Cultural Activities

New York, August 11, 2023 - FUSIA Communications, the designated visa sponsor for the U.S. Department of State's Exchange Visitor Program J-1 Internship and the organizer of the "CCIP Cross-Cultural Internship Program," hosted a closing celebration event on August 11th, 2023, at Citi Field.

Over 50 interns from the Asia-Pacific region, host organizations, and community supporters came together to enjoy a day of baseball games and fireworks at Citi Field, celebrating the success of the interns and expressing gratitude for the support from the hosts and the community.

During the event at the stadium, the Spirit Award was presented to the program’s founder, Elizabeth Kay, recognizing her significant role in promoting cultural exchange between the United States and Asia and her efforts in various American communities.

Since its establishment in 2003, the Cross-Cultural Internship Program (CCIP) has provided internship opportunities to more than 1500 overseas interns. Students participating in CCIP hold J-1 internship visas supervised by FUSIA, allowing them to gain valuable internship experience in the United States. Additionally, CCIP, acting as a bridge between cultures, plays a crucial role in connecting overseas youth communities to New York.

After a three-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, this CCIP program was relaunched this year, attracting students from various Asian countries to participate. Unlike previous years, internships were not limited to New York City but expanded to other cities across the United States, such as San Francisco, Houston, and Boston. These students from Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, India, and South Korea seized the opportunity of this global internship experience, preparing themselves to become future global leaders.

Jackson, a senior mechanical engineering student from the University of Hong Kong, participated in the J-1 exchange program for the second time, interning at G C Eng & Associates, a mechanical engineering consulting firm in Manhattan. He noted that his previous experience was mainly academic, but this internship provided him the chance to apply classroom knowledge to real-world work, which he found essential before officially entering the workforce.

Velu, a student from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, also interned at G C Eng & Associates. This internship, which offers credit certification, will continue until the end of the year.

Gia, another student from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, interned at the office of New York State Assemblywoman Grace Lee. During her internship, Gia interacted with constituents, actively participated in legislative research and committee meetings, and worked under the guidance of her supervisor. She was currently conducting in-depth research on congestion pricing initiatives in the United States. Tonight, Gia watched the baseball game alongside her supervisor and had the opportunity to interact with other interns' supervisors, an experience she greatly appreciated.

Hari, a student from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, interned at Airity Technologies in Silicon Valley from July to the end of the year. He specifically came to New York to participate in this event. Hari found the internship valuable for the opportunities it provided to interact with professionals and experts, appreciating the creative thinking he learned during the internship. He also deeply understood the experience of living and working independently abroad, contributing to his personal growth. Additionally, Hari proactively visited Washington, D.C. with other FUSIA/CCIP J-1 interns using tickets provided by Congresswoman Grace Meng's office, expanding his international perspective and network. Hari obtained his internship opportunity in the United States through Nanyang Technological University's "Overseas Entrepreneurship Program" and felt honored to be among the few selected interns.

Emily, a student from the University of Macau, interned at the office of New York State Senator Toby Stavisky. She found her communication skills and confidence significantly improved through continuous interactions with colleagues. As a student specializing in human resources management, she recognized the importance of communication skills and found the internship allowed her to establish connections with constituents, listen to their opinions, and engage in community activities.

Ankish, a mechanical engineering student from York University in Canada, interned in Boston during the summer. For this event, he specially drove to New York after work to celebrate this memorable time with everyone. He mentioned that foreign students wishing to intern in the United States must apply for J-1 internship visas through organizations like FUSIA. When Ankish encountered an unusual delay in obtaining his social security number, FUSIA consistently provided assistance, which he deeply appreciated.

Rachel, Regina, and Aria, students from the University of Macau, interned at Flushing YMCA and Jamaica YMCA in New York. As freshmen without determined majors and experience, they hoped to explore various fields and were grateful for the opportunity to intern in two places simultaneously, interacting with diverse ethnic communities and learning a lot.

Jennifer from the University of Hong Kong, Kate from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Natalie from the University of Macau interned at ADMERAISA. They reported that besides technical skills growth, they also learned interpersonal communication skills and proactivity, which are hard to acquire in school.

Daphne from Hong Kong Baptist University interned at the office of Congresswoman Grace Meng. This internship experience not only deepened her understanding of the complexity of the U.S. political system but also instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility for public service.

Angelia is a freshman student at the Macau University of Science and Technology. She is interning at the office of New York State Assemblyman David Weprin. During her time there, Angelia shared, "I have learned how to address challenges faced by constituents, thereby enhancing my adaptability and communication skills." Participating in office activities has also deepened her understanding of the local multicultural environment. Through interactions with her colleagues in the office, she has gained insights into various local customs and traditions, allowing her to appreciate the differences in Western culture and broaden her horizons.

