“AWAG is dreams in action and potential set in motion. It’s a pivotal moment in time when you are given the opportunity to dig deep to expand even wider. A place to be humbled and uplifted. It’s a gift of powerful energy, to be rejuvenated for all that life has, and will continue to throw at us.” As a homeschooling mother, Shanel Bell said, “AWAG is not just a leadership seminar or a networking opportunity for professionals; it is something much bigger.”

Americans Working Around the Globe (AWAG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that aims to train, strengthen, and connect leaders and volunteers in military communities across the globe. Established in 1946, AWAG has deep roots within the American military community overseas, and for the past 67 years, thousands of participants have gathered annually to share ideas and develop skills to enhance their communities. AWAG’s mission is to provide a forum where service members, spouses, civilians, retirees, and all military-connected individuals can generate new ideas for personal and professional growth and development.

AWAG’s most significant annual event is the Leadership & Professional Development Seminar, which recently took place in the first week of May. Over 100 volunteers, speakers, corporate sponsors, and participants from ten different countries gathered at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. The volunteer-based Board of Governors spends the year planning, coordinating, and preparing for such a large event, meeting virtually and only 3 times in person. The attendees come for a variety of reasons; U.S. Africa Command sent an entire team this year. Regina White, who currently lives in Botswana, said, “There were just so many little jewels of information. The variety of classes being offered is very informative. I learned so much information to utilize in various ways in my local community.”

Each fall, AWAG hosts several Area Leadership and Training Seminars within communities around Europe that provide opportunities for participants to learn vital skills in four key areas: professional development, personal development, volunteerism, and technology. Participants are offered classes that cover various topics relevant to their communities, such as community engagement, leadership development, and networking. Many of those participants also attend the larger annual seminar in the spring to broaden their professional skill set.

The services AWAG provides are beneficial resources for active duty members, spouses, and civilians in military communities. Dr. Julie Taufa’asau, a speaker and Parliamentarian on the Board of Governors, stated, “Being able to share my knowledge and experience to help make the path easier for others is incredibly gratifying.” In addition to the large selection of classes, AWAG also offers optional sessions such as hiking, yoga, and fun-filled evening events funded through the generosity of corporate contributors, and outreach contributors.

AWAG’s mission is to train, strengthen, and connect leaders in military communities is important on many levels and provides great impact to a wide demographic of personnel. In the words of the 2022-23 Chairperson of AWAG, Holly Matesick, “We fill a vital role in our communities by providing a forum for people to enhance their leadership skills as well as develop their personal and professional growth. I have personally experienced the benefits of the training we provide and am honored to share that with our military communities.”

AWAG’s services are invaluable resources for active duty members, spouses, and civilians in military communities around the globe, and its impact has been felt for over 67 years. For more information, you can visit their website at www.awagleadership.org.

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