Over the course of several months, Daeshin and Seoil high school students from Daejeon, South Korea took part in IVECA’s Global Youth Mentorship Program, collaborating with university student mentors in the United States on the exploration of expansionism in national development and identities. Through classroom research and virtual guidance from their mentors, students explored how historical imperialism and expansionism have shaped modern challenges related to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), proposing innovative solutions to drive positive change for the future.
At the start of the term, Korean students were introduced to their U.S. university students from various backgrounds and countries including Burkina Faso, Myanmar, and the United States. and. Building a close relationship with their mentors through exchanging introductions, interest, and their passion for creating change, the Korean students were inspired to put great effort into their research as well as the broader impacts they have the potential to make. As one Daeshin student replied to their mentor’s introduction, “I admire how you’re growing through your experiences at NYU and in New York while staying connected to your roots [in Myanmar]. I also hope to bring people in my community closer together and promote understanding among them.”
This period of introduction also allowed students and mentors to begin exploring the theme of their IVECA virtual exchange, Expansion in Our Countries by sharing their reflections on the topic. “I deeply value being a citizen of my home country and am grateful for the privileges that come with it. At the same time, I recognize there are areas where we can improve. Like all nations, we must embrace change and foster greater interconnectivity.”, mentor Frankland Watts (Anderson University, South Carolina) shared. His university cohort, mentor Angelica Hernandez expressed her excitement to grow further through the program, “Every step I take in life, whether in my studies or adventures, brings me closer to becoming a more interconnected and understanding global citizen.”
With an inspiring and energetic start to their research project, Korean students drafted detailed academic papers. Their research areas included the varied impacts of expansion and imperialism on the political and social development and cultures of countries around the world. Many impressive and thought-provoking subjects were discussed including the influences of historical colonialism on sustainability, imperialism’s effects on modern education in Kenya, single crop cultivation, and lasting environmental and economic repercussions of Japanese colonialism in South Korea during the first half of the 20th century. Their deep dive into multifaceted issues led the students to discover connections between the past and present achievements of the SDGs. One Korean student group described the lasting devastation of colonialism by the French in Senegal and Dutch in Indonesia still affecting their achievement of SDGs such as No Poverty (SDG 1), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), over a century later.
After preparing the written research and discussion, students received advice on improving, clarifying, and perfecting their work. Mentors guided them with critical insights on creating stronger cross-sector connections. Maung Sayweddholla (New York University, New York) suggested to one group from Seoil, “... dive a little deeper into the long-term impacts of imperialism. While the facts were great, exploring how these changes affected the social, political, and economic fabric of Korean society on a deeper level could make your presentation even more impactful.” Students thoughtfully embraced the advice they were given, solidifying their solutions to global challenges. The students reflected, “Efforts to address historical accountability are crucial for unified national identity,” and recommended, “[Nations should] encourage dialogue through neutral forums, invest in cultural education, and promote mutual trade benefits to reduce conflicts.”
On December 16th and 20th students and mentors joined virtual Live Class sessions to share their final presentations, thoughts, and reflections on the value of considering the countless lasting consequences of expansionism on both the colonized and occupying nations. Two special guests, Dr. James Ryan, Superintendent of New York Elmsford Union Free School District Office of Education, and Mr. Omar Hernandez, Program Coordinator at UNESCO Caribbean Office and Former Public Information Officer of the United Nations Academic Impact, offered further inspiration for students to continue on their paths towards becoming efficacious global citizens. Dr. Ryan applauded the students and mentors for their dedication to learning and admirable efforts. “I am so proud of you for taking the initiative to address significant topics in this collaborative format.” Mr. Hernandez also stressed the significance of the exchange and the importance of continued diligence in pursuing a better future, “Keep going. The world around us keeps spinning, and there is no shortage of things to do. Get involved. Your time is not in the very distant future. Your time is now.”
Concluding the enriching and transformative exchange program, students and mentors shared farewells with one another through the IVECA Virtual Classroom. “Knowing you all and participating in these discussions with you has offered me more critical thinking skills and expanded my love for the world.” mentor Benjamin Goldstein (Anderson University, South Carolina) wrote. Maimouna Ba, a youth activist, encouraged mentees to continue improving their understanding of the world. “Embrace every opportunity to learn from others, challenge your assumptions, and approach the world with an open heart and mind.” Capturing the spirit of the exchange, one student remarked, “The IVECA program brought me one step closer to my dreams, and your thoughtful guidance and encouragement enabled me to learn, grow, and gain the courage to take the next steps. Although I still have much to improve, your support has given me the confidence to move forward.”
