 |
The AFS ExchangeAuthor: AFS-USA
In each episode of The AFS Exchange, we sit down with AFS-USA host families, students, volunteers, and educators to hear about the profound impact of their AFS experiences. Join us as we explore the knowledge and skills needed to help create a more just and peaceful world. As a non-profit organization, AFS-USA has been empowering people to become globally engaged citizens for over 75 years. With programs in 45 countries and hosting students from 90 countries, AFS-USA has been creating life-changing intercultural experiences for generations. Language: en-us Genres: Education, Language Learning, Places & Travel, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
Listen Now...
Paper Cranes and Peace
Episode 6
Monday, 6 July, 2026
You’ve probably seen it all over AFS-USA’s social media: the slogan "Pass Peace Forward." But what does that actually look like in practice?This month, we’re sharing a story from Meika, an exchange student from Hiroshima, Japan. Driven by curiosity, Meika chose to spend her year abroad in the United States- the very country that played a tragic role in her hometown’s history. In this episode, Meika shares why it was so vital for her to study in the U.S., and what she gleaned from learning about the exact same historical events from a completely different classroom perspective.She also helps us break down the value of peace education. While it's a concept strongly emphasized in her hometown, it’s also something AFSers actively participate in every single day. By simply sharing your story with someone else in the world, you are spreading a message of peace. Whether you are an exchange student, a host family, or a local volunteer, being open to learning about a different culture- while respectfully teaching others about your own- makes you an active participant in peace education.Meet the Guest:Meika from JapanIn this episode, we discuss:Meika’s motivations for choosing the United StatesThe conflict between Japan and the U.S. during World War IIThe story of Sadako and the 1000 Paper CranesPeace education in actionMeika’s volunteer work with Hearts of Hope, and how it ties back to her hometownChallenges faced and lessons learned during Meika’s AFS programMore info:Check out Hearts of Hope at ourheartsofhope.org.Learn more about hosting a student at afsusa.org/host.More from AFS-USA: 🏠Host a Student | ✈️Study Abroad | 🤝Volunteer | 🏫For Educators | 📧Contact the Show | 🎧Collections
