for you to inspire future social change leaders?
It is meaningful work that I learn a lot from. It is exciting to meet young people from various backgrounds that are passionate about social change and a better future. It gives me hope to witness this passion and the innovation from our Fellows to tackle the most pressing issues of our time. Being part of this program and working together with these future leaders for mutual inspiration and support is truly an amazing opportunity.
What impact has the Atlas Corps Community made on you and the American India Foundation?
The Atlas Corps Community has widened our horizons. The U.S.–India bridge building has been a core element of our program since its inception 22 years ago. The collaboration with Atlas Corps has allowed us to add new partners and friends to our networks; and thanks to the Virtual Leadership Institute, our Fellows do now get in touch and professionally exchange with other Fellows from all over the world.
What message would you like to send to individuals who are thinking of supporting Atlas Corps?
Atlas Corps offers outstanding opportunities for young passionate people to exchange internationally and refine their leadership skills for a better future.
Thank you, Björn, for your inspiring words! We look forward to celebrating the American India Foundation on July 17 at 12 pm ET during the Atlas Corps Celebration of Service!
Photos from Björn’s personal archive.
