YMCA Madagascar is proud to announce the launch of its international cultural exchange program with Yonsei University YMCA (South Korea).This unique program brings together 10 Korean youth and 10 Malagasy youth in a collaborative effort to learn about each other’s cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. From March 14 to August 22, 2025, participants will meet twice a month (every second and fourth Friday) for interactive online sessions, with offline preparation meetings held in both countries before each exchange.
Participant Commitment
To ensure meaningful engagement, each country has selected 10 committed members through interviews. Participants have pledged to attend all sessions and actively engage in discussions and preparations.
Before diving into the cultural activities, get to know the passionate and dedicated members representing YMCA Madagascar as they introduce themselves and share what drives them to join this global journey.
About the Program
This program aims to:
Promote mutual understanding between Korean and Malagasy youth
Build language and communication skills through peer mentoring
Foster global friendships and appreciation for diverse cultures
Highlight youth leadership through creative expression
The exchange is not just about objects, it’s about people. Each participant is paired 1:1 with a peer from the other country, allowing them to form meaningful relationships throughout the program.
Here are the themes of the six main sessions:
Get to Know – Icebreaking, pair introductions, and Culture Box preparation
Open the Culture Y-Box! – Live unboxing and cultural exchange through food and gifts
Take Me Home – Sharing daily life experiences through video tours and storytelling
Let’s Talk In – Language exchange of Malagasy and Korean expressions
Traditional Art Exchange – Exploring arts like calligraphy and ink painting
K-pop Street Party – Music and dance performances to celebrate youth culture
Where it's taking Place?
In Korea: M Seoul YMCA (5F, Bali Building, 22-3 Yonsei-ro 5da-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul)
In Madagascar: Youth Power Space, YMCA Madagascar, Ankerana
Coming Up: The Culture Y-Box!
The excitement is building as we prepare for one of the most anticipated moments of the program: the Y-Box Unboxing, happening this Friday, May 9, 2025!
The “Culture Y-Box” is a curated package that symbolizes the heart of this exchange. Each box includes:
A representative doll symbolizing the country’s identity
Local snacks to discover each other’s tastes
A traditional item or cultural symbol
An optional handwritten letter from one participant to another
This exchange reflects the global YMCA mission to empower youth, foster peace, and promote intercultural understanding.
Stay tuned for more updates, photos, and behind-the-scenes stories as the exchange unfolds!
Want to be part of life-changing opportunities like this? Join the YMCA family and become a changemaker for tomorrow!
