International Development Programs

• World Learning International Development Programs aim to bridge the gap between the desire for human development and the ability to achieve that goal.
• Programs with participants from more than 140 countries work to unlock the potential of individuals, communities and institutions to take charge of their own development.

Simay Kardes

Simay Kardes is surprised that an exchange program to the United States gave her a better understanding of her own country, Turkey.

An active youth advocate, Kardes was one of 38 young Turkish citizens chosen to participate in a World Learning foreign policy program funded by the US State Department.

The group mirrored Turkey's diverse makeup, including different ethnicities, religious and secular students, and urban and rural residents.

"We explored America in a way that revealed what we have in common as people from Turkey and what separates us," she said.

Another surprise was that the program never tried to change participants' views—even those critical of US policy. Instead, Kardes said she had many opportunities over the three week program to exchange opinions with influential US officials and academics. It taught her to consider each side's
motivations when developing her own positions.

The experience inspired Kardes and other participants to create the Foreign Policy Platform. The nongovernmental organization fosters dialogue among young Turkish citizens from all walks of life and equips them to become politically active, especially in international affairs.
To support this long-term vision, Kardes plans to pursue an SIT Graduate Institute master's degree in NGO management, a field she believes will help shape Turkey's future.

She also is a volunteer coordinator for World Learning's development programs in Turkey, including exchanges and a youth basketball program.

"I have tried since my high school years to give back to the community," she said. "Now is the time for me to acquire the knowledge and substance that could take me to the next level."

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