For media professors leading study abroad programs, one of the greatest challenges is finding meaningful, immersive story ideas that engage students deeply with local culture. As outsiders, it can feel overwhelming to quickly connect with the community in a way that’s authentic, respectful, and insightful. This is where the power of collaboration comes into play, specifically by working with local changemakers—social impact organizations and leaders making a difference in their communities.

Through our years of experience at Actuality Abroad, we’ve discovered that partnering with local changemakers not only makes the storytelling process more impactful but also provides students with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with global challenges through a solutions-oriented lens.