Hi! My name is Brian and I am a proud YES alumnus from Kenya. Ever since I was selected for the program in 2011, my life has never been the same. Going through the same experience with 15 other young Kenyans, getting to the US and meeting hundreds of other exchange students from all over the world at arrivals orientation and meeting even more students and hundreds of local students in my host community really changed my view of the world. All of a sudden, the world became a tiny village and nothing felt impossible in that moment. Until today, I believe in endless, unlimited possibilities. I was exposed to American culture and had the great responsibility of representing my country and culture in the US.
The YES program changed my life forever. I gained a bonus family that I love very much 14 years later. I have made life-long friends – I almost have a couch to sleep on in over 20 countries, all because of YES. My experiences as a YES alumnus empowered me and exposed me to a myriad of personal and professional development opportunities which boosted my employability. Today, I gladly contribute to the international education community through my work at AFS because I am a product of intercultural exchange and I know firsthand the power these programs have to change the world. Just recently, Daniel Obst, President and CEO at AFS Intercultural Programs said that technology has the power to bring people together but only people can unite people. and we all need to be united, now more than ever.
Brian Bright Musyoki
YES ‘12
Kenya to Cheboygan, MI
Open Your Home, Change a Life
Brian’s journey began because one American family said yes to hosting. You can be that life-changing connection for a student arriving this year. By welcoming a YES student into your home, you’ll gain a new family member, build lasting friendships, and help create a more united world—one relationship at a time. Fill out a short form to get started!