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Eil Ireland

@eilireland

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Irish educational charity promoting intercultural learning & global citizenship.

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🌍 Could you spare less than 2 minutes to vote for EIL Intercultural learning (AFS Ireland)? 💚

We’re incredibly proud to be part of the @charitiesinstituteireland People’s Choice Award 2026 and we’d love your support!

For more than 60 years, EIL Ireland has believed in the power of intercultural learning to change lives, broaden perspectives and bring people and communities closer together.

Every year, we create opportunities for people to travel, learn, connect and grow through intercultural exchange, study abroad, scholarships, youth leadership, volunteering and global citizenship programmes.

Through our EIL / AFS Explore Scholarships, we open doors to fully funded international learning experiences, including for people who might otherwise never have the opportunity. And the impact doesn’t end when participants come home. Our Explorers take what they’ve learned and turn it into action in communities across Ireland. 🌱

We believe that in an increasingly interconnected world, understanding one another matters.

A vote for EIL intercultural Learning (AFS Ireland) is a vote for:
🌎 Intercultural understanding
💚 Inclusion and opportunity
🎓 Life-changing learning experiences
🤝 Active global citizenship
🌱 Local action inspired by global learning
🕊️ A world where different cultures can thrive together in peace and understanding

Winning the People’s Choice Award would be an incredible recognition of our participants, host families, volunteers, partners, supporters and everyone who helps make this work possible.

🗳️ And voting takes less than 2 minutes!

👉 Vote for EIL Ireland: Link in Bio

Please vote and share this post with your friends, family and networks. Every vote really does count. 💚

Travel. Learn. Change.

#EILIreland #PeoplesChoiceAward #CharityExcellenceAwards #CharitiesInstituteIreland #InterculturalLearning by @eilireland

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16 days ago

We’re finalists in two categories at the @charitiesinstituteireland's Charity Excellence Awards 2026

We’re delighted to share that EIL Intercultural Learning (EIL / AFS Ireland) has been shortlisted in two categories at this year’s CII Charity Excellence Awards:
⭐Finance Team of the Year 2026 - EIL Intercultural Learning
⭐Emerging Leader Award 2026 – Domnica Bivol

Our Finance Team of the Year nomination recognises the expertise and commitment that goes into strong financial management and governance across EIL / AFS Ireland. Good financial management might happen behind the scenes, but it provides the foundations that allow our organisation to do what we do well.

We’re also delighted to see Domnica Bivol shortlisted for the Emerging Leader Award. It’s a wonderful recognition of her contribution to EIL/ AFS Ireland, while also reflecting the importance we place on developing people, encouraging leadership and creating an environment where people can grow and bring their strengths to the organisation.

Neither achievement happens in isolation. Both are part of the bigger picture of who we are as EIL / AFS Ireland, our employees, volunteers, Board, supporters and the wider community all playing their part. For us, this is ultimately about striving to do things well, continuing to learn and improve, and making sure we have the people, culture and foundations we need to Support People, Build Communities and Change Lives.

And there’s one more category where we’d really love your support. If you believe in the work we do, we’d be very grateful if you would take a moment to vote for us in the People’s Choice Award: 🔗 Link in Bio

Please vote and share the link with others who might support us. We’re proud to be finalists, proud of our people, and very much looking forward to celebrating alongside the other organisations and individuals recognised this year.

#CIIAwards #CharityExcellenceAwards #FinanceTeamOfTheYear #EmergingLeader #PeoplesChoiceAward #BuildingCommunities #ChangingLives by @eilireland

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a month ago

🇮🇹 Spend Your Transition Year in ITALY! 🍝✨

What if your TY became 10 months living and studying in Italy?
With AFS @interculturait, you'll:

🏠 Live with a volunteer Italian host family
🏫 Attend a local secondary school
🗣️ Learn Italian through language classes and everyday immersion
🍝 Experience Italian food, traditions, festivals and family life
🌍 Meet students from around the world
🤝 Receive ongoing support from AFS Intercultura & EIL Ireland

Placements take place across Italy - from the north to the south, including Sicily and Sardinia.

