Hello from the Trailblazers program! We are Jurgen, Heleen, Yuna (2010), and Hanne (2011), a Belgian travel family known as The Global Wizards. After experiencing our first Boundless Life cohort in Syros, Greece, we knew this unique approach to learning and living was a perfect fit for our family.

Our daughters, Yuna and Hanne, were thrilled to join Boundless Life’s new Trailblazers program for teens. The Trailblazers program combines engaging academics with real-world, place-based learning. Over nine months, students and families experience three diverse destinations. For the 2024-25 school year, we started this September in Sanur, Bali, and will soon head to Syros, Greece, and Kotor, Montenegro.

After just one month, we’re already feeling the impact of this incredible journey. Here’s a glimpse into our first few weeks as a Trailblazers family and what makes this program so unique.

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A New Approach to Learning: Connecting Academics to Real Life

The Trailblazers program is structured to offer students much more than traditional classroom-based education. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, cultural immersion, and critical thinking. Each morning, Yuna and Hanne head to the Education Center, a calm and inspiring space close to the sea, with classrooms that open up to a lush garden filled with tropical plants. This tranquil environment helps them feel relaxed and focused, and makes learning an enjoyable experience.

In the Trailblazers program, academics are connected to the real world. For core subjects like math and science, students follow a self-paced curriculum that allows them to learn at their own level. Meanwhile, other subjects—such as history, English, social-emotional learning, and local culture—are led by their dedicated teacher, Alexa, and supported by local experts, creating a unique blend of academic and place-based learning.

For example, in September, students took part in a "Song as Story" project. Parents each shared a song that was meaningful to them, and each student was assigned one of these songs (not from their own parent) to analyze for poetic devices and deeper meaning. They conducted interviews with the parents to learn the story behind the song, then presented their findings in a class presentation. This project allowed students to explore storytelling, build presentation skills, and make meaningful connections with both the parent and student communities.

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Real-World Learning Through Quest Time and SDG-Focused Projects

A cornerstone of Boundless Life’s approach is its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which guide Quest Time—a daily session dedicated to exploring critical global challenges. For this term, the focus is on SDG 14: Life Below Water, a perfect theme for a coastal location like Sanur.

Through Quest Lab, students dive into topics like marine ecosystems, plastic pollution, and ocean conservation. They work together to answer essential questions and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. In their first month, Yuna and Hanne learned about coral reefs, plastic waste, and the importance of protecting tropical waters. These lessons are reinforced through creative projects, science lessons, and local cultural studies, making the learning both memorable and meaningful.

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Learning Outside the Classroom: Field Trips and Cultural Immersion

One of the highlights of the Trailblazers program is the emphasis on learning outside the classroom. In our first month, Yuna and Hanne have already participated in field trips that bring their studies to life.

On one trip, they visited a local farm to learn about sustainable agriculture and traditional farming practices. This hands-on experience helped them appreciate where food comes from and the work that goes into producing it, connecting their studies with the local landscape and community.

On another outing, students visited local artisans and small business owners in Sanur to learn about the realities of running a business in Bali. They conducted interviews, heard stories of resilience, and are now working on a project to create objects from recycled plastic to support one of these businesses. For example, one entrepreneur they met didn’t have a billboard, so the students decided to make one for him using recycled materials, tying their work back to SDG 14 and supporting the local economy.

In addition to planned field trips, the students have had spontaneous cultural experiences. During the Balinese holiday of Galungan, they visited a local temple to observe a traditional ceremony, which helped them gain a deeper understanding of Balinese customs and spirituality.

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A Supportive and Like-Minded Community

One of the most magical aspects of the Trailblazers program is the supportive community it fosters among both students and parents. Boundless Life brings together families from all over the world who share a common goal: to raise globally minded, adaptable children. From the welcome dinner on our first night to spontaneous gatherings and organized activities, the connections we’ve made with other families have been invaluable.

Our daughters quickly bonded with their peers—15 other teenagers from 9 different nationalities—forming friendships that extend beyond the classroom. They collaborate on group projects, join in sports, explore local shops, and relax by the sea. For us as parents, this first month has been equally rewarding. We’ve found a supportive network of like-minded families, joining each other for yoga, local market visits, and even a weekly dads’ coffee meetup. The shared experiences and camaraderie have made this journey truly special.

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Exploring Bali as a Family

Anyone who follows us on Instagram knows that we love to explore! So that’s why, beyond the Trailblazers program, we have also taken the time to discover the stunning landscapes that Bali offers. 

Outside of the Trailblazers program, we’ve taken the opportunity to explore Bali’s natural beauty as a family. Our first getaway was to Amed, a serene area in East Bali known for its incredible snorkeling spots. The underwater world here is breathtaking, and it was an opportunity for Yuna and Hanne to see marine ecosystems up close, aligning perfectly with their studies on ocean conservation. We also explored local villages, temples, and the spectacular views of Mount Agung, Bali’s active volcano.

Our second trip was to Nusa Lembongan, a small island just a short boat ride from Sanur. Known for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters, we spent the day riding scooters, enjoying pristine beaches, and soaking in the island's relaxed vibe. These trips have allowed us to bond as a family and experience Bali’s culture and environment in ways that connect back to what the girls are learning in the Trailblazers program

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Reflections on Growth and Adaptation

Of course, adapting to a new environment comes with its challenges. Different cultures, climates, and even traffic patterns require adjustments. But each challenge has brought growth. We’re watching Yuna and Hanne develop resilience, cross-cultural communication skills, and a curiosity for the world around them. They’re not just learning math or history—they’re gaining life skills that will shape who they become.

This first month has been an eye-opening start to our Trailblazers adventure. As we look forward to the months ahead in Greece and Montenegro, we’re excited to see how this journey will continue to evolve. If you’re considering a similar path for your family, we wholeheartedly recommend the Boundless Life Trailblazers program. It’s an education that extends beyond the classroom and touches every part of our lives.