The next generation of cultural exchange
Fostering cultural understanding and education through the creation of innovative exchange programs for the next generation
An Interfaith Eid and Shabbat
Nexchange partnered with One Table to bring together Americans celebrating Shabbat and Eid. We served Turkish-Sephardic dishes from Chef Sibel Pinto's Action Kashkarikas initiative. Our joint Shabbat and Eid meal included Turkish dishes from Malatya, Diyarbakır, Gaziantep and Hatay, cities impacted by the recent earthquakes. Our guest speaker Arzu Bulduk discussed in earthquake relief efforts.
Stay Tuned!
Nexchange is excited to announce the launch of new in-person and online exchange programs. Keep an eye out for updates!
Wood Block Printing Workshop
Nexchange hosted a wood block printing workshop for children in Los Angeles honoring this ancient fabric printing technique. We pressed wood blocks with traditional kilim motifs carved out of linden tree on linen using fabric paint.
Celebrating Three Holidays
Nexchange hosted community members to celebrate three holidays. This year Shabbat of Passover week, Ramadan and Good Friday fell on the same day.
Our Mission
Nexchange promotes cross-cultural understanding, appreciation and mutual respect through immersive cultural exchanges and experiential learning. We aspire to challenge misconceptions and hate by bridging cultural gaps and breaking down the fear of the unknown.
Our Vision
Uniting communities and promoting cultural understanding through psychologically informed engagements, we create opportunities for the next generation to deepen their appreciation of cultural diversity. Our cultural and educational exchange programs foster bridges between cultures and educate future leaders about the importance of cultural awareness.
Our Philosophy
Nexchange is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding and engagement through educational and intercultural exchanges. Utilizing elements of culture such as culinary heritage, literature, ethnic art, and music, we aim to create meaningful connections between people and build trust between communities. With a focus on people-to-people exchanges and a psychological approach, our initiatives aim to foster authentic relationships and promote empathy among diverse communities.
Upcoming Projects
Webinar Series On Communication and Peace
Letters From Neighbors
This educational series equips students with the necessary skills to effectively use communication in the pursuit of grassroots peacebuilding and intercultural understanding. By providing students with these tools, the series helps to foster a more peaceful and culturally connected world.
Letters From Neighbors is a digital initiative that showcases the daily lives and religious practices of Jewish and Muslim citizens. With a focus on connecting these diverse communities during the religious holidays of Ramadan and Passover, the campaign aims to foster understanding and promote unity between Jews and Muslims.
Breakfast Conversation Series
A Taste Of The Levant
This quarterly breakfast series is designed to facilitate meaningful discussions on contemporary civic and political issues, featuring guest speakers who bring their expertise to the table. By fostering open and respectful conversation and idea exchange, the series aims to promote understanding and encourage the free flow of ideas among its participants.
A Taste Of The Levant is a multimedia oral history initiative that explores the culinary heritage and memories of American families from the Levant region. With a focus on the unique recipes of Iraq, Syria, Israel, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan, the project traces the migration journeys and personal stories of these families as they settled in their new home. Join us as we savor the flavors of the Levant and uncover the rich cultural heritage of these communities
Hamsa On Canvas: Block Printing Workshop
A hamsa, also known as the Hand of Fatima or Hand of Miriam, is a symbol that represents protection and good fortune in many cultures and religions, particularly in Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. The hamsa is often used in Jewish art, jewelry, and home decor, and is commonly found on mezuzahs (decorative cases that hold a scroll with a prayer), ketubahs (Jewish wedding contracts), and other ritual items. The Hand of Fatima is often used in Islamic art and can be found on jewelry, textiles, and other decorative items. It is also used in Islamic architecture, such as on doorways and domes, as a protective symbol. Experience the cultural significance of hamsa by joining us in printing a beautiful hamsa design on fabric.
Roots: Food, Memory and Longing
Tales Of Yogurt
Roots: Food, Memory and Longing is a multimedia initiative that delves into the Armenian heritage of Los Angeles through the lens of food. As one of the largest Armenian diaspora communities in the world, Los Angeles Armenians are descendants of refugees who have brought their cultural traditions with them. This project examines themes of memory, loss, longing, and belonging as it explores the rich cultural heritage of the Armenian diaspora in Los Angeles.
Tales of Yogurt is a multimedia journey that examines the rich cultural heritage of migrant communities through the lens of a beloved delicacy - yogurt. With a history that spans over 5000 years, yogurt has become an integral part of the diets of many cultures across the world. From sharing recipes to telling family stories, this project explores the diverse ways yogurt is consumed and celebrates the cultural traditions of communities across cultures and continents.
Our partners
Bridging Cultural Gaps One Step At A Time
Nexchanger Research Grant
This initiative empowers the global youth community to promote cultural understanding and diversity, raising awareness on these important issues. By funding research and cultural exchange projects, it provides the tools needed to construct bridges and enhance the appreciation of multiculturalism on a global scale.
