Teens of Color Abroad

When the pandemic hit, we weren’t sure if Teens of Color Abroad (TOCA) could continue. But from that challenge came an opportunity—to pivot, innovate, and expand access to global learning in a whole new way. That’s how TOCA Online was born. Through this journey, we connected with our incredible partners at NaTakallam, further strengthening our mission to provide language learning and cultural exchange opportunities to students worldwide. ??? Watch as our founder, Lamar Shambley, shares the story of resilience, adaptation, and the power of partnerships at SXSW EDU P.S. - TOCA Online applications are officially open through May 2, 2025. Learn about eligibility and how to apply at https://lnkd.in/eWgSWrP #SXSWEDU #TOCA #NaTakallam #LanguageAndCulture #GlobalEducation #Resilience #Innovation

Continuing our #WomensHistoryMonth celebration honoring women in leadership who have impacted global exchange programs we have Alhia D. Harris, the president and founder of DIWC. She shared her story with TOCA in hopes to inspire more young women of color to see the world ?? "My passion for cultural exchange is deeply personal, rooted in an experience that changed the trajectory of my life. In the summer of?2012, I studied abroad at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. As a second-generation college student from the Bronx, this opportunity marked the first time I traveled so far from home. My family gave me $500 to study abroad, and while I was incredibly grateful for their help, I quickly learned just how much financial strain could impact an experience abroad. Living in Hong Kong opened my eyes to the beauty of different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. The friendships I formed during my time?abroad — with people from all over the world — have stood the test of time. In 2017, I reunited with my study abroad friends in Denmark and Sweden — a trip that reminded me just how much studying abroad had changed my life. It was during that reunion that the seed for DIWC was planted. I couldn’t shake the thought:?What if more women of color had the chance to experience what I did? The following year, on June 28, 2018, I officially founded DIWC with the mission to inspire, encourage, and support women of color to study abroad by offering scholarships to help alleviate financial barriers. DIWC is more than just a scholarship — it’s a movement to amplify the voices of women of color in global spaces. When our scholars travel abroad, they represent not only themselves but entire communities that have been historically underrepresented in international education. They become ambassadors of cultural exchange, breaking down barriers and inspiring others to see the world as a place where they belong. DIWC’s journey would not be possible without the support of so many people who believe in our mission. I want to express my deepest gratitude to our board of directors, application review committee, donors, sponsors, and supporters — especially Mr. William Gertz, the Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation, and AIFS. Your unwavering belief in DIWC’s mission fuels our growth and empowers us to keep pushing forward. To date, DIWC scholars have traveled to Costa Rica, Ghana, Italy, Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Brazil, and beyond — with many more destinations on the horizon. My dream is to see a world where women of color are represented in every corner of the globe, breaking down stereotypes and creating a more inclusive global community. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I’m honored to be part of a legacy of women paving the way for others. The journey of DIWC is a testament to the power of women supporting women — lifting each other up, crossing borders, and changing the narrative of who gets to see the world." #StudyAbroad #LanguageLearners

?? TOCA Online Applications are Now Open! ?? In collaboration with NaTakallam, we're excited to present TOCA Online, a virtual language learning and cultural exchange program that connects U.S. high school students of color (ages 13-18) with language partners from around the world. As a TOCA Online Language Fellow, students will: ?? Study Arabic, French, or Spanish over the course of 10, two-hour classes (20 hours in total) taught by NaTakallam language partners who are native speakers of their language.? ??? Engage in two Refugee Voices workshop sessions, gaining deeper insights into global issues and the refugee experience.? ?? Participate in three virtual exchange sessions with students from outside the U.S., fostering cross-cultural connections and shared learning.? ?? Develop a community-based project plan, empowering students to apply their newfound skills in meaningful ways.? ?? Complete self-paced online modules that raise awareness of global issues, integrating them with their language learning experience. ? Rolling Admission Deadline: Friday, May 2, 2025?? Learn about program eligibility and how to apply at https://lnkd.in/eWgSWrP #intled #highschool #languagelearning #refugeesupport #virtualexchange #culturalexchange #TOCAOnline

What an incredible honor for our Founder, Lamar Shambley, to share the stage last week with Aline Sara for the #SXSWEDU panel, “Unlocking Access: Inclusive Education & Economic Integration through Language & Culture”. At TOCA, we believe that language is more than just words—it’s a bridge to opportunity, connection, and empowerment. In this discussion, they explored pathways to economic and social integration from an intersectional lens and highlighted the significance of language learning and cultural exchange in creating more diverse, equitable societies. A huge thank you to SXSW EDU for providing the platform to discuss such an important topic, to NaTakallam for being an incredible partner in this work, and to everyone who joined the conversation! Let’s continue pushing for a world where language and culture unite us rather than divide us. #SXSWEDU #InclusiveEducation #LanguageAndCulture #TOCA #EconomicIntegration #NaTakallam

