International program develops confident leaders through cultural exchange, service, and global education
Wilmington, Delaware – A group of 20 teens, accompanied by eight YMCA of Delaware chaperones, is preparing to embark on a transformative international leadership experience as part of the YMCA Global Teens Program, traveling to Taiwan from July 23 through August 3.
Designed to develop the next generation of global leaders, the YMCA Global Teens Program combines leadership development, cultural immersion, educational exploration, and service learning to help young people expand their perspectives, build confidence, and develop lifelong leadership skills.
Throughout the year, participants have taken part in leadership development sessions focused on cultural awareness, global issues, STEM education, communication, and personal growth. Their upcoming journey to Taiwan will bring those lessons to life through firsthand experiences and meaningful connections with local communities.
During the 12-day trip, participants will immerse themselves in Taiwanese culture, visit historic and modern landmarks, learn about Taiwan’s history and global influence, and engage with local youth through shared educational and cultural experiences.
“This program is about much more than international travel,” said Jarrett Royster, President and CEO of the YMCA of Delaware. “Global Teens empowers young people to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new perspectives, and return home as more confident, compassionate, and engaged leaders. These experiences help shape the future leaders of our communities while building bridges across cultures.”
Community support plays a vital role in making these opportunities possible. Through generous donations and scholarships, the YMCA reduces financial barriers so more teens can participate, regardless of their family’s ability to pay.
“Nemours is proud to partner with the YMCA’s Global Teens Program. By supporting initiatives such as this, we can extend our impact beyond healthcare and support youth where they live, learn, and play. Investing in these opportunities enables young people to experience travel outside their local community, cultural enrichment, community service, and acquire knowledge that can shape their future,” said Yvette Santiago, Regional Director for Community Engagement and Impact at Nemours Children’s Health. “We recognize that social determinants significantly influence 85% of health outcomes, and we are dedicated to positively impacting and mitigating these factors to the greatest extent possible. The Global Teens Program exemplifies our commitment to Whole Child Health as we strive to create the healthiest generations of children.”
As part of the YMCA of Delaware Global Teens International Leadership Exchange in Taiwan, students will participate in an immersive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) experience designed to inspire the next generation of global innovators and leaders. Students will spend the day exploring Taiwan’s world-renowned technology sector through visits to the TSMC Museum of Innovation and the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). At the museum, participants will discover how semiconductor technology powers everyday life and learn about Taiwan’s leadership in global innovation. The experience continues at ITRI, where students will engage with researchers and technology professionals, gain firsthand insight into emerging technologies, and explore how STEM careers and groundbreaking research are shaping the future.
Barclays supports the YMCA Global STEM Hub to expand access to STEM education for young people in Wilmington.
“Access to STEM education can help open doors for the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and community leaders,” said Adam Ahmad, Head of Community Reinvestment Act at Barclays. “The YMCA Global STEM Hub gives young people opportunities to explore emerging technologies, build valuable skills, and expand their understanding of future career pathways. We are proud to support a program that invests in Wilmington’s youth and helps strengthen the workforce of tomorrow.”
The YMCA Global Teens Program reflects the Y’s commitment to developing young leaders who are prepared to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. Through immersive learning and cross-cultural relationships, participants gain a deeper understanding of global citizenship while strengthening skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
The Taiwan experience continues the program’s tradition of impactful international learning opportunities, following successful Global Teens journeys to Kenya in 2024 and Peru in 2025.
Individuals or organizations interested in supporting the 2026 YMCA Global Teens trip to Taiwan can make a tax-deductible donation by visiting https://www.ymcade.org/ymca-global-teens-program/.
The YMCA of Delaware is grateful to our 2026 Global Teens Sponsors, including:
- Barclays
- Nemours
- Bank of America
- Morton and Roberta Shiekman Fund
- Discover Financial Services
- Bob and Susan Hurka
- Eva Air
- David Cullman and Anthony Latorella
About the YMCA of Delaware
The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth, fostering healthy living, and promoting strong communities. With seven branches statewide, a youth resource center, and an overnight camp and conference center in Worton, Maryland, the Y has developed longstanding relationships and a physical presence in Delaware so it can deliver lasting personal and social change. We are committed to serving everyone – regardless of age, income or background –nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving Delaware’s health and wellbeing, and creating a healthy, inclusive community where all people reach their full potential. www.ymcade.org.
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