International youth exchange in the Bürgerpark sets an example for exchange and understanding
Sixty-four young people from ten nations will gather in Darmstadt's Bürgerpark on Sunday (the 5th). The city of Darmstadt, a center of science and research, is bringing together two international youth groups for a joint exchange. Young people from Darmstadt's twin cities of San Antonio (USA) and Bursa (Türkiye) will also be participating.
A group from the non-profit organization Students of Service (SOS) in San Antonio is visiting Darmstadt. The 24 young people and ten chaperones are stopping in Darmstadt during the Heinerfest as part of their tour of Germany. At the same time, the international "Step Up" camp of the Darmstadt-based association CISV e.V. is starting with 40 young people from ten countries.
“When young people from so many countries come together, learn from each other and develop ideas for the future, it sends a strong message of understanding, respect and solidarity. Such encounters have a lasting impact far beyond this day,” says Mayor Hanno Benz.
Intercultural learning, joint activities and a visit to the Heinerfest
The focus of the meeting is on international encounters, getting to know one another, and shared experiences. The program includes icebreaker games, sports activities, singing together, and an international summer workshop.
The young people will explore topics such as communication, diversity, and strategies against discrimination. A barbecue will conclude the meeting.
For the guests from San Antonio, the meeting in the Bürgerpark is one of the highlights of their stay in Darmstadt. In the evening, they visit the Heinerfest again.
For the participants of the CISV camp, the meeting also marks the start of a three-week international program at the Hessenwald School in Weiterstadt. The camp is sponsored by the City of Darmstadt.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/ho)
