I am a ☞

Listening and Learning From Local Communities, For Local Communities

Our Passion: Empowering Global Change Through Collaborative Education Experiences and Sustainable Community Partnerships in East Africa

Ongoing Initiatives:

Local Projects

The tale of RIDE International (Research Initiatives for Development Education) is that of unwavering passion, purpose, and collaborative effort. As a US-based nonprofit organization, we are deeply committed to providing transformative cultural exchange programs and immersive tours across the region of East Africa, with a paramount emphasis on community development. At RIDE, our ethos revolves around the principle of active listening and learning from local communities, allowing us to forge symbiotic partnerships that address critical challenges and foster enduring, sustainable solutions.

As a pioneering global education provider for travelers from the US and Europe, RIDE redefines cultural exchange in developing countries. Our Study Abroad programs serve as immersive platforms for direct engagement with local communities, connecting the aspirations of US students and fellow travelers with the developmental goals of these communities. We extend our educational offerings to tourists seeking educational Ecotours in East Africa, where community development takes center stage. All RIDE programs are designed to challenge participants' perspectives, apply acquired knowledge, foster personal growth, and cultivate a profound understanding of global dynamics.

At the core of RIDE International's philosophy lies the firm commitment to supporting the capacity of local communities in East Africa. Our Model is anchored in cultivating enduring, positive relationships with these communities. With each Community Initiative, we launch targeted, short-term projects that positively influence the local landscape. Community members themselves identify developmental obstacles, and RIDE contributes the essential seed funding and technical support required to devise enduring solutions. Across all our initiatives, our ultimate objective is to establish self-sustaining frameworks for communities to progress and flourish.

RIDE International

Our Story…

 What We Do 

RIDE's Study Abroad programs in East Africa transcend traditional learning, offering students an immersive journey that expands their understanding of global affairs and the profound impact of communities. We work with colleges, universities, and other institutions in the US and Europe to develop student programs focused on a variety of community development topics. Our programs are meticulously designed to be more than just educational experiences; they are transformative adventures that leave a lasting imprint on students' lives. By participating in field studies, students are prepared for future research, graduate studies, and successful careers.

RIDE's Community Initiatives are a powerful blend of external support and community-driven development, forging a unique path towards positive impact. Partnering with grassroots organizations, we focus our research initiatives on low-income, multicultural, and rural communities, channeling resources directly to those most in need. Through projects centered on crucial community challenges, we build a foundation for our student trips and ecotours, addressing topics that affect local residents and their environment. Our projects tackle a variety of topics including climate change, women empowerment, and local conservation efforts.

RIDE also offers premium ecotours and other safari experiences that are unlike anything on the market. Our team of local ecotourism experts take our guests on once-in-a-liftime adventures to East Africa. Our safaris are tailored to individual needs and comfort levels, allowing our visitors to "study abroad" as a tourist of any age. Whether our guests want to climb to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro, unwind on the Indian Ocean, trek with wild Chimpanzees or just learn about inspirational community projects, East Africa has it all. As a nonprofit, the emphasis is on meaningful interactions with local communities. Our ecotourism activities are set up in a way that has both a positive impact on our visitors and community members alike. Come for a RIDE to East Africa today!

How We’re Different

Empowering Communities, Inspiring Minds, Creating Lasting Change

Our Local Model

   Academic Field Sessions   

At the heart of RIDE's model lies our fully immersive and fully local academic field studies. These educational journeys serve as dynamic learning platforms, enabling students to gain invaluable firsthand insights into local challenges and achievements, fostering profound and lasting connections between participants and the host communities.

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Community-Led Projects

We partner with local communities to identify their unique needs and aspirations, and then work together to design and implement short-term projects that bring about positive change. By combining local knowledge and resources with RIDE's expertise and support, we empower communities to develop sustainable solutions to any challenge and thrive.

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Life Changing Experiences

The fusion of engaging student trips and ecotours with community initiatives forms RIDE's distinctive model. By merging these two components, RIDE cultivates a reciprocal relationship with local communities that allows us to collectively achieve our mission of promoting sustainable development, cultural exchange, and mutual growth in East Africa.

Innovative Approach

RIDE's distinct approach stands out by seamlessly merging the realms of ecotourism, student trips, and local community initiatives across East Africa. Unlike conventional models, RIDE places paramount importance on local communities, working collaboratively to create sustainable economic opportunities and empower marginalized populations. This unique fusion not only offers students and other travelers immersive and enriching experiences but also fosters genuine connections with the regions they explore. Through prioritizing the interests and ambitions of local communities, RIDE forges a remarkable bond that transcends traditional boundaries, enhancing the impact of both educational journeys and community development efforts.

Members of a community that RIDE partners with on solving development challenges

At Our Core…

Community Enrichment

We are dedicated to conducting research that benefits both our students and the communities we serve. Recognizing the power of community, we plan to expand gradually while respecting local contexts, embracing the motto "Think global. Act local."

Environmental Sustainability

Addressing climate change is the biggest issue of our time. We examine its effects in the regions we work in and continually assess and improve our own carbon footprint and environmental practices. With an unwavering commitment to preserving the natural world, we strive to leave a positive impact on the planet while also inspiring others to do the same.

Localization

Our unique approach involves collaborating with local experts, hiring staff from the communities we serve, and fostering partnerships that empower the regions we operate in. We believe in ethical research for mutual benefits - creating sustainable economic opportunities and advancing models of economic justice for marginalized communities.