Host Family of the Month: The Su-Ünsal Family

For some families, the YFU journey begins with sending a child abroad. For the Su-Ünsal family, it became the beginning of something much bigger.

After entrusting YFU with her son's exchange experience in Belgium-Flanders, Esra Su discovered the impact international exchange can have, not only on the young person travelling abroad, but on everyone connected to the experience. Inspired by that journey, she decided to experience YFU from a different perspective: by becoming a host parent herself.

In the 2023–24 program year, Esra welcomed Vito from Argentina into her home, opening a new chapter in her family's YFU story.

A home that welcomes the world

Hosting Vito was only the beginning.

Over time, Esra's home in Ankara became something special within the YFU Türkiye community. Today, it serves as the final stop for YFU exchange students before they travel to Cappadocia for their re-entry orientation. Each year, students from across the country spend a night under the Su-Ünsal family's roof, sharing stories, reflecting on their exchange year, and preparing for the journey home.

For many students, it becomes one of the final memories of their time in Türkiye—a warm, welcoming space where they gather one last time before saying goodbye to the country that has become their second home.

Supporting students beyond hosting

Esra's commitment to YFU extends far beyond opening her home.

Drawing on her experience as both the parent of an exchange student and a host parent, she has also taken on the role of Area Representative, supporting other families and students throughout their own exchange journeys. Her unique perspective allows her to understand the hopes, questions, and challenges that both natural and host families experience, making her a trusted mentor within the YFU community.

The spirit of YFU in action

The Su-Ünsal family's story beautifully illustrates the lasting impact of exchange. What began with one student's journey abroad evolved into welcoming students from around the world, supporting fellow volunteers, and creating a place where countless young people have felt at home.

Their story is a reminder that the exchange experience doesn't end when a student returns home. Sometimes, it comes full circle, inspiring new opportunities, new connections, and new generations of exchange students to discover the world.

We are grateful to Esra and the entire Su-Ünsal family for their generosity, dedication, and continued commitment to creating meaningful intercultural experiences through YFU.