My name is Samuel Malasa Banda and I am from Malawi. I am currently studying for a Master of Arts in Public Affairs and Political Communication at Technological University Dublin. I have always been passionate about public service, especially where it meets communication and governance. I am a great believer in education as a tool for both personal and national transformation, which motivated me to establish the YES Initiative, a youth-led organisation supporting disadvantaged students through mentorship and scholarships in Malawi since 2017. Outside work and studies, I enjoy volunteering, and engaging in meaningful conversations about leadership, faith, and civic duty.

Before coming to Ireland, I had just started a new role as Civic and Voter Education Officer at the Malawi Electoral Commission. I previously spent four years as Assistant in the Office of the Chairperson, focusing on communications and public engagement. In my new role, I planned and implemented voter education campaigns, worked with communities, and ensured the public had clear and accurate information about the electoral process. I also collaborated with civil society groups, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to build trust and encourage participation.

I chose to study Public Affairs and Political Communication because I know how vital clear, strategic communication is to public trust and democratic participation. During the 2020 court-sanctioned Fresh Presidential Election in Malawi, I was part of the core team managing communication at the Malawi Electoral Commission. That experience showed me that how a message is delivered can be just as important as the message itself; especially in high-stakes public settings. I want to pursue a course that would deepen my understanding of political systems and equip me with practical skills to lead communications that are ethical, strategic, and effective.

The fellowship has truly been a turning point in my life. Academically, it has broadened my perspective and exposed me to global best practices in political communication and public affairs. Professionally, it has opened doors I have never thought it is possible, including the opportunity to be an intern at the Oireachtas (Irish Parliament), first with former Taoiseach (Prime Minister of Ireland) Leo Varadkar, and then with Deputy Government Chief Whip, Emer Currie. On a personal level, the experience has stretched me in meaningful ways. It was my first time living abroad and adjusting to a new culture while taking on fresh responsibilities has challenged and shaped me.

From doing the course, I have learned how to critically analyse political messaging and public policy, how to use digital media strategically for public engagement, and how to manage communications during a crisis; skills that are especially relevant for institutions like electoral commissions. I have gained deeper insight into how narratives are framed, how public opinion is shaped, and how trust can be built or broken depending on messaging. One of the standout moments of my learning so far was my involvement in the political campaign here in Ireland for the November 2024 General Election. It gave me valuable first-hand experience of campaign strategy, stakeholder communication, and voter engagement in an Irish context, which I could then compare with the political campaigning environment in Malawi and across Africa. That comparative lens helped me reflect on the strengths and challenges of both systems, especially in terms of transparency, issue-based messaging, and civic participation. Altogether, the knowledge and experience I have gained contribute directly to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 16, by equipping me to support stronger, more accountable institutions back home, and also advance broader SDGs that rely on effective governance, inclusive communication, and meaningful citizen involvement.

Adjusting to life in Ireland has been a beautiful challenge. I arrived two weeks before the semester began, which gave me time to explore Dublin and adjust slowly. I had never lived abroad before, so getting used to the colder climate, public transport, and even grocery shopping was a learning curve! But the Irish people are warm, and I have met people; my flat mates, classmates, churchmates, and volunteers, who have made settling in easier. I have enjoyed discovering Irish culture, volunteering with Vision Ireland, and even learning a few Irish names from Niamh, Aoife, and Ciarán (still wrapping my head around how those are pronounced: Neev, Ee-fa, and Keer-awn! Let’s just say Irish spelling keeps you humble).

In Ireland, things like public transport and administrative processes are far more streamlined and accessible. Also, the digital infrastructure, from registering for services online to contactless payments is well established here, which is not always the case in Malawi. But perhaps the biggest contrast is in civic infrastructure things like libraries, youth centres, and local council resources are widely available in Ireland, and which play a big role in community life.

I want to return home better equipped to lead in public service, particularly in the areas of institutional communication and youth empowerment. I hope to use what I have learned to strengthen how public institutions in Malawi communicate with citizens, improve civic education, and mentor emerging young leaders. I also want to grow the YES Initiative into a more impactful and sustainable organisation that continues supporting students for years to come.

The internship at the Oireachtas (Irish Parliament) has been a highlight during my fellowship. With this opportunity, I worked directly with public representatives and contributed to policy communication which has been deeply rewarding. I have also enjoyed the moments: late-night chats with Donald, my Mozambican flatmate, and Dimitris, my Cypriot flatmate; volunteering; and attending church at Adelaide Road Presbyterian.

Absolutely, and without hesitation I would recommend the Ireland Fellows Programme to all perspective candidates. The Ireland Fellows Programme is more than a scholarship; it is an investment in your growth. It gives you academic tools, cultural exposure, and the professional networks to return home and lead with impact. It is fully funded, which makes it accessible, and the support systems in place; from your university to the ICOS team ensure you are never alone on the journey. If you are passionate about service and ready to stretch yourself, this programme will meet you halfway.

For candidates who wish to apply for the Ireland Fellows Programme, you should be clear with yourself about your purpose for applying. What change do you want to be part of? How will this programme equip you to make that change? Be specific and grounded in your application; use real stories, real challenges, and real impact. Don’t try to impress yourself with jargon; speak from the heart but also show that you have done your research. And finally, don’t underestimate yourself. If you are driven, curious, and committed to making a difference, apply for it. The worst case is that they can say no; the best thing is that they can say is “Welcome to Ireland.”