The ACE program in South Africa is such a unique and special opportunity that allows student-athletes with rigorous schedules to travel and experience the world while keeping up with their athletic commitments. It also gives us the amazing opportunity to learn a new culture in a different country while helping a community through sports interaction. I’m especially excited and eager for this trip since I plan on bringing back what I learn to help my own people and the impoverished communities on reservations in Indian Country.
As part of the ACE in South Africa program, participants will assist with basic healthcare initiatives, activity-based education and teaching, light construction, and sports programs in the community of Nomzamo township near Cape Town.
Chelsea’s past experiences with service include writing for the Life and Art section of the Stanford Daily and core membership in Stanford’s American Indian Organization (SAIO). With her teammates and several other varsity teams, she also helped put on a trick-or-treat event for local children.