AYA Students in Action: The Results of the Global Youth Trailblazer Grants

Recipients of the 2025 AYA Global Youth Trailblazer Grants recently completed their projects—student-led initiatives dedicated to creating meaningful change in their host communities. From initiatives designed to combat student poverty to others aimed at increasing intercultural understanding, all these projects share values of education, cultural exchange, and service. Below, we highlight the final results of each Trailblazer’s project and the impact these exchange students have made in just one semester. 

Lia’s Hygiene Kits 

Lia from Germany used her Global Youth Trailblazer grant to supply local families in need with basic hygiene items. With the help of her host mom, her peers at school, and social media, she was able to reach a wider audience and encourage donations and community engagement, thereby increasing the impact of her project. The final result was the creation and donation of 90 hygiene kits, each containing five essential products. Lia’s project allowed her to serve her community while also building organizational, communication, and leadership skills. 

Robin’s International Potluck Celebration 

For his Global Youth Trailblazer project, AYA student Robin from France brought his host community together for a fun and engaging cultural celebration. Over 70 community members participated in the “International Potluck & Games Night,” which Robin organized with support from his grant.  

The event kicked off with “Mini Olympics,” an international competition featuring games and activities for people of all ages. Afterward, some community members set up tables and shared their favorite dishes from around the world, allowing everyone to enjoy the flavors of various international cultures. This project demonstrated how food, fun, and shared experiences can create stronger bonds and promote global understanding. 

Thore’s Goals for Good

Thore from Germany organized a community service project called Goals for Good for his host community in Arkansas. The event consisted of a soccer kick-a-thon where participants could score goals to raise money from sponsors to go to local schools to help school counselors meet student’s physical needs. In the end they raised over $5,000, and Thore was the recipient of a Hero Award from the Lovis Foundation!

If you want to make a difference in the world like these incredible Trailblazers, host an exchange student with AYA!