Meet the Palenque Winter 2024 Cohort

I am eager to walk in the footsteps of my ancestors, explore sustainable practices, and bring these lessons back to the U.S. This program will shape me into the educator I aspire to be, driving my advocacy for change and instilling hope. As I explore my academic path, I believe this experience in Colombia will offer clarity and direction. Inspired by the concepts of Ubuntu and Sankofa, I aim to embrace collective understanding, moving away from individualism toward a more connected, purposeful way of living.

I’m excited to explore Colombia’s culture, history, and language, broadening my understanding beyond my own community. This experience will deepen my academic perspective, particularly in social studies, and enhance my global knowledge. As someone in the health trade, I’m eager to learn about traditional medicine, healthcare, and healthy living in Colombia, with the hope of bringing valuable insights back to the U.S. This program will expand my horizons both personally and professionally.

I am a high school senior passionate about activism and equity, with a goal of making everyone I come in contact with feel welcome. As the equity coordinator at my high school, I support various cultural clubs, which has fueled my interest in different cultures and ethnic studies. I plan to major in rhetoric and minor in ethnic studies in college. This program offers a chance to expand my understanding of global cultures, especially Black culture in Colombia and beyond. I’m excited to broaden my perspective and further my academic and personal growth.

I am driven to gain new perspectives and expand my understanding of the world. I enjoy learning about local traditions and cultures, allowing me to connect more deeply with different communities. As a natural leader, I excel at providing structure and guiding teams, much like I do as a point guard in basketball. This leadership experience helps me work effectively and foster collaboration in any environment.