From 10 to 16 February, 10 of our 7 to 9 students travelled to Lusaka, Zambia, with two teacher chaperones to participate in the 2026 Association of International Schools Global Issues and Service Summit (AISA GISS), which brought together representatives from 23 international schools. The American International School of Lusaka hosted the summit under the theme “Your Story, Your Voice”. Guided by the concept of Triple WellBeing – caring for oneself, others, and the planet – participants explored how each of these ideas can drive meaningful change.
Across three packed days, everyone rolled up their sleeves and had honest conversations about who they are, what they value, and how they can make a difference. The summit’s focus on Triple Wellbeing – care for self, others, and the planet – was not just discussed; it was lived. Our students presented on “Operation Uplift”, a community workshop on working with MumsLove Orphanage to help them reduce operational costs through making their own liquid soap. On Service Day, they engaged in a range of service projects, including making paper, visiting tiny schools in downtown Zambia, supporting the wellbeing of children patients in a Cancer Ward and cleaning elephant enclosures. In their own words, “It was a meaningful experience, and we were grateful for the opportunity to help.”
They also enjoyed performances by El-Mukaka, a Zambian-Greek DJ and Afro-House pioneer, and energetic Brazilian drummers, who had everyone on their feet. Some of the most meaningful learning happened outside the sessions: walking through Zambia’s history, trying matebeto, a traditional dish, navigating unfamiliar spaces, and learning to adapt. These moments stretched our students, helping them grow in independence, empathy, and resilience. Our delegation returned with new confidence and broader perspectives. The group shared their full experience with the whole school at Assembly.
Next year, AISA GISS moves to Ethiopia, the cradle of humanity and home to one of Africa’s oldest civilisations. Never colonised and a key diplomatic centre for the continent, Ethiopia offers students a powerful setting to engage with global issues while standing at the intersection of history, identity, and the future.
