19 Days That Define
Your Future
This isn't summer camp. It's real leadership development through real projects in Ghana that transform communities—and transform you into the leader colleges are looking for.
Program Dates Summer 2026
Session 1: June 22 - July 10
Session 2: July 20 - August 7
2 Minutes That Will Change Your Perspective
This is where you discover what you're truly capable of.
In the heart of Ghana, far from the comfort zones of conventional summer programs, a select group of exceptional students from around the world come together to lead real change.
No simulations. No busywork. No hand-holding.
Just you, a diverse team, world-class mentors, and a community waiting for the solutions you'll create together.
The question isn't whether you'll grow. It's how much.
Continue Reading ↓
What Actually Happens
Your 19-Day Transformation
Days 1-3: Immersion
Land in Accra → Journey to our retreat center → Orientation at Wli Waterfall → Meet your Ghanaian teammates → Understand the community
Days 4-11: Leadership Intensive
Master our Sage Leadership Skills through living case studies:
- Visit Cape Coast slave fort (self-awareness)
- Interview community members (listening)
- Negotiate with local contractors (communication)
- Design your project solution (critical thinking)
- Manage team dynamics (collaboration)
Days 12-17: Implementation
Execute your project. Solve real problems. Navigate real challenges. Create real impact.
Days 18-19: Reflection
Present results → Give & receive feedback → Plan sustainability → Prepare your story for college applications
Choose Your Challenge
Your team with students from Ghana and globally will tackle one challenge area:
Your project is never predetermined—you design it with your team based on real community needs.
Explore Past Projects →
Four Paths, Infinite Possibilities
Engineering & Environment
Past projects: Solar panels for health clinic, water filtration systems, sustainable agriculture
Perfect for future engineers, environmental scientists, sustainability leadersHealth & Sports
Past projects: Vision screening program, girls' soccer league, nutrition education
Ideal for pre-med, public health, sports management interestsEducation & Arts
Past projects: Mobile library • Community science fair • Games for Impact
Great for aspiring educators, artists, social innovatorsEntrepreneurship & Governance
Past projects: Women in entrepreneurship training • Community crafts fair • Youth leadership programs
Designed for future business leaders, consultants, policymakers
Safety - Our Absolute Priority
We've thought of everything:
Medical & Health
- 24/7 on-call medical professional
- Partnership with private hospital (20 minutes away)
- First aid trained staff on-site
- Filtered water and food safety protocols
- Required health insurance and vaccinations
Physical Security
- Secure retreat center with night security
- 1:1 student-to-staff ratio
- Vetted transportation only
- No independent travel permitted
- Strictly enforced road-safety protocol
Comprehensive Support
- Orientation covering all safety protocols
- Clear behavioral expectations
- Daily check-ins with staff
- Annually reviewed risk-management plans
Ghana's Safety Record
- Ranked safest country in West Africa
- Regular host to world leaders
- Popular up-and-coming tourist destination
- Stable democracy
Life at the Sage Centre
Your Home Base for Transformation
Not a hotel. Not a hostel. Your launching pad for leadership.
Our purpose-built retreat center in the Volta Region provides:
Natural Setting
Smart Comfort
Sustainable Design
All Meals Included
Your Mentorship Team
Learn From the Best
Nearly 1:1 Staff-to-Student ratio
Plus: 24/7 support staff, medical professional, logistics team
Lead Mentors
MIT, Harvard, and Ashesi University affiliates
Specialists in your challenge area
Average 5+ years experience
Project Advisors
Local experts who know the community
Help navigate cultural dynamics
Ensure sustainable implementation
Personal Coach
Focus on your personal development
Provide daily feedback and guidance
Help process cultural experiences
Dean of Leadership Development
Ben Schwartz, MBA from MIT, MPA from Harvard, former management consultant, former Dartmouth admissions officer
Safety - Our Absolute Priority
Your Parents Can Sleep Well
We've thought of everything:
See FAQMedical & Health
- 24/7 on-call medical professional
- Partnership with private hospital (20 minutes away)
- First aid trained staff on-site
- Filtered water and food safety protocols
- Required health insurance and vaccinationsPhysical Security
- Secure retreat center with night security
- Nearly 1:1 student-to-staff ratio
- Vetted transportation only
- Independent travel not permitted during sessionComprehensive Support
- Orientation covering all safety protocols
- Clear behavioral expectations
- Daily check-ins with staff
- Emergency action plans for all scenarios
- Direct parent communication lineGhana's Safety Record:
- Ranked safest country in West Africa
- Regular host to US Presidents and world leaders
- Stable democracy over many decades
Your Home Base for Transformation
Not a hotel. Not a hostel. Your launching pad for leadership.
Our purpose-built retreat center in the Volta Region provides:
Natural Setting
- Overlooking Wli Waterfall (West Africa's tallest)
- Wildlife sanctuary location
- Mountain views and forest surroundings
- 5 minute walk to our local villageSmart Comfort
- Shared rooms (2-3 students)
- Eco-Luxury Bathrooms with Natural Finishes and running water
- Solar backup power
- WiFi for evening communication
- Comfortable common areasSustainable Design
- Built by local artisans
- Natural cooling (no AC needed)
- Locally sourced materials
- Rainwater harvesting
- Solar energy systemsAll Meals Included
- Fresh, locally sourced ingredients
- Dietary restrictions accommodated
- Mix of Ghanaian and familiar foods
- Safe, filtered water always available
College Application Advantage
What Admissions Officers Tell Us:
"In 20 years of reading applications, Sage students consistently have the most compelling leadership examples. They don't talk about what they might do—they show what they've already done."
— Former Ivy League Admissions Director
You'll Graduate With:
- Concrete leadership example with measurable impact
- Cross-cultural collaboration experience
- Problem-solving in challenging environments
- Initiative and independence demonstration
- Authentic personal growth story
- Potential for letter of recommendation
- Certificate of completion
Our Alumni Results:
- 73% accepted to top-50 universities
- 91% report Sage as their primary essay topic
- 100% of alumni applying to top-50 schools earn admission
Admissions Process
Your Journey Starts Here
Who We're Looking For
Application Requirements
Timeline for Summer 2026
Note: Rolling admissions. Programs can fill by late March. Apply early.
Investment & Value
Program Cost
$6,950 USD
Included:
-Airport pickup and dropoff in Accra
-All accommodation for 19 days
-All meals, snacks, and filtered water
-All transportation within Ghana
-All activity and entrance fees
-All project materials and supplies
-24/7 mentorship and support
-Pre-departure preparation support
-College resume guidance
Not Included:
- Flights
- Ghana visa
- Travel insurance (required)
- Yellow fever vaccination (required)
- Money for souvenirs (optional)
Two Life-Changing Sessions. Very Limited Spots.
Summer 2026 Sessions:
Session 1: June 22 - July 10
Session 2: July 20 - August 7
Don’t miss your chance. Programs can fill by late March.
The question isn't whether you'll grow as a leader with Sage.
It's whether you'll take the chance and apply.
Takes 10 minutes. Changes everything.
Ready for Your Ghana Experience?
Whether you're planning an educational expedition or personal escape, we're here to create your perfect Ghana experience.
Questions? We're here to help.
inquire@sageexperience.org
WhatsApp: [+233 55 186 5204]