"Never having taken a writing class, I was pretty apprehensive about it and unsure if I was in the right place. Upon meeting Valley and the group, I felt instantly at home and safe to share not only my beginner writing skills, but the contents of my mind. Valley’s supportive and non-judgmental feedback, coupled with the shared experience of the group, gave me the confidence I needed to put myself out there as a writer."

— Carrie

“PHENOMENAL 10/10… This was so immersive and thorough, I have never had an experience as profound and expansive with other travel organizations."

— GLI Traveler

“What an amazing experience! I have learned so much and gained so much insight into my writing process and what’s important to me. Valley’s guidance, insight, wisdom and encouragement is beyond measure! Definitely glad to be on this journey with Valley… An experience of a lifetime!"

— Deborah

“This has been…the most amazing way to experience a place so different from what I'm used to. It was an amazing balance of fun activities and thought-provoking learning opportunities that provided a deeper understanding of local culture and life.”

— GLI Traveler

"Valley creates an atmosphere of safety which allows for vulnerability in our writing and sharing. Her clear support and interest in each one of us as she responds to our writing is helpful and healing."

— Fontaine

“Beyond my wildest dreams. It has been the most immersive and fulfilling experience I’ve had traveling and educational travel. I felt extremely taken care of and felt that the money I put in was returned in so many ways....It has been one of the best experiences of my life.”

— GLI Traveler

Depart from the U.S.

Kigali, Rwanda 

• Arrive at Kigali International Airport

• Group dinner

Kigali, Rwanda 

• Orientation to Rwanda

• Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial and ARCT Ruhuka Reconciliation Center

Kigali, Rwanda 

• Morning writing session

• Visit organizations focused on post-genocide healing through art and crafts

Kigali to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

• Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

• Orientation to the region, GLI's community development programs

• Afternoon writing session 

• Welcome dinner & traditional dance performance

Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

• Morning writing session

• Hike to traditional healer

Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

• Morning writing session

• Visit Bwama island primary school & health center

Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

• Morning writing session

• Optional activities (swim, volleyball, hike, canoeing) and time for reflection

Lake Bunyonyi to Musanze, Rwanda 

• Transfer to Musanze Rwanda

• Gorilla or Golden Monkey trekking (optional)

Musanze, Rwanda

• Visit Partners for Conservation

• Visit Dian Fossey Foundation Ellen DeGeneres Campus

Musanze to Kigali, Rwanda

• Integration & reflection day

• Farewell dinner

Kigali, Rwanda

• Visit the Kigali Art and Craft Market, souvenir shopping at local stores (optional)

• Transfer to Kigali International Airport & fly back to the U.S.

“Support our efforts to connect underrepresented students in the U.S. with life-changing education experiences in East Africa through immersive, community-based learning."

Includes:

• 12 event invitations

• Premier recognition at the event (stage + screen)

• Largest logo on GLI website and social media

• Verbal recognition at the event

• Year-round recognition as a lead GLI sponsor