"We must regain the conviction that we need one another, that we have a shared responsibility for others and the world, and that being good and decent are worth it." – Laudato Si'
The IYCW-ASPAC
together with YCW-Indonesia organized the Continental Cultural Exchange in Ciheulangtonggoh
Village, Ciheulang Village, Ciparay District, Bandung Regency. It was
participated by YCW National Movements of Egypt, Ghana, Thailand, the Philippines,
Malaysia, Indonesia, India, and Australia.
Community exposure and exchange programs are a long tradition of YCW to foster learning, cultural understanding, and knowledge sharing among different groups. The programs objectively aimed to enable participants coming from different national movements of YCW to experience and engage with the local community, particularly the base groups of YCW-Indonesia.
The delegates stayed
in Ciheulangtongoh Village to gain an understanding and exposed to the local
way of life, traditions, and social dynamics of host communities. The 3-day
program activity included a cultural dance show, music, and stage drama. The
rest of the days, they visited the livelihood of the people like coffee
plantations, livestock production, food processing, and handicraft houses. By
immersing in a new environment and with the local community, the delegates broke
down cultural barriers and fostered respect for different traditions and cultures.
The visit of YCW
gains positive acceptance and impact from the residents of Ciheulangtongoh
village. As expressed by Mrs. Hasuroh, one of the local members, “I am very
happy and proud that my hometown was visited by YCW coming from different
countries. I do hope that with the visit, they can give some input and share good
practices on the Social Solidarity Economy and how they can support our local
SSE. How can this SSE relate to a global dimension so that they too can enjoy
our products at affordable prices?”
Thanks to
YCW-Indonesia and the Ciheluang community for sharing good practices, local
business innovations, and techniques on sustainable farming, artisanal crafts, and
community-based tourism.
Part of the program
was the round-table discussion where the delegates and local community posted
questions and answers, and shared strategies and means on how to strengthen and
empower local communities to allow them to better address local challenges.
Delegates expressed
deeper appreciation to the Ciheluang community for its diversity and enriched culture,
and for sharing new ideas and practices. For YCW-Indonesia, the exchange program
brought attention to local challenges, while also opening doors to new economic
and social opportunities through increased collaboration.
To conclude, the community exposure and exchange
programs hosted by PPMP-YCW-Indonesia are a success. It served as a powerful
strategy and means for bridging cultural differences, fostering social
solidarity, and contributing to local development. PPMP-YCW-Indonesia remains
committed to continue enriching its communities and engaging the International
YCW in meaningful ways.
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