We live in a world of great competition and societal pressure, where many young people struggle to find their path and purpose. The importance of the right support is often underestimated, and the impact of young leaders on the future is not always recognized – but that is another topic.
We believe that only by starting small can we achieve something bigger. Only by first influencing our surroundings can we impact the whole world. Only by working together and setting a common goal can something be attained and visible results be achieved.
AIESEC is present in more than 110 countries, and it is a special place where young people from all over the world come together, share their ideas and passion for making this world a better place now and for future generations. It might sound fancy and cheesy to people who are not connected to AIESEC in any way, but it is the reality of every AIESECer in the world.
AIESEC is a safe place, where new opportunities, challenges, and achievements are opening up for young people, regardless of gender, nationality or wealth. It is a place where you can make mistakes, fail, fall flat on your face, but you will always get a helping hand, support, and understanding.
But what does AIESEC do for young talented people with a lot of potential who are not members of the organization? It enriches their lives with international experiences.
AIESEC’s vision speaks for itself: “We strive to achieve peace and fulfillment of humankind’s potential”. This is what motivates every AIESEC member to do what they do every day, in all of the countries and territories AIESEC is present in.
A bit of AIESEC history…
In far 1948, after the Second World War, a group of young and motivated students set together and made the first step towards a cross-cultural understanding. A step towards the personal development of individuals and society as a whole. A step towards a better future.
AIESEC, as an organization, faced a lot of changes during the seven decades of its existence, but some things remain unchanged. No judgment, no discrimination, support, and leadership development.
One of the main changes that happened throughout these years is understanding AIESEC’s vision. While before peace was about preventing conflict in the world, today it is also about showing that everyone is unique and special and that it is OK to be different.
Why youth and why it matters
One of the reasons why AIESEC focuses on young people is that by helping them develop leadership skills, we are shaping the world. Having the opportunity to be surrounded by people from all over the globe, young people learn to be more flexible, cope with certain situations, find solutions to problems, and, most importantly, learn to be good leaders.
Global exchanges are the bridge that connects individuals to the world and helps them find that missing piece in the overall picture. To find their place in society, to become more open-minded and self-aware, and therefore better leaders.
The secret to success is good leadership, and good leadership is all about making the lives of people around you better. That’s what we do in AIESEC.
