Calling all Greater Houston area college students! Your next classroom could be halfway around the world, where history comes alive, cultures connect, and tomorrow's leaders discover their purpose.

Following an extraordinary 11-day educational journey through West Africa, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis and the Harris County One for All Foundation (OFA) are preparing the next chapter of their Passport to Leadership program: a cultural and educational experience in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa, scheduled for June 2–16, 2027.

And here's the message worth sharing across campuses: College students throughout the Greater Houston area are encouraged to explore the program and confirm their eligibility.

From Houston to the Motherland: A Journey of Discovery

The previous West African journey brought together 16 college students, including eight from Texas Southern University (TSU), for an immersive experience exploring African heritage, historical understanding, cultural identity, and civic responsibility.

“There is something powerful about being in a place that connects you to history much bigger than yourself,” said Chelsea Hudson, a TSU biomedical science student concentrating in pre-pharmacy.

“So, it made me think about the people who came before me, what they carried and what I’m responsible for carrying forward,” Hudson added. “I came home with a deeper appreciation for connection after listening to people tell their own stories. So, as a student and a leader, that matters to me.”

Students explored Accra, Ghana, crossed into Lomé, Togo, visited historical sites connected to the transatlantic slave trade, participated in traditional naming ceremonies, and engaged with local schools and community initiatives.

The experience also included Ghana's breathtaking Kakum National Park and Emancipation Day celebrations.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis: Developing Leaders Without Borders

For Commissioner Rodney Ellis, a longtime civil rights advocate and champion of educational opportunity, Passport to Leadership represents more than international travel. It is an investment in developing culturally informed, community-minded leaders.

 

“Passport to Leadership gives Harris County students the chance to travel abroad, immerse themselves in a new culture, and grow as leaders who think globally and act locally,” Ellis said. “This is just the beginning of many educational trips to come. Next year, the students are going to South Africa.”

For the previous trip, participants contributed $2,000 each, while the sponsorship covered additional expenses, including airfare, accommodations, most meals, and excursions.

Financial arrangements for 2027 should be confirmed directly with organizers.

Life-Changing Lessons That Travel Home

TSU aviation science and engineering senior Chance Johnson described his excitement before visiting Africa for the first time.

“I’m going to Africa for the first time, to the Motherland, to immerse myself in the culture and get to know the history better and to be around people who look like me more,” Johnson said.

Hudson discovered another powerful lesson: the importance of community.

“There’s power of community out there. You can really tell that they show up for each other,” she said.

Kameshia Mays, a second-year South Texas College of Law student, encouraged future participants to embrace unfamiliar experiences.

“I think that first they should definitely approach the trip with an open mind,” Mays said. “And when I say open mind, just be open to learning and open to all the different experiences – be open to things you don’t consider the usual. It’s a life-changing opportunity.”

CALL TO ACTION: Greater Houston College Students, This Opportunity Is for You to Explore!

Whether you attend Texas Southern University, University of Houston, Prairie View A&M University, Houston City College, Rice University, Houston Christian University, University of St. Thomas, or another Greater Houston college or university, don't overlook this remarkable opportunity.

Students pursuing degrees in business, engineering, health care, education, law, journalism, technology, aviation, and other disciplines are encouraged to inquire.

The Passport to Leadership experience is not limited to one campus, one major, or one academic institution. Interested students should review the official requirements to determine whether they qualify.

Passport to Leadership 2027 — Trip Information

Destination: Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa

Scheduled Dates: June 2–16, 2027

Explore Application and Registration Information: https://tri.ps/MADyp

Harris County One for All Foundation: https://www.hconeforallfoundation.org/

Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis: https://www.hcp1.net/

Application Inquiries: Email - info@hconeforallfoundation.org

Application availability, deadlines, eligibility requirements, participation costs, and

available spaces should be confirmed directly with the foundation.

Your education should take you places. Your heritage should inspire you.

And your leadership should know no borders.

Houston Style Magazine proudly supports educational access, international cultural understanding, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and programs that help prepare Greater Houston's next generation of leaders.