The AMIGOS Leadership Award – Summer 2027

“Thank you so much for entrusting me with the Leadership Award. Participating in the Tierra Caribe Program was a truly amazing experience, and I’m so grateful to the AMIGOS team for enabling me to step out of my comfort zone and connect with so many inspiring people—something I wouldn’t have been able to do otherwise. From the selection process onward, I always felt supported by the team, both virtually and in person, and that made a huge difference in my journey.

In every way, the project met my expectations. I was able to completely immerse myself in Dominican culture, improve my Spanish, and build lasting friendships with other volunteers.

Without a doubt, the most meaningful part of my experience was meeting my host family. They were so kind and lovely, and every evening we spent together was unforgettable. They always made an effort to cook something new for me and share aspects of their culture, while I shared pieces of mine back home in Brazil. We watched movies, played board games, cooked together, tried different hairstyles, and my host sister even braided my hair! They made me feel welcome and at home at all times, and I still talk with my host mom and host brother constantly—at least once a week. I will always be deeply grateful to them for opening their home and their hearts to receive me.

The Leadership Award is an incredible initiative that opens doors for young people to join AMIGOS and experience the power of this organization firsthand. From personal experience, I know how truly transformative and watershed this opportunity can be, and I sincerely hope this scholarship continues for years to come.

To anyone thinking about it: you should definitely apply! Enjoy the application process, talk with the AMIGOS team, and learn about the organization’s mission—it will only make you more excited to volunteer. Explore the programs carefully to find the one that sparks your curiosity most, and never let the fear of speaking Spanish or being away from home hold you back. Go with an open heart, ready to connect with the community and learn from everyone you meet.”

“I still can’t find the right words to fully express how grateful I am for the incredible opportunity you gave me.

Every step of this journey was completely worth it. In Costa Rica, without my phone and being able to fully focus on the project, I reconnected with myself, discovered new strengths, and most of all, truly enjoyed being present in the moment.

Although the language was a challenge when it came to integrating with the group, it didn’t stop me from being amazed and learning so much from the Quebradas community. The excursions and the time spent with my host family were the most special parts. Costa Rica is such an admirable country in how it manages its natural resources, and I’m taking home many ideas I’d love to apply in Guatemala — or at least in my own community.

From the bottom of my heart, I can only express gratitude to the entire team. From the very beginning, throughout the application process and while in-country, everyone was incredibly kind and attentive to me. I truly value that.

I hope I fulfilled my role as a volunteer and as a representative of my country with responsibility, enthusiasm, and dedication.

Thank you, AMIGOS, for believing in the power of youth and for fostering leadership through the Leadership Award. But even more, thank you for believing in me.”