In 1997, Katrin from Iceland traveled to Hong Kong on an exchange program, stepping into the lives of Grace and her family. What started as a nine-month hosting arrangement blossomed into a deep, enduring bond spanning nearly three decades.
Easygoing Natures Melt Away Cultural Barriers
Reflecting on why her family decided to become a host family, Grace admits, “As an only child, I sometimes felt bored being on my own. When my parents learned about the host family program from their friend, my immediate reaction was naturally total support—finally, someone to keep me company!” Sharing easygoing personalities, the two hit it off instantly. In the eyes of Grace’s parents, Katrin was not only remarkably adaptable, but also thoughtful and considerate of everyone’s pace. This easygoing and caring nature made living together completely stress-free, rendering potential cultural differences negligible amidst the laughter and joy. That year, Grace gained a sister and a companion who provided endless understanding and support.
After the exchange ended, Katrin returned to Iceland, but in their hearts, they were never truly apart. Emails and messages flowed continuously, carrying endless warmth and care. For Katrin, Hong Kong was no longer just a city for a brief stay, but a second home filled with cherished memories, bringing her back across oceans to visit time and again over the years.
Their connection only deepened as they grew. At Grace’s wedding banquet, Katrin traveled from Iceland to attend. Joining her were Grace’s host family from her summer exchange in Canada, as well as Gohlee, an American exchange student who was hosted by Grace’s family during the 1998–1999 school year. People from three different countries, who entered Grace’s life at different times, were now sitting side by side at the very same banquet table.
Core spirit of AFS
For AFSers, this bond is no coincidence, it embodies the core spirit of the AFS intercultural exchange program, starting with an exchange and nurturing a lifelong connection through genuine affection. Through hosting, Grace’s family extended their reach both locally and globally, linking different places and families to gradually build an intercultural ‘global family network’. Recalling that unforgettable scene, Katrin, sitting across the table, smiled and marveled, “The circle is so small.”
A bond passed down through three generations
Today, both Katrin and Grace have built families of their own with children, yet their hearts remain closely tied. In early July this year, Katrin visited Hong Kong with her family of seven for a vacation, taking time to visit Grace and her parents. Grace’s family hosted them warmly, guiding them through the streets of Hong Kong to experience the city’s vibrant pulse and evolution. The two families even traveled together to Shenzhen, chatting and catching up along the way. Through this reunion, they hoped their children would carry forward and cherish the spirit behind AFS cultural exchange—connecting the world with sincerity, and passing down care and love from one generation to the next.
From two young girls in 1997 to a multinational family reunion today, this friendship born from a host family experience has long transcended bloodlines and borders. Nurtured by decades of steadfast companionship, it has forged a rare and priceless lifelong bond.
Become a Host Family
AFSHK is currently seeking voluntary host families for incoming overseas exchange students. This is a unique opportunity to open your home, share your culture, and build lifelong global connections.
Whether you can host an overseas exchange student for 10 months or you can host a student for 3 or 5 months in the short term, we sincerely invite you to fill in your information. For more details, please contact us at (+852) 28020383 for inquiries.
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