“This summer, 10 BCNY members made up of both current members and recent graduates embarked on a transformational leadership journey to The Island School in Eleuthera, Bahamas. While the destination featured breathtaking turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches, the true purpose of the experience reached far beyond
the scenery.
For several members, this was their very first time traveling outside of the United States. For others, it was their first time ever traveling away from home, and for many, receiving their first passport stamp marked the beginning of a lifetime of global exploration.
Centered around the guiding question, “How do you live well in a place?”, the experience challenged members to think critically about community, sustainability, leadership, and their role in protecting our world.
Over the course of six nights, members fully immersed themselves in life at The Island School. They lived in accommodations very different from what most were accustomed to, sharing open air dormitories with no air conditioning and utilizing community style bathrooms. While these living arrangements initially pushed many outside of their comfort zones, they quickly became an important part of the experience, teaching adaptability, gratitude, resilience, and the value of community living.
One of the most impactful aspects of the trip was disconnecting from technology. Throughout the program, members had no access to their phones, tablets, or laptops allowing them to be fully present, engage deeply with one another, and embrace every opportunity without distraction. Removed from their everyday comforts, they stepped into their stretch zone developing resilience, confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of purpose.
Throughout the week, members participated in environmental and leadership experiences alongside Island School educators. They studied coastal ecology, explored the importance of marine ecosystems, learned about remote sustainability, visited aquaponic and hydroponic farming systems, and discovered how island communities responsibly manage their natural resources. Members also gained a deeper understanding of tourism’s positive impact as well as the environmental and cultural challenges it can create for island communities.
Members snorkeled through crystal-clear Caribbean waters, observed vibrant marine life firsthand, and several Open Water SCUBA-certified participants had the opportunity to scuba dive. They assisted in scientific shark research by helping catch, tag, and release sharks, participated in nighttime marine life explorations, experienced cliff jumping, and visited remote beaches unlike anything they had seen before.
Beyond the educational experiences, the week was built on brotherhood. Members shared evening bonfires, group reflections, journaling sessions, cultural exchanges, and meaningful conversations with students and Island School staff from around the world. They traveled throughout Eleuthera to better understand Bahamian history and culture while building friendships that crossed geographic and cultural boundaries.
By the end of the trip, our members returned with much more than incredible photographs and unforgettable memories. They returned with greater confidence, a deeper appreciation for the environment, stronger leadership skills, lifelong friendships, and a broader understanding that they are part of something much bigger than themselves.
The Boys’ Club of New York extends its sincere gratitude to The Island School’s faculty, educators, and Visiting Programs team for creating such an extraordinary learning environment. Their passion, hospitality, and commitment to youth development made this experience truly life-changing”.
– Orlando “Coach O” Nazario, Abbe Clubhouse Director