Leading with Purpose: Kicking Off Our Costa Rica Journey

Hello and welcome! My name is Kalena Verran, and I’m honored to serve as a Global Glimpse Leader for our upcoming journey to Costa Rica. This blog will be a space to document, reflect, and celebrate the growth our students experience as they prepare for and embark on this life-changing adventure.

Global Glimpse is more than a travel program—it’s an opportunity for young people to become thoughtful, engaged global citizens. In the heart of Costa Rica, we’ll dive deep into those themes by connecting with local communities, engaging in meaningful service projects, and learning about the country’s unique approach to sustainability, education, and “pura vida.”

This will be my first time leading a delegation with Global Glimpse, and I’m continually inspired by the transformation that happens when students step outside of their comfort zones, open their minds, and truly listen to the world around them. Costa Rica offers a rich environment for this growth—with its lush rainforests, vibrant traditions, and warm, welcoming people.

Throughout this blog, I’ll share highlights from our preparation process and on-the-ground experiences. My hope is to give families, friends, and supporters a window into the learning and leadership taking place on our journey—and to capture the powerful stories that often go untold in traditional classrooms.

Thank you for following along. We’re just getting started, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us.

With excitement,
Kalena Verran
Global Glimpse Leader – Costa Rica 2025