A Program Full of Inspiration 

While Monday and Friday were dedicated to travel, from Tuesday to Thursday the program was truly full of activity. Participants had the opportunity to take part in networking sessions, three open discussions, and two workshops, with four to five different topics to choose from each time, depending on their focus and interests. Each discussion or workshop was led by a YFU staff member who served as a facilitator or host. 

The workshop hosts selected their own topics based on their knowledge, experience, and expertise, allowing them to share what they know best with others. Among the sessions were, for example, “Managing the Cultural Landscape: Coming to Canada”, “Burnout – One Day at a Time”, and “Finding Host Families in an Ever-Changing World”. 

The open discussions focused on key areas of international cooperation – for example, marketing resources and synergies, where we shared our best practices and ideas on how to support each other in marketing across the global YFU network. Other discussions explored host family recruitment, sustainability within YFU, support for students and their natural parents, and effective communication across organizations. 

Inspiration from Polish Education 

The program also included visits to two schools, which were a great source of inspiration for all participants. We had the chance to explore the Polish education system, which pleasantly surprised us with its high quality and modern approach. Polish schools manage to effectively combine theory with practice, helping students better understand what they learn and develop skills applicable in real life. 

The afternoon part of the program was enriched by a theater performance prepared by local students in collaboration with international exchange students currently spending their year in Poland. The performance was a beautiful example of intercultural cooperation, creativity, and openness – values that lie at the very heart of YFU. 

Shared Energy and New Impulses 

The atmosphere throughout the workshop was warm, open, and inspiring. Sharing experiences across countries once again showed that, although each of us faces unique challenges, we are united by a common goal – to provide meaningful international experiences for students around the world. 

Participating in the International Staff Workshop brought us many new ideas, insights, and motivation to further develop our work and cooperation within the global YFU community. 
From Poland, we are bringing back not only notes and presentations, but also new connections, friendships, and a renewed drive to put what we’ve learned into practice.