This year’s group of 20 young leaders consists of sophomores, juniors, and seniors from eleven schools on O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island. Students kicked off the Global Leadership Program at the scenic Winners’ Camp in Hawai‘i Kai.
Between sunrise hikes and exciting ropes courses, students participated in rigorous workshops that stretched their minds and challenged them to broaden their worldview. Workshop topics addressed personality types and leadership styles, active listening, non-violent communication, power and privilege, global inequalities, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Loretta Chen – a creative and marketing director, leadership and theater professor, and best-selling author – performed her TED Talk on “The Power of Failure” and used theater to illustrate how one person’s actions and words can change lives.
Internationally acclaimed poet and storyteller, Kealoha, helped students channel their creativity through his writing and performance workshops. He inspired students to see poetry and art as a way to share their voice with the world.
Former Marine and civil-military coordinator for USAID, Gregg Nakano, challenged the group to be “the greatest generation” in order to solve complex issues the world will face in their lifetimes.
See more pictures of the 2017 Global Leadership Program Camp in our Gallery.
Participant Reflections:
“I learned how to be more open-minded. I learned that not everyone will have the same opinion as me or look at things similarly.”
“This camp has changed me in the best way possible. My confidence has improved and although I still have fears, I will not let them get in the way.”
“Everybody is different, and that’s okay. To be a global citizen I need to look at all perspectives.”
“I can’t wait to see my friends again and go through this journey together of becoming a global citizen.”