KOREA FOUNDATION

As the deputy of the KFVN’s World Activity Class, I plan and conduct the “Meeting the World in Korea” program that introduces children and youth to the diverse cultures of countries around the world with the help of foreign residents in Korea and volunteers of varied backgrounds.
  Many moons ago I stayed in Japan for a year, and during that time, I realized how challenging living with people of different cultural backgrounds could be. At the same time, I came to understand how important it was to help everyone get along in harmony. With that in mind, I joined the KFVN orientation in the winter of 2011 and have been a part of the network ever since.
  Meeting so many people from countries that I previously knew nothing about, I have come to learn much of their cultures and histories over the past seven years. I feel I have become more knowledgeable and open-minded than before. Through managing programs for children of underprivileged families, I have also gained strength, and I have witnessed the children grow confident and positive.
  People often think of volunteering as being about helping others, but I think I have been the greatest beneficiary of my work, giving me an opportunity to interact with diverse people and grow more mature. Through my volunteer activities, I hope to bring a small but positive influence to those around me.

Kim Ji-yeon

#culture#children#youth#volunteer