Name: Clara C. Lindemann
University and Study Focus: Governance, Economics, and Development at Leiden University College The Hague
Nationality: Swedish and German
Tell us a little about yourself. What motivated you to be a part of WIL?
Before moving to The Hague, I led a feminist group and wrote articles related to gender inequity for a journal on diversity in Berlin, Germany and was eager to continue volunteering for an organization dedicated to promoting equality between the sexes. As a part of WIL’s Communication and Innovation Teams, I am not merely organizing high-quality events aimed at empowering young women professionally, but I have significantly expanded my network, by getting to know like-minded students and professionals, who are leaders in their fields. Furthermore, I have been able to build skills, such as drafting successful applications, public speaking, and improving my self-esteem for more professional success. Next to WIL, I write and edit articles for my college’s student magazine and sing in a choir.
What is a question (academic, personal, social, etc.) that you are currently trying to answer?
As a part of Stanford’s Peace Innovation Lab’s “Volunteer for PeaceX: A Global COVID-19 Response” project, I am researching potential ways to respond to the global COVID-19 pandemic along with academics around the world. Together, we aim to find solutions for a stronger and more resilient world than if said outbreak had not occured.
What has been one of the most impactful experiences in your life?
Having struggled with my health has made me more appreciative of and grateful for all of the opportunities I have in life and has lead me to be more aware that the things we take for granted are inaccessible to many. It has taught me that we should never assume that others have it easy, just because all we see are their accomplishments.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Subsequently to graduating from university, after having pursued a Master’s program and potentially a PhD, I hope to live in a number of different countries. Though I am unsure of the field I want to go into, it is of utmost importance that my work helps others and is internationally oriented. Currently, I am most interested in working for an international or nonprofit organization or going into journalism or academia.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Recently, an accomplished female entrepreneur reminded me to enjoy my time at university, stating that opportunities will not vanish, if I do not seize them right away. Furthermore, she advised me to invest 70% instead of 100% of my energy in the tasks I commit to. Both of these pieces of advice have been transformative in diminishing the levels of stress in my life, whilst attaining similar results to before.
What is one way you would like to help or offer support for other WIL members?
I would like to share the insights I have gained from past leadership and volunteering experiences with fellow members. When drafting the calendar for the upcoming months, the Innovation Team would like to cater to non-Innovation-Team members as well. So, if there are any specific skills or professions you would like to see represented in our event program, please write me an email or talk to me in person. The same goes for non-members who would like to speak to a current member to learn more about the structure and functioning of WIL.
