A new travel program, Global L.E.A.D., has made big strides this year on university campuses. The apparent reason for its popularity on our own Pro Humanitate campus is that it combines service and study abroad in two separate invigorating locations during the summer.

L.E.A.D. stands for Leadership, Education, Adventure, and Diplomacy, and all of these components are included in the experience.

This summer nine students will be spending four weeks in and around Cape Town, South Africa, which will also be the home of the 2010 World Cup. Fifty students total from around the Southeast United States will spend their summer in South Africa.

Another separate program will also be taking place in Athens, Greece, although no university students will be participate this year.

According to the program’s Web site, Global L.E.A.D. enhances the study abroad experience to unprecedented standard.

“Through a uniquely designed curriculum we challenge each participant to stretch beyond their comfort zone, engage in dialogue with cutting-edge leaders, explore education outside the classroom, experience the adrenaline rush of extreme adventures, and serve local communities during their time overseas,” the it said.

Students will be residing in apartments on the waterfront located within 10 minutes of Camps Bay, Table Mountain, the Victoria & Albert Waterfront, and the city center of Cape Town.

Students will also be able to experience Cape Town in the lead up to the World Cup. Service projects and day trips will take place, including a safari with the chance to see the “Big Five” animals of the African continent. Service projects will be regularly included in the program through local non-profit organizations. The program will allow students to complete six hours of credit in addition to a leadership and service learning course.

Additionally, students are exposed to outdoor culture-specific activities such as paragliding, surfing, skydiving and cage diving with the great white sharks off the coast.
Also, students will have the opportunity to attend wine tours in a variety of vineyards around Cape Town. Past students even had the opportunity to speak with Nelson Mandela’s cell mate, Betty Sigel.

Junior Sarah Wilfong attended the program in 2009 and described it as a life altering experience through many different culturally awakening outlets. “Looking back on the six weeks in Cape Town, it’s hard to imagine the amount of things we were able to do and accomplish,” Wilfong said.

“From the service trips to the townships, an overnight stay in the slums, to bungee jumping off of the highest bungee in the world, I can honestly say this is the best experience and most unforgettable one of my life.”

Wilfong continued, “Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You literally live right on the beach, but if you drive 20 minutes outside the city you are in the mountains. You can go sailing in the ocean, and then fishing and wine tasting in the mountains all in the same day.”

All of these activities are in keeping with the mission of the program, which is “to transform the trajectory of individuals’ lives through global understanding and service.”

Global L.E.A.D. was established by four friends who graduated together from the University of Georgia. Previously all on separate life paths, the four post-graduates came together to establish an international service and leadership program like that of John F. Kennedy and the Peace Corps.

“The program is geared towards people who really wish to lead and make a difference in their community,” Wilfong said.

“You are surrounded by people passionate about living life to the fullest, having a great time, and serving others. It is not a trip for people who do not want their lives to be changed,” he said.

The deadline for applications is March 1st. Visit globalleadprogram.org for more information.