Meet Ell
Meet Ell, a passionate student from the International High School of the Gothenburg Region, where they focus on Social Sciences with an emphasis on English. Ell will be entering their final year of high school in fall 2024, set to graduate in June 2025. With a love for social psychology, creative writing, poetry, and music, they’re still exploring the possibilities of a future career—one that allows them to challenge themselves artistically while making an impact on the world.
Ell’s dedication to advocacy and social issues shines through in everything they do. From championing climate change awareness to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, Ell believes in using their voice to stand up for marginalised groups. They spend much of their free time in pursuits that foster imagination and creativity—playing Dungeons and Dragons, writing poetry, or singing soul-stirring anthems. Although they admit that daily tasks can sometimes feel overwhelming, Ell has no trouble focusing on a creative project for hours on end, letting their passion guide them.
In spite of not having a formal background in sports or music lessons, Ell has discovered a natural inclination for all things musical, having sung for as long as they can remember. Recently, they’ve begun learning to play the guitar, bass, and ukulele, exploring new facets of their lifelong love for music. Their dream list—though not officially written down—includes publishing a poetry book, performing in a big musical production like Hamilton, and eventually adopting a furry companion. These aspirations reflect Ell’s desire to continue growing, sharing their art, and finding new ways to express themselves.
But Ell’s journey isn’t just about what happens in the classroom or on the stage. It’s also about the profound life lessons they’ve gained from ISLI—an experience they describe as “unlike anything else” they’ve ever been part of. The first week at ISLI flew by, leaving Ell wishing they could stay forever. They encountered beautiful, diverse, and inspiring people who continue to influence them, especially during times of self-doubt. The challenges they faced during the 40th ISLI program only strengthened the bond among the regents and participants, proving that a supportive community can weather any storm.
Ell firmly believes that leadership isn’t innate; it’s cultivated by building trust in oneself and among peers, taking responsibility, and bringing out the best in others. Having embraced this mindset, they’re thrilled to return to Oberwesel for ISLI 2025, keen to follow in the footsteps of the regents who came before. With a playful nod to “friendly torture,” Ell is ready to guide future regents while making the experience as memorable, supportive, and transformative as it was for them.
Whether crafting poems late into the night, belting out a favorite tune, or uplifting others in moments of struggle, Ell stands as a testament to the power of openness and empathy in shaping tomorrow’s leaders. They look forward to reuniting with old friends, welcoming new participants, and continuing to grow in both courage and creativity. With boundless ideas, a heart for activism, and a commitment to making ISLI truly unforgettable, Ell embodies a blend of passion and purpose that resonates at the core of the ISLI spirit.
