What happens when a Third Culture Kid arrives at a major American university and discovers there’s no place that reflects who they really are? Evan Stonestreet—born in Beirut, raised in Saudi Arabia, and studying computer engineering at Purdue University—faced exactly that question. His answer: build the community yourself.

In this episode of Global Student Voices, Coach Martin talks with Evan about co-founding the Cross-Cultural Association (CCA) at Purdue, the struggles of launching a TCK organization when your target audience doesn’t know they’re your target audience, and the breakthrough that came from weekly community nights built on a simple principle: ask people their stories and actually listen.

Evan shares practical advice for students transitioning from international schools to college, for school leaders preparing graduates for life beyond campus, and for anyone who has ever struggled to answer the question “where are you from?”

Topics Covered

Growing up as a Third Culture Kid in Saudi Arabia’s Aramco compound. The domestic vs. international student classification gap at universities.

Launching a student organization from scratch with lessons learned.

The shift from TCK to CCK (Cross-Cultural Kid) terminology. Ruth Van Reken’s influence on building authentic community.

Advice for TCK students, international school leaders, and globally mobile parents.

About the Guest

Evan Stonestreet is a senior studying computer engineering at Purdue University and co-founder of the Cross-Cultural Association (CCA). Born in Beirut and raised in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, Evan brings firsthand TCK experience to his work building inclusive cross-cultural communities on campus.

Connect with EvanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanstonestreet/Cross-Cultural Association: https://linktr.ee/cross_cultural_association

Connect with Global Student SolutionsInternational School Consulting: www.globalstudentsolutions.comMyCareer and College Coach: www.globalstudentsolutions.com

GSS Membership Network: www.globalstudentsolutions.com#crosscultural #internationalstudents #Studentorganizations, #communitybuilding #Purdueuniversity, #TCK, #CCK, #culturalheritage #Studentleadership, #globalstudentvoices

What happens when an 8-year-old walks into a city council meeting and discovers he has a gift for public speaking? Meet William Miller—an 11-year-old speaker, author, and youth leader who is challenging kids everywhere to level up their character in real life.

In this episode of Global Student Voices, host Coach Scott Martin sits down with William to talk about overcoming fear, building discipline through daily practice, the inspiration behind his book Level Up Your Character in Real Life, and what adults are getting wrong about young people’s talent.

William shares how his grandmother’s near-miss with a street racer sparked his speaking career, why he does twenty pushups before every stage appearance, and his 2026 mission to bring his message directly to students in school assemblies.

Key Topics: youth public speaking, student leadership, character development, overcoming stage fright, book for young people, video games vs. real-life growth, parental responsibility in nurturing talent, school assembly speaker

Guest: William Miller | Speaker, Author, Youth Leader Website: www.ItsWilliamMiller.comInstagram: @WilliamMillerSpeakerBook: Level Up Your Character in Real Life

Connect with Global Student Solutions:• International School Consulting:• My Career and College Coach:• GSS Membership Network: www.theGlobalStudentSolutions.com• Full Article: [Article Link]

If you’re an international school leader, parent of a globally mobile student, or educator looking for resources to support student development, join the GSS Membership Network for exclusive access to tools, community, and expert guidance.

Keywords: global student voices, international education podcast, youth speaker, student motivation, character development for kids, school assembly speaker, third culture kids, level up in real life

What happens when an international school’s entire campushas to go offline just so ten students can take a test? In this episode, host Aiden Chin sits down with Anjie Martin, VP of Operations and EdTech Consulting at Global Student Solutions, to explore how small international schools canmove from survival mode to strategic digital confidence.

Anjie shares her journey from database analyst at a USuniversity to IT director at an international K–12 school in Indonesia, where she transformed a campus with one computer lab and no Wi-Fi into a fully connected, one-to-one learning environment. She discusses how that experience, combined with five years in corporate cybersecurity, shapes GSS’s mission to serve under-resourced international schools.

Topics covered include why small schools are soft targetsfor cyberattacks, how data privacy regulations like GDPR follow internationally mobile students, what a real-world cyber incident looks like at a multinational corporation, the GSS “matchmaking” approach to EdTech selection, and practical steps any school can take today to strengthen their security posture.

