During her Students Shoulder to Shoulder experience in Puerto Rico, one LEI student had the opportunity to step outside the classroom and into a new culture through hands-on learning and meaningful conversations. The Students Shoulder to Shoulder Puerto Rico Farm-to-Table Experience sponsored by Leadership Experience Initiative offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and leadership development. In fact, participating in the excursion is an unforgettable way to grow as a leader.
One stop on the journey brought students to a local farm, where they experienced the true meaning of “farm to table.” After harvesting fresh vegetables directly from the garden, they shared a meal prepared with the ingredients they had just picked. The experience offered a firsthand look at sustainable agriculture. Moreover, it highlighted the importance of community, stewardship, and the connection between people and the land. Notably, the learning experience emphasizes the essential relationship between culture, sustainability, and food systems.
The day also included an opportunity to learn from Fernando Maldonado, a leader in Puerto Rico’s food sovereignty movement. As he shared his work and vision for building resilient local food systems, students gained a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture, community leadership, and the importance of preserving cultural traditions through food. The experience demonstrated how local action can strengthen communities while inspiring future leaders to think critically about sustainability and service.
Experiences like these are at the heart of Students Shoulder to Shoulder. By engaging directly with local communities, traditions, and leaders, students develop a broader perspective of the world. Additionally, they build the confidence, empathy, and leadership skills that will serve them long after the journey ends. The Students Shoulder to Shoulder Puerto Rico Farm-to-Table sponsored by Leadership Experience Initiative encourages students to connect deeply with each community and apply leadership in real-world settings.
We believe these transformational experiences help prepare students to become thoughtful leaders in their schools, communities, and beyond. Ultimately, these experiences help shape the next generation of globally-minded leaders.
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