Nestled in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a land of vast plains, towering acacias, and thriving wildlife. At its heart are the Maasai people, whose traditions are woven into the fabric of this region. Among them, one leader is paving the way for meaningful community development and cultural preservation: Susan Sintoyia.

RIDE’s belief in the transformative power of study abroad experiences has been our driving motivator since we began changing lives in 2020. These programs not only broaden academic horizons and inspire creativity, but they also deepen cultural understanding and foster personal growth. We are excited to announce the launch of two new study abroad programs in Kenya! Each program will be two weeks long; the first program will run from November 30th, 2025, to December 12th, 2025. Our second program will run from January 4th to January 16th of 2026.  These programs are open to all currently enrolled students at any university, aiming to create opportunities for as many individuals as possible to experience the magic of East Africa.

My final two weeks in Kenya (July 21st-August 4th) were a whirlwind of activities that brought me closer to the heart of RIDE International’s mission: empowering communities through sustainable and innovative solutions. I had the incredible opportunity to assist two undergraduate student researchers from the University of Denver in Kiteghe, check in on the dedicated Kasigau Elephant Guardians, help with sunflower oil production, catch up with old friends, and learn about the broader impacts of our ongoing projects. These experiences not only deepened my understanding of the trials and triumphs faced by the local communities but also emphasized the resilience and creativity that drive our initiatives forward.

Welcoming Party in Amboseli!