Hosting 2024 - 2025 Yearbook

HOSTING

YEAR BOOK

2024-2025

ABOUT YEAR PROGRAM “Timeless India captures the wonderful moments of our hosted participants within their respective host communities. It’s a journey that began with their arrival and continued until the end of their exchange, highlighting the cherished memories they created while learning through interactions with host families and schools.

During this 10-month learning journey, students explored, discovered, and experienced a new culture through an immersive AFS Experience.

AFS India extends its heartfelt thanks to all our hosted participants for choosing India as their exchange destination.

Through this yearbook, we express our deep gratitude to our participants, host families, and schools for acting as agents of change, bridging cultural gaps, and being part of the larger AFS family.

A special acknowledgment goes to the wonderful host families and schools for their exceptional hospitality, and to our dedicated and motivated volunteers for their unwavering support and kindness throughout the journey.

On behalf of everyone at AFS Intercultural Programs India, we wish each one of you all the best in your future endeavors.”

CORE PROGRAM 2024-2025

Paul Garandeau

Ilaria Giacomarra

Viola Roscio

Eisuke Baba

Jio Saito

Minori Inomae

Haakon Helling

Aswin Singhem

Jirachaya Petranurat

Supavita Dechawanitcha

Varintra Boonyindee

CE N A FR

PAUL GARANDEAU

My exchange year in India was an incredible experience – filled with memorable moments and exciting challenges that truly shaped me.

It helped me grow in maturity and taught me so much about life and culture. I absolutely loved exploring Indian festivals and tasting the amazing food. This experience has left a lasting impression on me, and I can’t wait to return to India in the future!

Host Schools:

1. Anand Vidya Vihar, Vadodara 2. The Emerald Heights International School, Indore Host Families:

1. Bankimchandra Mehta 2. Aarti Barot

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3. Jayesh Harishbhai 4. Vishal Verma 5. Brajesh Agrawal

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Y L A T I

ILARIA GIACOMARRA When I first arrived in India, I stepped into a world that felt completely different from everything I’d known, but it didn’t take long for it to feel like home.

The colors, the sounds, the languages, the rhythm of daily life, all of it was unfamiliar at first, but over time, it became part of me.

During this intense year full of experiences and unforgettable moments I learned a lot not only about a new world and a different culture, but I also learned to know myself better, become stronger, understanding, empathetic, curious and open minded through my experiences.

So I can say that what I loved most about my AFS experience is that it not only allowed me to explore another country, but to get to know about a different and rich reality around me, as well as inside me.

Host Schools:

1. Shree Sarasswathi Vidhyaah 2. Mandheer School (SSVM), Coimbatore Host Family:

Manimekalai Mohandoss

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Y L A T I

VIOLA ROSCIO

In my exchange year, I stepped into a world that felt like a never-ending festival: vibrant, colorful, and full of life. I could never have imagined how deeply India would shape me.

Today, I carry in my heart a second family, a thousand stories, and emotions I’ll never forget. My host father’s passion for cooking turned every dinner into an exploration of flavours and tales. Our home was noisy, filled with laughter, life and love. I walked barefoot through temples. India taught me that the world is vast, but love makes it feel like home.

And for this journey, for the people who made it magic I am endlessly, endlessly grateful.

Host School:

Knowledge High School, Anand Host Family:

Sanjaykumar Chauhan

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india.afs.org

N A P A J

EISUKE BABA

The 10 months in India, changed me so much.

To be honest, I still couldn’t believe that I had to return to my home country, because I already felt like a part of my friends, my host family, and my community there. They gave me so many valuable lessons, experiences, and opportunities to grow. Through these, I realized that all of them were essential elements of becoming a global citizen. Of course, I faced many challenges and struggled with the language barrier, but I learned how to move forward, step by step.

Host School:

Study Hall, Lucknow Host Families:

1. Seema Chauhan

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2. Rohit Kalra 3. Madhavi Kuckreja

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N A P A J

JIO SAITO

I chose India because I wanted to experience diverse Indian Culture and Values. I really love Indian food, the spices, unique taste and variety of food is amazing. I have improved my communication skills and it was fun being in India. Even without perfect language, I realized that hearts can truly connect— and that’s what made it unforgettable.

Host School:

Central Public School, Udaipur Host Family:

Anil Kumar Sharma

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N A P A J

MINORI INOMAE

During my 10-month study abroad in India, I was able to learn so much and gain invaluable experiences. One of my most memorable moments was participating in school events such as MU20 and traditional Punjabi dance form, “Bhangra”.

Not only school life but also the time I spent with my host family became a valuable learning experience. In particular, traveling to Delhi, the capital of India, with my host family was unforgettable. This experience gave me confidence and made me grow a lot.

Host School:

Yadavindra Public School (YPS), Patiala Host Family:

Karun Kaura

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india.afs.org

WA R O N

Y

HAAKON HELLING It has truly been an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program.

One of the highlights of my stay has been participating in various festivals. Experiencing Raksha Bandhan, Dussehra, Diwali, and Lohri firsthand was amazing, and each festival gave me a deeper understanding of Indian traditions and their significance. I also had the chance to attend some Jaggos and a wedding, which were truly unforgettable experiences. The energy, music, and vibrant celebrations were like nothing I had seen before, and it was fascinating to see how deeply traditions are rooted in everyday life.

Adapting to a new environment, connecting with people from different backgrounds, and embracing a different way of life made me more open-minded and independent. The warmth and hospitality of the people around me made this journey even more special.

Host School:

The British Co-Ed High School, Patiala Host Family:

Gurkirat Singh

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ND A L I THA

ASWIN SINGHEM So there I was, stepping into India with wide eyes and a racing heart. Everything hit me at once – the colors, the noise, the food with spices that made my tongue dance!