About the Guest

Anjie Martin is VP of Operations and EdTech Consulting atGlobal Student Solutions. A former international school IT director and corporate cybersecurity professional, she brings 15+ years of experience bridging education and technology. Anjie specializes in fractional IT leadership, student information system evaluation, and cybersecurity strategyfor small international schools.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anjie-k-martin

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction & Anjie’s background

[02:30] From university IT to international schooltransformation

[05:00] The Indonesia campus turnaround

[06:47] GSS’s trip to Kenya and Rwanda

[09:42] What success looks like for GSS

[12:13] The entrepreneurial struggle and stayingmission-aligned

[16:06] Anjie’s first blog and finding her public voice

[18:01] Cybersecurity and why schools should care

[20:06] Why private schools are cyber targets

[25:51] Surviving a real-world cyber incident

[29:56] AI and the future of cybersecurity

Resources & Links

• International School Consulting:www.theglobalstudentsolutions.com/services

• My Career and College Coach:www.theglobalstudentsolutions.com

• Full article: https://www.getalma.com/guest-blog-from-paper-to-possibility-how-global-student-solutions-helps-international-schools-choose-edtech-that-actually-fits/

Keywords: international school cybersecurity, EdTech forinternational schools, fractional IT director, student information systems,GDPR international schools, Third Culture Kids, global students, small schooltechnology, cybersecurity for schools, data privacy education

In this episode of Global Student Voices, Coach Martin interviews Chineme Ugbor, co-founder of Linden Global Learning Support Services, about Third Culture Kids (TCKs), international student mental health, and culturally responsive education.Chineme shares insights on global transitions, student well-being, identity, and how international schools and families can better support students navigating life across cultures.This episode is essential viewing for international students, parents, educators, counselors, and school leaders working in global education.Guest BioChineme Chi'Nnaya Ugbor is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Linden Global Learning Support Services, an international agency founded in Berlin in 2015 that provides comprehensive educational support to globally mobile families. With a background in organizational development, international relations, coaching, and counseling, Chineme has spent 24 years in the education sector with a passion for helping young people thrive. As a Nigerian-Austrian Third Culture Kid who lived across multiple countries, she brings authentic understanding to the unique challenges facing internationally mobile students and families.Connect with Chineme:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chinemeugbor/Linden Global Learning Support Services: https://www.linden-education.comContact: Available via website contact form or direct inquiry#GlobalStudentVoices #ThirdCultureKids #TCK #InternationalStudents #InternationalEducation#StudentMentalHealth #GlobalEducation #InternationalSchools #StudentWellbeing #EducationLeadershipThis video is brought to you by Global Student Solutions and My Career and College Coach and more information is available on the website at www.theGlobalStudentSolutions.com

Embracing the Journey: The Untold Story Behind Ben Between Africa What does it mean to grow up between cultures and how do family stories shape our sense of belonging?In this episode of Global Student Voices, Coach Scott R. Martin sits down with Ari Ali, creator of the powerful documentary Ben Between Africa. Together, they explore the deeply personal journey behind the film, uncovering themes of Third Culture Kid (TCK) identity, family silence, loss, cultural displacement, and healing through storytelling.Ari shares how making this film helped her recognize her own TCK identity for the first time, while retracing the life of her uncle Ben, a missionary in Ethiopia whose story was left largely unspoken. Through letters, memory, and reflection, Ari confronts questions many global families carry: Why are some stories never told? What happens when we lose our cultural home?In this conversation, we explore:What it means to grow up as a Third Culture Kid (TCK)The emotional impact of cultural displacement and return migrationFamily legacy, loss, and the silence around difficult storiesThe “superpowers” TCKs develop through adaptability and cross-cultural empathyHow film and storytelling can be powerful tools for healing and connectionAri also reflects on audience reactions to Ben Between Africa—including how small, familiar images from the film awaken deep memories for viewers around the world. These shared experiences reveal just how universal the search for belonging truly is.🎬 Learn more about the film and get tickets:https://www.benbetweenafrica.com/About Global Student VoicesGlobal Student Voices is a podcast sharing stories from globally minded students, educators, creators, and leaders navigating education, identity, and life across cultures.If this episode resonates with you, like, subscribe, and share to support global storytelling.Leave a comment and tell us: Where do you feel most at home?#ThirdCultureKid #TCK #GlobalStudentVoices #BenBetweenAfrica #CrossCulturalIdentity #GlobalEducation #DocumentaryFilm #Storytelling #CulturalBelonging #InternationalLife #DiasporaStoriesCoach Martin is providing individual coaching services from the founder of GSS, Scott Martin. more information is available on the website at www.theGlobalStudentSolutions.com

