Note: Leadership Award applications for Summer 2025 have now closed.
We are so excited to announce The AMIGOS Leadership Award! This Award grants two standout participants from anywhere in the world up to $6,000 to cover AMIGOS program fees and international flights. Apply today — don’t miss your chance to embark on an unforgettable AMIGOS journey!
Award Details:
Program Fees: Up to $5,000
International Flights: Up to $1,000
Location: Students from the United States, Latin America, or anywhere else in the world are invited to apply.
This award is open to first-time AMIGOS participants* aged 13–19 who show strong leadership potential, financial need, and a passion for cultural immersion and service. The focus is on empowering diverse young leaders, regardless of academic achievements.
*To learn more about the AMIGOS Alumni Award instead, visit this website. Or, to learn more about the AMIGOS Alumni Referral Program, click here.
Don’t forget to indicate that you will need Financial Assistance. Feel free to request an Application Fee waiver.
Complete the AMIGOS Financial Assistance Application, including the 1040 tax return form, or if you’re from another country, an alternative document demonstrating household income.
A 500-word essay or a video up to 3 minutes explaining:
How will AMIGOS and the program help you grow as a global citizen and a leader?
How do you currently contribute to your local community?
Why should you be one of the Leadership Award winners?
Include a letter of recommendation from an adult mentor, teacher, or community leader speaking about your leadership potential and commitment. Why should you receive the award?
Step 3: Interview
Finalists will be invited to an interview with our team — a unique opportunity to showcase your passion and potential!
To have in consideration:
If you have already received a Financial Assistance Award from AMIGOS and are selected for the Leadership Award, the two awards will not be combined. You will receive the amount associated with the Leadership Award, as this will be the greater award of the two.
The award package for the program fee can be up to $5,000, varying based on the selected project, and winners may need to cover a small portion of the project cost.
The Application Fee can be waived temporarily if requested. It will have to be paid if selected as a winner.
If applying for a project requiring Spanish, we will conduct a few questions in Spanish during the interview to assess language level.
Applicants who are not native English speakers must demonstrate at least an intermediate level of English; there will be no formal exam, but communication ability will be assessed during the interview. Fluency does not need to be perfect, as the program aims to help participants develop their skills.
Both the essay and the video must be submitted in English, but candidates are welcome to use some Spanish if they feel more comfortable.
The letter of recommendation can be written in either English or Spanish.
Are you wondering what we are looking for on a Leadership Award winner?
Demonstrated Leadership in the Community: We look for candidates with hands-on experience in leadership roles or involvement in service projects that impact their communities.
Strong Personal Motivation: We value applicants who can clearly express how this experience would be life-changing for them and how they plan to apply what they learn to their personal and professional growth.
Financial Need Considerations: Preference is given to youth facing financial challenges, offering them the chance to participate in an international experience they might not otherwise afford.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: We aim to create a diverse group of participants, valuing a variety of backgrounds to enhance the cultural learning experience for everyone involved.
Adaptability and Willingness to Grow: Successful candidates are open to stepping out of their comfort zone, living in multicultural environments, learning new languages, and embracing personal growth opportunities.
Apply today and take the first step toward becoming a global leader! You can reach out to [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns.
Meet recent alums who have received AMIGOS Awards and learn how this gave them a chance to experience our programs!
Bianca received the AMIGOS Alumni Award, which gives alumni the opportunity to experience a second AMIGOS summer.
Bianca Orozco, Houston, Texas
How did you hear about AMIGOS & what motivated you to join in the first place?
I first heard about AMIGOS when a representative was sent to speak about the AMIGOS high school summer program. I knew that I wanted to study abroad but wasn’t sure how it was going to happen. Hearing from the AMIGOS representative was what truly motivated me.
How did you hear about the Alumni Merit Award?
Ms. Ann of course, from the Houston Chapter. She knew I was interested in participating for my second summer in a row. She told me to take advantage of that free money.
Why was it important to you to have another experience?
I believe when you come back from your first trip with AMIGOS, you change so much and become a brighter person. I knew that I needed to take advantage of a second amazing summer opportunity with AMIGOS.
What did you learn from your second experience that you didn’t learn on your first program?
I was constantly asked to compare my two summers with AMIGOS, but the only thing I could say was that they did not nearly compare. Both experiences brought so much change in my life and gave me a new perspective on community and the impact I was leaving on the world.
How did the Alumni Merit Award make your second program experience possible?
My financial situation was a mess, honestly. In my situation, I depended on the Alumni Merit Award to participate for the second summer in a row. Without it, I would have not at all been able to participate. I was so thankful that AMIGOS gave me a chance to participate in the 2022 summer program!
What advice do you have for fellow alumni who are considering applying for the award?
Apply! Apply! Apply! There is no harm in applying. If you’re here it’s because AMIGOS also changed your life. A second summer would be just as life changing with a new set of experiences.
Step 1: AMIGOS online application.
Step 2: Send via email to [email protected]:
Bianca Orozco, Houston, Texas