🌱 Come home with greater independence, improved Italian, a second family and friendships that could last a lifetime.
🇮🇹 Italy Year Programme | TY 2027/28
📩 Contact EIL Ireland for fees, dates and applications: info@eilireland.org
Make Italy your home for a year. 🇮🇹❤️

#EILIreland #AFSItaly #TransitionYear #TYAbroad #StudyAbroadItaly #LearnItalian #StudentExchange by @eilireland

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2 hours ago

🇯🇵 Dreaming of Japan? Your adventure could start here! ✨

Applications for the EIL Explore Scholarship Awards 2027 open on 2 November! 🌏

The Japan Scholarship Awards is an opportunity to experience Japan beyond the tourist trail, immersing yourself in a new culture, developing your language skills, meeting new people and seeing the world from a completely different perspective.

At EIL, Explore is about more than travelling abroad. It’s about becoming a global citizen. 🌍💚

Being a global citizen means being curious about the world, open to different cultures and perspectives, and understanding how we are all connected. We want our Explorers to come home ready to share what they’ve learned, challenge assumptions and make a positive difference in their own communities.

⛩️ Immerse yourself in Japanese culture
🗣️ Develop your Japanese language skills
🤝 Build friendships and intercultural connections
🌱 Grow in confidence and independence
🌍 Develop your skills as a global citizen
📸 Share your experience and inspire others when you return
We’re looking for young people who are curious, open-minded and ready to step outside their comfort zone.
📅 Applications open 2 November 2026
🇯🇵 Explore Japan. See the world differently. Become a global citizen.

Keep an eye on EIL Ireland for more information on the Japan Award and how to apply.
#EILExplore #ExploreAwards #EILIreland #JapanAward #GlobalCitizen #GlobalCitizenship #InterculturalLearning #Japan #YouthTravel #ExploreJapan by @eilireland

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2 days ago

🌎📣 THE YOUTH ACTIVIST SCHOLARSHIP IS BACK FOR 2027! 🇺🇸

Are you a young person passionate about global issues, social justice, activism and making a difference? This could be your summer. ✈️

The EIL Explore Youth Activist Scholarship will send selected young people to Vermont, USA for two weeks in July 2027 to take part in the Governor’s Institute of Vermont Global Issues programme.

You'll meet other young people, explore the big issues shaping our world, develop your voice and leadership skills, and discover how you can create change in your own community. 🌍💡

EIL’s partnership with the Governor’s Institute of Vermont goes back decades, and we're so excited to bring this award back for 2027 as part of our commitment to Global Citizenship Education.
💚 Flights and programme fees are covered through the Explore Award.
📅 Applications open: 2 November 2026
⏰ Applications close: 7 December 2026
🎤 Interviews: January 2027
🇺🇸 Destination: Vermont, USA
☀️ Travel: Two weeks in July 2027
If you care about the world around you and want to learn how to turn your ideas into action, we want to hear from you.

🌎 Travel. Learn. Change.
#EILExplore #GovernorsInstitute #GIV #YouthActivistAward #GlobalCitizenship #YouthActivism #GlobalIssues #YouthLeadership #Vermont #StudyAbroad #Summer2027 #EILIreland by @eilireland

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4 days ago

⚽ NEW FOR 2027: EIL EXPLORE SPORT & GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP SCHOLARSHIP!

Love football? Ready to take your passion for the game around the world?

The EIL Explore Scholarship are introducing a new Sport & Global Citizenship Award, offering young people in Ireland the opportunity to experience football, language learning and cultural immersion in Paraguay, South America!

Through the AFS Paraguay Soccer Programme, participants will train in Asunción, learn Spanish, live with a local host family and discover Paraguayan culture.

This award particularly encourages applications from young people in disadvantaged and underrepresented communities who may not otherwise have considered an international exchange.

✨ Programme highlights:
● Football training in Asunción ⚽
● Spanish-language learning
● Living with a local host family
● Cultural immersion and global citizenship
● International friendships, teamwork and personal development
📍 Destination: Asunción, Paraguay
⏳ Duration: 4 weeks
📅 Applications open: 2 November 2026
📅 Applications close: 7 December 2026 🎤
Selections: January 2027 ✈️ Travel: Summer 2027 (July–August)

Programme availability is subject to confirmation.

