Our Passion: Empowering Global Change Through Collaborative Educational Experiences and Sustainable Community Partnerships in East Africa
Listening and learning from local communities, for local communities.
Ongoing Projects:
The story of RIDE International (Research Initiatives for Development Education) is that of unwavering passion, purpose, and collaborative effort. As a US-based nonprofit organization, we are deeply committed to providing transformative cultural exchange programs and immersive tours across the region of East Africa, with a paramount emphasis on community development. At RIDE, our ethos revolves around the principle of active listening and learning from local communities, allowing us to forge symbiotic partnerships that address critical challenges and foster enduring, sustainable solutions.
As a pioneering global education provider for travelers from the US and Europe, RIDE redefines cultural exchange in developing countries. Our Study Abroad programs serve as immersive platforms for direct engagement with local communities, connecting the aspirations of US students and fellow travelers with the developmental goals of these communities. We extend our educational offerings to tourists seeking educational Ecotours in East Africa, where community development takes center stage. All RIDE programs are designed to challenge participants' perspectives, apply acquired knowledge, foster personal growth, and cultivate a profound understanding of global dynamics.
At the core of RIDE International's philosophy lies the firm commitment to supporting the capacity of local communities in East Africa. Our Model is anchored in cultivating enduring, positive relationships with these communities. With each Community Initiative, we launch targeted, short-term projects that positively influence the local landscape. Community members themselves identify developmental obstacles, and RIDE contributes the essential seed funding and technical support required to devise enduring solutions. Across all our initiatives, our ultimate objective is to establish self-sustaining frameworks for communities to progress and flourish.
RIDE International
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From a Dream to a Reality….
RIDE's inspiring journey began with a shared dream amongst three men: Riley Jon Blackwell, Robert Uttaro, and Kahindi Lekalhaile.
East Africa has long been overlooked as a research and experiential opportunity for study abroad students, motivating us to establish a localized community dedicated to ethical and mutually-beneficial field studies.
What started as the Partners in Scholarship program, a program looking to simply encourage international study in East Africa, blossomed into triumphant international field-studies in 2017 and the groundbreaking Field Quarter in 2019. In that moment, our founders realized that RIDE's potential was as limitless as the dreams that inspired it.
As of 2024, RIDE has achieved official nonprofit status in the state of Colorado, and continues the noble goal of empowering local communities through sustainable development (read more about our Core Values). As we look towards the future, we aim to attain accreditation for our undergraduate study abroad programs through partnerships with respected US-based institutions, and further the shared vision of global education that transcends borders.
Our Core Values
Local Empowerment
We are dedicated to ethical research that benefits our students and communities, embracing the motto: “Think Global. Act Local.” Here at RIDE, we foster economic opportunities and justice for local East African communities through inclusive participation, collaboration with local experts, hiring local staff, and empowering regional partnerships.
Environmental Sustainability
Addressing climate change urgently, we examine its effects in the regions we work in and continually assess and improve our own carbon footprint and environmental practices. With an unwavering commitment to preserving the natural world, we strive to leave a positive impact on the planet and inspire others to do the same.
Innovation
We are committed to exploring and implementing innovative research approaches and ‘green’ new technologies to enhance our impact and efficiency. In a constantly changing world, we remain flexible and open to new methods of work, ensuring that our strategies are effective and relevant.
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What We Do
RIDE's Study Abroad programs in East Africa transcend traditional learning, offering students an immersive journey that expands their understanding of global affairs and the profound impact of communities. We work with colleges, universities, and other institutions in the US and Europe to develop student programs focused on a variety of community development topics. Our programs are meticulously designed to be more than just educational experiences; they are transformative adventures that leave a lasting imprint on students' lives. By participating in field studies, students are prepared for future research, graduate studies, and successful careers.
RIDE's Community Initiatives are a powerful blend of external support and community-driven development, forging a unique path towards positive impact. Partnering with grassroots organizations, we focus our research initiatives on low-income, multicultural, and rural communities, channeling resources directly to those most in need. Through projects centered on crucial community challenges, we build a foundation for our student trips and ecotours, addressing topics that affect local residents and their environment. Our projects tackle a variety of topics including climate change, women empowerment, and local conservation efforts.
RIDE also offers premium ecotours and other safari experiences that are unlike anything on the market. Our team of local ecotourism experts take our guests on once-in-a-liftime adventures to East Africa. Our safaris are tailored to individual needs and comfort levels, allowing our visitors to "study abroad" as a tourist of any age. Whether our guests want to climb to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro, unwind on the Indian Ocean, trek with wild Chimpanzees or just learn about inspirational community projects, East Africa has it all. As a nonprofit, the emphasis is on meaningful interactions with local communities. Our ecotourism activities are set up in a way that has both a positive impact on our visitors and community members alike. Come for a RIDE to East Africa today!
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How We’re Different
Empowering Communities, Inspiring Minds, Creating Lasting Change.
Innovative Approach
RIDE's distinct approach stands out by seamlessly merging the realms of ecotourism, student trips, and local community initiatives across East Africa. Unlike conventional models, RIDE places paramount importance on local communities, working collaboratively to create sustainable economic opportunities and empower marginalized populations. This unique fusion not only offers students and other travelers immersive and enriching experiences but also fosters genuine connections with the regions they explore. Through prioritizing the interests and ambitions of local communities, RIDE forges a remarkable bond that transcends traditional boundaries, enhancing the impact of both educational journeys and community development efforts.
Our Model
At the heart of RIDE's model lies our unwavering commitment to engaging transformative student trips that immerse participants in the vibrant cultures and pressing issues of East African communities. These educational journeys serve as dynamic learning platforms, enabling students to gain invaluable firsthand insights into local challenges and achievements, fostering a profound and lasting connection as well as a mutual understanding between participants and the host communities.
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Complementing our educational trips is our dedication to fostering community collaboration. We actively partner with local communities to identify their unique needs and aspirations, and then work together to design and implement short-term projects that bring about positive change. By combining local knowledge and resources with RIDE's expertise and support, we enable communities to develop sustainable solutions that empower them to overcome challenges and thrive.
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The fusion of engaging student trips and ecotours with community initiatives forms RIDE's distinctive model. This synergy not only enriches the educational experiences of our participants but also empowers community members to lead their own development journey. By merging these two components, RIDE cultivates a reciprocal relationship that allows us to collectively achieve our mission of promoting sustainable development, cultural exchange, and mutual growth in East Africa.
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