Geneva City Council welcomes AFS international exchange students from Lebanon, Turkey, Mozambique, and Indonesia

The City Council of Geneva, IL, celebrated cultural exchange and international friendship during its recent meeting on April 21, 2025, as it welcomed four international students from the AFS program. The students, who have spent the academic year living with host families in Geneva, shared their experiences and aspirations with the council.

Cynthia Albright, representing the International Cultural Exchange Committee (ICEC), introduced the students, highlighting the committee's efforts to foster community engagement through cultural programs. The students, hailing from Lebanon, Turkey, Mozambique, and Indonesia, captivated council members with their stories and ambitions.

Midian Hasania from Lebanon expressed his desire to study medicine, citing both moral and financial motivations. He shared his enjoyment of local activities, including running and basketball, and his fondness for deep-dish pizza. Nady Gandana from Mozambique, a talented singer preparing for a musical performance at Geneva High School, aims to pursue petroleum engineering, inspired by her father's career as a geologist.

Khan Khaluk, originally from Istanbul, Turkey, is navigating his dual senior year status between the U.S. and Turkey, aspiring to become an engineer. He reflected on the cultural differences in sports enthusiasm between the two countries, noting the spirited atmosphere at local high school games.

Lastly, Akhmatthan, known as Bayam, from Indonesia, shared his journey into tennis and his plans to study information technology. He expressed gratitude for the welcoming community in Geneva and his enjoyment of local events.

The meeting concluded with a photo opportunity for the students and council members, followed by refreshments, reinforcing the spirit of community and cultural exchange that the ICEC aims to promote. The council's engagement with these students not only highlights Geneva's commitment to international friendship but also enriches the local community's cultural landscape.