This week on Global Student Voices, Coach Martin sits down with someone you absolutely need to know: Paul Udah, the Student Representative President at African Leadership University (ALU) — and the first Nigerian ever elected to the role. In this conversational and motivating episode, Paul opens up about his journey from what he calls a “failed spot” to becoming a powerful young voice in international education and student leadership. Representing a student body from 40+ countries, Paul serves as the connector between ALU’s administration and its students, advocating for better systems, stronger community life, and a leadership model driven by impact, not politics.You’ll hear Paul talk about:What makes African Leadership University a globally recognized hub for leadership education, How he learned to negotiate, manage projects, and influence change on campus, Why Africa’s next generation of leaders must focus on solving problems, not chasing positions, His long-term mission to consult with organizations and governments, How personal growth transformed his life—and can transform others, and If you’re passionate about international education, student success stories, or the future of leadership in Africa, this episode will stay with you long after it ends.Paul Udah’s BookPaul is the author of You: The Starting Point to Global Leadership, a practical guide created to help struggling young people grow, build confidence, and step into leadership.Get Paul’s Book: • Email: pauludahleadershipfirm@gmail.com • Also available via SellarConnect with Paul: • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-udah-/ • Founder, Paul Udah Leadership FirmAbout the Host – Coach MartinCoach Martin (Scott R. Martin) has spent nearly 30 years supporting students around the world as they navigate university pathways, personal growth, and global opportunities.Check out his book: • The World Needs YOU by Scott R. Martin (Amazon)Explore coaching & resources: • www.theglobalstudentsolutions.comEnjoying Global Student Voices?Be sure to SUBSCRIBE and FOLLOW — it’s the best way to support the show and never miss powerful conversations like this one.

Unlocking Your Potential: Joy, Purpose, and the Ikigai Journey with Cynthia UwimpuhweIn this inspiring episode of Global Student Voices, host Scott R. Martin sits down with Cynthia Uwimpuhwe, a first-year student at the African Leadership University (ALU) in Kigali, Rwanda. Known for her infectious joy, clarity of purpose, and deep self-awareness, Cynthia shares her powerful journey of self-discovery and her vision for creating meaningful change in her community.Throughout the conversation, Cynthia explores the importance of confidence, purpose, and intentional living. She reflects on how embracing the Japanese concept of Ikigai—the intersection of passion, skills, purpose, and impact—has shaped her academic path and personal mission. Listeners will gain insight into the mindset required to pursue purpose-driven work, especially as a young leader in Africa.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why self-belief is the foundation of personal and professional successHow the Ikigai framework can help you discover your purposeThe meaning behind the idea that “the two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you discover why”What it means to do hard things and thrive within the innovative culture of African Leadership UniversityHow Cynthia is working to address food waste and food insecurity in Rwanda through community-driven solutionsCynthia’s story is a powerful reminder that purpose, joy, and impact are deeply connected—and that young leaders across Africa are shaping a more hopeful future.Connect with Cynthia Uwimpuhwe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-uwimpuhwe/Email: cynthiampuhwe@gmail.comKeywords: Global Student Voices, African Leadership University, Ikigai, purpose-driven life, self-discovery, confidence, youth leadership, African changemakers, food security in Rwanda, personal growth, student success.This video is brought to you by Global Student Solutions and My College Coach and more information is available on the website at www.theGlobalStudentSolutions.com

In this episode, we speak with Mick Donahue, a long-time educator currently based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, about the launch of his new global platform, The Elite Mentor Program. Mick argues that while students today are academically brilliant, they often lack the "soft skills" and emotional intelligence (EQ) necessary to navigate life's challenges. The traditional school system, he believes, was not designed to teach these essential skills, leaving a critical gap in personal development.

Contact and Launch Information• Organization: The Elite Mentor Program•

Website: www.elitementors.vip

About The Elite Mentor Program...The Elite Mentor Program is a new online platform created to provide young people with an authentic sense of connection while learning crucial life management skills. The program is intentionally designed to be separate from academics, offering a space where students can focus on personal growth and well-being.• Core Philosophy: The program's top priority is the deep connection between mentor and student. Success is not measured by grades or test scores but by noticeable, positive changes in how students carry themselves, feel about themselves, and speak about life. As Mick states, "If you're not happy in your life, none of that matters anyways".•

High-Impact Mentors: The program is built around a small, intentionally selected team of mentors who have a proven, profound impact on young people. The team includes a decorated paramedic who teaches leadership in high-stress situations, a world-renowned sports psychologist, Dr. John Pates, who has coached Olympians and Ryder Cup golfers like Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy, and other beloved educators.• Unique Courses: The weekly online courses are designed to appeal to a wide range of students, from the shy to the outspoken. Offerings include: ◦ Command the Room: Building confidence and skills in public speaking and interpersonal communication. ◦ Wired to Win: Learning the peak performance habits and mindset used by champions. ◦ Quiet Power: A creative mindfulness class for finding inner calm. ◦ Cooperative Intelligence: Using AI creatively as a collaborative tool.• Program Details: The platform is launching with a few hundred available seats to ensure a high-quality, impactful experience. The weekly courses are held on weekends and are accessible to students globally, with mentors based in the US, UK, and East Asia. The cost is approximately $40 USD per hour. The program's ultimate goal is to create a lasting, positive impact that ripples outward, empowering students to one day become mentors themselves.