Leadership for Watershed Change

Uruguay

Duration 10 days

Suggested group size 12 - 20 students / 2 Envoys Field Staff

Suggested ages 14 - 18

Experience Electrification & Green Economies

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Quiet Leadership for Watershed Change

Uruguay

Uruguay, a South American hidden gem, was established as a Spanish colony in 1726, and gained independence in 1828. After a period of instability, prosperity came in the early 20th century through beef and wool exports. Political turmoil followed in the 1960s-1970s until the return to democracy in the 1980s. Today, Uruguay is known for its democratic traditions, social progressivism, and environmental commitment, making it a captivating country to explore.

“Commitment to sustainability echoes in the gentle winds that sweep its vast, eco-conscious landscapes.“

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“Sun-kissed beaches, historic charm, and warm hospitality embrace visitors in a uniquely South American haven.“

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Impact Statement Everywhere we go, we carry a promise – to engage with respect, act with purpose, and leave a positive imprint. As envoys of our journey is more than travel; Our footprint is light, but our impact is profound, creating bridges of cooperation and mutual growth across the globe.

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Day 1

Upon arrival, students are greeted by their Envoys educators and receive a safety briefing and activity that builds the group dynamic. From there, we head out to explore the surrounding area and have a welcome dinner together, sampling local cuisine for the first of many times on the trip.

Day 2

A leisurely morning, and a survival Spanish lesson are followed by a street art tour, exploring social and environmental issues. Lunch is at Mercado Agrícola de Montevideo. In the afternoon, they meet local university students. Dinner features a candombe drumming experience.

Day 3

We visit Colonia del Sacramento, guided by a local historian. In the afternoon, we climb to the top of the town to see the lighthouse and take in the view. Students wind down the afternoon with some games and team building activities on the beach, before transferring back to Montevideo.

Day 4

We convene for a workshop to research the two organizations we will visit during the day and then set out. After a busy day immersed in professional life in Uruguay, we unwind with dinner and a local soccer game, a chance to view a professional sport in another country.

Day 5

We go to Punta del Este, have lunch and check in to our accommodations before a “Tourism and Local Economies” workshop, which helps frame our time in this very touristic place. We head out to view Isla de Lobos and marvel at the darling sea lions, before enjoying dinner together by the ocean.

Day 6

Before leaving Punta del Este, we visit a horse sanctuary and learn about the role that horses have played in the ranching culture. We hike the area before driving to Minas. After lunch, we head out to an organizational visit to prepare for our immersion the following day at the wind farm.

Day 7

We spend the morning visiting the Aguas Blancas Dam and learning about the engineering involved to capture energy and power a thriving country such as Uruguay. We head into town for lunch, have a relaxing afternoon exploring the town and engage in some empathic interviews with locals.

Day 8

We bid farewell to the plains and return to Montevideo for a fun morning of student choice activities. After a big Uruguayan lunch, we convene in the garden for a program debrief and reflection workshop. We head off to a fun final closing dinner to top it off!

Day 9

We say our farewells in the morning and head to the airport for flights home.

Highlights

Lenses of Inquiry

INNOVATION AND LEADERSHIP

Delve into Uruguay's transition to a green economy, with core concepts like public-private partnerships and sustainable agriculture. We construct a timeline of government actions. Towards the end, students analyze the leadership qualities enabling specific individuals to drive this progress.

SUSTAINABILITY

Students examine individual practices and governmental policies fostering Uruguay's sustainable future, with an overview of Uruguay's climate challenges and historical context. Through empathic interviews, students learn about locals' connection to nature and the significance of sustainability.

EQUITY AND JUSTICE

Students grasp environmental justice and the disparities in human-nature relationships. Immersed in rural and urban settings and engaging with sustainability leaders, we confront climate change's impact on marginalized groups. We examine its effects on the economy, health, and security.

FAQS

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At Envoys, we work to unite and educators from around the world to explore issues of global significance.

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Do I need a visa to travel this destination?

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Envoys is not a licensed insurance broker. However, families can easily request a quote and purchase insurance through our partner, Trawick International. Click here to get a quote. For assistance or any questions that may arise regarding insurance, you can contact Trawick international at 1-888-301-9289 or by email at info@TrawickInternational.com Non-US citizens are only legally allowed to purchase Safe Travels USA Comprehensive or Safe Travels International Cost Saver insurance plans from Trawick International.

What currency is used, and how can I exchange money?

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The program maintains multiple lines of communication with the school, families, and Envoys main offices. The expedition will be equipped with local and international cell phones, a GPS transponder, and two-way radios. Program leaders will follow strict protocols to maintain a consistent flow of information. To ensure families are able to follow our trip, Envoys has custom-built a proprietary online platform to facilitate mobile uploading of information. Staff upload photos, videos, and postings feeds to the platform multiple times each day.

What vaccinations or health precautions do I need?

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No one can guarantee freedom from harm, including accident, injury, illness, or death. A degree of risk is inherent in this program, as well as in all travel and outdoor activities. Potential hazards include severe weather, public disorder, interactions with non-program participants, lack of medical facilities, exposure to disease, and transportation accidents. Mental health issues may also be exacerbated through the stresses of a new experience.

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