686. Learn, Serve, Explore: How Students of Service Is Shaping the Next Generation of Global Leaders - Amir Samandi

Meet Amir Samandi 🌎, founder of Students of Service (SOS) in San Antonio.In this episode, Amir shares how one study abroad experience sparked a bold vision: to equip young people to become global citizens through service and international learning. What started as a leap of faith is now a thriving nonprofit shaping the next generation of empathetic, purpose-driven leaders.This conversation is especially for founders and nonprofit leaders navigating growth, doubt, and sustainability.You’ll hear:Why courage isn’t the absence of fear — it’s acting despite itThe two-question filter that guides every decision at SOSHow service and global learning are shaping Gen Z into purpose-driven changemakersA reminder to trust the process, do the work, and surround yourself with people who believe in the missionEpisode Highlights: Courage and community: moving forward despite fear (0:00)Amir Samandi’s journey: multicultural roots and life-changing study abroad (2:42)From State Department to classroom teaching: the spark for Students of Service (5:49)Launching SOS: creating a nonprofit from scratch with community support (8:35)Alumni impact and volunteer-driven growth (9:55)Guiding principles for SOS: “Is it good for kids? Is it sustainable?” (17:28)Preparing the next generation of leaders: empathy, agency, and hope (13:44)Moments of philanthropy: students taking action to help others (20:19)Amir’s One Good Thing: “Elevate the people around you to be their best selves; it makes the world a better place.” (22:54)Episode Shownotes: www.weareforgood.com/episode/686Resources: LinkedIn / Website /IG / Facebook //Join the We Are For Good Community—completely free.Join fellow changemakers, share takeaways from this working session, and keep collaborating in a space built for connection, inspiration, and real impact: www.weareforgoodcommunity.comSay hi 👋LinkedIn / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / Twitter