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I had the privilege of kicking off the Global Innovation Day at the Inaugural Texas House during SXSW with Rice University's Vice President for Global Partnerships Dr. Caroline Levander and award winning journalist Avery Travis on how global partnerships, AI-enabled learning, and ecosystem development are shaping the future of education and entrepreneurship worldwide. From Rice’s strategic collaborations in France, Mexico, and India; to #TrueLeap’s work on the ground in the #DRC, #Ghana, and #India; to #BornGlobal’s chapters across Asia, Europe, Africa, and LATAM—our conversation was a shared call to action: We must build the future of learning and and the future of work by investing in global talent, not just where capital already flows, but where human potential is waiting to be unlocked. ?? By 2100, out of every 5 people on Earth 2 will live in Africa 2 will live in Asia. ?? The Global North is facing population decline and aging workforces. ?? The Global South is growing—young, motivated, and eager to learn. At TrueLeap Inc, we’re building a platform/ecosystem where: ? Anyone can learn, no matter their bandwidth or budget ? Educators and experts can teach and monetize their knowledge ? Global learners are not just consumers—they’re contributors We’ve seen the power of global partnerships firsthand: ???? In DRC, we are building digital infrastructure through our partnership with the Catholic School Association; ???? In Ghana, we are onboarding millions of youth entrepreneurs through a powerful local partner; ???? In India, we’re working hand in hand with local educators, experts, and innovators. The key takeaways? ?? Partnerships that meet people where they are. ?? Technology that adapts to real-world constraints. ?? Investment in intellectual, human, social, and financial capital. "We can't just be in the cloud. We have to meet people where they are." Special thanks to Rice University for hosting the incredible kickoff session; Lauren M. Postler, MSSW Elijah May William August Herrmann for organizing the spectacular Texas House; and everyone who joined our Born Global session and Rice session! My last collaboration with Dr. Caroline Levander at Rice University was hosting Professor William Kirby visiting from Harvard University for his talk on “Empires of Ideas” that covered 200 years of modern higher education from Germany to United States to China. Now I'm heading to Harvard University to showcase our work in Africa and India at the Inaugural AI and Education: Stories from the Global South Conference tomorrow--What a full circle! Look forward to continuing all the meaningful conversations and partnerships. Sandip Bordoloi, Ph.D. Dario Calogero Claudio Erba Carlo Maria Rossotto, CFA, CAIA #GlobalInnovationDay #TrueLeap #BornGlobal #RiceUniversity #GlobalPartnerships #EdTech #LifelongLearning #GlobalSouth #FutureOfWork #AIForGood #GlobalImpact #AIESGS2025

TrueLeap Inc. is honored to be selected to showcase our transformative work in AI and education across #Africa and #India at Harvard’s inaugural AI & Education: Stories from the Global South Conference on March 28, 2025. This one-day Harvard conference will explore AI's impact on the Global South with world class leaders and inovators: ? Dina Ghobashy, Director Global Education Transformation, Microsoft ? Tonee Ndungu, Founder, Kytabu and Somanasi Kenya ? Dr. Vinnie Jauhari, Director of Education Industry, Microsoft India ? Maria Barron, Co-Lead, The World Bank EdTech Team ? Eric Klopfer, Professor, Co-Director of PD and Education Researcher, MIT RAISE ? Dr Asyia K., Global Education Policy Director, Gates Foundation ? Seiji Isotani, Professor, USP - Universidade de S?o Paulo, Brazil ? Fernando Reimers, Professor of International Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education ? Fernanda Montes de Oca, Education Manager, Google Mexico ? Michael Trucano, Global Lead for Innovation in Education, The World Bank ? Chris Dede, Senior Research Fellow, Harvard Graduate School of Education ? Nissi Madu, Managing Partner, Co-creation HUB (CcHUB) ?? Why the Global South? With rapid AI investments—such as Microsoft’s additional $300 million commitment in South Africa to enhance AI capabilities—these regions are poised to lead the next wave of AI-driven educational transformation. At TrueLeap, we are dedicated to unlocking this potential and ensuring AI empowers educators and learners across the Global South. We are thrilled to contribute to this important conversation and share how our work is making a difference. If you’re in #Boston, we invite you to join us! ?? Conference Details ?? Date: March 28, 2025 ?? Location: Harvard University University, Cambridge, MA ?? Event Details: bit.ly/AIESGS2025 Let’s shape the future of AI and education together! ??? Dr. Sunny Shuoyang Zhang Sandip Bordoloi, Ph.D. Dario Calogero Carlo Maria Rossotto, CFA, CAIA Hyojung Kim Curtis Bonk Angela Zhao EdD #AIinEducation #GlobalSouth #TrueLeap #HarvardAIESG2025

