Groundbreakers: How Trek Is Shaping Future Leaders (Part 1)

At buildOn, students don’t just talk about making a difference—they take action. Whether they’re cleaning up local parks, distributing food to families in need, or advocating for equitable access to education, these student leaders are transforming their communities at home and around the world.

This month, we’re raising $20,000 to send these students on Trek, buildOn’s global school construction program. These students, called Groundbreakers, travel to partner communities in low-income countries to help build schools.

We’d like you to meet five Groundbreakers whose commitment to service has inspired them to dream bigger, connect deeper, and give back in extraordinary ways. Read on to hear from Krystal, Tae’iona, Kaylin, Mateo, and Javonni about what service means to them and how Trek will shape their vision for the future.

Krystal Khiev | Oakland, CA | Trek to Guatemala

“Service builds connection. It shows people that they’re seen and supported.” —Krystal Khiev

Krystal Khiev grew up in East and West Oakland and saw firsthand the effects of homelessness, gentrification, and environmental injustice. Those challenges fueled her drive to make a difference.

“I decided to join because I wanted to give back to my community and be part of something bigger than myself.” Krystal says. “Once I saw how active buildOn was in helping both our school and neighborhood, I knew it was the right fit.”

One of her favorite service projects was volunteering at Fairyland, where she led games and activities for children. “It reminded me how much I enjoy working with others, especially when I can bring joy to someone’s day.”

During a cleanup at Lake Merritt, a woman stopped to thank Krystal and her team. “She said she brings her kids there every weekend and appreciated how much cleaner it’s been,” Krystal recalls. “That moment made me realize that our actions, even the small ones, can impact someone’s everyday life.”

Krystal plans to pursue a career in healthcare with a focus on community health and dermatology. As she prepares for Trek to Guatemala, she says, “I’m most excited about connecting with a new community, learning from their culture, and working side-by-side to build something meaningful together.”

Tae’iona Hill | Detroit, MI | Trek to Malawi

“I feel like being a part of service gives you connections to future career opportunities.” —Tae’iona Hill

Tae’iona Hill first joined buildOn in Detroit because of free pizza. “To be honest here, it was definitely food. But you know, I’m back and I’m even better,” she says with a laugh.

She stayed because of the people and the energy. “I went to one of the service projects and it was just such good energy. I felt comfortable. I felt like I could make a difference.”

Tae’iona has volunteered at cleanups and festivals, mentored younger students, and served as a recycling ambassador. She’s discovered a passion for environmental science and wants to study water quality in college.

She’s nervous about her first time out of the country and the long journey to Malawi, but she’s ready. “I want to experience different stuff. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she says. “I want to help people, support girls in getting an education, and see the scenery.”

Kaylin Strachn | Bronx, NY | Trek to Guatemala

“All individuals require assistance at various points in their lives. Your support and compassionate words can significantly alleviate their struggles.” —Kaylin Strachn

Kaylin Strachn joined buildOn in the Bronx to fulfill a National Honor Society service requirement, but quickly discovered a deeper purpose. After volunteering regularly at a soup kitchen, she successfully advocated for a service requirement for all graduating students at her school.

One moment that stayed with her: “Each morning, I encounter an individual on the bus who appears to be experiencing significant challenges in his life. Recently, I observed him visiting a local soup kitchen. It’s gratifying to support individuals who genuinely require assistance.”

Kaylin plans to pursue a career in medicine and sees Trek as a powerful opportunity to give back. “My great-grandparents immigrated from Jamaica, where they had trouble accessing quality education. I want to be an agent of change and ensure that children have access to the same educational opportunities I have,” she says.

Mateo Nwosu | Bridgeport, CT | Trek to Malawi

“Service strengthens community bonds by bringing people together to work toward common goals.” —Mateo Nwosu

Mateo Nwosu was introduced to buildOn by a friend and immediately connected with its mission. His favorite service projects in Bridgeport involve food pantries. “A lot of families do not speak English, and oftentimes I am the only Spanish speaker present, which makes me useful,” he says.

“There were times when I was helping Spanish-only speakers. They expressed to me how glad they were to see a Hispanic person in my position and treated me like family.”

Mateo is excited for his first trip to Africa and to build deeper connections to his heritage. “I have never been to Africa before and I have wanted to visit because of the African side of my family,” he explains. “Building a school means providing essential necessities for growth and development,” he says. “I am very honored to be a part of this opportunity.”

Javonni Turner | Boston, MA | Trek to Guatemala

“Helping each other out is what a community is.” —Javonni Turner

Javonni Turner joined buildOn in Boston after football season and was inspired by a visit from buildOn staff in his English class. He’s since taken part in events with local Veterans and other service projects.

“Where I live, we don’t have a lot of resources. There’s violence, drug issues. That motivates me to serve,” he says. “When we help clean up or show up for others, it shows people that we care. It makes the neighborhood feel safer and more connected.”

Javonni is excited for his first flight and first trip abroad. “I will be going to Guatemala. In a village next to Cobán in the north of the country,” he says. “I’m excited to help build the foundation of the school. I hope the students will like it. My mom tells me this is the best thing I can do.”

Give the Gift of Trek

Want to help send more students like Krystal, Tae’iona, Kaylin, Mateo, and Javonni on Trek? When you give to our Groundbreakers campaign, you’re not just funding a school. You’re fueling the next generation of compassionate leaders. Your donation makes it possible for students from under-resourced communities to experience cultural exchange, global service, and the transformational power of building a school with a community in need.

Will you send a Groundbreaker on Trek?