After two years of online meetings, Board Members, Partner Directors, and key staff gathered in-person to reconnect and re-energize, reinforce mindsets, and plan the next steps in achieving our purpose: a more just and peaceful world through transformative intercultural experience.

Close to 200 representatives of 64 AFS Network Organizations and Global Affiliates gathered at the 2022 AFS Network Meeting in Athens, Greece from May 6 to May 8. Following the disruption of international education caused by the pandemic, AFS members felt re-energized about returning to in-person study abroad programs. Special attention was given on the final day to two groups that are core to study abroad: host families and volunteers. Network Meeting participants were motivated to continue working based on shared principles, including innovation, collaboration, pursuing impact and putting our participants in the focus and embracing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

Delegates pose in front of The Acropolis, an iconic landmark of Greece
Partner Chairs in a circle discussion
International President Daniel Obst welcomes delegates to the first in-person meeting since the global pandemic
AFS MAS Advisor and International Board of Trustees member, Datin Yasmin Marican, poses a question at a Partner Chair session
Malaysian delegation with Daniel Obst at a welcome dinner hosted by AFS Greece
A traditional Zorba the Greek dance had everyone’s feet tapping to the beat
P2P meetings among network partners were held on Day 1