One game. Different cultures. A world of possibilities! 🌍
#EILExplore #ExploreAwards2027 #SportForDevelopment #Football #GlobalCitizenship #CulturalExchange #YouthEmpowerment #Paraguay by @eilireland

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7 days ago

NEW FOR 2027: EIL EXPLORE IRISH LANGUAGE, CULTURE & BELONGING SCHOLARSHIP! ☘️

Discover Ireland through language, culture and community!

The EIL Explore Scholarship are introducing a new fully funded three-week residential Gaeltacht scholarship, offering young people in Ireland the opportunity to learn Gaeilge, experience Irish traditions and build lasting friendships.

This award particularly encourages applications from New Irish and underrepresented young people, including those who may face barriers to international travel.

Whether you're new to Ireland, learning Gaeilge or looking to strengthen your connection with Irish culture, this is your opportunity to learn, connect and belong!

✨ Programme highlights:
● Three-week residential Gaeltacht experience
● Irish-language learning and cultural immersion
● Traditional Irish music, sport and community activities
● New friendships and shared cultural experiences
● Building confidence, communication skills and a sense of belonging
🎓 Eligibility: Young people under 18
📍 Destination: Ireland's Gaeltacht regions
📅 Applications open: 2 November 2026
📅 Applications close: 7 December 2026 🎤

Selections: January 2027 ☀️ Programme dates: July-August 2027
One island. Many cultures. A shared language. A place to belong. 💚
#EILExplore #ExploreAwards2027 #Gaeltacht #Gaeilge #IrishCulture #NewIrish #CulturalExchange #Inclusion by @eilireland

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9 days ago

EIL/AFS Ireland at the European Union Youth Conference, Dublin 2026

We were delighted to have Adam Peerbux, Petra Milan and volunteer Patrick Connor represent EIL/AFS Ireland at the European Union Youth Conference, Dublin 2026, held from 27th - 30th September.

A huge thank you to @nyci.ie for the opportunity to connect with youth representatives from across Europe and colleagues from across the youth sector, exploring EU Youth Goal #4: Information and Constructive Dialogue.

We were especially proud to see members of our wider EIL/AFS Ireland community representing Ireland at the conference.

Fatima Elzahra Ismail, our 2025 Explore Scholarship Award recipient and Mexico exchange participant, was one of Ireland’s three Youth Delegates.

Sophie Lynam, our 2026 Explore Scholarship Youth Activist Award winner and Irish Youth Delegate to the USA this summer, was also representing Ireland.

We also enjoyed reconnecting with friends and partners from across our European network including a familiar face from this year’s AFS/EFIL Volunteer Summer Summit in Ireland, representing @afsdeutschland and @efilafs

We’re inspired by the passion, advocacy and leadership of young people across Europe who are helping shape the conversations and decisions that affect their generation and also proud to support many individuals in their involvement in active global citizenship.
#EUYC2026 #EUYouthConference by @eilireland

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10 days ago

🔬 NEW FOR 2027: EIL EXPLORE INTERNATIONAL STEM AWARD! 🚀
Think big. Innovate globally. Explore the future!

The EIL Explore Awards are introducing a new International STEM Award, offering young people in Ireland the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics through fully funded international learning experiences!

From robotics and innovation to scientific discovery and global problem-solving, participants will develop STEM skills, experience new cultures and connect with young people from
around the world.

We particularly encourage applications from girls, non-binary young people, DEIS school students and young people from underrepresented backgrounds who may have had limited
access to STEM opportunities.

🌏 Potential destinations for 2027:
Brazil • China • Hong Kong • Egypt • India • Paraguay

✨ Programme highlights:
● International STEM academies and hands-on learning
● Robotics, technology and innovation
● Creative thinking and problem-solving
● Intercultural learning and global citizenship
● International friendships and personal development
🎓 Eligibility: 15-18 years

📅 Applications open: 2 November 2026 📅 Applications close: 7 December 2026 🎤

Selections: January 2027 ✈️ Travel: Summer 2027 (July–August)

Destinations and programme availability are subject to confirmation.

