Imagine a world where talent isn’t limited by origin.

Where a young person in Nairobi, a girl in Dhaka, or a student in a Philippine province has the same opportunities for an excellent higher education as a student in Munich, Boston, or Singapore – regardless of money, nationality, or local educational structures.

This is precisely where Bright Roots comes in:

We are creating a digital education channel for talented individuals from disadvantaged regions. Through targeted scholarships, young people gain access to international, accredited online degree programs in business, technology, and innovation – programs that would otherwise be unaffordable.

Our model:

Scholarship fund: We raise funding from companies, foundations, and private donors.

Matching platform: Talented individuals are carefully selected and specifically connected with online universities and programs.

Mentoring: Experienced professionals accompany students as mentors and coaches on their educational journey.

Impact cycle: After graduation, alumni share their knowledge locally – through startups, volunteering, or community building. This creates a positive feedback effect in their home countries.

Why we care – and why we act

I believe that education is one of the most powerful forces for change. Not just for individuals – but for entire communities.

I grew up in a working-class neighborhood in Germany. University felt far away. But thanks to strong public schools, financial aid (like BAföG), and people who believed in me, I made it – all the way to a PhD in the natural sciences.

Many of my university friends came from similar backgrounds. Some were the first in their families to finish high school. Others were told they’d never make it. But Germany’s public education system opened doors – even for those with little money and no academic role models.

I know the hurdles that can stand in the way. Not just financial or digital barriers – but self-doubt, unfamiliarity with academic life, and the fear that you might not belong.

That’s why I care. Because talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.

Over the years, I’ve taught at universities in the Philippines – including the University of the Philippines Diliman and Ateneo de Manila University, where I still serve as a Fellow. Again and again, I’ve met bright, driven young people with the potential to thrive in higher education – if only they had the right support.

Bright Roots was born from the belief that we can do better. That access to higher education should not be a privilege of birth – but a right for all.

This is still a small initiative. But the vision is big – and we’re building it, one connection at a time.

Let’s bridge the gap. Together.

Rebekka