Programs & Events
Ambassador Honors 5 American AFS Students at AFS World Congress Reception
Ambassador James Keith honored 5 American AFS students living with Malaysian host families and attending local high schools at a reception at his residence. In his welcome to 100 delegates attending the American Field Service (AFS) World Congress and the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Alumni Conference, he spoke of the value of exchange programs like AFS and the contribution these young leaders can make to their societies. He further stressed the strength of AFS in Malaysia and how valuable a year in America is for a local high school student. The delegates from 53 countries were in Kuala Lumpur for the annual AFS World Congress which took place from October 20th to 25th.
The main theme of this year’s AFS World Congress and YES Alumni conference is “Building Bridges.” The goal is to provide a platform for the AFS network to engage in forums and discussions on strengthening the AFS programs in an effort to further expand the network worldwide for a greater international impact and to improve the recognition of the organization’s educational efforts. AFS is recognized as one of the world wide leaders in intercultural learning. Each year the staff and leadership volunteer from around the world gather at this time to take stock, discuss and agree on how best to work towards the AFS mission of achieving a more just and peaceful world through intercultural exchange.