Expanding Minds. Building Leaders. Creating Global Citizens.
Program Overview
The YMCA Global Teens Program is an international travel and teen leadership program designed to broaden perspectives, build confidence, and inspire a sense of purpose. Through immersive global travel, cultural exchange, and service opportunities, teens gain real-world experience and a deeper understanding of global communities.
Participants engage in pre-trip leadership development sessions focused on cultural awareness, global issues, STEM and personal growth. During the international experience, teens connect with local youth, explore historic landmarks, and participate in meaningful community service.
More than a travel program, Global Teens develops confident, culturally aware young leaders prepared to thrive in today’s interconnected world.
Help support life-changing experiences through YMCA Global Teens here.
2026 Global Experience: Taiwan 🇹🇼
July 23 – August 3, 2026
In 2026, Global Teens will travel to Taiwan for an unforgettable international experience centered on cultural exchange, global leadership, and educational exploration.
Participants will:
- Immerse themselves in Taiwanese culture and daily life
- Explore historic and modern landmarks
- Learn about Taiwan’s unique history and global impact
- Engage with local youth through shared learning experiences
This life-changing journey will broaden worldviews, build confidence, and deepen appreciation for diverse cultures and global connections.
Students, ages 16-19, who are curious, open-minded, and ready to grow are encouraged to apply.
👉 Apply today here to be considered for the 2026 Global Teens Taiwan Trip. Spots are limited.
If you would like to support the YMCA Global Teens trip to Taiwan, click below.
2025 Global Experience: Peru
In August 2025, nineteen Delaware teens traveled from Lima to Cusco for a powerful nine-day cultural exchange and service-learning journey. Participants led youth forums, completed hands-on service projects, and delivered school supplies to underserved children, strengthening global partnerships and supporting local education efforts.
Teens also explored Peru’s agricultural supply chain through a unique STEM experience, learning how innovation fuels international food production. While abroad, they painted and restored a community center serving more than 500 families and immersed themselves in Peru’s rich history by visiting Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and meeting local leaders.
Students returned home with a deeper appreciation for culture, collaboration, and their ability to make a meaningful global impact.
This life-changing experience was made possible through the generous support of our dedicated sponsors and community partners:
- Nemours Children’s Health Delaware Valley
- Morton and Roberta Sheikman Fund
- Bob and Susan Hurka
- Discover Financial Services
- David Cullman and Anthony Latorella
- Barclays
- Bank of America
- Bill Ferrel and Tammi Gasking
- Sky Airline
- American Airlines
2024 Global Experience: Kenya
In 2024, Global Teens traveled to Kenya for an unforgettable experience focused on civic engagement, leadership development, and cross-cultural connection. Through service learning and collaboration with peers from the Nairobi YMCA, students strengthened their understanding of global social issues while building lifelong relationships.
Participants explored Kenya’s diverse landscapes, including visits to Maasai Mara National Reserve and Aberdare National Park, while engaging in STEM education and leadership training.
The experience empowered teens with global awareness, practical skills, and the confidence to lead with purpose in their own communities.
This life-changing experience was made possible through the generous support of our dedicated sponsors and community partners:
- Nemours Children’s Health Delaware Valley
- Morton and Roberta Sheikman Fund
- Bob and Susan Hurka
- Discover Financial Services
- Barclays
- New Castle County
- Kenya Airways
- Bank of America
- Capital One