Our Story

| Making travel possible since 2021 |

Our Story

Our organization originated from the personal growth the founding members experienced during international travel. Collectively, our board has visited and lived in over 50 countries, participating in a variety of volunteer projects in communities abroad. Each member appreciates the personal development experienced through immersion in diverse communities and their cultural values.

The founding team recognized the gap in educational and personal growth accessible to underserved youth. Studies show that students from low income families are rarely given opportunities for study abroad programs, representing only 6.1% of Americans who participate. Unpaid programs, which make up 43% of all internships, are often not feasible due to financial constraints. We believe that due to the educational value of being immersed in cultures different from our own, access to international experiences needs to be provided to underserved communities.

A message from our founding team

As an organization that values education and global citizenship, we believe that all students should have an equal opportunity to international education and experiences.

We know that international experiences can be transformative and want to ensure this opportunity is available to as many students as possible. That’s why we are committing to breaking down barriers to international education, designing programs built around the needs and interests of all students.

Through our programs we hope to provide life-changing experiences for individual students and promote greater cultural understanding and diversity in the global community. We believe that by investing in our youth today, we are investing in the future of our society and the world tomorrow.

We are eager to partner with similar organizations to make an even greater impact and we are dedicated to ensuring that all students regardless of their socioeconomic background and culture have access to the highest-quality international experience.

Thank you for joining us on this important journey!

Sincerely,

J-Min Jackson, President

Nicole Zamignani, Executive Director

Amanda Phillips, Program Director

Harley Jackson, Acting Treasurer

Travel is one of the best investments I ever made. If there is anything that travel has taught me, is realizing my potential and recognizing the purpose I’m meant to serve for my community and those around me. While many of my travels have been on a budget - traveling and living in a van, backpacking, enduring long rides, sleeping at hostels and guest houses, and always finding ways to maximize on a small budget - my travel experiences weren’t always pretty or comfortable. It has however, allowed me to align my imagination with reality. Being forced into unplanned situations and relying on the kindness of strangers has allowed me to not only stay calm in chaos but, has also to see that our lives are not solely our own. We’re all interconnected. I have come to find that we are bound to others past and present, and by each crime or kindness, we birth our future.
-J-Min, President

Traveling has added great depth to my life experience. It has helped me discover my passions, increased my confidence, and had a lasting impact on career choices. Although it is never too late to start, the long-term, positive influence it has on a young adult’s development is undeniable. Traveling teaches independence and self-sufficiency, and provides a greater belief and understanding in oneself. Engaging with people from different cultures and traditions helps build respect and understanding, leading to greater cultural awareness, acceptance, and adaptability. The unique experiences each trip presents allows us to return home feeling inspired and motivated, with the ability to see beyond what is in front of us.
-Nicole, Executive Director