Written by Riley Timms, former GMPI in Tanzania
I first stumbled across Challenges Abroad in 2021 while studying at university. At the time, I had no idea how significant that moment would become. A year later, I found myself standing in Peru as a participant on the Machu Picchu Challenge, surrounded by incredible people who opened my eyes to what it truly means to be a global citizen. That experience planted a seed—a curiosity about the world, a desire to contribute meaningfully, and a belief that stepping into unfamiliar spaces can change you in ways you don’t expect. Those seeds took root during my six months in Thailand as a Group Mentor and Project Implementor with FutureSense Foundation. Living and working in Mae Sariang was both humbling and transformative. It wasn’t always easy. In fact, some of my most defining moments came from being pushed far outside my comfort zone. But it was in those moments that I grew the most.
As a Group Mentor, I also had the chance to support participants through their own journeys—many of whom were experiencing life in a new culture for the first time. Holding space for their growth, challenges, and reflections taught me a lot about leadership. I learned to lead with empathy, to communicate with clarity, and to trust my ability to guide others even when I was still learning myself. There were days when plans changed unexpectedly, when communication barriers felt overwhelming, or when I questioned whether I was doing enough. But each challenge became a reminder of why I was there: to show up, to adapt, and to keep moving forward with purpose.
Working alongside the Mae Sariang community was a privilege. Every day offered a new opportunity to listen, learn, and support local goals in a way that felt collaborative and grounded. Whether facilitating workshops, supporting participants, or adapting programs to meet community needs, I found myself constantly inspired by the resilience and resourcefulness of the people around me. Their commitment to education, wellbeing, and sustainable development shaped the way I approached my role and deepened my understanding of what ethical, community‑led impact looks like.
One of the biggest lessons I learned was that meaningful connection doesn’t depend on
language. Mae Sariang is a community rich in warmth, generosity, and quiet strength. Even when words failed, connection never did. A smile, a shared laugh, a simple gesture, or a spontaneous game of basketball became bridges between us. Some of the people who impacted me most were those I couldn’t hold a full conversation with, yet somehow we understood each other perfectly. Those interactions reminded me that humanity is universal, and that relationships are built through presence, respect, and genuine care.
Looking back, my time in FutureSense Foundation Thailand has been one of the most transformative chapters of my life. It reminded me how capable I am—how much I can contribute, how much I can learn, and how much I can grow when I allow myself to rise to the occasion. It has strengthened my belief in the power of community, the importance of cultural humility, and the impact that small, consistent actions can have over time.
For anyone considering becoming a Group Mentor and Project Implementor, I can say with confidence that this experience will challenge you, inspire you, and change you in ways you can’t predict. You don’t need to have all the answers. You don’t need to speak the language.
You simply need to show up with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. The rest will unfold naturally.