At first, I felt like a fish out of water, trying to make sense of all these new things happening around me.

This year turned into something way bigger than just watching from the sidelines. I actually learned Tabla and Bharatanatyam - that's this amazing Indian dance where your hands, eyes, and body tell stories. And I got to show off Thai classical dance too! I also learned how to lead in school being the head of the school media and publication committee. I've made friends who see the world differently than I do, which makes my world so much bigger and brighter.

This whole adventure taught me that stepping out of your comfort zone might feel scary at first, but that's where all the good stuff happens.

Host School:

Ruh Continuum School, Coimbatore Host Family:

S Thiyagarajan

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ND A L I THA

JIRACHAYA PETRANURAT

India is such a unique country with amazing culture and festivals. I have learned Hindi and how to apply mehendi during my exchange year. My favourite thing about India is the Indian sweets and I am very fond of Gulab Jamun.

Host School:

Daly College, Indore Host Family:

Priyank Shah

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india.afs.org

ND A L I THA

SUPAVITA DECHAWANITCHA

This experience broadened my horizon, teaching me to embrace opportunities rather than shy away from new experiences due to fear. Living in India transformed me into a more decisive person without anyone make decisions for me, I find myself growing stronger each day. I've learned that challenges are a part of everyday life, and facing them head-on is essential. With the support of my amazing friends and teachers, my school life has become much easier. I have no fear of living in India, as my host family is always there to support me and never leave my hand.

Host School:

Indore Public School, Indore Host Family:

Arvind Singh Panwar

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india.afs.org

ND A L I THA

VARINTRA BOONYINDEE

The best thing about being in India is the food, especially the street food. Pani Puri is one of my favourite. I have learned to apply mehendi on my hands and I am truly amazed to learn this skill. I can now speak Hindi as well. I also loved visiting the old age home and serving the old people and understanding their perspective of life. It was an adventurous and amazing journey for me being on this exchange program.

Host School:

Golden International School, Indore Host Family:

Madhuri Chandrakar

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YES ABROAD 2024-2025

Colin Cirilli

Diego Martinez

Joy An

Killian Fillippa

Scarlett Fugazy

William Purves

USA

COLIN CIRILLI Spending time in India has been one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences of my life.

From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with open arms by everyone I met—students, teachers, locals, and especially my host family. Their warmth and hospitality made it easy to adjust and turned what could have been a daunting journey into something truly meaningful.

India is a country of vibrant contrasts and incredible diversity, and what stood out most was the kindness of its people. The openness with which people shared their lives and traditions made me feel like I truly belonged.My experience in India has been transformative. The people, the culture, and the lessons I’ve learned will stay with me always.

Though I’m leaving, a part of me will always remain in this incredible country.

Host School:

Madras Christian College Higher Secondary School, Chennai Host Family:

Ruban Prince David

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india.afs.org

USA

DIEGO MARTINEZ

Being an exchange student has been a whirlwind of experiences, you can't control what is around you, but you can control yourself and your mindset. I could feel my mind expanding each day as I gained new perspectives and knowledge about the world that I never had before. In India, I have tried to learn and become involved in everything that I can in order to cross the barrier of culture. Dancing became one of my favorite things to do in India, and hopefully something I will continue to love for a long time.

Being an exchange student has given me a new level of self-confidence, it has also shaped me into a person who loves to learn, is not afraid of failing, and will hopefully continue learning and failing for the rest of his life.

Host School:

Suchitra Academy, Hyderabad Host Families:

1. Bajrang Agarwal

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2. Anand Thoopal

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USA

JOY AN Living in India has completely transformed the way I think, act, and live. With the role of the oldest sibling in my host family, I learned responsibility and putting others’ needs before mine. By attending school, I’ve grown in perseverance and diligence. Through facing unprecedented challenges, I’ve developed my mental fortitude and adaptability. New experiences have changed my tastes and way of viewing the world. Furthermore, I now have a family in India, one so loving and close to my heart that I couldn’t imagine my exchange without them. I am forever grateful for all the memories and the amazing people I’ve met along the way.

Host School:

Maharaja Agarsein Public School, Delhi Host Families:

1. Raja Raheja

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2. Mayank Aggarwal 3. Bhisham Naran

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USA

KILLIAN FILLIPPA

Being in India has been an experience like no other, whether it was visiting Varanasi or meeting my friend’s parents, everything, memory and experience in India has been worth it. I’ve been able to make some of the best friends I’ll ever be able to have. I’ll forever cherish these memories I made. I want to say a huge big thank you to AFS, and everyone who helped make this year possible.

Host School:

Delhi World Public School Noida Extension, Greater Noida Host Families:

1. Ashish Bansal

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2. Sharad Kumar Bhatnagar

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USA

SCARLETT FUGAZY

I was in India, part of an Indian family, eating an Indian meal, and getting ready to attend my Indian school. For me, when I think of “India,” it has always evoked the image of vibrant colors, bright and loud, with people who take great pride in their country. I loved being covered in Gulal during Holi and I have realized how much I would miss India. For my exchange year, I have had colors and curries, mehendi and maida, and too many sarees to count.

Host School:

DLF Public School, Ghaziabad Host Family:

Sanjay Parmar

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india.afs.org

USA

WILLIAM PURVES

During my exchange year, I learned to be more grateful to others. I loved experiencing the rich Indian culture and funfilled festivals with my host family. My favourite thing about India is Ludo. I travelled to many places with my host family and friends and I cherished every moment spent with them. I truly loved being in India.

Host School:

Delhi International School Edge, Delhi Host Family:

Deepankar Lal

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The world needs more Active Global Citizens.

AFS helps create them.

AFS is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world.

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