Global Passport Atlanta Alumni: Emaney Gilliam

Emaney Gilliam: Urban Alliance Intern and Global Passport Participant

The Global Passport Trip was an experience that I’ll never forget. I had the opportunity to try new things and meet new people. It also helped me deepen my understanding of black history and gave me the opportunity to visit my dream college. I had a chance to visit the Georgia Aquarium & The Coca-Cola Museum. I remember when my Mentor Rachel told me about the trip and I was so excited because I always wanted to go to Atlanta.

I was introduced to Martha’s Table through a program called Urban Alliance. As an intern I was placed in the Youth Development department. Working with Rachel has taught me new things. For example I learned how to send out a proper email, design flyers, and make presentations. I also helped with the Global Passport Ambassador Program. I also helped design the new teen lounge. 

Global Passport Atlanta, April

When the application went public, Rachel sent it to me, and I filled it out immediately. A few weeks later we had our interviews for the trip. I was a little nervous because I’m a shy person and I don’t really talk a lot but eventually I came out of my comfort zone. The interviews were fun and I met new people. Eventually I got an email saying I was accepted.  The next week we had orientation and I found out that we were going to be flying there. I was nervous because I had never flown on a plane before. I had so many negative thoughts in my mind but eventually I came to my senses and said “ you only live once “. Days went by and the trip was getting closer. The night before the trip I couldn’t sleep. I was too excited but eventually I fell asleep. The next morning I went to the airport. I was happy to see everyone. We checked in our bags and headed to security. before I knew it, it was time to get on the plane. I was a little nervous but once we got in the air all of that went away.

When we arrived in Atlanta it was very different from Washington DC. The air felt fresh, the weather was amazing, I just loved everything about it. The whole trip was a new experience for me. The people I was in a group with were very funny and kind. The most memorable moments were when we took the tour around Atlanta and we visited the church MLK grew up in. we also visited the civil rights museum. I really enjoyed learning more about Black history, I learned things I didn’t know before the trip. We toured Clark Atlanta. It made me want to go there even more. The Georgia Aquarium was the best part because I haven’t been to one since I was little so I was excited and to know this was the biggest aquarium and that they had sharks I was just amazed.

Reflection time was also interesting because we got to hear other people’s opinions about the activities we did that day. The chaperones were super cool in my opinion. They were very respectful and understanding.

If I had the chance to go to Atlanta again I definitely would. It was a great experience, something I will never forget. I had the opportunity to meet new people and try new things. I also loved doing community service. I love helping others that are in need of help. I thank the Global passport program. I really appreciate having the opportunity to travel with you guys, this trip definitely made an impact on my life. I’m so grateful!