About Toucan Abroad

WHO WE ARE

Our mission at Toucan Abroad is to provide transformative international experiences for aspiring physical therapists by combining meaningful clinical observation, direct learning from expert clinicians, and genuine cultural immersion. We focus on professional and personal growth, giving students a deeper understanding of physical therapy and a true global perspective.

Our Mission

Pre-PT Experiential Learning

Toucan Abroad provides pre-PT students with a structured, meaningful way to complete their required shadowing hours while experiencing life in a new and exciting environment. Our programs are 2–3 weeks long and offer 40–60 hours of clinical observation across partnered clinics abroad. Students rotate through different clinics, observe licensed physical therapists, and see how patient care is delivered in a variety of real-world settings.

We plan each program intentionally — selecting partner clinics carefully, coordinating logistics on the ground, and building a schedule that balances clinical learning with cultural immersion. The result is a clear, well-organized path for future PTs to deepen their understanding of physical therapy, broaden their perspective, and feel more confident about their next steps.

Continuing Education for Professionals

Toucan Abroad also offers international Continuing Education courses for licensed physical therapists. These programs combine high-quality CEU instruction with hands-on labs and destination-based experiences, giving clinicians a practical and memorable way to continue their professional development while exploring a new environment.

OUR NeTWORK

Proven. Trusted. Built for Pre-PTs

Established In

Clinical Partners

Built to give future PTs meaningful international clinical experience

A growing network of trusted physical therapy clinics abroad.

40+

2018

500+

Student Alumni

Pre-PTs from across the U.S. have completed their shadowing hours with Toucan Abroad.

The People Who Make Toucan Possible

Philip Wykowski

FOUNDER & DIRECTOR
Philip founded Toucan Abroad in 2018 and leads the vision and operations of the organization, with the goal of creating meaningful international experiences that support students’ academic, professional, and personal growth.
Alejandra Wykowski

REGIONAL DIRECTOR
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Alejandra is a licensed nutritionist from Mexico who manages social media and program logistics. Her passion for health, travel, and cultural exchange helps ensure each program runs smoothly and feels welcoming for participants.
Fernando Muñoz

SENIOR REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Fernando was the first team member to join Toucan Abroad and works closely with clinic partnerships, logistics, and on-the-ground operations in Costa Rica. With a background in hospitality, he brings a strong attention to detail and operational reliability, helping programs run smoothly.
Miguel Pacheco, DPT

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Miguel is a licensed physical therapist and former Toucan Abroad participant who brings both clinical expertise and firsthand program experience to his role. He plays a key part in guiding students through clinical observation and day-to-day program life, offering practical insight and mentorship throughout the experience.
Ameera Shalash

PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Ameera is a former Toucan Abroad participant with experience working alongside oncology patients and an interest in holistic approaches to physical medicine. She supports student communication and program operations, helping ensure students feel supported and connected throughout the program.
Trent Mace

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Trent is a former Toucan Abroad participant pursuing a career in physical therapy with a background in strength and conditioning. He is a NASM-CPT and ACE Health Coach and has competed at the collegiate national level in powerlifting. He supports day-to-day program operations, serves students throughout the program, and shares his enthusiasm for human performance and rehabilitation.