Day 10 – Final Reflection

Hi from your Day 10 LDDs, Genesis and Emmily!

Today was all about looking back… and looking forward.

We started the day with a self-reflection seminar that helped us dig deep into everything we’ve experienced on this journey — what we felt before, during, and after the trip, how we’ve grown, and how this experience has impacted our lives. We asked ourselves what we’ll start doing, what we’ll continue, and what we’ll leave behind now that we’re heading home with so many memories and lessons.

One of the most powerful parts of the day was the time we spent appreciating each other. We shared “Big Love” papers and shout-outs, filling them with kind, meaningful, and sometimes hilarious messages that showed just how much we’ve all come to care for one another. During our final nightly meeting, the love continued. The shout-outs were so honest, vulnerable, and heartfelt that the room felt like a big hug. It was clear that people made deep, lasting connections here — and that we each found people who really see us.

As LDDs, we learned that leadership takes a lot of patience and communication. At the start of this trip, we didn’t really think of ourselves as leaders — or believe we had the qualities to be one. But we’ve realized that everyone does have those qualities; sometimes you just need the right moment to step up. Even though we all went through the same trip, we each had our own journey — with different emotions, reflections, and lessons. And that’s what made our group dynamic so beautiful and real.

Some unforgettable highlights today (and from the whole trip):
🎶 Singing our hearts out on the bus — Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, and especially Keisha Cole (Paco’s top pick!) turned the ride into a concert. Volume: 100%.
👩🏽‍🍳 Coming together to enjoy Ilka’s final delicious meal. Her cooking will definitely be missed — but don’t worry, we’re all following her on Instagram now.
🌟 Talent shows that let everyone shine — whether it was singing, dancing, storytelling, or goofing off, every talent brought laughs, connection, and surprise. We saw that everyone has something unique and special to contribute.

This trip taught us so much about each other and ourselves. We talked with people we might never have crossed paths with otherwise, and we’re walking away with more courage, more compassion, and more confidence in who we are.

Thank you to everyone who made this journey unforgettable. We are so grateful for this opportunity that most people don’t get to experience. We are beyond grateful to be nominated. It is unreal to be here and this trip has been amazing for all of us. We want to thank our leaders, PCs Paco y Heyling, GGLs Celeste and Andy, our “Health Lady” Azalia, our chefs Ilka, Carolina, and Lionela, and our hotel host Yaisa. 

Con mucho amor, (and goodbye gurts)
Genesis & Emmily