Discovering and embracing one’s true self may be the most important and yet most challenging work any human can do. For those working to find where they fall on the spectrum of gender and sexuality the barriers can be ten-fold, and without a positive support system this may seem unachievable. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+, or are someone who is an ally for the LGBTQ+ community and are curious about issues around diversity and inclusion, No Barriers would like to invite you on a 10-day journey to India. Here you will join a team of like-minded peers from around the US to build a resilient community of support while exploring this colorful country. Ultimately, you will be challenged to expand your perceptions of what is possible, and encouraged to connect with your true self in order to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Are you ready for a journey that might just change everything?
This journey will begin virtually, through an online course designed to help introduce you to what it means to live a No Barriers Life, and where you will get to meet the peers that you will join in India. You will also meet your No Barriers Expedition Leaders who will guide you through the entire experience.
Shortly after completing your virtual program, the expedition will begin. These 10 days will be a whirlwind of cultural immersion. You will visit inspiring historical sites such as the home of Mahatma Ghandi to learn about the history of the human rights efforts, and see iconic sites such as the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort. You will engage with local non-profits helping to empower those who fall outside the standard sphere of privilege. And then spend the last few days shadowing local students at a school in rural India.
India is about a third of the size of the United States, yet is the 2nd most highly-populated country in the world with a population of approximately 1.2 billion people. It is characterized by its distinct geography and colorful culture. While it has one of the world’s fastest growing economies, India still suffers from an excruciatingly high poverty rate. 68.7% of Indians live on $2 or less each day. From rural farming villages and snake charmers, to bustling call centers and street markets, experiencing the rich texture and vibrancy of India is a rickshaw ride that assaults the senses as much as it awes the imagination. India is truly a land of contrasts where learning and wonder never cease.
P.S. DID YOU KNOW?
On September 6th, 2018 the Indian Supreme Court officially legalized same-sex relationships, thereby terminating one of oldest laws in the world criminalizing homosexuality.
Throughout the expedition we’ll focus on expanding perceptions of diversity and inclusion, persevering through challenges and learning to live a No Barriers Life. As participants, you will also explore the idea of creating a vision for your future, the rope team that will help get you there and much, much more. But most importantly you will learn, laugh, lead and live life to its fullest… returning home ready to take action and better your community.
10 Days | All Inclusive | Download Itinerary
Evening – Before dinner, participate in Opening Ceremony led by your Expedition Leader.
Afternoon – Lunch at a local restaurant.
Visit to the India Gate, a memorial commemorating those who lost their lives during the Indo-Pakistan war.
Time permitting, stop by Dilli Haat, a large open air market that is popular amongst local citizens.
Evening – Dinner and overnight at Hotel in Delhi
Group reflection on the day.
Evening – Dinner and group reflection at Hotel.
Afternoon – Lunch at a local restaurant.
Then, make your way to the Agra Fort, an important UNESCO Heritage Center.
Afterwards, check into the hotel and enjoy some free time before a group reflection.
Evening – Dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight at hotel in Agra.
Afternoon – Stop at local artisan shops for some quick souvenir shopping before lunch at a local restaurant.
Then, transfer to Anupshahr (~3 hrs).
Evening – End the day at Pardada Pardadi School, a nonprofit dedicated to the academic, economic and social empowerment of girls & women in this area of the country.
Have dinner and overnight at school.
Afternoon – Walk to the local village with the girls and meet their families.
Return to PPES to watch a traditional Indian dance performance by PPES students.
Evening – Dinner together as a group followed by a reflection activity
Overnight at Pardada Pardadi School
Afternoon – Final lunch at the school, and time for goodbyes.
Depart for Delhi by bus (approx. 3-4 hours).
Evening – Dinner at a local restaurant.
Group activities with your Expedition leader.
Afternoon – Lunch at a local restaurant.
Then visit Asia’s largest spice market along Chandni Chowk or the Dili Haat, a local artisan market.
Evening – Final dinner in India at a local restaurant.
Then head back to the hotel for Closing Ceremony with your Expedition Leader.
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