The travel itinerary was nothing short of ambitious, taking us from Fort Wayne to Chicago, Los Angeles, and finally, Auckland, New Zealand. Here’s what Day 0 looked like in numbers:
- 🚌 Fort Wayne → Chicago → Los Angeles → Auckland, New Zealand
- 70+ travelers including choir members, chaperones, and staff
- 200+ pieces of luggage (yes, we double-checked!)
- 8,419 miles covered
- 17 time zones crossed
For many choir members, this was their first time on an airplane—a thrilling milestone on its own. Add to that the excitement (and a little nervousness) of traveling internationally, and it became an experience they’ll never forget.
New Horizons
Day 0 wasn’t just about logistics and long flights; it was about opening new doors and broadening horizons. This journey offered our young choir members a unique opportunity to see the world from a whole new perspective. Many of them were stepping outside the borders of their hometown—and even their country—for the very first time.
As we soared over oceans and continents, the kids marveled at the enormity of the world, excited to explore its diversity and culture. From spotting landmarks during layovers to navigating airports as a group, every moment was filled with wonder and anticipation.
Lessons in Growth and Resilience
International travel, especially on this scale, can be both exhilarating and challenging. Coordinating 70 travelers with 200+ pieces of luggage across multiple flights, time zones, and connections was no small feat. The choir faced early mornings, long waits, and inevitable travel fatigue—but they embraced it all with the same teamwork, determination, and grace they bring to their music.
The experience also set the tone for the days ahead. Traveling this far from home helped the choir members gain an appreciation for the planning, effort, and dedication that goes into a global adventure like this one. They learned that great journeys come with challenges but are always worth it.
Anticipation for What’s Ahead
By the time we touched down in Auckland, the excitement in the air was palpable. Despite the jet lag and fatigue, the group was energized by the knowledge that they were about to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the competitions to cultural exchanges and sightseeing, every moment was a step toward achieving something extraordinary.
Day 0 was the beginning of a journey that would challenge, inspire, and transform every member of the Voices of Unity Youth Choir. It wasn’t just about traveling to New Zealand—it was about growing, connecting, and preparing to represent our city and country on the world stage.