I had the distinct honor of meeting ???? Burkina Faso’s Minister of Infrastructure and Opening-up, Adama Luc Sorgho, and his delegation at dinner last night. Always inspiring to gain first-hand insights from executive leaders from Africa!?? Minister Sorgho is an engineer by training and plays an instrumental role in advancing Burkina Faso’s public works and services. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion: 1. Burkina Faso is Open for Business. The country is actively seeking innovative partnerships to bolster its economy. In July 2024, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—a confederation aimed at creating a common market. 2. Digital Education is a Priority. With a median age of 17.7 years?and a fertility rate of 4.27 births per woman as of 2022, Burkina Faso emphasizes digital transformation in education to empower its rapidly growing youth population with essential skills. 3. The Time is Now. As one of the largest producer of cotton and gold in Africa, digital solutions have never been more relevant and timely as the country's economy diversify beyond natural resources for economic development. TrueLeap Inc’s mascot, #LeapyThunder, was the perfect gift symbolizing our commitment to bridging the digital divide and leapfrogging digital education in emerging markets and the Global South. Special thanks to my great friend Posso Ganame, President of the Texas Africa Chamber of Commerce, for arranging this meaningful occasion. It truly only takes one leap from #Houston to #Africa. Let’s keep on leaping toward a brighter future together! Sandip Bordoloi, Ph.D. Dario Calogero Data sources: The World Bank; Statista. #TrueLeap #BornGlobal #BurkinaFaso #GlobalSouth #GlobalMajority #DigitalEducation #FutureofLearning Photo credit: Rainy Yuning Guo

I had my "Taylor Swift" moment… meeting Chris Do! I still can’t believe it was real, having hosted the GOAT. Chris Do is the ultimate real-world professor, someone I've long admired and also encourage all my students to follow and learn from. His journey from an immigrant kid to an industry pioneer is truly inspiring and transcendent-- In 1975, the fall of Saigon brought a young Chris Do and his family to the United States. Navigating the complexities of a new culture in a traditional family, Chris found solace in art—a universal language. This passion led him to the halls of ArtCenter College of Design, where he refined his craft and vision for visual storytelling and build a network of friends and connections. In 1995, with a spirit forged in adversity, he founded Blind, a Los Angeles-based consultancy that quickly gained recognition for it's innovative appraoch to motion design and storytelling, collaborating with high-profile clients such as Nike, Sony, Google, and Audi. The year 2010 marked a significant milestone—an Emmy Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation. This accolade was not just a personal triumph but a beacon for all who dared to turn adversities into opportunities. Having taught for 15 years recognizing the gaps in practical business education for creatives, Chris envisioned The Futur?—a platform to empower creative professionals to achieve financial success while pursuing their passions by cultivating a global community where creatives can thrive without the burden of crippling debt. A highly sought-after speaker and educator in a unique Socratic style, Chris has lectured at institutions and conferences globally. Through sharing knowledge and fostering community, Chris aims to teach 1 billion people worldwide how to make a living doing what they love. I am proud to be one of the billion as his student. Do you see a hint of #ChrisDo in my work? When I grow up, I want to be Chris Do. PS: To all my students--I'm not kidding when we talk about DREAM Speakers in class! Dreams do come true, so never stop dreaming! Texas House #BornGlobal #TrueLeap #Austin

