Expanding Boundaries International Accepting Applications for Ghana Study Tour 2026

Leticia Ababio Nortey, founder and executive director of Expanding Boundaries International, Inc. (EBI), empowers future generations with equitable access to cross-cultural and technological education through Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) activities.

“We are dedicated to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all,” said Nortey, a Morgan State University alumna.

A Cross-Cultural Connection

Born and raised in Obuasi, in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, Nortey founded the 501(c)(3) in 2014. EBI integrates cultural exploration tours, Brenda A. Brown Passport Scholarships, an initiative providing funds for students to apply for their first U.S. passport, a study abroad program to provide U.S. students with opportunities to study or intern abroad, and a STEAM after-school program.

“We create immersive experiences through embassy visits, virtual international tours, and cross-cultural workshops that foster global understanding,” Nortey added. “We serve youth aged 10 and above. A unique aspect of our model is that we encourage parents and guardians to participate in our cross-cultural activities, ensuring the impact reaches the entire family unit.”

Expanding Boundaries International’s Ghana Study Tour 2026

Sankofa Narratives, a digital storytelling and STEAM-focused journey for local high school and college students, will be held from July 6, 2026, to July 19, 2026 in Ghana.

“What sets this program apart is the Peer-to-Peer Buddy System because EBI serves students year-round in Ghana and Maryland. Participants are matched with a ‘Peer Pal’ in Ghana before they arrive,” Nortey explained. “Upon landing, U.S. students connect with their Ghanaian buddies. These peers act as ‘old friends,’ helping them assimilate, answering cultural questions, and providing a perspective on life in Ghana from their own age group.”

Nortey further mentioned that the travel experience is not just a tour, but a true exchange of lives and stories.

The Sankofa Experience

Students will utilize smartphones and digital tools to bridge their Baltimore history with Ghanaian heritage as a part of the digital storytelling lab. Cultural immersion includes visits to historic sites such as Cape Coast Castle, and the Assin Manso Slave River, and Twi language lessons. Twi is spoken in Ghana. Participants will also engage in hands-on collaboration at the EBI STEAM Hub in Ejura, Ghana.

Professional Outcomes

“We provide specialized workshops on translating international travel into college and career assets,” said Nortey.

She further stated that students will complete 16 hours of volunteer work to earn Service Learning Experience credits. Participants will also earn an official Certificate of Completion and a Community Service Award.

Parent Perspectives

 Logan Turner, 15, took a previous 12-day trip to Ghana through EBI in June of 2025.

 Sharron Turner, the mother of the Baltimore City student, remarked that Logan had an ultimate experience away from home.

 “I would tell other parents to do it. It’s scary because they will not be with you, but it’s worth your child getting this experience.  The program director will ensure your child’s safety, growth, and development.  I loved this experience and would have my child do it again.”

Dr. Dontae and Mrs. Antoynica Ryan, parents of Kailyn Ryan, stated that their daughter returned from Ghana with a greater appreciation for the opportunities and amenities afforded to her in the United States. Now more confident in herself, Kailyn is reportedly open to trying new things, and fearless when it comes to advocating for herself in positive ways, regardless of the audience.

“She strengthened her ability to overcome fears, work through uncomfortable situations, resolve conflicts, appreciate different cultures, and learn different languages. She is excited to continue to study abroad in the future,” the Ryans added.

Financial Investment and Support for Baltimore City Residents

The expense of the immersive, inclusive travel experience to Ghana is $5,000 for students from Baltimore. However, Baltimore City residents will pay $700 for the trip, thanks to a grant.

“The Baltimore Children and Youth Fund (BCYF) will cover the majority of costs for eligible Baltimore City residents through the Summer of Possibility Grant,” Nortey explained.  “The program covers round-trip flights, U.S. passport support via the Brenda A. Brown Passport Scholarship, safe accommodations, and all daily meals.”

Student applicants from other parts of Maryland will be required to invest $2,600 in addition to airfare.

Visit https://expandingboundaries.org/ghana-study-tour/  to learn more about Expanding Boundaries International’s Ghana Study Tour 2026 or call 410.881.7449. The opportunity is available first come, first-served basis. Applications will be accepted until March 31, 2026.