About Young SIETAR
The Young Society for Intercultural Education, Training, and Research (Young SIETAR) is an international association uniting students and young professionals from diverse disciplines with a shared passion for intercultural relations. Through various activities, Young SIETAR bridges the gap between newcomers and experts, fostering the next generation of interculturalists. We are not simply 'young' in age, but youthful in spirit.
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YS Congress participants, Poland 2000
Our Origins and Growth
Young SIETAR took four years to establish as a recognized organization within the SIETAR network. The initiative began in 1993 when Veronique Kilian developed a policy plan, which was introduced at the 1994 SIETAR Europa Congress in Prague.
With an operating board led by Kilian, Young SIETAR's foundation took shape, uniting professionals from the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Early support from SIETAR International and SIETAR Europa helped lay the groundwork for the organization. The first newsletters, flyers, and brochures were distributed at the 1996 SIETAR Congress in Munich, marking the initiative’s official beginning.
In 1996/1997, Young SIETAR held monthly intercultural events and organized its first Annual Congress in Amsterdam, welcoming around 60 participants from around the world. With this success, a Governing Board was established, aiming to create a virtual, global intercultural society that transcends geographical and organizational boundaries.
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YS (first ever) TOIT+ Rotterdam,
Building a Global Intercultural Network
Over the past decade, Young SIETAR has cultivated an international community dedicated to exploring and advancing intercultural education. Leveraging modern technology, the organization fosters a virtual society to coordinate global activities, allowing members to share knowledge and experiences across borders.
Embracing Technology for Cultural Exchange
As both an independent entity and a key player in the intercultural field, Young SIETAR embraces digital tools such as e-groups, bulletin boards, and electronic messaging to enhance collaboration. These technologies minimize geographical barriers, creating a dynamic space for global engagement and learning in virtual communication.
Congress participants, Vancouver, B.C. Canada, 2014
Getting Involved: Teams and Projects
Young SIETAR thrives on the dedication of its members, who volunteer their time and expertise. The organization offers opportunities to collaborate on diverse projects, meet like-minded individuals from different cultures, and contribute to a vibrant, global community.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
If you're eager to develop intercultural skills and connect with people worldwide, Young SIETAR is the place for you. Becoming a member and actively shaping the organization's future is just a click away. We invite you to join us in building a rich and diverse network.
We look forward to your participation!
Click here to become a member today.