?? We are excited to have Dr. Sunny Shuoyang Zhang, the Chair of the Board at our Born Global Community moderate a stellar panel discussion featuring Chris Do, Ihar Mahaniok, and Han Shen on "Bridge the Gap of Talent and Capital: The Future of Global Entrepreneurship" today at noon in person and online. ?? March 10, 2025 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM ?? Texas House Rooftop | The Riley Building at 315 Lavaca St, Austin, TX (Following the Investor Brunch at Funded House) ?? Also available online powered by TrueLeap Inc Dr. Sunny Shuoyang Zhang is the Founder & Chief Evangelist of TrueLeap Inc, an e-learning platform expanding global access to quality education. Operating across the Americas, Africa, and Asia, TrueLeap leverages technology and partnerships to empower learners, educators, creators, and entrepreneurs worldwide. An award-winning educator, researcher, entrepreneur, and investor, Dr. Zhang brings 20+ years of expertise in behavioral science, technology innovation, and international business. A champion of cross-border collaboration, she bridges academia and industry to drive education equity and workforce development on a global scale. She has taught for 20 years at the University of Alabama, Indiana University - Kelley School of Business, Colorado State University College of Business, and is now a tenured professor at the University of St. Thomas (TX). She co-founded Born Global Ventures and Born Global Community (501c3) to support globally born entrepreneurs and international ecosystems. She serves on the advisory board of Women in AI and the steering committee of Houston Women in VC. Her accolades include the Women in AI Award, Dealmakers Hall of Fame, Outstanding Professor, Top 50 Influential Women in Houston, and SBA Small Business Champion. Dr. Zhang came to the U.S. as an #InternationalStudent from China and earned her Ph.D. in Marketing with a Minor in Social Psychology and a Master in Business from Indiana University - Kelley School of Business. ?? Huge thanks to Lucas Chaya del Pino, Elijah May, Funded House, Rent in TEX, Global Innovation Embassy, TrueLeap Inc., and all of our incredible partners for making this a global celebration of innovation! ?? Entrepreneurs, creatives, investors & innovators gathering in Austin for SXSW from around the world—You don't want to miss this! ?? FREE event [NO BADGE required] with limited spots— ? RSVP now: https://lu.ma/x9ieuk5r ?? Join us online at: https://lnkd.in/gsYQ45eN ?? Repost to share with your network! Salvatore Grignano, Robert Pieroni, Christian (Chris) Mahoney, Willy Verbrugghe, Yang Cheung, Ariel Serber, Elizabeth Haines McGee Mabast Ahmad, Jeffrey Chen, MD, Leonel Kachie Takoudjou, Thiago Pinto dos Reis, Kinjal Kothari, Andrew Probasco #BornGlobal #Entrepreneurship #GlobalInnovation #Startups #VentureCapital #TheFutur #GeekVentures #iFlyVC #TrueLeap

?? Born Global is Just Getting Started! Our latest event was an incredible gathering of founders, investors, and innovators from around the world, coming together to share insights, build meaningful connections, and explore the future of global entrepreneurship. From thought-provoking discussions to invaluable networking, the energy was truly inspiring! A huge thank you to our excellent speakers and everyone who joined us — both in person and online. Your Passion and contribution continue to fuel our mission of creating a more inclusive and borderless entrepreneurial ecosystem. ?? Lucas Chaya del Pino - Board of Director at Born Global Community ?? Chris Do – Emmy-winning designer & founder of The Futur? ?? Ihar Mahaniok – Managing Partner, Geek Ventures ?? Han Shen – Founding Partner, iFly.vc But this is just the beginning! At Born Global, we’re dedicated to bringing you more impactful conversations, thought leadership, and opportunities to connect with industry pioneers. ?? Huge thanks to Lucas Chaya del Pino, Elijah May, Funded House, Rent in TEX, Global Innovation Embassy, TrueLeap Inc., and all of our incredible partners for making this a global celebration of innovation! ?? Stay updated on our upcoming events and be part of the movement: https://lu.ma/bornglobal ?? Let’s keep the conversation going! What was your biggest takeaway? Drop a comment below! Special thanks to Sarah Romanko Elijah May Lauren M. Postler, MSSW Salvatore Grignano Robert Pieroni Christian (Chris) Mahoney Willy Verbrugghe Yang Cheung Ariel Serber Mabast Ahmad Leonel Kachie Takoudjou Thiago Pinto dos Reis Kinjal Kothari #BornGlobal #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #GlobalCommunity #Startups #BusinessLead

What a nice day it was: beautiful clear sky, a wonderful park, and an engaging group of people to spend some time together and share views. To me it was more than a great opportunity to present and talk about "Space Architects: The Celestial Adventures of Stella and Rob-8", it was a great experience that allowed my to share my views on the Space Industry and its possibilities, Innovation, Society, and the role the next generations can play in our, let's be honest, quite turbulent world. My heartfelt thanks to Dr. Sunny Shuoyang Zhang, TrueLeap Inc, and the Born Global Community of Houston for inviting me to lead yesterday's session of their Pop-Up Library. Thank you to all who took part, looking forward to future opportunities together. Many thanks also to Arthur Ortiz for the beautiful tour that started at Link Lee Mansion all the way to Menil Park. #bookpresentation #spacearchitecture #spaceindustry #space #childrensbook #nextgeneration #innovation

