Frequently Asked Questions:

TCOW FAQ #1:
Why is it called TCOW?

TCOW stands for Two Countries One World – this name emphasizes that building global citizens means understanding issues in Canada and our partner countries, and making choices to improve lives near and far, deepening the links between faith, justice, global issues and action.

TCOW FAQ #2:
Why do you have to travel to learn global citizenship?

We believe that to break out of our North American privilege bubble, and experience different cultures first hand offers an unparalleled opportunity to impact the lives of young people in a way that is meaningful and long lasting. Of course this is only done after appropriate education and training.

TCOW FAQ #3:
Would our global partners benefit more if we just sent money?

Through our first hand relationships with partners in the Global South, we have witnessed the importance to these partners of being seen and heard. Having global partners who hear and acknowledge their stories helps them to feel less invisible to the world. This has been empowering and affirming for our partners and we believe it can only be accomplished by an in person experience

TCOW FAQ #4:
How do we make sure it’s more than a vacation?

We are very clear in our info sessions, application process, and interviews about the ethos of TCOW and the focus on the development of global citizenship.

We never use the words “vacation” or “holiday”, and explicitly say if that is the type of experience students are seeking, TCOW is not the right fit.

TCOW FAQ #5:
What is the motivation for youth participation in TCOW?

Among the many awesome reasons we hear in interviews include: learning about another culture, getting perspective on our own privilege, hearing the stories of the oppressed, understanding the global impacts of our actions.

What TCOW is not about, is social clout.

In fact, most youth find it challenging to re-integrate at school when they return. They often come home very passionate about the issues and people they have seen and experienced, and struggle with returning to the regular life of a high school student with this heightened consciousness.

TCOW FAQ #6:
How do we ensure the experience doesn’t become about projecting our values or “fixing”?

TCOW stands for Two Countries One World: our monthly pre trip and post trip programming focuses not only on understanding the issues in our destination country, but where those same issues exist within the Canadian context. This ensures youth understand they are not going to “fix” or “save”, but rather to listen, learn, and witness.

We ensure opportunities for bilateral culture sharing giving local people the opportunity to teach us and share their own passions.

TCOW FAQ #7:
What is the role of building projects in a global citizenship program?

Hands on activities such as “building projects” are an important way to engage youth. All projects are done at the request of the community, and not by our own imposition. As much as possible we are side by side with community members, working with not for them so that in this way relationships are built through these shared hands on activities.

TCOW FAQ #8:
How do we ensure respectful cultural exchange?

In the pre-trip program, significant time is spent addressing ways of being culturally respectful, learning local customs and norms, including dress code, and etiquette.

Respectful photography is discussed that seeks consent of our partners and avoids objectification.

The advice of our in country hosts is taken in regards to the needs of the particular local community and how to best respect them.

TCOW FAQ #9:
Can teenagers really comprehend the depth of this type of experience?

Absolutely! The organizing committee never cease to be impressed with the depth of understanding and insight demonstrated by our participants, both during the program and after their return

Many of our over 150 alumnae credit TCOW with setting or affirming their academic and career direction in social justice oriented fields of ministry, international development, social work, education and more

TCOW FAQ #10:
Why do the youth present their experience in church when they return?

Participants having the support of congregations is vital to the TCOW experience. TCOW is adopted as an official outreach project of these congregations and the youth are their representatives there.

Spiritual support is just as important as financial support. We want the sponsoring congregations to care about the communities we visit and the issues they face.

Sharing with a congregation that cares about the program is essential to helping the youth process and understand their experiences. It is equally educational for congregation members to learn more about our partners in mission.

TCOW FAQ #11:
How can we best support a participant in our congregation?

Before the trip:

  • Pray for them
  • Support their fundraisers
  • Learn about the hosting country
  • Offer to lend gear, e.g. a travel backpack
  • Make a donation to TCOW through your church
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After they return:

  • Give them time to process
  • Offer to spend time really hearing about their experience, rather than a quick “how was it?”
  • Don’t expect them to know how it will impact their life right away – that takes time!

TCOW FAQ #12:
What happens after participants return?

The youth get together several times after returning from the partner country. These get-togethers help them process their experience.

Strategies are discussed for best sharing about their experience at church and with others.

Ways to integrate their new passions into local actions in our own communities are explored.

Ongoing evaluation of the program is made.

TCOW FAQ #13:
What’s next for TCOW?

We are really excited about the next step for TCOW!

The committee is in the process of developing a new facet for our program. We are seeking to bring a few youth from the community in Colombia to Canada, making the program a true, bi-lateral exchange.

If you think you could contribute to the exchange process, please contact us, we are still setting up our sub committee!