ALEI is proud to announce a major achievement for its flagship educator mobility program, Educadores con Causa. Since its launch in 2013, this transformative initiative has provided 333 educators from 14 countries with immersive international experiences, enhancing their teaching practices and broadening their global perspectives.
Through Educadores con Causa, teachers, principals, and teacher trainees embark on a two-week journey to a host country, where they stay with volunteer families and engage as shadow teachers or educational resources in local schools. This hands-on approach fosters cross-cultural exchange, allowing educators to share pedagogical techniques, assessment methods, and classroom strategies that enrich both their professional development and the learning experiences of their students.
“This program is a powerful example of how international mobility opportunities can strengthen education and intercultural understanding,” said Cecilia Vasquez, Educational Projects Director at AFS ALEI. “By empowering teachers with global competencies, we’re not just impacting the participants—we’re shaping future generations of students who will benefit from a more interconnected and inclusive approach to learning.”
The initiative was relaunched in 2023 after a pandemic-related pause (2020-2022) and continues to grow, reinforcing AFS’s commitment to engaging with educational institutions and educators worldwide. Many former participants have gone on to become AFS volunteers, local committee leaders, and even board members, demonstrating the lasting impact of the program.
Key Milestones:
- 333 educators from 14 countries have participated since 2013.
- Educators bring back global perspectives, enriching their schools and communities.
- Many participants continue their involvement with AFS, strengthening the volunteer network.
- This initiative is made possible through the collaboration of ALEI partners, who work together to coordinate placements, logistics, and host school engagement. Sending partners identify educators eager to participate, while host countries provide welcoming schools and volunteer families, ensuring a deeply immersive experience.
Educators, institutions, and sponsors interested in learning more about Educadores con Causa or exploring participation opportunities can visit Educadores con Causa website or contact [email protected]
About AFS ALEI
AFS ALEI (Alianza Latinoamericana de Educación Intercultural) is a regional alliance of 15 AFS organizations in Latin America, committed to fostering global competence through educational exchange programs. By connecting educators, students, and communities across Latin America, AFS ALEI promotes intercultural learning as a tool for building a more just and peaceful world.