Summary: Carola Flor, National Director of EIL Ecuador, shared at TEDx Mitad del Mundo how cultural exchange transforms prejudice into bridges of understanding, preparing us to live in a truly global world.
Reflections from the Middle of the World
On Saturday, June 14, the auditorium of the Faculty of Education at PUCE-Quito hosted TEDx Mitad del Mundo, an event full of transformative ideas. Among the speakers, Carola Flor, National Director of EIL Ecuador, stood out with a message full of meaning and inspiration.
Born in Riobamba, Carola has dedicated her life to intercultural learning and international education. Her journey brought her to lead an organization with more than 45 years of experience in connecting cultures: EIL Ecuador
The Power of Cultural Exchange
- Fosters tolerance and empathy: getting to know others in their own reality breaks down prejudice.
- Strengthens global understanding: embracing diversity becomes part of daily life during an exchange.
These ideas reflect EIL Ecuador’s mission: to promote intercultural dialogue as the foundation for peaceful coexistence.
A Thought-Provoking Exercise
During her presentation, Carola guided the audience through an exercise: remembering a moment when a cultural assumption was proven wrong by experience.
That moment, she explained, marks a before and after. Exchange programs don’t just teach language—they teach courage to unlearn and grow.
The Path of a Leader
Carola began her journey in education in the 1990s. She has guided hundreds of young Ecuadorians and international students through experiences that transformed their lives. Today, she leads EIL Ecuador with the commitment to shaping global citizens from the heart of the country.
Her journey shows that cultural exchange is not a luxury — it’s a tool for personal and professional development.
Why This Message Matters Today?
- In a globalized world: the ability to live with difference is essential.
- Beyond travel: exchange programs build lasting human bridges.
- EIL Ecuador: offers real-life transformation through language, volunteer, and study-abroad programs.
A Story That Says It All
Mariana arrived in Ecuador from Germany with preconceived notions. But after living with a host family, joining local events, and teaching her language to children, she realized the deepest learning happens through connection—not textbooks.
Now she plans to volunteer in Guatemala through EIL: “I sparked curiosity in the children about my country, but they changed me,” she says.
Real Benefits of Being Part of EIL
- Active empathy: learning to see through someone else’s eyes.
- Self-discovery: finding who you are in new environments.
- Global skills: communication, adaptability, openness.
- International network: friendships and experiences that last a lifetime.
Final Inspiration
Carola reminds us that exchange is not just about movement—it’s about transformation. And when that shift starts at the “Middle of the World,” its ripple effect reaches far. Because breaking borders begins with breaking bias.
Ready for your own Before and After?
Would you like to experience your own cultural transformation? Explore EIL Ecuador’s programs and start a journey that will change how you see the world.