Why Do Others Get the Opportunity?
An Analysis of Selection Criteria
Every time a new training program, fellowship, or youth leadership opportunity is announced, the same question often comes to mind:
“Why were they selected and not me?”
The truth is, securing opportunities is not based on passion alone. It depends on the impact you have created.
The Impact of Initiatives and Activities
Have you launched an initiative?
Have you participated in a campaign?
Have you led an activity within your community?
Impact is measured by results achieved—not intentions expressed.
In many applications for programs and training opportunities, applicants write:
“I am passionate about…”
However, selection is not based on passion alone. It is based on tangible evidence such as:
An initiative you launched
A campaign you joined
Training you completed
Content you created
In the world of international programs and fellowships, the word impact is not just a slogan—it is a core selection criterion.
Example from Leadership Programs
When applying to leadership programs such as those offered by the Climate Reality Project, applicants are often required to clarify:
The number of people they have reached
The measurable results of their initiative
The change they have created
There is a clear difference between saying:
“I organized a workshop about climate change.”
And saying:
“I organized a climate workshop attended by 120 participants, which led to the launch of a community environmental initiative.”
Our Experience at Foras Khadraa
At Foras Khadraa, we launched a Capacity Building Program aimed at empowering youth across the Arab region. So far, the program has been implemented in three countries: Egypt, Lebanon, and Palestine.
A total of 270 young men and women have directly benefited from the program. It supported them in launching environmental initiatives, identifying suitable opportunities, and learning how to apply effectively. Expansion to other Arab countries is ongoing.
What Makes Forsa Khadraa Different?
Foras Khadraa has had a broad impact on Arab youth by simplifying access to opportunities, training programs, jobs, and international conferences through trusted and accessible Arabic content.
The platform did not limit itself to being one of the largest climate-focused platforms in the Arab region on social media. Instead, it chose to create tangible impact on the ground through structured programs and trainings.
Key Success Criteria for Every Initiative
Each initiative presented by our platform was built on:
A clear preparation story
A defined vision
Measurable and documented impact
Common Mistakes in Applications
One of the most common mistakes in applications is focusing only on what you have done—while ignoring what you plan to do after completing the program.
Development programs such as those of the United Nations Development Programme place strong emphasis on sustainability of impact.
They are not looking for someone who turns knowledge into a short-term project, but into a long-term initiative. A clear vision can be the difference between acceptance and rejection.
Essential Soft Skills for International Programs
Beyond achievements, successful applicants demonstrate:
Strong dialogue and communication skills
Ability to work in multicultural teams
Presentation and public speaking skills
When selected for international programs, you represent not only yourself—but your community, your country, and your region.
A Real Example
In the YOUNGO (the official youth constituency of the UN climate process), a candidate from Nigeria was accepted after launching a tree-planting campaign that engaged more than 500 young people.
He documented the results through videos, photos, and reports—providing clear, verifiable evidence of impact.
Important Tips for Acceptance
Exaggerating your achievements reduces your credibility. Evaluation committees verify claims.
Spelling and language errors weaken first impressions.
Misunderstanding the question or context of the program weakens your application.
Strategies of Successful Applicants
Identify your priorities and choose opportunities aligned with your goals.
Avoid generic applications. Study the program’s vision, values, and expected impact before answering.
Analyze previously selected participants to understand implicit selection criteria.
Conclusion
Remember: Not every rejection means you are unqualified.
Treat rejection as an opportunity to refine your skills, strengthen your profile, and build measurable impact.
Opportunities are created through perseverance—not luck.
Salwa Al-Faqaawi
Content Writing – Foras Khadraa