Cultural Exchange:
A Path to Personal Growth & Global Peace

As articulated in our Mission Statement, Friendship Ambassadors Foundation, Inc. chose cultural exchange to work toward its goals. Cultural exchange, as a special and potent manifestation of international education, offers opportunities for personal growth and the enhancement of leadership skills, and transforms society through the transformation of the individual.

Cultural exchange is more than foreign travel in the conventional sense. It involves first hand experiencing, cultural exploration and immersion, which broaden perspectives and prepare individuals for leadership roles. Its importance cannot be easily quantified - most participants simply realize that life changing experiences occur with overseas involvement. People are never the same after returning from a meaningful experience in another culture.

But just what occurs during these exchanges that are so transformative to oneself?

As seen by Professor Steven T. Holbrook (International Educator-in-Residence, Chesterfield County Public Schools, Virginia) cultural exchange allows us to

• develop understanding and tolerance;

• learn experientially - by doing;

• learn about language competency and communication;

• realize that the world extends beyond one's state and country;

• make life-long friends and important contacts;

• start a small fire inside for travel and exploration of other cultures;

• see openings for academic pursuit which didn't exist before;

• appreciate one's own country more, yet see the flaws that require leadership and direction to repair and correct;

• realize that we are an exciting person who can relate to others and learn from others;

• become less egocentric and more analytical and introspective;

• look forward to re-experiencing the wonderful feeling of all the above;

• have passports for life - real and figurative: passports to adventure and learning.

“Friendship Ambassadors Foundation exchanges are a key part of our hope for opportunities to explore fresh paths of communication, information, and friendship. These initiatives will increase understanding, help eliminate barriers of culture and language, and enhance opportunities for peace. You have my appreciation and best wishes for success in your endeavours.”
- Former President Ronald Reagan

The Culture of Peace | Services