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UAE 2025

participants

  • The University of Texas at Austin

    Sophomore

    I'm a third-year Advertising Major with a certificate in business Spanish. I'm a part of the Texas Immersive Institute at Moody, where I create immersive experiences with experiential technology. I'm a fashion lover, a voice for my community, and all about living out my dreams!

  • The University of Texas at Austin

    Senior

    I am a senior at UT Austin studying corporate communication. I am originally from El Paso, TX so far west Texas. Some of my favorite hobbies include painting and attending music festivals and concerts.

  • Hello everyone! My name is Liv, and I am a student at the University of Texas at Austin. I am studying Corporate Communication in the Moody College of Communication Honors Program. I am interested in health communication/administration and public health advocacy, and I am passionate about exploring how different cultures' healthcare systems operate. I am looking forward to the World Walker Futurism and Sustainability Dubai and Abu Dhabi experience!

  • Ashlyn Popillion is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration degree at The University of Texas at Austin.

    Ashlyn’s career aspirations are to obtain a Masters of Science in Marketing and then go onto law school to become a Corporate Attorney.

    Ashlyn is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and was initiated in the Delta Xi chapter in Spring 2024. Ashlyn currently serves as the chapters Protocol chair.

    Ashlyn also currently serves as Membership Chair for the First Year Leadership Organization in Student Government and will be interning at the Capital with Representative Aicha Davis for the upcoming term. Ashlyn is also an ambassador for the Digital Civil Rights Coalition furthering the research of the Advancement of AI technology. Previously, Ashlyn served as a committee member for Freshman Action Team , as a member of the Black homecoming Committee, and as a member of Black Business Student Association.

    Ashlyn received the Forest C Laturner Endowed scholarship, received the award for most points in the First Year Leadership Organization for Student Government, and was accepted into the Texas Global Accelerator Program.

  • Hi my name is Evelyn! I'm a Mexican-American student who is passionate about global politics and human rights. I'm majoring in International Relations/Global Studies and minoring in National Security and International Business. I aim to go to law school to pursue International Law. One of my goals is to travel to the Middle East and learn about their beautiful culture. I love to read and collect books, but most importantly I love spending time with my family.

  • The University of Texas at Austin

    Senior

    “I am a current student at the University of Texas at Austin! I am pursuing a major in English as well as a Business minor and Business Spanish certificate. On my free time I love to stay active, read, and bake. I’ve always wanted to travel the world and I’m super excited to go on this journey with you guys!!! Can’t wait to meet you all :)”

  • I am from Dumas, Tx I like to play sports, video games, and watch anime.

  • My name is Aaron Johnson, I am a current Sophomore at the University of Texas at Austin studying Computer Science. I enjoy learning new things, listening to music, and working out.

  • The University of Texas at Austin

    Sophomore

    Hey y'all! I'm Rebecca a second year Health & Society student at UT Austin. While pursuing a career in health administration/informatics I am also trying to expand and diversify my network my experiences. It is extremely important to me that I am constantly gathering knowledge about the world around me whether than be through personal research or hands on experience. I enjoy working out, good conversation, and sight seeing in my free time. Can't wait to travel with you all!

  • Kennedy is current sophomore from Cedar Hill, Texas. She is involved in a multitude of organizations on campus, such as The United Black Collegiate Association, Project Advance Austin, and Black Homecoming/Springfest. In her free time, she enjoys watching documentaries, volunteering as a nursery teacher at Church of Christ at East Side, and trying new restaurants around Austin.

  • Kendall Washington, a second-year college student classified as a Senior, is majoring in Journalism with a minor in Media and Entertainment Industries (Film). She is on track to graduate at 19.

    Kendall aspires to become a late-night talk show host and media company owner, creating content to amplify voices and uplift her community. Aiming to excel as a showrunner, filmmaker, journalist, and actress, she plans to embrace all facets of media.

    As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., initiated into the Delta Xi chapter in Spring 2024, Kendall serves as Chapter Historian and Scrapbook Committee Chair. She is also the Marketing Director, Host, and Producer at Drag Audio Production House, where her podcast “Texas vs. DEI” is available on all streaming platforms.

    Kendall contributes as Co-PR Chair for the Black Student Alliance, mentoring freshmen, and as Community Engagement and Membership Chair for the National Association of Black Journalists, organizing events like “Culture Connect.” At the Moody College of Communication, she serves on the Communication Council, writes for Moody Magazine, and is a Moody Scholar of Social Change.

    Her professional milestones include red-carpet interviews, internships at Austin City Limits and Canton Entertainment, and current work with Austin Film Festival, the nation’s top film festival.

  • The University of Texas at Austin

    Freshman

    My name is Kiara Williams. I am a Psychology and Business major at UT. I am a fitness lover, creative soul, and adrenaline seeker. Traveling has always been a dream of mine.

  • Hello! I'm Erin Bell, a sophomore majoring in Management Information Systems (MIS) with a minor in Sports Analytics at the University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School of Business. I enjoy exploring new things, traveling, watching sports, and staying active through exercise. I'm excited to make the most of this incredible experience and can't wait to see what Dubai has in store for me!

