Spotlight: Our International Program During COVID-19
Nina Dimitrova and Michael Takacs hosting an online zoom meeting for the International Program.
The global spread of COVID-19 has reshaped the contours of everyday life for billions of people around the world. While health remains everyone’s highest priority, this unprecedented time supported the rapid development of innovative business solutions. Individuals and businesses have quickly adapted to constantly changing environment and become even more dedicated to deliver results regardless of the current obstacles. US Together (UST) is no exception – we transformed our daily operations routine in just a couple of days and our International Program continues developing international projects despite global travel restrictions and uncertainties. In an interview with the International Program’s Manager, Nina Dimitrova, and Research Specialist, Michael Takacs, we learned about some of their plans currently underway.
Ordinarily, the International Program sponsors foreign professionals on long-term and short-term exchanges to the United States and leads cultural immersion “Global Perspectives” trips to various countries around the globe. The Program also hosts multicultural events in Columbus and spreads awareness about the importance of cultural diplomacy and understanding. “Global Perspectives” is a program that promotes international understanding and supports the livelihoods of vulnerable populations abroad. During these journeys, our participants not only enjoy touring famous sites but also take part in intercultural activities such as: visits to local schools or social agencies; direct engagement with community projects; and involvement with regional volunteer projects, etc. Despite the limited duration of the trips, our goal is to advocate for culturally conscious tourism and build long-lasting personal relationships in the countries we visit.
International Efforts in Rwanda
Brenda Custodio conducting teacher training in Rwanda.
Our work in Rwanda summarizes this concept. So far, we have led two group trips to this East African country which resulted in building strong long-term partnerships with four Rwandan nonprofit organizations. As a part of its commitment, UST links American experts from various fields to exchange knowledge and best practices with their Rwandan colleagues. During the last visit, for example, an emeritus Ohio State professor, Brenda Custodio, conducted a teacher training for Rwandan educators. Its success inspired our team to expand training opportunities in Rwanda. Nina and Michael are currently spearheading these efforts and strengthening existing partnerships. While the spring Global Perspectives trip to Bulgaria had to be re-scheduled, our team is still organizing future travels to Rwanda, Slovakia, Austria and Czech Republic. If you are interested in our 2021 trips schedule, request more information at ndimitrova@ustogether.us.
Partnership and Volunteer Opportunities
UST International Program is also continuing to help foreign professionals gain further knowledge through tailored career training in the U.S. After global travel restrictions are lifted, we will welcome a few new foreign professionals to Ohio. Their placements have been secured before the pandemic and our team is now monitoring the latest developments to guide them remotely. If your organization is interested in bringing a talent from abroad, please email us and we will provide details about the process. This is a unique opportunity for any company to gain new business knowledge and fresh perspectives while supporting the professional development of a highly motivated individual from abroad.
Interested in participating in future local activities with international participants in Columbus (becoming a host family or meeting our international guests for a cultural day)? Contact us and we will provide information about possibilities depending on your time, availability, and interests!