Tehani is a rising senior at Mount Holyoke College. She was born in Los Angeles California, and grew up in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Tehani is passionate about actively working towards learning deeper of the different ways in which gender equality could be achieved through access to education and health, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Post-degree, she hopes to learn more about feminist health politics, as well as the ways in which gender and climate change intersect. In her free time, she loves to dance, listen to music, take pictures on her digi cam, travel and try out new restaurants!
Internship Placement: U.S. Forest Service
As a CAPAL scholar/intern, what does CAPAL mean to you?
Being a CAPAL intern, I have become inherently aware of the fact that CAPAL represents an invaluable opportunity to contribute to public service while being part of a vibrant community dedicated to fostering leadership and advocacy among Asian American individuals. Through the program, I have been able to develop critical skills, gain hands-on experience, and connect with mentors and peers who share a commitment to making a positive impact within society. Through CAPAL, I am empowered to explore issues affecting the AANHPI community and actively participate in creating meaningful change and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to do this while being in this years summer cohort!
What is an issue or topic within the AANHPI communities that you feel passionate about addressing?
One issue within the AANHPI communities that I feel passionate about addressing is the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of South Asian identities in mainstream media and public discourse. Growing up in Sri Lanka and being proud of my South Asian heritage, I have seen firsthand how diverse and rich our cultures are. Yet, this diversity is often overlooked or simplified in broader narratives. I believe that accurate representation matters because it shapes public perception and self-identity. For many South Asians, seeing themselves portrayed authentically in media and other public spheres can affirm their identities and foster a sense of belonging. Conversely, misrepresentation can perpetuate stereotypes and contribute to a sense of marginalization.
What are your main responsibilities at your position? What are some of your big projects?
I am a communications intern for the USFS and specifically helping with their reforestation and nursery modernization programs. I work on updating their website for relevant information, creating factsheets, as well as reading and organizing grant proposals. Additionally, I will be working on creating public facing materials which will be used to educate partners and leadership on various programs.
How does this internship fit with your professional and career goals?
This internship aligns perfectly with my professional and career aspirations as my career interests are deeply rooted in understanding and promoting gender equality through various channels, including education, health, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Firstly, the interdisciplinary experience that is offered by working on the reforestation and nursery modernization programs allows me to explore the intersection of environmental sustainability and public policy, which is integral to my studies in International Relations and Human Rights. Secondly, thinking of it through a lens of educational outreach, by developing public-facing materials to educate partners and leadership perfectly aligns with my passion for increasing access to education and information. Thirdly, I am able to gain important grant management skills as the experience of handling grant proposals provides me with valuable insights into the funding mechanisms that support public policy and sustainability projects, enhancing my understanding of the practical aspects of policy implementation Finally, I am able to hone in on my communication skills which will inherently enhance my ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, whether through website updates or factsheets, is crucial for any career in public policy and advocacy. Overall, this internship offers me a holistic experience that bridges my academic pursuits with practical, real-world applications, thereby preparing me for a career dedicated to fostering gender equality, through sustainability, education and human rights.
What does public service mean to you? What sparked your interest or desire to get involved with public service?
Public service to me means dedicating oneself to the well-being and advancement of the community. It involves working towards the greater good, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities and resources, and striving to create a more just and equitable society. Public service is about empathy, commitment, and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. At its core, I believe that public service is about caring for others. It involves understanding the challenges faced by different communities and working to address those needs with compassion and respect. It means advocating for policies and practices that dismantle systemic barriers and create opportunities for all, especially the marginalized and underserved.
