Intercultural Exchange Program at the Children’s Village (Trogen, Switzerland)

/23 Apr 2025

Since 2023, 120 young people from Moldova have benefited from international cultural exchanges designed to develop their critical thinking, self-awareness, and intercultural communication skills. In 2025, another 80 teenagers will have the opportunity to experience this transformative adventure.

Program Benefits

The Intercultural Exchanges offer Moldovan teenagers a unique opportunity to meet young people from various countries—including Switzerland, North Macedonia, Serbia, Poland, Ukraine, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. Participants discover new cultures while sharing their own traditions through interactive workshops and thematic activities that address topics such as freedom of expression, anti-racism, and combating discrimination. The program aims to challenge prejudices and promote mutual understanding, fostering peaceful coexistence in a globalized world.

Program Details

Participants: Each edition welcomes 40 young people from Moldova, aged approximately 13 to 16 (eligible birth years are announced for each edition), accompanied by six adult facilitators.
Duration: The program lasts 20 days—14 days of activities and approximately six days of travel.
Itinerary: During the exchange, the group travels by bus, with the opportunity to visit major cities such as Budapest and Vienna.
Costs: The Pestalozzi Foundation and the Foundation for Advancement of Moldova (FAM) partially cover the expenses (accommodation and meals in Trogen, plus one meal during the journey). Each participant contributes a fee covering transportation, accommodation, and meals throughout the program.
You can find an example of the Intercultural Exchange Participant Guide, which contains more details about the activities.

Follow-up Activities

Upon their return, each participant will organize a follow-up activity in their community or educational institution to share the information and experiences gained during their stay at the Children’s Village. These activities will engage classmates, friends, family members, and teachers, multiplying the program’s positive impact.

Testimonials

Participation in this program has a deep and lasting impact on young people, helping them develop self-confidence and an openness to new perspectives. The positive changes are recognized not only by the participants themselves but also by their families, who notice a growth in maturity and responsibility in their daily lives. Here are some heartfelt testimonials from young people who have lived this unique experience and from their parents.

Participant Testimonials

“This experience opened my eyes. I never realized how big Moldova is. After this program, I met people who became my friends—and honestly, I changed a lot. My sister said I became more open-minded—I can now ask questions even when my opinions differ from others. Now I understand that it’s okay for people to have different perspectives.”

“This experience changed me so much. I became more sociable and open to the world. If I had the chance, I would definitely do it again.”
“I have become more responsible and mature—at home, at school, and among friends. Many people have noticed this change. I now express myself much more easily, engage in discussions more naturally, and confidently share my opinions, even when they differ from others.”

Parent Testimonials

“We want to express our deepest gratitude for the wonderful opportunity M. had this fall. Upon his return, he became more tolerant, more sociable, and more patient. His circle of friends expanded, including those he met during his stay at the Children’s Village. Even though adolescence remains a challenging period, we now navigate it more easily together.”

“C. has become more willing to take on responsibilities and make decisions independently. This newfound independence has translated into increased confidence and a heightened sense of self-reliance.”

“Following the beautiful experience and the intercultural program that our daughter benefited from, we noticed many positive changes in her behavior. She has become more patient and tolerant with those around her. We have seen a strong sense of empathy toward people who need help or are in a more modest financial situation. She constantly promotes the idea that all people are equal and have equal opportunities for development and success. She also returned home with a strong desire to protect the environment and the importance of waste sorting. Sincere thanks to the team of trainers from the Trogen Children’s Village for their interesting, diverse, and incredibly valuable activities.”