Global Leadership Adventures offers globally-minded high school students journeys that have often been called life-changing. Programs are offered in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean that build awareness of other cultures & educate students on important issues. Find out more!
Purposeful teen travel fosters a global perspective and open-mindedness in our students. The objective? To inspire our student travelers to become exceptional leaders and global thinkers, motivated to effect positive change within their own communities upon returning home. GLA integrates community service, experiential learning, and adventure into each of our programs, giving student travel a profound sense of purpose.
Engage in meaningful, community-driven volunteer projects. Immerse yourself in the culture, language, and history of your host destination while exploring significant sites. Experience thrilling adventures, from ziplining through jungle canopies and snorkeling among pristine coral reefs to trekking to the renowned Machu Picchu. Most GLA programs are designed specifically to high school students, though we also offer options for middle school students.
Global Leadership Adventures offers high school and middle school students journeys that have often been called "inspiring." Students from around the globe come together to volunteer side by side with local people, learn first hand about social issues and explore places of historical and cultural significance. Although each program is different, they all build awareness of other cultures, educate students on important issues, and develop leadership skills necessary to be effective in a globalized world and in the formation of becoming "global citizens."
Whether you are an enthusiast and want to fuel your passion on a project that builds on your interests, or you are an explorer who wants to find your passion through experiential education, you become a part of a diverse group of teens that want to make a difference.
GLA offers travel programs for teens and middle schoolers; travel internships for teens and group travel for schools or other organizations. Travel internships offer college credit through Portland State University.
Programs are offered in:
- Bali
- Belize
- Costa Rica
- Dominican Republic
- Europe (multi-country)
- Galapagos Islands
- Ghana
- Guatemala
- Greece
- Italy
- Peru
- Spain
- Thailand
- USA (Utah or Hawaii)
Tuition depends on location and program duration, and includes:
- Lodging & Meals
- In-country transportation
- All activities
- Medical & emergency evacuation insurance
- 24/7 hotline
Global Leadership Adventures (GLA) was absolutely the best trip that I've ever been on. Having two of my closest friends come with me to the Dominican Republic only made it better, but what really made this experience unique was the incredible combination of service, adventure, and personal growth. From the initial moment, the environment was amazing, and I just knew that this was going to be a trip that I would never forget.
The service work was actually very fulfilling. One of the most powerful moments for me was volunteering to help children in a small underprivileged environment . Whereas other programs focus more on volunteerism on the surface, GLA made sure we were doing real work that impacted the communities here. Having the locals' appreciation and being able to connect with them made the work all the more worthwhile.
Another highlight was the sense of adventure that pervaded every detail of the trip. I loved being able to explore the Dominican Republic's natural beauty-swimming on gorgeous beaches, viewing wild dolphins and turtles, and hiking through irreplaceable scenery. We even got to explore and swim in a cave one day, and I never expected I would ever get to do that. Every trip was a treat and a reminder of how lucky we were to be in such an incredible spot.
The people I met on this experience made it even more unforgettable. The group consisted of similarly minded, goal-oriented people from all corners of the world, and at the end of the program, we all seemed like a second family. The mentors were immensely encouraging, challenging us continually to think and grow as leaders. The leadership training sessions weren't lectures but instead interactive, inspiring, and challenged me to think about how I approach problems in my life in a whole different way.
One thing that I wish I had known before I left was how much this trip would push me in the best possible way. I knew I was going to have fun and help out, but I did not realize how much I would grow as a leader and as a person. The independence and confidence that I gained from this experience have stayed with me far longer than returning home.
If you're thinking about going to GLA, don't think twice-this trip is well worth every moment. From the unforgettable adventures, the impactful service, or the friendships you'll gain, it's an experience that will leave you forever changed. I can't say enough good things about it!