CISV Asia-Pacific Regional Workshop 2025: A Snapshot from Bangkok
In a world where connection often feels like a luxury, the Asia-Pacific Regional Workshop (APRW) 2025 held this April in Bangkok was a timely reminder that meaningful collaboration still thrives. Over six packed days, CISV volunteers from across the region came together—not just to train and learn, but to reaffirm the values that bind us: peace, empathy, and community.
For many of us, especially first-time attendees from CISV Singapore, the experience was more than a professional development checkpoint. It was an invitation to step into something larger than ourselves.
Yes, there were learning sessions—on Peace Education, Risk Management, Train-the-Trainer, Mosaic, and Step Up. Yes, we attended conferences: Brainstorming with our neighbours during the APAC conference, and listening to the youth perspectives during JASPARC sparked inspiration beyond measure. But what stood out wasn’t the agenda. It was the atmosphere.
What makes these gatherings so powerful?
To begin with, inclusivity wasn’t just a theme—it was practiced. From the first handshake to the final group photo, the workshop radiated warmth. There was no “inner circle,” no waiting period before you belonged. You just did.
Sessions were hands-on and full of fun! Learning wasn’t passive—it was lived. The Peace Education track, in particular, provided deep insights into the pedagogical roots of CISV’s mission. From conversations over coffee and shared taxi rides, we exchanged ideas with volunteers from Australia, Philippines, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, and Thailand. One thing was clear: we are not working in isolation. Our challenges are similar, and so are our Visions. The collective wisdom of the region—shared openly and generously—offered both reassurance and motivation.
So, why does this matter for CISV Singapore?
Because we came back changed. In the course of forging new friendships, we become more confident, motivated by peace, brimming with Ideas and energised by the FUN; a getaway from the hustle and bustle of our day to day lives!
The message of unity is clear. Together, we will make a difference.
Join us as volunteers in organising activities and events! Email us at info@CISV-SG.org