We had the good fortune of connecting with Sanja Jing and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sanja, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind Global Visioneers’ success is our ability to mobilize and empower young people while maintaining a spirit of innovation and fun. We’ve learned that when you give students the freedom to explore their passions and take initiative, amazing things happen.

From the beginning, we’ve encouraged our team to think outside the box. Our club meetings aren’t just about discussing plans – they’re dynamic spaces where creativity flourishes. This spirit led to the launch of our online video series, GV ‘Round the World, during the summer. This initiative allows students to still contribute to the organization’s activities while giving them the creative freedom to choose the topics they want to film about, bringing our global community closer together.

We’re not afraid to branch out into new categories within our organization. When a group of students expressed interest in journalism and digital media, we embraced the idea and are currently in the process of launching our first digital magazine team. This project showcases our students’ writing talents and brings our mission to a wider audience through their unique perspectives.

What really sets us apart is how we let students take the lead. We provide the framework, but it’s the students who bring their unique talents and interests to the table. For instance, our GV ‘Round the World series evolved when students suggested incorporating local cultural demonstrations into their videos. This simple idea transformed a talking-head format into a rich, immersive artistic experience for viewers.

We’ve found that by creating an environment where trying new things is encouraged, we keep our initiatives fresh and engaging. Whether it’s introducing creative segments in our video series or exploring diverse topics in our upcoming digital magazine, we’re always looking for fun ways to connect and learn.

Ultimately, our success comes from trusting in the creativity and passion of our young leaders. By giving them the space to explore, innovate, and sometimes even fail, we’ve created a dynamic organization that continues to grow and adapt. At Global Visioneers, we believe that the best ideas come from those who are closest to the action—our students. Their energy and vision, whether through our video series or digital magazine, are what truly drive our success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Global Visioneers has been an incredible journey that shaped my high school life and my growth as a leader. Our youth-to-youth service model sets us apart, allowing each student to take part in our mission personally: empowering youth through language and cultural exchange, creating a truly global community of young changemakers.

I’m most proud of how we’ve grown from a small group of friends to an organization impacting over 10 thousand students across four continents. We’ve launched programs in seven languages, established international chapters, and collaborated with local governments for cultural events.

The path has been challenging. Balancing school, personal life, and running a growing nonprofit has been difficult. Managing various aspects of the organization while keeping our initiatives fresh and engaging has required constant innovation and adaptability.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the power of delegation and trusting your team. As we grew, I had to learn to let go of control and empower others to take leadership roles.

What I want the world to know about Global Visioneers is that we’re more than just a language-learning platform. We’re a movement and community of young people dedicated to building a more connected, empathetic world—one conversation at a time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting San Diego for a week, I’d create an itinerary that showcases the city’s diverse attractions and vibrant culture. We’d start our adventure at La Jolla Shores, strolling along the picturesque beach, watching surfers catch waves, and maybe even spotting some seals lounging on the rocks. For a unique dining experience, we’d head to Encanto Cafe in La Jolla, enjoying their delicious breakfast sandwiches while soaking in breathtaking ocean views from their chic outdoor setup.

Throughout the week, we’d explore some of San Diego’s trendiest spots. We’d grab coffee at Hinar Desert Bar & Cafe downtown, marveling at its aesthetic decor and savoring its top-notch lattes. For a change of scenery, we’d visit Selva Coffee House in Point Loma, surrounded by lush greenery in a local nursery—like stepping into a plant-filled wonderland.

Every trip to San Diego would be complete with visiting Balboa Park. We’d wander through the Spanish Village Art Center, admiring local artworks, and catch a show at the Old Globe Theatre. For a dose of adventure, we’d head to Torrey Pines Gliderport to watch paragliders soar over the coast—or, if we’re feeling brave, even try it ourselves!

In the evenings, we’d explore the Gaslamp Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and eclectic mix of restaurants. We’d catch a stunning sunset at Sunset Cliffs, followed by a visit to Palmys Cafe in Pacific Beach for their famous breakfast burritos and beachy vibes.

To round out the trip, we’d take a day to explore Old Town, immersing ourselves in California’s rich history while enjoying some of the best Mexican food in the city. And for a truly unique experience, we’d seek out the hidden Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave in La Jolla for a touch of mystery and adventure.

This itinerary blends San Diego’s natural beauty, trendy hotspots, cultural landmarks, and hidden gems, and it truly encapsulates the wonders of this extraordinary city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I’d love to give a heartfelt shoutout to the incredible people and experiences that have shaped GlobalVisioneers and my journey as a founder.

First, I must recognize BFLE, my local language school. It wasn’t just a place where I learned languages but a springboard for my passion. Emceeing at their events and participating in their programs opened my eyes to the transformative power of language education. It’s where I first saw how learning a new language could bridge cultural divides and create connections.

I also owe a huge debt of gratitude to my mentor, Mrs. Jade. She was there from the very beginning, believing in our vision when Global Visioneers was just a spark of an idea. Her guidance and unwavering support pushed our organization forward, helping us navigate the early challenges of starting a nonprofit.

On the literary front, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention “The Power of Moments” by Chip and Dan Heath. This fun, self-motivation book shaped my thinking about creating impactful experiences for our participants. It taught me how every small, thoughtful moment can turn an ordinary language workshop into an unforgettable memory for every kid by embracing the four elements that dominate our positive moments: elevation, insight, pride, and connection.

Most importantly, I want to shout out to my fantastic team of student leaders. These passionate young changemakers continue to inspire me every single day. Their creativity, dedication, and enthusiasm are the true driving force behind Global Visioneers. Watching them take initiative, develop innovative ideas, and work tirelessly to realize our vision is incredibly humbling and motivating.

Our success is truly a collective effort, and I’m endlessly grateful for this amazing community we’re building together. Their energy and commitment keep me excited about the future of Global Visioneers and the impact we can make every day!

Website: https://www.globalvisioneers.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/globalvisioneers/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanja-jing-a72356240/

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@globalvisioneers

Image Credits
Photos by Sanja Jing

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