  • I am a person who absolutely loves to learn!! Whether it be cultures, languages, or anything medical, I am always on the lookout for new information. I also love to read and talk, despite how quiet I can be upon initially meeting people, but I am always happy to be in an open minded environment.

  • My name is Clint Yongoueth and I'm a current Sophomore at the University of Texas at Austin studying Computer Science. I'm Cameroonian, like eating good food, and run a game development startup.

  • I am from Dallas, tx and I have aspirations of making a large impact in the real estate industry both commercial and residential.

  • Hi! My name is Vashed Thompson and I'm a junior public relations major at UT Austin. I'm from Austin, TX and my hobbies include thrifting, reading, listening to music, trying new foods, and hanging out with friends. I'm looking forward to exploring the culture of the UAE and getting insights into international markets that I can use post-grad working in the music industry.

  • Hey y'all! My name is Aaliyah and I'm a senior exercise science major on the pre-pa track. I'm heavily involved with Black organizations on campus as well as the Friar Society. My career goal is to be a sports medicine physician assistant. Some of my interests are cooking, football, crime shows and playing Sims.


  • I’m an undergraduate student at The University of Texas at Austin and a proud first-generation college student. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, where I spent the first 20 years of my life. I’m passionate about soccer, fitness, and exploring new cultures. I thrive on learning, growth, and sharing my journey to inspire others.

  • Hi, I’m Alexia! I’m an undergraduate student in the integrated Master’s in Professional Accounting (iMPA) program at the McCombs School of Business at UT Austin. My academic focus combines accounting, business, and creative problem-solving, with a long-term goal of becoming a CPA. Beyond my studies, I’m passionate about community engagement and leadership, having held roles in student organizations like Texas HBSA and ALPFA. When I’m not working on professional goals, I enjoy exploring creative outlets like photography and graphic design. I’m excited to share my journey and connect with others through World Walker!

  • I am a Junior majoring in Communication and Leadership with a minor in Professional Sales and Business Development. I'm from the best city, Atlanta, GA!! So I have a lot of love for good music and food. I love trying new hobbies and hanging out with my friends and family. Of course I love to travel and explore new places as it is one of my greatest passions in life.

  • I am Tanisha Woods, a 3rd year Sociology and African and African Diaspora Studies double major. I am passionate about childhood development and social equity, aspiring to make an impact through education and community. I am anticipating my first trip abroad to Japan and expanding my view of the world.

  • Hello my name is Tania Lagunas, I’m a 3rd year Economics major with a computer science certificate. I’m super excited to be apart of this trip because it will give me an opportunity to explore and learn about customs I have not yet been exposed to.

  • My name is Erin McCormick, and I am a junior from Round Rock, Texas. I am a second-generation Longhorn majoring in Government, and I am hoping to attend Law school in DC to practice constitutional law. I love basketball, eating out with friends, the beach, shopping, and arts and crafts.

  • As a first-generation Black student at the University of Texas at Austin, I bring passion, perspective, and determination to everything I do. Currently, I’m an editor for the Minority Women Undergraduate Law Journal and am deeply committed to amplifying underrepresented voices in law and academia. With a background that includes interning at a prestigious New York City law firm and networking with lawyers in London, I’ve cultivated a global perspective on law and business.

    My academic interests span law, English literature, and business, with dreams of pursuing an MBA and law degree at Oxford University. Inspired by my love for architecture, British culture, and storytelling, I am also exploring entrepreneurial ventures, including a journal featuring inspirational quotes. I aim to make a meaningful impact at the intersection of law, business, and creativity.

  • Hi! I’m Christian, a senior journalism student from Philly. I love meeting people in my community doing amazing things through my career and performing poetry, and love traveling just as much for helping me meet even more.

  • Hi! I’m Kimberly Sarabia, a Junior studying Finance at UT Austin. I’m passionate about staying involved on campus, traveling, reading, and discovering new coffee shops. As a social butterfly, I love meeting new people and creating unforgettable memories wherever I go.

  • My name is Emmanuella Okafor and I’m a sophomore at UT, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Health Professions on the pre-med track. I aspire to pursue medical school and I am passionate about helping women through healthcare. My background and experiences have inspired me to work toward making a positive impact in underserved communities. I’m so excited for this experience and hope to gain meaningful connections!

  • Hi! My name is Michele Kalleb, and I’m a senior majoring in Corporate Communications at UT Austin. As a proud Dallas native, I love cheering on the best sports teams, staying active at the gym, and spending quality time with family and friends. My parents, originally from Eritrea, lived in Abu Dhabi before immigrating to the United States, so I’m especially excited to visit Dubai and Abu Dhabi, exploring their vibrant culture. After graduating in May, I’ll be starting my career as an Inside Sales Specialist at Dell Technologies. I’m thrilled to experience the region’s technological innovations—an exciting glimpse into my future in tech sales.

