In March 2025, the Melton Foundation team traveled to the Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt, marking a significant milestone in a growing partnership that connects academic institutions with grassroots changemakers. This visit was more than just a courtesy call, it was a space for deep dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic alignment around shared values and global goals.

During the visit, Melton Foundation representatives met with faculty, researchers, and student leaders who are actively shaping the next generation of public policy practitioners. Conversations revolved around the synergies between the Global Solvers Accelerator’s focus on systems change and community-driven solutions, and the Brandt School’s Social Entrepreneurship specialization within its Master of Public Policy program,  a track that equips students to develop innovative, sustainable solutions to complex societal challenges.

Discussions ranged from leveraging local ecosystems in Thuringia to co-creating meaningful experiences for the upcoming Global Solvers Co-Lab, to integrating real-world impact into the academic experience of students. 

A Week of Action in Gotha and Erfurt

This collaboration will come to life at the Global Solvers Co-Lab, a week-long convening of emerging changemakers from around the world in Gotha and Erfurt, Thuringia, from 6th July until 13th of July. Together, participants will immerse in co-creation, systems thinking, and peer exchange, connecting local innovation ecosystems with global purpose.

We’re honored to co-create this experience alongside:

These organizations form the foundation of a vibrant, experiential learning environment, where changemakers can move beyond discussion and into action.

Spotlight: Brandt School Fellows in the Global Solvers Accelerator

As part of this collaboration, we’re proud to highlight four exceptional students from the Willy Brandt School who are participating in the Global Solvers Accelerator. Each brings a unique and powerful vision for change:

Nathalia Isaza Ibarra | Colombia

A DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholar and MPP candidate, Nathalia leads Atenea League, advocating for legal support for survivors of gender-based violence in Colombia. She leverages policy tools to ensure safety and justice for marginalized communities.

Naqsh Nasir | Pakistan

Naqsh, a DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Scholar, is the founder of Muqaami, a sustainable enterprise that empowers local artisans in Pakistan. She is also deeply involved in gender equality and digital literacy initiatives, championing inclusive access to opportunity.

Idowu Olamilekan Adeyemi | Nigeria

A DAAD Scholar and MPP student, Idowu is a disability rights advocate working to ensure inclusive policies and environments for people with disabilities in Nigeria, driving change through legislative reform and awareness.

Waseem Iqbal Chandio | Pakistan

A social entrepreneur and MPP student, Waseem founded LEDERBRÜCKE, which empowers leather artisans through sustainable production models and fair employment practices.

Looking Forward

As we prepare to welcome Global Solvers Co-Lab to Thuringia, our partnership with the Willy Brandt School stands as a testament to what’s possible when policy and purpose converge. Together, we are building an ecosystem where global citizenship thrives, and where every changemaker, whether from academia or the field has a seat at the table.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Global Solvers Co-Lab unfolds!