ASEZ Global Sharing and Volunteering for Winter 2024

In January 2024, 556 ASEZ members set out on their winter vacation from Korea to the world. From January 17 to February 8, various activities such as volunteer services and awareness-raising campaigns simultaneously unfolded across 46 countries, including the U.S., Brazil, Bolivia, Namibia, Thailand, and the U.K. These initiatives aimed to lead positive change within local communities, fostering hope for the future of the earth and humanity.

A notable focus of the ASEZ members’ efforts was environmental activity, particularly in combating climate change. They diligently engaged in thorough cleanup in various high-traffic areas around campuses, government offices, and tourist destinations, effectively raising awareness about environmental responsibility. At Blue Lagoon Beach in Durban, South Africa, and Ilha de Luanda in Angola, the ASEZ Blue Carbon [ABC] campaign was carried out to achieve carbon neutrality by protecting marine ecosystems. Despite the hot weather, members enthusiastically collected marine debris, emphasizing the importance of preserving marine life.

They also planted trees at the Kenya Medical Training College [KMTC]-Homabay campus and the Meycauayan Riverside in Bulacan, the Philippines. Danilo Abacan, Meycauayan City Councilor, praised the enthusiasm of the members, saying, “If someone doesn’t take the initiative, there’s always a lack of interest in volunteering. You’re leading in volunteering and inspiring many people.”

ASEZ’s environmental activities not only contribute to environmental preservation but also aid in crime prevention by fostering a clean and safe environment. In Hyderabad, India, members cleaned Tank Bund Road and painted murals, revitalizing the atmosphere of the area. In Christchurch, New Zealand, they cooperated with a local environmental group to remove waste furniture and household items in parks, roads, and residential areas surrounding Stanmore road. This effort was warmly received by the neighbors. They also carried out more practical activities aimed at crime prevention. “Reduce Crime Together” [RCT] seminars were conducted at the University of Southeastern Philippines and Indiana University Bloomington [IUB]. During these seminars, ASEZ members, alongside local university students, explored solutions to protect themselves from crime and to contribute making a safer world. Tadzerakufa Mthyothyo, a child protection officer at the Lilongwe Police Station in Malawi, expressed gratitude for ASEZ’s efforts, saying “ASEZ’s efforts for the students are like a mother’s care,” during the seminar held at Mitundu Secondary School in Lilongwe, Malawi.

In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, ASEZ cooperated with Bayanjurkh Ward to clean Child Protection Facility #203 in Bayanjurch and organized a Korean culture experience event for the children, providing joyful memories for them. The “Cheer Up” campaign was launched in various regions to express gratitude to those who dedicated themselves to communities. ASEZ members visited the Mumbai Fire Brigade Headquarters in India, the Rotherbaum Fire Station in Hamburg, Germany, and the Kansas City University Health Medical Center in the U.S., to deliver gifts of thanks to firefighters and the medical staff.

ASEZ also visited universities, local authorities, and government agencies to have meetings, laying the groundwork for sustainable volunteer activities. Peng Junhao, Taoyuan City Councilor in Taiwan said, “Thank you to the young adults for volunteering and extending their hands to neighbors in need. Your initiative will surely inspire many citizens. I hope that all of you will continue to spread positive energy wherever you are.”

ASEZ, dedicated to environmental protection and spreading love and hope to communities, has established partnerships with various organizations and garnered numerous awards. ASEZ recently signed a memorandum of understanding [MOU] with the Municipality of Buenos Aires, Argentina, the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C., U.S., and the Kenya Medical Training College. This commitment entails joint efforts aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs] and preventing crime.

Moreover, ASEZ has been recognized with 52 awards, including a Citation from the National Assembly in Peru, a Certificate of Recognition from the Mayor of San Joaquin, Chile, and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Bayanzurkh Council, Mongolia.

During a three-week period of camaraderie, ASEZ members reaffirmed the youthful fervor to lead the change in the world. Jeong Da-eun from Ewha Womans University, who visited Christchurch, New Zealand, said, “While doing ASEZ activities with local university students, I experienced solidarity transcending national borders. It’s strengthened my belief that when we raise our voices and roll up our sleeves to create a better world, we can make positive change not only on our campuses but also in communities, nations, and the world.” Ayaka Nakui from Tohoku University, who participated in a street cleanup at the Pacific Ferry Sendai Port Platform in Japan alongside Korean members, remarked, “I was astonished to see more wastes than expected on the streets I assumed would be clean. It prompted me to reflect on my lifestyle, particularly using disposable items. I myself will make efforts for a clean Earth.”

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