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2026 US-China
Winter Camp
2026 US-China Winter Program
EmpowerED Alternatives Youth Ambassadors Head to China!
In February 2026, EmpowerED Alternatives is taking learning global! Four Youth Ambassadors, who attend school in Hartford and the Greater Hartford, area will travel to Beijing, China to participate in a 1-week winter camp. New Oriental Education and Technology Group invited Dr. Monica Brase, Executive Director of EmpowerED Alternatives, Inc., and 4 Youth Ambassadors from the Greater Hartford area to participate in the Young Buffett Budgeting and Finance Camp from Feb. 9-14. The Youth Ambassadors will participate in workshops with Chinese youth as well as lead afternoon activities in English.
New Oriental is graciously sponsoring half of the airline ticket and accommodations in China. Hosted at the Crowne Plaza Beijing, the Winter Camp offers an incredible opportunity for our youth to grow as leaders and cultural ambassadors, learning firsthand about international education, communication, and exchange.
This unique partnership reflects EmpowerED Alternatives’ commitment to empowering young people to connect, lead, and learn beyond borders.
We invite community members and supporters to help make this transformative experience possible. Donations to EmpowerED Alternatives will go directly toward travel costs and program expenses, ensuring that every selected student can participate fully in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent Greater Hartford on the global stage.
Meet the Youth Ambassadors
Peyton
Peyton is an 11th grader in Hartford. Through this experience, she hopes to strengthen her communication skills and develop leadership abilities that will benefit her in school, her community, and beyond. She stated, “Understanding global relationships is important to me, and I know this program will give me insights that shape how I see the world and my future goals.”
Aditi
Aditi is a 9th grader in the Greater Hartford area. She hopes that going to China will help her learn about Chinese architecture. Aditi noted, “This experience will probably stay with me for a long time, helping me grow, learn and connect myself as a world citizen.”
Michael
Michael is an 8th grader in Hartford. He stated, “I’ve never been exposed to culture outside of what I know here in CT. My goal is to learn and experience food, culture, and life outside of the United States.” He hopes this trip allows him to express different ideas in his writing and incorporate Chinese culture into his imagination through his art.
Stella
Stella is an 8th grader in Hartford. Stella believes this experience is more than a trip; it's a chance to grow and have unforgettable adventures. She shared, “I’ll return as a more independent and confident person, having embraced challenges and met amazing new people.”