“YYGS Connect helped me realize that you can make anything work, and you can have an unforgettable time as long as you are willing to put in the effort and have the right mindset. I learned how to create good times and memories amid a pandemic and this was achieved through Family Time–the most memorable part of the program for me. I got to bond with people from different countries and walks of life, and I learned to appreciate and celebrate the differences in our diversity.”
“YYGS has made me more open-minded with a thirst to learn about many more things that impacts my community through youth talks, seminars, and conferences. On top of that, I have learned to embrace the diversity of people and intersectionality, and I am very happy and feel proud of being part of YYGS 2020.”
“YYGS has been a very wholesome experience for me. I learned the value of diversity and heard from students from 130 countries. My experience has fostered my intellectual curiosity and deepened my understanding of world issues.”
“The Impact Panel featuring Lina Sergie Attar, Julian Rossy, Bincheng Mao, and Jonathan Ojangole provided insight into the individual experiences of enterprising young leaders and their intriguing socially- and environmentally-conscious nonprofits, startups, and campaigns. Their stories inspired me to imagine creative ways I can contribute to improving others’ well-being on a global scale. “
“My most memorable part of YYGS was the Family Time. Much as we were virtual, there was a special connection with people miles away. It was mind blowing talking about our beliefs, and learning each other’s languages. We were challenged to break down all the stereotypes we possessed about each other and demystifed all of them. And to crown the whole experience, we made our yearbook.
“YYGS Family Time provided me with opportunities to hear voices coming from different corners of the world. Here is one of my most unforgettable discussions: after we watched Ted Talk “The danger of a single story” together, every member was encouraged to share the stereotypes we or people around us suffered. The prejudices of the first-generation immigrants, study abroad students, and mentally ill patients caution me to be more critical of presumptions of certain groups of people and further inspire me to look at the costs such as campus bullying brought by stereotypes.”
“I never thought I could get so much out of an online program. However, from the first day of YYGS PLE, I was immersed into a community of scholars - joining several group chats and Zoom calls within the first few days. I was amazed by the participants’ initiative to meet new people and create bonds, despite not being able to engage face-to-face. Within two short weeks, we had Netflix parties, musical jam sessions and game nights through Zoom. Additionally, I was impressed by how diverse the participants were.
“Family Time was one of the most memorable parts of YYGS for me. I got to know my family really well and we still talk regularly. Our family leader, Deborah, created an extremely positive environment for all of us to share our opinions and values during the fun games we played.”
“My favourite seminar was, “Metabolism and Infectious Diseases,” as it helped me to link existing knowledge on bacteria and viruses to medical treatments. This is particularly important to me as I hope to attend University to study medicine in the near future.”
“My favorite aspect was the Capstone Project, where a single person from every session met to come up with a solution to some aspect of COVID-19. Being able to hear a variety of viewpoints, ideas, and values was an unmatched opportunity, and something I now see as essential to making a difference in our world. I believe the collaborative atmosphere of YYGS not only delivered a message about the collaboration our generation needs to carry into the future, but it was also what made the program so special.”
