By DG Gerry Kosanovic
Last year the worldwide COVID pandemic challenged our opportunity to operate the highly successful in-person District 5110 Student Exchange. However, an engaging alternative to in-person exchanges is the Virtual Exchange. It is an appealing alternative opportunity that provides young people with a platform to interact and collaborate with people from other cultures and communities online. Virtual exchanges can help students challenge stereotypes, increase empathy, and develop intercultural competencies. Virtual Exchanges remove many of the barriers that keep some young people from participating in the traditional in-person exchange. A Virtual Exchange can provide under served, underrepresented, or marginalized youth the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations that help promote respect and understanding across cultures. While nothing can come close to a trip to another country with total immersion in the language and culture, the Virtual Exchange can be an attractive alternative to many. If you are interested in this opportunity for your club, contact District Governor Gerry Kosanovic for more information.