International Speakers Bureau
The International Speakers Bureau provides a unique opportunity for members of the international community to share aspects of their cultures with local schools and civic groups. Each year, the program fills many requests from schools and community organizations for visits from international speakers. Speakers make presentations on their countries, participate in panel discussions on international issues, and demonstrate traditional crafts, cuisine, music or dance.
By becoming an International Speaker, speakers will have the opportunity to dispel some of the myths Americans may hold about the speaker's country, and to help them understand and respect differing traditions, perspectives, and values. Speakers will in turn gain valuable insights into the American educational system, and the richness and diversity of the local community. The goal of the program is to promote intercultural communication through personal interaction.
To become a speaker or to request a speaker, contact the IC at intlctr@virginia.edu or 434-924-7983.
Comments from Speakers
“I realized the vital importance of meeting people from various places. You start seeing a pattern, and only then can you understand people from different countries.”
“I am very glad to participate in events like these because I think it is helpful for the integration of individuals from different cultural backgrounds.”
“I was very happy to have the opportunity to talk about my country to American students. I have the impression that American students know very little about other countries, and it is very good to contribute a little to change that.”
Suggested Presentations Topics
- a typical day in the life of a child from the country
- religion, cultural history, the role of women
- a language lesson
- holidays and festivals
- environmental and conservation issues
- ritual dress, popular music and dance
- geography, educational systems, government
- teenage life, dating, marriage customs