Reece from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, double majoring in economics and business, interned at the office of New York State Assemblyman Ron Kim. For Reece, the allure of the internship went beyond the title of "New York State Assemblyman." Her true passion lay in bringing positive impacts to the people she served. She was motivated through interacting with constituents, building connections, and actively contributing to social progress.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Velu, the final intern from the 2023 CCIP NYC summer-end program, bid farewell in December. At the same time, JZ, from the same school, transitioned to the winter group alongside other CCIP winter students. They organized a farewell dinner at Morton Great Neck for Velu, showcasing their solidarity and friendship. Following the dinner, they escorted Velu to the airport, symbolizing the bonds formed during their time together in the program and underscoring the strong sense of community within CCIP. At the same time, Bruce from the NYEP group arrived early to join in the New Year’s Eve celebration with JZ.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Velu took part in a Thanksgiving networking event hosted by CMP (formerly known as Chinatown Manpower Project). It was here that he met Mark Ricca, a retired CEO from community banks, and engaged in enriching discussions. Alongside fellow attendees, other guests at the event shared their experiences, contributing diverse perspectives and insights.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

In October 2023, FUSIA announced the opening of application window 1 for the CCIP NYC summer and winter internship programs. This included a series of informative talks and interviews held across Asia. Additionally, the trip continued the tradition of alumni gatherings, providing past participants, particularly in Singapore, with a platform to share their experiences.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York City is a cherished cultural event. This past weekend (August 12, 2023), it returned to Fresh Meadows, attracting thousands of spectators and athletes representing various corporations for an exhilarating race. Among the attendees, Elizabeth Kay and fellow CCIP'ers were present to share in the vibrant moments of this occasion.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

New York, August 11, 2023 - FUSIA Communications, the designated visa sponsor for the U.S. Department of State's Exchange Visitor Program J-1 Internship and the organizer of the "CCIP Cross-Cultural Internship Program," hosted a closing celebration event on August 11th, 2023, at Citi Field.

Over 50 interns from the Asia-Pacific region, host organizations, and community supporters came together to enjoy a day of baseball games and fireworks at Citi Field, celebrating the success of the interns and expressing gratitude for the support from the hosts and the community.

During the event at the stadium, the Spirit Award was presented to the program’s founder, Elizabeth Kay, recognizing her significant role in promoting cultural exchange between the United States and Asia and her efforts in various American communities.

Since its establishment in 2003, the Cross-Cultural Internship Program (CCIP) has provided internship opportunities to more than 1500 overseas interns. Students participating in CCIP hold J-1 internship visas supervised by FUSIA, allowing them to gain valuable internship experience in the United States. Additionally, CCIP, acting as a bridge between cultures, plays a crucial role in connecting overseas youth communities to New York.

After a three-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, this CCIP program was relaunched this year, attracting students from various Asian countries to participate. Unlike previous years, internships were not limited to New York City but expanded to other cities across the United States, such as San Francisco, Houston, and Boston. These students from Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, India, and South Korea seized the opportunity of this global internship experience, preparing themselves to become future global leaders.

Jackson, a senior mechanical engineering student from the University of Hong Kong, participated in the J-1 exchange program for the second time, interning at G C Eng & Associates, a mechanical engineering consulting firm in Manhattan. He noted that his previous experience was mainly academic, but this internship provided him the chance to apply classroom knowledge to real-world work, which he found essential before officially entering the workforce.

Velu, a student from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, also interned at G C Eng & Associates. This internship, which offers credit certification, will continue until the end of the year.

Gia, another student from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, interned at the office of New York State Assemblywoman Grace Lee. During her internship, Gia interacted with constituents, actively participated in legislative research and committee meetings, and worked under the guidance of her supervisor. She was currently conducting in-depth research on congestion pricing initiatives in the United States. Tonight, Gia watched the baseball game alongside her supervisor and had the opportunity to interact with other interns' supervisors, an experience she greatly appreciated.

Hari, a student from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, interned at Airity Technologies in Silicon Valley from July to the end of the year. He specifically came to New York to participate in this event. Hari found the internship valuable for the opportunities it provided to interact with professionals and experts, appreciating the creative thinking he learned during the internship. He also deeply understood the experience of living and working independently abroad, contributing to his personal growth. Additionally, Hari proactively visited Washington, D.C. with other FUSIA/CCIP J-1 interns using tickets provided by Congresswoman Grace Meng's office, expanding his international perspective and network. Hari obtained his internship opportunity in the United States through Nanyang Technological University's "Overseas Entrepreneurship Program" and felt honored to be among the few selected interns.

