A 3:30 AM Start & a City That Danced Us In
Music at the hotel doors, new names at every lunch table, and three travel groups born: elephants, parrots and peacocks.
Today started with a long day of travel — students up around 3:30 AM for a short flight. After a smooth journey we reached the hotel, where we were greeted with music and dancing that gave everyone a chance to express their energy and feelings. Check-in was done and roommates were assigned!
We had a minute to relax before lunch and orientation. Lunch was held in the building next door, where students were challenged to sit with new people and communicate across LC 26. Orientation began with an ice-breaker to make everyone more familiar and expressive. We learned a lot about the city of Ahmedabad and tasted local food like jalebi.
In the end, students were divided into three groups to travel and sit with — each choosing a name: elephants, parrots and peacocks. Around 4 PM we had sports at the Colosseum Sports Club in Sindhu Bhavan, choosing between cricket, football and volleyball.
Everyone gathered again around 8 PM for a well-earned dinner at Mad Over Grills. Full and happy after a long day of travel and events, we headed back — small meetings, then off to bed!
The voices behind this entry
3 students of the Leadership Collective 2026 cohort — a class of 50 from 15 countries exploring Climate & Cities across India. Portraits & profiles via 360plus.org.
Amay Kamble
Mumbai, India
An endlessly curious learner, singer and guitarist who loves understanding things from their roots.
Chamsira Tombo
Antananarivo, Madagascar
A warm storyteller who loves singing, theatre and cinema, and dreams of a wider world.
Kimberly Estrada Romer
Linville, USA
Grounded in her Mexican roots, she loves hiking, her studies and time with friends.