Welcome to Ready, Set, Go! Discover Portugal Edition, a transformative leadership program designed to guide teens through the exciting and sometimes challenging transition to adulthood. In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s essential to support teens with experiences that develop their well-being, leadership, and connection to nature. Our program offers a vibrant, offline environment where teens can explore their potential, develop essential life skills, and immerse themselves in Portugal’s stunning natural landscapes.

Our program is rooted in a holistic approach, focusing on the development of the whole person—emotionally, physically, and socially—while connecting with Portugal's rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

We create a digital-free zone filled with fun, learning, and growth. Our philosophy is simple: "Try, evaluate, and try again." Through this iterative approach, we help teens build resilience, adaptability, and a lifelong love for the outdoors.

This year, our focus is on laying a strong foundation through skill-building, personal development, and exploring Portugal's diverse landscapes. Participants will engage in a variety of activities that challenge them to step out of their comfort zones, work as a team, and grow as leaders.

In addition to regular sessions, participants will have the opportunity to embark on five optional weekend adventures to some of Portugal’s most exceptional locations (weekend trips will be additional cost).

To ensure the best fit for the program, all youth participants must pass an interview process and demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and leadership. Additionally, participants are required to have attended at least one A Quinta camp prior to joining the leadership program. This prerequisite ensures that all participants have a foundational experience in outdoor activities and are ready to take on the challenges of the program.

• Group Discussions: Facilitated talks on topics that matter to teens, promoting open communication and critical thinking.

• Problem-Solving Exercises: Collaborative challenges that enhance teamwork and creative thinking.

• Peer-Led Discussions: Teens take turns leading discussions on topics like overcoming challenges and setting personal goals, fostering leadership skills.

• Mountain Biking Challenges: Thrilling rides in scenic locations, testing physical endurance and teamwork.

• Sports and Games: Fun, competitive activities that promote physical fitness, camaraderie, and sportsmanship.

• Leadership Hikes: Day hikes in beautiful locations like where each teen takes on a leadership role—such as navigator, pacesetter, or safety officer—building confidence and teamwork.

• First Aid & Certification: A practical course in first aid, culminating in certification, preparing teens for future outdoor adventures.

• Team-Building Exercises: Interactive games and exercises that strengthen group dynamics, trust, and cooperation.

• Mini-Expedition Planning: Teens will plan, prepare, and lead a short expedition, taking on all leadership responsibilities—a true test of their newfound skills.

• Reflection Circles: Guided group reflections at the end of each day, allowing teens to process their experiences and personal growth.

Join us for an unforgettable year where teens will explore Portugal’s most amazing places, discover their strengths, and develop the leadership skills and mindset needed to thrive in the world ahead. From thrilling outdoor adventures to reflective discussions, this program offers a holistic approach to teen development, combining the best of leadership training with the joy of outdoor exploration.

Completing this program not only equips teens with valuable life skills but also sets them on a path to advanced leadership opportunities, international experiences, and the potential to become role models and leaders at A Quinta camps. Together, we’ll build the skills and confidence needed to navigate both the natural world and the journey to adulthood.

Program Schedule:

We'll meet a total of 38 Tuesdays and 17 Saturdays. To make it easy to keep track of, we've created a Google calendar. Please subscribe to this calendar and its updates. You can add notifications, as well, so you are reminded of meetings. Generally we meet every Tuesday and every other Saturday (with some exceptions noted below).

• First Tuesday Meeting: Tuesday, September 10, 2024
• First Saturday Meeting: Saturday, September 14, 2024