International leadership experience broadens perspectives, builds confidence, and develops the next generation of global citizens
Wilmington, Delaware – After nearly two weeks immersed in a new culture halfway around the world, a group of YMCA of Delaware teens has returned home from Taiwan with more than memories and photographs. They return with broadened perspectives, lifelong friendships, increased confidence, and a renewed commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
The YMCA Global Teens Program took participants to Taiwan from July 23 through August 3 for an immersive leadership and cultural exchange experience designed to help young people better understand the world and their place in it. Through meaningful interactions with local youth, educational experiences, and cultural exploration, the teens gained firsthand insight into a different way of life while discovering valuable lessons about themselves.
“Travel has the power to transform the way young people see the world,” said chaperone Anesha Law, Community Executive Director at the Walnut Street YMCA. “Our Global Teens participants returned home with a greater appreciation for different cultures, stronger leadership skills, and the confidence to embrace new experiences. Just as importantly, they learned that while people may come from different backgrounds, the values of kindness, respect, and community are universal.”
Throughout the trip, participants experienced daily life in Taiwan, explored historic and cultural landmarks, learned about the country’s rich history and innovation, and built meaningful relationships with Taiwanese youth through shared activities and conversations. These experiences challenged participants to step outside their comfort zones, navigate unfamiliar environments, and develop independence while strengthening teamwork and communication skills.
For many participants, the most meaningful moments came not from the places they visited, but from the people they met.
Whether overcoming language barriers through shared laughter, learning new traditions from host communities, or discovering common interests with students their own age, the experience reinforced that genuine connections could transcend geography, language, and culture.
Before departing, participants were prepared through leadership development sessions focused on cultural awareness, global issues, communication, and personal growth. The international experience brought those lessons to life, allowing teens to apply what they learned in real-world settings while gaining a deeper understanding of what it means to be a global citizen.
The YMCA Global Teens Program is designed to cultivate young leaders who are prepared to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. By exposing participants to new cultures and perspectives, the program encourages empathy, resilience, curiosity, and service.
The YMCA of Delaware remains committed to ensuring these life-changing experiences are accessible to young people from all backgrounds through the support of generous donors and community partners who help make international leadership opportunities possible, regardless of a family’s financial circumstances. To learn more about how you can support the YMCA Global Teens program, head to the YMCA Global Teens page at https://www.ymcade.org/ymca-global-teens-program/.
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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