Congratulations to Khandaker “Farhan” Labib, the YES Student of the Month for January! Farhan has been an exemplary student ambassador and an exceptional host family and host community member. He has been extremely active at Buffalo High School and in the community while maintaining a 3.4 grade point average.  In his first semester he performed over 120 hours of public service as his high school’s football team student manager and photographer.  He has assisted children and adults with disabilities at a therapeutic equine riding facility.  Working with his local Veterans of Foreign Wars post’s fundraiser, he took gifts to veterans in nursing homes and gave a talk on Bangladesh. On Election Day he assisted the County Clerks with their work.  Farhan also helped plan and host a picnic for his fellow exchange students. During International Education Week he gave seven presentations on Bangladesh to students and faculty.  He started a photography club at school for which he serves as president and has competed on the school wrestling team.  When his A.P. history class had a grant to photograph and interview military veterans, Farhan worked well with the veterans and helped put them at ease for the interviews. His friendliness and musical talent have stood him in good stead as an active member of a church youth group. Farhan has a gift to fit into groups and be accepted, while he is also a natural leader who inspires others to give their best. His placement organization writes, “Farhan represents the ideals of the YES program in all ways.”

January Student of the Month Honorable Mention: Mohammed Saeed (Yemen/IRIS/West Liberty, IA)

Mohammed Saeed has been selected for an Honorable Mention. One of the most inspiring aspects of Mohammed’s stay in the United States is his obvious dedication to community service.  In just the first two months of his stay, Mohammed completed more than 26 hours of volunteer service. Mohammed, who comes from Aden, Yemen, has used his personal passion for soccer to teach young students about the sport and help them harness their skills.  Before the holidays, Mohammed and his host brother fundraised for the Salvation Army and bought presents for local families in need.  Mohammed has maintained good grades at West Liberty High School and fostered great relationships with his peers. He has participated enthusiastically as a member of his school’s basketball team, while simultaneously preparing for the soccer season this spring.  During International Education Week he valued the opportunity to speak to a local 4-H group about Yemen and his life there.  Mohammed has moved his peers, host parents and program coordinators with his thoughtful disposition and positive attitude.  Mohammed has a bright and refreshing outlook and sees difficulties as an opportunity to grow as an individual, leader and ambassador of his country.