?? What a fabulous Sunday spent with friends, family, and fellow explorers! Kudos to Arthur Ortiz for leading Born Global Houston and organizing such a fantastic guided Walking Tour of Houston’s Upper Museum District, followed by the magical TrueLeap Pop-Up Library featuring Space Architect Paolo Mangili's insightful book discussion. As a refreshing change of pace from the typical startup networking events for entrepreneurs and investors, we bonded over an exploration of Houston’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, strolling through historic landmarks while engaging in thought-provoking conversations that sparked partnerships and collaborations. Our journey began at the historic Link-Lee Mansion on the University of St. Thomas campus, where we stepped back in time to explore Houston’s architectural and cultural gems. From the Hughes House to the Academic Mall and the Chapel of St. Basil -- Philip Johnson's masterpiece -- every stop along the way offered insights into the city’s rich heritage. At the world renowned Rothko Chapel, we found a moment of meditative reflection, while The Menil Collection — welcomed us with world-class art. Finally, we ended our tour at Menil Park, where families gathered under the sun for storytime, parachute games, and an inspiring book reading by Paolo Mangili, author of Space Architects: The Celestial Adventures of Stella and Rob-8. From astronauts’ physical and mental well-being to global workforce development for the space industry across the US, Europe, China, India, and Africa, it was an incredible experience that started with a children’s book and ended with enlightening takeaways. With perfect weather and sunny skies, the day was a beautiful reminder of the joy of learning, community, and exploration. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us—your energy and engagement made this event truly special! Willy Verbrugghe Varad Mohod Emil Rafael Mamedov Jennifer Jiang Summer Xiao, PMP Hendra Hoang, MCTM Juan Cubeddu Dr. Rosalyn R. Francis Andrew Probasco Robert Pieroni Sammy Phan Mabast Ahmad Leonel Kachie Takoudjou Abimbola Babáfémi-àdìgún Kinjal Kothari Nyama M. ?? Drop your favorite spots in the comments for future tours! ?? Missed this one? Follow Born Global Community and stay tuned for more events coming soon! #TrueLeap #BornGlobalCommunity #EducationForAll #HoustonCulture #PopUpLibrary #FamilyLearning #LifelongLearning Photo credit: Helene Nguyen

??Happy Holi from TrueLeap India! Holi is a celebration of color, creativity, and new beginnings—values that resonate deeply with our mission at TrueLeap. Just as colors unite us in joy, learning connects people across borders, opening doors to knowledge, opportunity, and innovation. At TrueLeap Inc, we are expanding global access to quality education by empowering experts and educators to share and monetize their knowledge worldwide. We believe education should be as vibrant and inclusive as Holi—accessible to all, breaking barriers, and shaping brighter futures. This Holi, let’s celebrate not just with colors but with a commitment to lifelong learning and global impact. Wishing you a festival filled with joy, inspiration, and endless possibilities! ??? #HappyHoli #FestivalOfColors #GlobalEducation #EmpowerEducators #TrueLeap #India

?? TrueLeap Pop-Up Library is back, with a Walking Tour – Join Us This Sunday! ?? Where: Houston Upper Museum Distrcict ?? When: Sunday, March 16th, 11AM - 1 PM Starting with a Walking Tour with the Born Global Community and ending with the TrueLeap Pop-Up Library at Menil Park, this free, family-friendly event includes a guided tour of cultural landmarks like the University of St Thomas campus, Rothko Chapel, The Menil Collection, offering insights into art, architecture, history, and SPACE! ?? Featured Arthor: Paolo Mangili We’re thrilled to welcome University of Houston Researcher & Author Paolo Mangili, who will present his new children’s book, Space Architects: The Celestial Adventures of Stella and Rob-8. About the Author Paolo Mangili is an Italian-born space architect and researcher at the University of Houston’s SICSA (Space Architecture program), the world’s only Master’s program in Space Architecture. He moved to the U.S. in 2022 to contribute to the peaceful utilization of outer space for the benefit of humanity. His projects combine disruptive design and multidisciplinary innovation, following his belief that an architect must understand multiple disciplines to create meaningful impact. He regularly collaborates with aerospace companies, including Boeing, and works on cutting-edge space projects. In 2024, Paolo led the writing, technical development, and artistic direction of Space Architects: The Celestial Adventures of Stella and Rob-8, a children’s book that blends storytelling with interactive design challenges. Already available in English, Italian, and Chinese (with more languages to come), this book empowers kids to dream, create, and explore the cosmos. His future plans include continuing his research, launching innovative businesses in space architecture, and publishing follow-ups to Space Architects, inspiring young minds to shape the future. What’s in Store? ?? Book Reading & Signing with Paolo Mangili ?? Interactive Space Design Activities for Kids ?? Rainbow Parachute Games for Families ?? Weather Forecast: Perfect spring weather—clear skies, 70-75°F! ?? What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and weather-appropriate attire. Pack a picnic to enjoy at Menil Park! ?? Want to join us? Sign up now: https://trueleap.io/events See you there! ?? #TrueLeap #TrueLeapPopUpLibrary #Event #Houston