Intercordia Canada gives young people the opportunity to see and know the world in a different way….through the eyes of your heart. We become peacemakers when we choose to meet people in their country, in their home and hear their story. In our fast, efficient societies we have so much to learn from those who live radically different lives than our own….we just need to be humble enough to listen.
Intercordia is a unique program that enables students to ground their commitment to social change in relationships not just ideals. This grounding makes it possible for students to hold together the beauty experienced in the people and places they encounter on their placements with the pain of social inequity they witness directly. Students discover that it is possible, in the midst of suffering, for something redemptive to surface while at the same time discover that it is crucial not to romanticize the ugliness of poverty and injustice. It’s been a privilege to witness students working through feelings of paralysis and becoming agents of change in their personal lives and the wider community because of the groundedness given by their experience with Intercordia.
Intercordia focuses on the power of being rooted in relationships with “the other” and in the rhythm of everyday life, with all its struggles and gifts. Meeting Intercordia students and hearing their stories brings me so much life and energy; I am filled with hope for the future of our community and of our world as I learn about their desire for relationships and experiences with people and a world radically different from what they have known. Being a part of Intercordia inspires me as I live my own life and strive to be a peacemaker.
As an alumnus, Intercordia has become so much more than an exchange experience in a foreign country. It is a way of life, a way of thinking. It is a commitment to listening with our ears and with our hearts. It is recognizing weaknesses and brokenness in ourselves and others; thereby, learning about and recognizing our common humanity. Working with Intercordia as a campus representative enables me to watch students undertake a personal transformative journey; one that builds relationships and global citizenry. Working with Intercordians proves to me time and again that the change we need in this world will come through relationship, acceptance and love.
I was brought to Intercordia from my interest in international development, education and learning in community. I have found Intercordia to be an incredible space to explore the intersections of these three things. I am working with amazing people and am enjoying the opportunity to meet students who are willing to take risks and who are committed to change. I am continually moved! I am honored to be a part of this journey with students and to attempt to facilitate their learning.
As a university student, I was involved in various peace and justice issues. I learned a lot through reading, researching and working alongside like-minded people. But there came a time when university life started to feel too insular and my ideas too abstract. I needed a “shake-up.” Intercordia provides students an opportunity to encounter an entirely new culture and form relationships with people whose lives and personal stories are radically different from their own. That we are able to see and understand with our eyes and our hearts is key to a true and just peace. Supporting young people who are open to this challenge gives me great joy and hope.
Every moment and every person in our life molds us into who we are, and I am eternally grateful that my Ghanaian family took the risk, the leap of faith and welcomed me in as one of their own. Even though, I’m not sure when I will see any of them again, our bonds will not come undone because I know that every time I find the courage to take another leap and not let fear overcome me it is because of their patience and love.
Intercordia Canada provides an authentic cross-cultural experience juxtaposed with the framework for understanding social justice on an intellectual, emotional, and spiritual level. It is truly an honor to be working alongside others as they make their own leap, and it is a privilege to be working for a program that I believe in whole-heartedly.
Each person has so much beauty to offer this world. For some, the challenge is to recognize that beauty in themselves. For many, the challenge is to see the beauty in others - especially others who are so different from themselves.
Intercordia offers us all the opportunity to explore ourselves, discover a new part of the world, make meaningful relationships, expand our horizons and shift the boundaries of our comfort zone. I have been a part of the social justice movement for fifteen years, and over that time I have worn a number of different hats. From this experience, I am convinced that in order to effect change, we must first build solid relationships, and the way to do this is through respect. With that firm foundation, we can do beautiful things to make this world a better place. It is an honour to be a part of this process with Intercordia.
Intercordia provides opportunities for young people to deepen their awareness of themselves, their culture, and the immense diversities which exist in the world. As my own travels have greatly impacted me, my relationships, and how I live my life, I feel privileged to be a part of an organization which invites young people to engage in such life-changing experiences. Intercordia is wise in its conviction that simply being with people and giving of oneself is the greatest gift with the most lasting impact and honest in its recognition that there is both joy and struggle along the way. Individuals who choose to walk an unknown path such as this one are brave and inspiring, and I am grateful to be able to share the journey with them.
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