In China, Sarah and Cathy break through the language barrier to become fast friends.
No matter where we live, friendship is something we all share. While our friends often live close by, true friendship knows no borders. When we travel abroad we come to understand that there is far more that unites us than divides us, and this understanding can lead to lifelong friendships.
Sarah, a participant on a Leaders Today trip to China in 2006, formed a close friendship with Cathy from the city Zhang Jiakou. Though they spoke different languages, Sarah and Cathy helped each other break through the language barrier. Both knew some of each other’s language, and by sharing what they knew they became fast friends.
Sarah and Cathy travelled to the rural areas outside of Zhang Jiakou where they learned about less privileged people in the area. The experience was eye-opening for both girls.
Sarah recounts, “We helped out at a rural school and for Cathy and me it was a mind-blowing experience. Cathy didn’t know how these people lived so close by. It was eye-opening for me as well because I hadn’t been to China and hadn’t seen any of the rural Chinese life.”
Sarah and Cathy’s experience in China continued even after they returned home. Cathy decided that she wanted to take action to help the people in her community. Sarah now gives speeches to youth about her experiences in China to inspire others to make a difference.
You, too, can make a difference and meet new friends this summer! Sign up for a Leaders Today International Volunteer and Leadership Trip to China or to Arizona/Mexico. Or gain leadership skills and make friends with youth from across North America at the Toronto Take Action! Academy in August.
Travel to China
Learn about China
Attend the Academy
