Celebrating Global Unity at CAEP Fest 2024

A Weekend of Unity and Celebration

As the vibrant echoes of CAEP Fest 2024 fade, we reflect on an unforgettable weekend that again underscored the magic of cultural exchange and the profound impact of global connections. Held from July 19-21 in the charming town of Ashby, MN, CAEP Fest 2024 was more than just a festival; it was a heartfelt celebration of international camaraderie.

CAEP Fest 2024 was seamlessly intertwined with the Ashby Appreciation Days, amplifying the spirit of local pride and global unity. This annual festival, organized by CAEP brought together international J1 interns and trainees from diverse corners of the globe, allowing them to connect, learn, and grow with fellow exchange visitors and local community members.

This year’s festival celebrated cultures and showcased CAEP’s mission to bridge divides through agriculture. Over the years, more than 25,000 young adults from more than 100 countries have participated in CAEP’s programs. CAEP Fest 2024 continued this proud tradition by offering participants a weekend filled with networking opportunities, cultural exchange, and engaging activities.

The weekend was brimming with activities to celebrate cultural diversity and foster friendships. Participants enjoyed various experiences, from lively dances and delicious international cuisines to serene moments by the lake and an energetic parade. Beyond the fun and festivities, the shared experiences and new friendships truly made CAEP Fest special. Exchange visitors came as strangers and left as lifelong friends.

One of the most exhilarating moments was the parade, where CAEP exchange visitors proudly waved their national flags, showcasing their heritage to an enthusiastic local crowd. The parade was a vibrant display of cultural pride and unity, reflecting the event’s core mission of celebrating global diversity through agriculture.

As we celebrate the success of CAEP Fest 2024, we also look forward to an exciting new chapter for CAEP. Starting September 1, CAEP will relocate its international headquarters from Fergus Falls to Battle Lake, MN. This move marks a new beginning and reflects CAEP’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its programs and expanding its global reach.

Madison Yaggie Schuler, CAEP’s Marketing Director, expressed her enthusiasm for CAEP Fest, stating, “We are thrilled to host CAEP Fest 2024 to continue the tradition of bringing together diverse cultures through agriculture. This event is a testament to the power of global unity and the positive impact of cultural exchange programs. We are proud to collaborate with farmers and various agricultural operations across the United States to foster global agricultural education and promote U.S. public diplomacy efforts through people-to-people exchanges.”

As we reflect on the incredible moments from CAEP Fest 2024, we are reminded of the profound impact of cultural exchange and the importance of coming together to celebrate our shared humanity. Here’s to many more years of fostering global connections and celebrating the richness of our diverse world. Until next year!

CAEP

International Training Program Opportunities for Students and Professionals A CAEP international training program gives you the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while learning a new culture in another part of the world! Whether you are seeking vocational training to enhance your existing skills, or you wish to prepare yourself for a job in agriculture, horticulture, enology, equine or western equine, CAEP has a wide variety of international training programs sure to match your needs. Choose from opportunities in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Italy, and more! Young people around the world are talking about how international training programs are life-changing. Filled with travel and adventure, new knowledge and lifelong friends, international training programs offer real, hands-on experiences that are validated for universities and future employers. Don’t wait! Register today to get started on your experience of a lifetime!