colin powell school
Leading with Purpose: Hannah-Sophie Wahle’s Journey in Global Humanitarian Efforts
Hannah-Sophie Wahle, a City College alumna with a degree in political science, has built a remarkable career in humanitarian work and global change. Her passion for international affairs was first sparked by her parents, whose careers in peacekeeping and pastoral care offered her a unique view of the world. Originally from Germany, Hannah-Sophie’s curiosity led her to study abroad in Texas, where she fell in love with the U.S. education system, eventually choosing City College of New York (CCNY) as her academic home.
A Path Inspired by Early Experiences
Growing up in Germany, Hannah-Sophie was deeply influenced by her parents’ work in the humanitarian sector. Her father, a NATO military chaplain involved in peacekeeping missions, and her mother, a pastoral care provider, showed her the importance of compassion and service. After moving to Texas at 16 to study abroad, Hannah-Sophie decided to remain in the U.S., drawn by the diverse perspectives she encountered. This experience, combined with her desire to make a difference, ultimately led her to CCNY, where she could delve into international politics and advocacy.
Discovering a Passion for Civic Leadership at CCNY
CCNY’s rich history as the first free public college in the U.S. and its emphasis on public service resonated with Hannah-Sophie. Her time at the Colin Powell School, particularly as a Colin Powell Fellow, shaped her understanding of how political systems impact communities, both locally and globally. Courses in international relations, public policy, and environmental governance helped her see political science as a tool for social change, preparing her for a career dedicated to addressing issues like gender inequality and refugee rights.
Through roles in student government and hands-on service projects, Hannah-Sophie developed the leadership skills that have defined her career. One pivotal experience was her service-learning project with WE ACT for Environmental Justice, where she helped bring fresh produce to underserved communities. “The project taught me the importance of community-driven solutions,” she reflects, a lesson that remains central to her work today.
A Global Career in Humanitarian Work
After graduating in 2012, Hannah-Sophie’s career path took her around the world, from co-founding a cultural startup in Colombia to supporting refugee programs in the Middle East with the International Organization for Migration. Each role taught her new skills in managing cross-cultural teams and designing innovative programs to address complex issues, from safe housing for trafficked women to entrepreneurship programs for refugees.
Today, Hannah-Sophie is a Programme Analyst at UN Women and a UN Innovation Fellow, where she uses AI and data visualization to advance gender equality. She notes that her time at City College laid the foundation for her success, particularly with its focus on social justice and civic leadership.
Advice for Future Humanitarians
Hannah-Sophie encourages students to explore a wide range of experiences, from grassroots NGOs to larger organizations like the UN. She emphasizes staying current with technology and interdisciplinary skills, especially in areas like data analysis and AI, which are transforming the humanitarian sector. Her final piece of advice is simple: “Aim high. Opportunities may seem out of reach, but persistence can open doors.”
Looking Forward: Innovating for Change
As she looks to the future, Hannah-Sophie aims to continue innovating within the UN, exploring ways to leverage technology to address the needs of conflict-affected regions and empower vulnerable communities. With her commitment to gender equality and sustainable development, she aspires to make a lasting impact on global humanitarian efforts, inspired by the foundational experiences she gained at CCNY.
Through her work, Hannah-Sophie Wahle exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, drawing on her experiences to drive meaningful change in the world.