To celebrate #WomensHistoryMonth TOCA will be highlighting a few women in leadership who have impacted global exchange programs with both a fearless and unique approach. First up is, Cidney Farley of iFLY Youth! Cidney has more than ten years of experience working to eliminate the opportunity gaps that persists among students of color. After graduating from the University of Missouri in 2012, Cidney joined the Teach For America Corps and taught 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade English in Houston, Texas. In 2016, Cidney moved to Abu Dhabi and continued mentoring young minds as a 6th-grade math teacher. Upon returning to United States after living abroad and traveling to nearly 15 countries, Cidney noticed a shortage of affordable short-term study abroad and leadership development opportunities for middle school girls of color in the DC Metropolitan Area. IFLY Youth was created in response to this shortage and continues to grow under Cidney’s leadership with the goal of giving girls of color an equal opportunity to see the world. We are thankful for all of the work Cidney and iFly do to make traveling accessible for our youth ???? #globalleaders #empowergirls #leadership #travel #supportgirls #youth

Join TOCA on Wednesday, March 12th at 6PM EST for our March Community Circle! Since 1964, AIFS Abroad has provided students with challenging educational programs in culturally diverse locations around the world. Their participants gain independence and valuable experience by immersing in the art, history, and business environment of a culture different from their own. The result is a more interconnected and peaceful world for future generations. Join Kory Saunders, MBA (She/Her) , Director of Inclusion Initiatives, to learn more about AIFS programming and the support they offer their participants! Register here: https://lnkd.in/eSuRbP7E *This event is open to all interested in learning about AIFS Abroad. #intled #globaled #highered #studyabroad

?? ???????????????? ???? SXSW EDU: Don’t miss #NaTakallam and Teens of Color Abroad's session on ?????????????????? ???????????? ???? ?????????????????? ?????? ?????????????????????? ?????????????? ??????????????! ?? ????????????????: Aline Sara – Co-Founder & CEO, NaTakallam Lamar Shambley – Founder, Teens of Color Abroad ??? ????????: Wednesday, March 5 | 13:00-14:00 US CT ?? ??????????: Room 15, Austin Convention Center ??? ICYMI: #SXSWEDU Expo will be free and open to the public on Wednesday, March 5 – all the more reason for you to join us! In #Austin? Send us a message to connect! You can also reach out to our colleagues in attendance Kelsey Holmes and Shaylyn Lindley ?? #WeSpeak #Languages #Translation #Culture #LearnLanguages #LanguageLearning #CulturalTraining #Education #Innovation #Integration #Impact #SocialImpact #CommunityImpact #Diversity #Inclusion #InclusiveEducation #GlobalConnections #Leadership #WithRefugees

March is here, and with it, we celebrate Women’s History Month! ??? This month, we’re spotlighting incredible women who are part of the TOCA community, trailblazers in travel, or have made an impact in international spaces—whether through language learning, travel, or global connections. From breaking barriers to redefining industries, women’s contributions are woven into the fabric of our world. Women play a vital role in our workplaces, families, and communities, shaping every aspect of life. Their contributions are essential to society, enriching our shared experiences in countless ways. Women’s history isn’t just the past—it’s the present and the future. At TOCA, we’re committed to amplifying women’s voices, celebrating their achievements, and championing a future of equality and empowerment. Join us as we share their stories, inspire one another, and continue pushing for progress—because women’s history is being made every day. Tag a woman who inspires you! ?????? #WomensHistoryMonth #TOCA

As we wrap up Black History Month, we honor the resilience, creativity, and achievements of the Black community throughout history. From trailblazers in every field to the countless unsung heroes, Black History is U.S. history, which is World History. But let’s remember—our journey doesn’t stop here. Every month is an opportunity to continue learning, elevating voices, and celebrating culture. Let’s stay committed to fostering inclusivity and amplifying diversity year-round.

??? Join us for an inspiring Networking Happy Hour hosted by NaTakallam, Ambessa Play, and Teens of Color Abroad! Connect with thought leaders, educators, and innovators as we dive into meaningful conversations on education, global impact, and expanding access to essential resources. We’ll explore solutions that foster holistic learning, intergenerational connections, and real-world change. ??? Your RSVP includes two free drink tickets and a chance to win exciting raffle prizes! Space is limited, so secure your spot now—and feel free to invite others who would love to be part of this powerful night of community. ?? Wednesday, March 5, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM CST???The Stay Put, Austin RSVP ?? https://lu.ma/vkkqbe21 #SXSWEdu #SXSW2025