A hands-on leadership + cultural immersion experience in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Antigua, Guatemala
The Guatemala Leadership & Language Exchange is an immersive educational travel program for high school students from the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and surrounding communities. Through leadership development, Spanish language practice, cultural immersion, and community engagement, students gain the confidence and global perspective to thrive in an interconnected world.
The next program is anticipated for Summer 2027. Applications are expected to open in Fall 2026.
Interested in learning more? Join our interest list to receive updates on information sessions, applications, and program announcements.
Travel alongside a supportive cohort of peers and mentors while participating in leadership workshops, Spanish language practice, cultural experiences, and meaningful community engagement. No prior Spanish or international travel experience is required—just curiosity, responsibility, and a willingness to learn.
Selected educators serve as mentors and chaperones, supporting student learning while participating in a meaningful international exchange experience. Join our interest list to receive updates about future educator opportunities.
The program is administered by Partners of the Americas, a nonprofit organization with more than 60 years of experience connecting people and communities across the Americas.
The program is being developed in collaboration with Somos, a Guatemala-based educational travel organization, to create an experience that is educationally meaningful, culturally grounded, and supported by trusted local partners. Participant safety, thoughtful preparation, and responsible cultural exchange remain central to every aspect of the program.
The Guatemala Leadership & Language Exchange is a thoughtfully designed nine-day experience that combines leadership development, Spanish language practice, cultural immersion, outdoor exploration, and meaningful community engagement.
Developed in collaboration with Somos, a Guatemala-based educational travel organization, the program draws upon trusted local partnerships to create an experience that is educationally meaningful, culturally grounded, and safely supported.
From pre-departure orientation through the return home, students and families receive guidance every step of the way.
Learn what makes the Guatemala Leadership & Language Exchange a unique international learning experience. Students, families, and educators can explore the program, attend information sessions, and join our interest list to receive updates.
When applications open, interested students complete an online application highlighting their interests, readiness, and motivation. Educator mentor applications will also be available during the recruitment period.
Accepted participants confirm their enrollment and begin a comprehensive pre-departure experience, including orientation sessions, travel preparation, cultural learning, and opportunities to connect with fellow participants before traveling.
Travel alongside fellow students, educators, and local partners through a thoughtfully designed nine-day program featuring leadership development, Spanish language practice, cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, and meaningful community engagement across Guatemala.
Upon successful completion of the application process, student tuition will be due.
The program is administered by Partners of the Americas, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., with more than 60 years of experience and a legacy of sending over 2,300 young leaders on life-changing exchanges throughout Latin America and beyond.
Summar is committed to creating international experiences where students feel supported, confident, and prepared to learn in a new cultural setting.
Michael provides strategic guidance and institutional oversight for the program.
Participants leave with:
Safety measures include:
Professional and Collegial Conduct:
Technology Policy:
Access to global learning should not depend on a family’s financial circumstances. Your gift helps ensure that motivated students — regardless of income — can participate in the Guatemala Leadership & Language Exchange.
Thank you for helping us remove financial barriers and expand access to life-changing global experiences.
