On April 24, the AFS Global Up team took the stage at the World Council on Intercultural and Global Competence Global Forum, led by intercultural education expert Darla Deardorff. In a space where the future of global learning takes shape, we proudly shared how institutions today are breaking barriers—embedding global competence across all disciplines, with or without international travel experiences. From innovative models to real-world customization, our contributions underscored that global skills are not optional—they are essential for every profession and every learner.
The World Council’s Global Forum is one of the most influential gatherings for professionals passionate about intercultural education and global skills development. It provides a unique platform for sharing research, best practices, and innovations aimed at preparing learners of all ages to navigate, contribute to, and thrive in a culturally diverse world.
This year’s forum brought together experts, educators, policymakers, and changemakers from across the globe to explore cutting-edge solutions that advance intercultural and global competence. As a sponsor and active contributor, AFS reaffirmed its leadership in creating transformative educational opportunities that reach beyond traditional borders.
We are proud to have been part of this inspiring event and to showcase how tailored digital programs are driving meaningful global competence development, sharing stories of success from institutions around the world.
How the Global Up is Expanding Global Competence Beyond Borders
During the forum, Molly Stern, Global Up Partnerships Manager, presented the poster “Expanding Global Competence Beyond Borders,” highlighting how institutions are embedding Global Up programs to cultivate critical global skills—without requiring students or staff to travel abroad.
This model enables universities, corporations, and nonprofits to integrate intercultural skill-building into their daily practices, extending opportunities to individuals who might not have access to traditional international programs.
We were excited to see significant interest from STEM, legal, medical, and faculty development sectors, confirming that global competence is now seen as vital across every field, not just for international studies.
Global Up is Unlocking Real-World Impact Through Customization
In addition to our first poster, Pablo Cornejo, Global Up Engagement Lead, presented “Unlocking Real-World Impact Through Customization,” addressing a challenge in global education: the decline of one-size-fits-all approaches.
Today’s learners — students, faculty, and professionals — require programs that are flexible, responsive, and tailored to their specific needs. Through this poster, we showcased how AFS empowers organizations to co-create customized learning experiences using validated intercultural methodologies and our adaptable Global Up programs in all its versions.
Customized learning pathways can foster deeper engagement, greater personal transformation, and measurable real-world impact. While Global Up core programs already provide a strong foundation, tailored versions can further enhance learning and meet the diverse needs of today’s global learners. Institutions that embrace co-designed, flexible solutions are better equipped to advance global competence development in a rapidly changing world.
AFS at the Forefront of Global Education Innovation
As a proud sponsor of the World Council Global Forum, AFS continues to lead the way in making global competence education more accessible, impactful, and inclusive. The conversations, the collaborations, and the innovations shared at the forum left us energized for the future. Together with educators, institutions, and global leaders like Dr. Darla Deardorff, we are shaping a world where every learner develops the skills to build bridges across cultures and lead positive change.
Want to join the movement?
Discover how Global Up programs can help your institution or organization unlock the future of global competence. Contact us today — let’s create a more connected and compassionate world, together. Contact us [email protected]
The World Council on Intercultural and Global Competence (ICC)
The World Council on ICC is a global platform that brings together leaders, educators, and practitioners committed to advancing intercultural competence and global citizenship. It fosters collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of best practices in intercultural education to address the challenges and opportunities of a diverse, interconnected world.
Global Up Programs by AFS
Global Up is a suite of innovative programs developed by experts led by AFS to foster global competence through flexible, online learning pathways. Designed for students, educators, and professionals, Global Up offers tailored learning experiences that integrate validated intercultural methodologies, empowering participants to engage meaningfully with global issues and enhance their skills in a rapidly changing world.
Dr. Darla Deardorff
Dr. Darla Deardorff is a recognized expert in intercultural competence and global education. She is the Executive Director of the Association of Intercultural Education, Training, and Research (AIEA) and a leading voice in promoting inclusive, accessible global competence development. Dr. Deardorff’s work focuses on creating transformative educational experiences that prepare individuals for meaningful engagement in a globalized world.