Youth leadership through volunteering
Youth leadership often begins with small experiences that gradually shape a path of personal growth and community engagement through international volunteering opportunities. The story of Aldo Membreño, an alumnus of the Greentalist Society, demonstrates how volunteering can open doors to learning, leadership, and connections with other young people.
Aldo was born in Chinandega, Nicaragua, and moved to Costa Rica in 2009 with his family, who settled in Turrialba for work opportunities. From a young age, he became involved in community and cultural activities that ignited his interest in working with youth and supporting social initiatives.
Early experiences: culture, community and service
During high school, Aldo participated in student cooperatives and cultural activities, especially folk dance, which he practiced for more than two years with the well-known Agua y Dulce folkloric group in Turrialba. For Aldo, dance was more than a cultural expression: it was a way to build discipline, connect with traditions, and share experiences with other young people.
His interest in serving the community led him in 2021 to begin volunteering with Club Leones in Turrialba, there he learned a principle that continues to guide his work today: We serve.
Through these experiences, Aldo discovered that youth involvement can create meaningful change in communities.
International Volunteering Experience in Costa Rica
In 2024, Aldo joined Expedition 24A, a ten-week international volunteering program through a scholarship supported by Raleigh International. During this international volunteering experience, he worked with young people from different countries, strengthening his leadership skills and improving his English.
One of the most memorable moments for Aldo was working with his first trekking group. Although his English was still basic and he was the only Spanish speaker in the group, the experience became a powerful opportunity to learn, adapt, and collaborate with others.
He also remembers the impact of his expedition leader, who inspired him through her commitment to volunteering in Latin America and supporting young leaders. For Aldo, this experience showed that leadership is built through service, teamwork, and mutual support.
Continuing the journey with Greentalist Society
After completing the expedition, Aldo decided to stay actively involved with Greentalist Society, continuing his commitment to youth leadership and volunteering.
Over the past year, he has supported eight activities, including volunteer recruitment events, logistics for community projects, and field visits. His involvement has helped strengthen the Greentalist community and motivate new volunteers to participate.
Aldo also contributes to the Greentalist Society recruitment commission, encouraging more young people to explore international volunteering opportunities.
For Aldo, being part of Greentalist Society means continuing to create positive change through collaboration and learning.
Education and future goals
Volunteering has also influenced Aldo’s academic journey. After finishing high school, he took time to explore opportunities for personal growth, including participating in the international volunteering.
Later, he decided to continue his education and applied for university scholarships. Competing with more than 400 applicants nationwide, Aldo earned a scholarship to study Law at ULACIT, recognized for his leadership and academic excellence.
He is currently in his third year of the program and completing his professional internship. In the future, he hopes to specialize in International Law, using his knowledge to support NGOs and community initiatives.
A message for young volunteers
At the end of the interview, Aldo shared a message for young people who are considering volunteering:
“Fear will always be present. The important thing is how we channel it to reach our goals. Every opportunity is unique. If you have the chance to volunteer, take it. It will allow you to learn, connect with other cultures, and discover opportunities that can change your life.”
Aldo’s journey reminds us that youth leadership is built step by step: through experiences, learning, and the decision to stay involved in the community.
As someone who has had the opportunity to work alongside Aldo through Greentalist Society, I look forward to continuing to organize volunteer opportunities together and supporting more young leaders in the future.
PS: If you are interested in international volunteering opportunities in Costa Rica, explore Greentalist programs and become part of our community of young leaders.
Written by
Yorle Bermúdez
Volunteer Journey Manager
