In the Washington, DC area, systemic inequities restrict access to quality education, enrichment, and global learning—especially for Black youth in the District’s Wards 7 and 8 and Prince George’s County, Maryland. Many students face chronic absenteeism, under-resourced schools, and limited exposure to post-secondary or international opportunities. IAWA fills this gap by providing culturally grounded leadership development and transformative global experiences that strengthen identity, academic resilience, and community power.
Roots to Rise creates access to culturally grounded global experiences that help Black youth in the Washington, D.C. area expand their worldview, strengthen their leadership skills, and build a deep sense of identity rooted in the global African Diaspora.
Core Focus Areas: Sense of purpose, greater confidence in their academic and career goals, and a clearer commitment to leading change in their schools, families, and communities.
Activities: Paricipants will engage in:
Service-learning community projects
Historical site visits
Deep dialogue with their South African peers
Roots to Rise
Target Audience: High School and College Students
IAWA’s Cultural Immersion Trip invites adults—supporters, educators, and community members—to experience South Africa through a curated journey rooted in culture, history, and community connection. It also directly supports program sustainability, with proceeds contributing to youth programming in South Africa.
Core Focus Areas: builds a shared global village, strengthens solidarity, and contributes directly to funding the youth symposium and IAWA’s broader programs.
Activities: Participants:
Visit iconic historical sites
Engage in service projects
Accompany IAWA youth at the Youth Symposium.
Cultural Immersion
Target Audience: Adults 30+
