Jay Waltmunson loves people, photography, traveling, learning languages, and is an unapologetic goofball. He has honed his skills as a kid-engager through years of working as a camp counselor, kid wrangler at a horse ranch, middle school teacher, and parent. Jay’s PhD in Spanish Linguistics, years in Bolivia Peace Corps, 12+ years in tech all inform his work with kids. He writes and performs in a dad-rock band. Jay will be the main fun guy for all of our travel camps and day camps this summer.
Kymber Waltmunson is an insatiable traveler, master trip planner, and mom to a 13-year-old. Kymber has made temporary homes with kids in: a hot tin shack in post-earthquake Nepal, a smoke-filled kitchen in the Peruvian Andes, a sandy tent nestled into Saraha Desert dunes, and a crashed airplane in Costa Rica. One of her favorite things is helping kids live experiences that stretch past their wildest dreams. When she isn’t planning a trip, on a trip, or reminiscing about a trip she is an auditor…really.
Molly Kieland is infectiously positive and a magnet for kids of all ages. She owns FuelHouse gym in Seattle and lovingly coaches insanely strong people to be their best. She ignites strength, determination, and community. Molly’s favorite things to talk about are her dog, kettlebells, music, nut butter, and everyday nonsense. She can deadlift at least four teens at once.
Samuel Bautista Lazo is a master storyteller, unpretentious goat whisperer, and frequent organizer of mischievousness. He grew up in the culture of the Dixzaà people (Zapotecs) of Oaxaca. He comes from a long line of weavers and has a PhD in Sustainable Manufacturing. Samuel enjoys spectacular feathered hats and long-haired vests that smell of the barnyard. He is just as likely to delve into the science of natural dyes as he is to break into enthusiastic song. Samuel will be our local fun-master for Oaxaca camps.
Carlo Brescia is a Peruvian writer and filmmaker with a talent for dancing and a connection with the spiritual world. He has dedicated his career to the art, culture, and ecosystems of the Northern Andes. Carlo is a translator in many senses. He facilitates better understanding of language, land, culture, history, and helps people better understand themselves. In his spare time he teaches filmmaking to kids, writes books on pre-Incan archeological sites, and facilitates educational experiences on women farmers on medicinal plants. Carlo will be our local host for Peru camps.
Luvia Lazo is a former high school teacher, fashion production manager, and artist whose photography speaks of the depth, vibrancy, and complexity of the people in her community. When she was 13 she started taking pictures of her grandparents and continues to add finishing touches. Luvia’s enthusiastic, enveloping welcome makes you immediately a part of her loved inner circle. Her New Year’s resolution is to say YES! to more adventures – preferably paired with mango ice cream. Luvia will be lending expertise to photography camps in Oaxaca.