Appoquinimink High School’s Best Buddies chapter was selected to participate in the inaugural 2025–2026 Best Buddies Cultural Exchange Program, an exciting opportunity that is already expanding horizons for its members.

Through this program, the chapter was paired with Best Buddies Philippines, allowing students to connect with peers across the globe and learn about each other’s cultures, schools, and daily lives. What began as a simple introduction has quickly grown into a meaningful international friendship.

The two chapters began communicating in November and have already launched several shared activities. “Our goal is to complete one shared activity every few months, culminating in at least one Zoom meeting by the spring which will happen this Saturday!” shared Dr. Mirto, advisor of the Appoquinimink Best Buddies chapter.

Despite a significant time difference, both groups have worked collaboratively to coordinate thoughtful and engaging interactions. Their first exchange activity involved writing postcards to one another. Best Buddies Philippines sent their postcards at the end of November, and Appoquinimink members responded during their Best Buddies holiday party. The anticipation built as students eagerly awaited their mail, and the excitement was evident as they read about life in the Philippines and their peers’ school experiences.

In February, the partnership continued with a creative food exchange. Members recorded themselves trying snacks from each other’s countries and shared the videos bringing laughter, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for cultural differences and similarities.

With additional activities planned throughout the year, the chapter is looking forward to continuing this partnership and documenting their journey as the cultural exchange unfolds. The upcoming Zoom call marks an especially meaningful milestone, offering students the chance to connect face-to-face for the first time.

Pictured: Members of Best Buddies Philippines writing postcards to Appoquinimink High School, alongside Appo students creating their own messages in return.