Inspiring Global Impact Through Service
Iris Hong, a high school student at The King’s Academy and founder of Dreamkick World Mission, embodies what it means to lead with purpose. In the summer of 2025, Iris dedicated her time and energy to teaching underprivileged students at Villas de las Niñas Guatemala, using Taekwondo as a powerful tool to inspire perseverance and confidence.
To fund her volunteer trip, Iris organized a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $1,750. With those funds, she purchased and delivered 100 new Taekwondo uniforms to the students before introducing them to the fundamentals of the sport.
Teaching Taekwondo and Building Confidence
Taekwondo was completely new to many of the students. At first, they struggled with the movements and instructions, unsure of their abilities. Iris remained patient and encouraging, guiding them with compassion and positivity.
Through her consistent support, the students gained confidence and began to perform the techniques successfully. More importantly, they learned lessons in tenacity, discipline, and patience—values that extend far beyond the classroom.
Lessons in Perseverance and Leadership
For Iris, the trip was about more than teaching a new skill. She realized that success is not measured by perfect form but by perseverance and effort. Watching the students push through challenges reminded her of the importance of connection and empathy in leadership.
This experience profoundly shaped Iris’s outlook, strengthening her leadership, compassion, and dedication to empowering youth through education and martial arts. She returned home with a renewed commitment to her mission: to help young people discover their strength and resilience through Taekwondo.
Celebrating Youth Leaders Who Inspire Change
At the Global Volunteer Recognition Program, we honor young leaders like Iris Hong, whose service and dedication uplift communities around the world. Her journey is a powerful example of how one person’s passion can spark growth, confidence, and hope in others.
