Asia Wesley

Where did you grow up?
Thornton, CO

Where do you call home now?
Denver, COlorado

Year started at Global Works?
2017

What’s your favorite part about leading trips?
My favorite part about leading trips is seeing the growth of students from the first day of the trip to the last day. Though the students usually have great answers when we ask them, “what are you most excited about for this trip?” their answers by the end of the trip that go over what they learned become so much more thoughtful and plentiful.

What’s something you can’t live without while you are traveling?
I can’t live without a notepad! Or at least something that I can take notes on. I love being able to write down any new word or expression (especially if I am traveling in a country where I am learning the language).

Tell us about a favorite memory from a trip you have taken.
My favorite memory from a trip I’ve taken was helping to build a small hut on the Kuna Yala island of Panama and meeting some new friends, who happened to be 12-year-old girls! Once they found out we were American, they wasted no time in trying to show us their English notebooks.

Where is your favorite place you have traveled to?
My favorite place I’ve traveled to are the Kuna Yala islands!

Fun fact, special talent, or favorite memory
I’ve sang my whole life! I was in a jazz choir in high school and now I just do it more for fun.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Anything active! I play soccer and run. I also enjoy singing any song I know the words to.

What languages do you speak?
I speak Spanish and am learning Portuguese!

If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first travel experience, what would it be?
It would be to try something new, even if it makes you a little bit uncomfortable. If you end up not liking it, then you never have to do it again, but if you love it, then you will be glad you tried it!

Tell us why you are excited for this year’s trip!
I’m excited to return as a 2nd year and build on the skills I gained last year! Since I will be returning to Panama, I am excited to have “reencuentros” with those that I met last year.