Host Kate Mulvihill recommends this selection of her favorite episodes. These are the stories that have truly resonated with her, offering a compelling look at the lifelong impact of cultural exchange and the unbreakable bonds formed across the globe.
Cyprus 1974: A Summer Never to Forget
Deb Moon and Juliette Cosh’s summer as AFS students in Cyprus in 1974 was unlike any other—caught in a coup and invasion, they were evacuated to Lebanon. In this episode, they share their gripping story of fleeing conflict, the skills they gained, and how their friendship, forged during this tumultuous time, has lasted nearly 50 years. Tune in to hear their unforgettable journey and enduring bond.de to hear about the journey these two AFSers had in Cyprus and Lebanon, and discover how this unforgettable experience ignited a lifelong friendship that has endured through the decades.
A Dynamic Duo: Mert and Ann's AFS Journey
Mert Özer from Türkiye and his host mom Ann Ford from New Jersey, both with sensory impairments, have formed a close bond during their AFS year together. Sharing a love for music and life with two lively dogs, Mert has embraced new experiences like dancing and attending Madison Square Garden shows. Mert is a participant on the U.S. Department of State’s Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program (YES Program) which partners with Mobility International USA (MIUSA) to support exchange students living with disabilities.
50 Years of Impact: AFS Alumnus Creates Positive Change through mothers2mothers NGO
Dr. Mitch Besser’s AFS experience in apartheid-era South Africa sparked a lifelong connection that led him to found mothers2mothers, an organization empowering women with HIV across sub-Saharan Africa. Over 22 years, it has created nearly 12,000 jobs and reached 15 million people. Tune in to hear how AFS alumni like Mitch are changing lives worldwide and #PassPeaceForward.
Apartheid, Iowa, and the Aftermath: Reed and Ketsi’s Story
In this episode, we hear the story of Reed Davis and Ketsi Meka—friends separated by continents and decades after Ketsi’s 1982-83 exchange year in Iowa. Despite years of lost contact, they finally reconnect 30 years later in South Africa and collaborate on a creative project. Their journey highlights the lasting impact of cultural exchange and how bonds formed can grow stronger over time.
Keith, Doug, and their Danish Host Son
Keith and Doug Byron from Indiana share their experience hosting a Danish student during 2022-2023, highlighting their student’s immersion in American culture and their family’s love of music and video games. Their story shows that all types of families—including same-sex couples—can provide a welcoming home for exchange students; last year, 39 same-sex couples hosted with AFS-USA.