  • My name is Benjamin Howell, and I am a sophomore nursing major on the pre-medicine pathway at UT. I was born in Atlanta, GA, and I have Caribbean American heritage from St. Lucia. Despite pursuing a medical career, I am very business-minded, having owned multiple small businesses throughout my life. My hobbies include professional photography, basketball, and content creation.

  • Hi, my name is China! I’m a sophomore majoring in Public Health with double minors in Kinesiology and Business. I’m passionate about health and wellness and love finding innovative ways to improve healthcare. My goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, inspired by my experiences as an athlete and my desire to help others recover and thrive. Outside of academics, I enjoy fitness, spending time with my family, and advocating for inclusion in the special needs community.

  • I am a Economics and Black Studies double major who plans on using my studies to do work in local and state politics. I love nature and meeting new people.

  • I am a third year at the University of Texas at Austin, I am on the pre-law track. I am President of the National Black Law Student Association, Membership Engagement Chair of BAWSE, Standards Chair of COURT, Member of Minority Women of Law, and etc. I love watching movies, reading books, shopping, and food.

  • I am a public health student with a strong passion for addressing health disparities, particularly in underrepresented communities. As a former executive board member of both BSA and NBSW. I’ve developed a deep commitment to community engagement and fostering meaningful change. I am confident, driven, and sociable, and I value progress, cultural exchange, and opportunities to make a lasting impact on the world around me.

  • My name is Giannie Cadet, and I am second year student at the university of Texas at Austin studying Human Development and Family Sciences with a minor in Business Healthcare Reform and Innovation. I am Nigerian and Haitian, from Houston Texas, and I enjoy going on runs, going out to eat, shopping, painting, reading, and creating memorable experiences with friends!

  • Hi, My name is Kaline Martinez! I am senior Marketing student at the University of Texas at Austin. I am a member of Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. and the Hispanic Business Student Association. I love traveling to coastal cities and Mexico so I am excited to get out of my comfort zone with this international program! I want to work in the Marketing/PR industry for a couple of years and later earn a Master's in Higher Education to hopefully give back to first-generation, low-income future students navigating their educational journeys!

  • The University of Texas at Austin

    Sophomore

    I am a sophomore pre-med student at the University of Texas, class of 2027, majoring in Plan II Honors. Passionate about holistic healthcare, I plan to pursue medical school to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to diverse communities

  • Hi, I’m Maddox! I have been traveling with my family for many years, but I have never been overseas without them. I am so excited at the opportunity to travel independently with my peers and gain all of the skills that come with it. I can’t wait to make memories of a lifetime!!

mentors

Dr. Devin Walker

Trip Lead

  • CEO and Founder

    World Walker, LLC

    Dean of Student Success and Equity

    Cabrillo College

Malik Crowder

Trip Mentor

  • Director of the Heman Sweatt Center for Collegiate Males at The University of Texas at Austin.

  • Global Acumen, Leadership, Business Savvy, and Business Skills

Monique ‘Mo’ Stokes

Trip Mentor

  • Graduate Student

    Health Behavior and Health Education

    The University of Texas at Austin

    I am a graduate student from Las Vegas, studying Health Education. My interests include policy, healthcare, wellness, advocacy, and coaching. I love to travel and make an effort to visit my family overseas whenever I can. I'm excited to be helping lead this school trip to Dubai and look forward to combining my passion for health education with the opportunity to explore new cultures and experiences.

  • I am most excited about the opportunity to combine my passion for learning and travel while guiding students through an enriching experience. I’m especially excited to share my love for exploring new cultures, and I look forward to helping students gain new perspectives, both academically and personally.

    I want students to know that I am an advocate for the chance to foster meaningful connections and provide support as they navigate this unique experience. It’s a wonderful opportunity to be part of their growth and discovery, while also gaining new insights myself and I hope to make lasting relationships!

Monique Murdoch

Trip Mentor

  • Graduate Student

    Audiology

    The University of Texas at Austin

    Hi everyone! My name is Monique and I am graduate student at The University of Texas at Austin studying Audiology. I am from El Paso, Texas and I love walking along Lady Bird Lake and binge watching new TV shows. I am excited to meet everyone!

  • I am hard of hearing, so if you try to get my attention and I don't respond, just tap me on the shoulder :)

JUSTICE BEVErley

Trip Mentor

  • Hi, my name is Justice Beverley! I graduated from The University of Texas back in 2021 with a film degree and business minor. Before I even stepped foot on campus as a student, I met with Dr. Devin Walker for orientation. He asked me two simple questions, "Do you want to study abroad?" (to which I sarcastically replied "doesn't everyone?") and "Where?" This second question took me to places I've never known and never thought I would see. It led to experiences I can never describe with words, relationships that can never been seen, only felt, and moments that I will uphold for the rest of my life. I have tried for years to capture and describe these "experiences" on camera, but they fall short of the transformation I and so many others have been a part of. For the lucky few who get to go on even one of these trips, with these people, you are incredibly fortunate.