Emily, a student from the University of Macau, interned at the office of New York State Senator Toby Stavisky. She found her communication skills and confidence significantly improved through continuous interactions with colleagues. As a student specializing in human resources management, she recognized the importance of communication skills and found the internship allowed her to establish connections with constituents, listen to their opinions, and engage in community activities.

Ankish, a mechanical engineering student from York University in Canada, interned in Boston during the summer. For this event, he specially drove to New York after work to celebrate this memorable time with everyone. He mentioned that foreign students wishing to intern in the United States must apply for J-1 internship visas through organizations like FUSIA. When Ankish encountered an unusual delay in obtaining his social security number, FUSIA consistently provided assistance, which he deeply appreciated.

Rachel, Regina, and Aria, students from the University of Macau, interned at Flushing YMCA and Jamaica YMCA in New York. As freshmen without determined majors and experience, they hoped to explore various fields and were grateful for the opportunity to intern in two places simultaneously, interacting with diverse ethnic communities and learning a lot.

Jennifer from the University of Hong Kong, Kate from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Natalie from the University of Macau interned at ADMERAISA. They reported that besides technical skills growth, they also learned interpersonal communication skills and proactivity, which are hard to acquire in school.

Daphne from Hong Kong Baptist University interned at the office of Congresswoman Grace Meng. This internship experience not only deepened her understanding of the complexity of the U.S. political system but also instilled in her a profound sense of responsibility for public service.

Angelia is a freshman student at the Macau University of Science and Technology. She is interning at the office of New York State Assemblyman David Weprin. During her time there, Angelia shared, "I have learned how to address challenges faced by constituents, thereby enhancing my adaptability and communication skills." Participating in office activities has also deepened her understanding of the local multicultural environment. Through interactions with her colleagues in the office, she has gained insights into various local customs and traditions, allowing her to appreciate the differences in Western culture and broaden her horizons.

Reece from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, double majoring in economics and business, interned at the office of New York State Assemblyman Ron Kim. For Reece, the allure of the internship went beyond the title of "New York State Assemblyman." Her true passion lay in bringing positive impacts to the people she served. She was motivated through interacting with constituents, building connections, and actively contributing to social progress.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Participants had the opportunity to explore the 9/11 Memorial Museum. The participants were reminded of a pivotal moment in history that profoundly shaped the nation. Walking through the exhibits, they gained firsthand insights into the tragic events of September 11, 2001 and their enduring impact.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

The participants of CCIP united in a spirit of camaraderie as they embarked on an unforgettable adventure to visit the iconic Statue of Liberty. The event marked a remarkable cultural exchange experience, where individuals from diverse backgrounds shared their stories and celebrated unity through understanding. The Statue of Liberty, standing tall and proud on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, has long been a beacon of hope and inspiration for people worldwide. For the CCIP participants, the visit offered a unique opportunity to witness firsthand this architectural marvel and learn about the historical significance it holds for the United States and the world.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

The Flushing and Jamaica YMCA interns gathered for dinner with their supervisors and the founder of FUSIA, Elizabeth Kay. The casual dinner provided an opportunity for the interns to deepen connections with their managers outside of the workplace. Over burgers and fries, the group engaged in meaningful conversations about careers in the nonprofit sector. Supervisors shared valuable insights from their own professional journeys and offered encouragement to the aspiring young professionals.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Our participants gained an insider's view of community revitalization through an illuminating visit to the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation (GJDC).

This nonprofit gave an immersive tour of their coworking office, providing firsthand insights into their initiatives uplifting Jamaica, Queens. From attracting investment to affordable housing, the participants saw GJDC's holistic approach to sustainable growth.

The day concluded with an engaging afterparty, where participants networked with individuals involved in this impactful grassroots effort.

Through this experience, our visitors learned how dedicated organizations empower neighborhoods. They left inspired by this behind-the-scenes look at community development in action.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Step into America's captivating landscapes and heritage! Our participants visited the Department of the Interior for an immersive look at the nation's natural and cultural treasures.

Through interactive displays and exhibits, they explored national parks, wildlife refuges, and the rich history of Native American peoples. This provided profound insights into the Department's vital mission and initiatives preserving these national gems for generations to come.

The experience brought to life the breathtaking diversity of America's natural beauty and cultural assets under the Department's care. Our participants gained a meaningful understanding of the efforts to protect this inspiring national endowment.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Prepare to embark on a journey into the beating heart of American democracy! Our participants visited the illuminating US Capitol Visitor Center, a must-see Washington DC destination.

