GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES

The Upper School launched its Global Trips Program this January with two-week excursions to Senegal, Taiwan, and Rwanda. Approximately 30 students delved into the life and culture of their host cities while visiting schools and meeting teens their age. These experiences are designed to expose our students to a wide range of world views, explore the systems that undergird global societies, and develop an understanding of what it means to be an impactful global citizen.

SENEGAL

GCDS students traveled to Dakar, Senegal, to take part in global eco-citizenry. After a week immersed in the sights, sounds, and food of Dakar, the group traveled to the island of Gorée, a UNESCO World Heritage site off the west coast of Dakar accessible only by ferry. There, they partnered with students from the Lycée d’Excellence de Mariama Ba, an all-girls boarding school on the island.

Together, the students planted indigenous flowers, plants, and small trees in an effort to prevent soil erosion on the island. The two groups collaborated to create a public awareness campaign, including posters and a video about reducing and recycling waste and the importance of being an eco-citizen. The trip ended with a presentation by GCDS students and the LEMBA students on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal of implementing and revitalizing the global partnerships for sustainable development.

Students also visited two of Senegal’s most famous museums, IFAN Historical Museum, the House of Slaves, a museum and memorial to the victims of the Atlantic Slave Trade.

“Upon landing in the country, my phone presented the dreadful ‘no service’ symbol, which remained plastered on its screen until we returned to the States. Without that distraction, I knew it was the start of a palpable, meaningful cultural immersion. One of my favorite memories is when I booked an appointment with the island’s loctician, Valentino, who so spiritedly retwisted my dreadlocks. Given that the appointment was seven hours long, we shared a memorable conversation about life in our respective countries. I appreciate that I was exposed to a new country and its methods of governance and eco-citizenry, and that I could interact with locals, many of whom I still connect with on Instagram today,” said Daniel St-Louis ’24.

RWANDA

A group of female students traveled to Rwanda where they stayed at the School of Leadership—Afghanistan (SOLA). SOLA is a school for young women who fled Afghanistan

when the Taliban took power in 2021 and made education for girls illegal. GCDS students formed intimate bonds with the SOLA students, learning about each girl: the stories behind

their names, cherished food traditions, and what they like to read. They went on a safari and explored the extraordinary landscapes of Rwanda and also learned about the history of the country, including the Rwandan genocide, where 800,000 people were killed in just three months, devastating the country 30 years ago.

“Our group of ten GCDS girls discovered the profound impact of personal connection, moving beyond stereotypes and media narratives. Rwanda revealed itself not as a place of tragedy but as a vibrant nation of resilience and warmth. Meeting Afghan peers, denied the right to education, underscored the value of learning and family. This journey left a mark on us all,” said Ms. Alindato.

“Friendship bracelets. Cricket and volleyball games. Blackpink and the Macarena. Painting canvases in the style of Imigongo. Story circles in which we shared our names, cherished

food traditions, and pick-me-ups. Laughs, smiles, hugs, and tears. Women celebrating and upholding women. Within minutes, it became clear that nationality, politics, and immigration status did not matter: We all had traveled thousands of miles to learn and find community within Mother Rwanda, its wondrous landscapes, and people welcoming us with open arms. Determined for the Genocide to never resurge, one of Rwanda’s top priorities is education: that people know enough to question hatred and the propaganda behind it,” said Dr. Niki Kiviat, Upper School World Language Teacher and Co Director of Global Academic Programs.

“When we arrived, the SOLA girls were waiting at the gate when we drove in and were all cheering and clapping while welcoming us. Their warmth immediately set the tone for our stay. They taught us a traditional dance called the attan, how to cook a delicious dish called atak, and taught us how to speak one of their languages, Dari. Having to leave their country and family to chase an education is a harrowing experience, which requires fortitude and bravery. Through the girls, we learned to value everything we have and to try to never take things for granted. Their generosity and kindness were inspiring, and something none of us will ever forget,” said Willa Ball ’25.

TAIWAN

During their trip, students collaborated with three diverse schools, exploring their individual passions in arts, sports, gastronomy, and climate politics. Through daily interactions with local Taiwanese, students navigated bustling streets, explored vibrant night markets, and immersed themselves in local culture and language. The trip included hikes in national parks, visits to the National Palace Museum; students even attended a presidential campaign rally, experiencing Taiwan’s democracy firsthand.

At Tsai Hsing School, students engaged in sustainability projects and read with kindergarten students. Chia-Yi Industrial Vocational High School (CYIVS) welcomed them with traditional performances and hands-on tech classes. Homestays provided insights into Taiwanese life, and painting classes fostered cross-cultural connections.

“Every morning, despite the 13 hour time difference, students were ready to go! Their curiosity and enthusiasm expanded their horizons and enriched their young lives. Our mission is to help shape our students to become global citizens,” said Vicky Huang, Mandarin Teacher.

“This journey has left a mark on me, not only did it enhance my language skills but also broadened my worldview and cultural sensitivity. The mountains, night markets, and political

discourse all contributed to my personal growth and understanding. Taiwan, with its diverse variety of experiences, has become a chapter in my journey of self-exploration,” said Djeneba Dembele ’25.