Discover. Innovate. Explore the world! 🌍
#EILExplore #ExploreAwards2027 #STEMAward #WomenInSTEM #GirlsInSTEM #GlobalCitizenship #InternationalEducation #STEMEducation by @eilireland

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11 days ago

🌍 🇨🇭 Explore Scholarship Winner: Sarah in @afsswitzerland!

Our Explore Scholarship winner, Sarah, is currently spending three months in Switzerland, immersing herself in Swiss life, living with a host family and attending a local Swiss school. 💛

Sarah has recently been settling into her new community, meeting other AFS students and experiencing everything that comes with living and studying in another country, from new friendships and school life to discovering a different culture and way of life.

At the end of her exchange, Sarah’s journey will continue to Brussels, where she’ll take part in a three-day Peace Camp alongside AFS students from across Europe. 🇪🇺

She’ll visit key European institutions, explore global issues and learn more about peace, active citizenship and what it means to be a global citizen.

We can’t wait to follow the rest of Sarah’s Swiss adventure and hear about everything she learns along the way! ✨

#ExploreScholarship #StudyAbroad #Switzerland #AFS #GlobalCitizenship #StudentExchange by @eilireland

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14 days ago

🏉🇳🇿 NEW FOR 2027: AFS NEW ZEALAND RUGBY SEMESTER!

Take your passion for rugby to the home of the All Blacks and Black Ferns! 🌍

EIL/AFS Ireland is delighted to introduce an exciting five-month Study Abroad programme combining secondary school education, rugby training and cultural immersion in beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand!
Based in Ōamaru on New Zealand’s South Island, participants will become part of their school’s rugby team while experiencing everyday Kiwi life, making international friendships and developing their skills both on and off the pitch.

✨ Programme highlights:
🏉 Join your school’s rugby programme and experience New Zealand’s rugby culture firsthand.
🏫 Boys: Attend Waitaki Boys’ High School, with boarding accommodation during term time and a host family stay during school holidays.
🏫 Girls: Attend St Kevin’s College and live with a host family from the school and rugby community.
🌏 Experience cultural immersion, personal development and international exchange.
🌊 Discover Ōamaru, a beautiful coastal town known for its beaches, wildlife and welcoming community.

📍 Location: Ōamaru, New Zealand 🇳🇿 📅 Programme dates: 22 April - 25 September 2027 ⏳ Duration: 5 months 💶 Programme fee: €8,900 (excluding flights) 📝 Application deadline: 15 February 2027

📩 Interested in applying?
Contact our Study Abroad team at info@eilireland.org for programme information, application guidance or to arrange a call.

Your rugby journey could take you halfway around the world! 🏉✈️
#AFSNewZealand #StudyAbroad2027 #NewZealandRugby #TransitionYear #GlobalCitizenship by @eilireland

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15 days ago

🇻🇳✨ 8 weeks of volunteering, cultural immersion and unforgettable experiences in Vietnam!

Meet Michelle, one of our EIL Explore Scholarship UCC Access Award winners, who spent her summer volunteering in Hanoi through our partnership with CSDS and Volunteers for Peace Vietnam, with the support of Access UCC. 🌏❤️

From teaching English to primary school children and supporting university students with their language learning, to sharing everyday life with volunteers from around the world, Michelle’s experience was filled with opportunities to learn, connect and grow.

As a medical student and future doctor, a particularly meaningful moment was visiting Vietnam Friendship Village, where she learned about the lasting health and social consequences of Agent Orange and the rehabilitation, education and medical care provided to those affected.

The experience offered Michelle a powerful perspective on compassionate, community-based care and the kind of doctor she hopes to become. 🩺💚

And, of course, there was time to explore! From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the incredible landscapes of Ha Giang and Ha Long Bay, Michelle experienced so much of what Vietnam has to offer. 🏞️

💬 “While I went to Vietnam to teach, I found myself learning just as much from my students and the people around me.”

We’re so proud of Michelle for embracing this opportunity and returning home with new friendships, skills and perspectives that will stay with her long after her summer abroad.

A huge thank you to Access UCC, CSDS and Volunteers for Peace Vietnam for helping make this experience possible.

🇻🇳❤️ Cảm ơn Việt Nam!

#EILExplore #UCCAccess #ExploreAwards #InterculturalLearning #GlobalCitizenship by @eilireland

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17 days ago