Introduction to Jazz: GGL for C1D

Hello everyone!

My name is Jazz, she/they, and I am so excited to be one of your Global Glimpse Leaders this summer! I can’t wait to meet each of you, get to know your stories, and share this incredible journey together.

One of the most meaningful parts of this experience for me is that I was once in your shoes. Eleven years ago, I traveled to Constanza, Dominican Republic as a Global Glimpse student on this very same trip. That experience completely changed the trajectory of my life—it deepened my love for language and culture, expanded my worldview, and ultimately influenced my decision to pursue dual degrees at UCLA in International Development and Gender Studies. My love and passion for human rights and understanding the global impacts of poverty deepened tremendously. It also reinforced my belief that stepping outside of our comfort zones can open doors we never imagined.

Since then, I’ve worked as an educator, community organizer, and artist, always centering youth empowerment, leadership, and community. Now, getting to return to Constanza as a Leader feels like a true full-circle moment, and it’s an honor to help guide the next generation through an experience that had such a profound impact on me.

I hope you come with an open mind, an open heart, and a willingness to learn—not just about another culture, but about yourselves and one another. I have no doubt we’ll laugh, grow, challenge ourselves, and create memories we’ll carry with us for years to come.

I can’t wait to meet you all soon. See you soon!