AYUSA promotes global learning and leadership through high school exchange programs. We offer a unique, richly personal experience for students, volunteer families, host high schools and local communities. AYUSA reaches across interpersonal and international borders, celebrating worldwide community through the spirit, character and promise of our youth.

Founders' Statement

AYUSA International was founded in 1980 by John Wilhelm and Takeshi Yokota who, after many years experience in the international citizen exchange field, saw the need for a new approach to high school exchange.

AYUSA combines the idealism and spirit of traditional exchange programs with a professionally managed organization emphasizing youth leadership and attuned to the opportunities of a changing international community.

The purpose of AYUSA is to build bridges of cultural understanding among the world's most promising youth.