Shivansh Garg and Vansh Bachani, first-year biology students in the Department of Biological and Physical Sciences at the American University in Dubai (AUD), were selected for the Olive Impact Fellowship 2026.

The Olive Impact Fellowship is a social entrepreneurship initiative that supports young people in developing their ideas into practical solutions for their communities. Delivered in partnership with the YPO Olive Chapter and facilitated at AUD by the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center, the fellowship connects students with experienced entrepreneurs, mentors, and business leaders who help them refine their ideas.

The students were selected through a competitive process of individual interviews and group conversations with Lina Hourani, Founder and CEO of Blue Green and Program Director and Consultant for the Olive Impact Fellowship.

The students will take part in a seven-day boot camp in November, followed by seven months of mentorship during the 2026–2027 academic year. Through the program, they will develop their ideas, learn from established entrepreneurs, and explore how innovation can address social and community challenges.