This expansive complex offers a wealth of insights into the workings of Congress through exhibits and interactive displays. From the intricacies of lawmaking to the grand art and architecture of the Capitol, the center brings to life the people, processes, and stories that shape national governance.

The experience continued with a guided tour of the majestic Capitol building itself. There, the visitors connected with history upon seeing the iconic Apotheosis of Washington fresco gracing the Rotunda.

From legislative lessons to architectural grandeur, this tour uncovered the essence of American democracy. Our participants gained invaluable perspective on the ideals and institutions at the foundation of this nation.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Prepare for an awe-inspiring voyage into the wonders of human flight! Our participants visited the National Air and Space Museum, where over 60,000 aviation artifacts await.

This famed collection includes the pioneering Wright Flyer that first took to the skies, Charles Lindbergh's trailblazing Spirit of St. Louis, and the storied Discovery space shuttle.

As they explored the museum's vast exhibits, the visitors were transported through time and space. They walked on the wings of history's most groundbreaking aircraft and stood under mighty rockets that propelled astronauts into the cosmos.

From the earliest airplanes to vessels that traveled to the stars, this unmatched aviation treasure trove offered an unforgettable experience. The National Air and Space Museum brought the past, present and future of flight to life in one soaring journey.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Aithent, a frontier in information technology innovation offered our participants a tour of their office. Led by Senior Vice President Alistar Yu, this session gave the participants a unique opportunity to explore the latest innovations and technological advancements in the IT industry. With Mr. Yu's decades of expertise, the exchange visitors delved into the transformative power of technology, gaining valuable insights into its potential to revolutionize various sectors.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

In an exclusive event, participants had the privilege of an illuminating discussion with esteemed CEO Mark Ricca. Hosted in the heart of the city, this special talk offered a unique opportunity to engage with one of the industry's most respected leaders.

Through thoughtful dialogue, the participants gained insider knowledge and motivational insights directly from Mr. Ricca. He shared his experienced perspective on entrepreneurship, leadership, and global business trends.

The participants left this impactful session brimming with inspiration. After gaining firsthand wisdom from an executive at the pinnacle of success, they felt emboldened to pursue their own ambitious goals. This exclusive access to a top business mind was an invaluable experience that deepened their understanding of visionary leadership.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Kicking off our participants' two-week adventure in New York City were representatives from Community Board 7 (CB7) and founder of FUSIA, Elizabeth Kay. As New York City's largest community board, CB7 is known for its diverse industry representation.

The participants received an overview of the exciting upcoming visits and agenda. This was followed by an insightful presentation on CB7 itself - its history, district, and key topics of local interest.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Reece, the enthusiastic CCIP intern, had the pleasure of attending The American Ballet Theatre's rendition of Swan Lake during her time in the United States. The performance was a beautiful showcase of American flair and boundless enthusiasm, leaving Rachel thoroughly captivated and delighted by the experience along with two other CCIP collegues.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Yesterday (July 10, 2023), participants of the 2023 CCIP Summer Internship in NYC started their exciting internship journey. Three talented students from Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) chose to intern at Flushing YMCA in Queens. They received a warm welcome from Executive Director Tiffany Dunbar, who gave them a comprehensive facility tour and introduced them to the dedicated staff.

Aria, one of the interns from MUST, expressed her enthusiasm for the internship opportunity, highlighting the chance to explore different aspects of the organization and apply their specialized knowledge in practical ways.

Regina, another intern, shared her optimism about the experience, emphasizing the diverse positions available at YMCA that enrich their learning and assist in making informed decisions about their future career paths.

Rachael, the third intern, conveyed her thrill at having the opportunity to delve into the inner workings of YMCA while collaborating with friends from different countries. She recognized it as a remarkable chance to deeply understand community service in the dynamic city of New York.

YMCA, a global organization promoting youth development and social responsibility, plays a vital role in communities worldwide. The Flushing YMCA caters specifically to the Asian American population, offering inclusive programs.

FUSIA, as the designated sponsor of the Department of State's Exchange Visitor Program, provides fully placed internships through their flagship program, CCIP Summer in NYC. Applications for the 2023 winter or 2024 summer CCIP can be submitted at www.fusia.net/apply, beginning in late August 2023.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

On Sunday, July 9, interns from various universities in Asia gathered at the Flushing YMCA for a post-arrival orientation hosted by FUSIA. FUSIA is a designated sponsor of the US Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program. During the orientation, participants introduced themselves and received last-minute updates, safety tips, and information about upcoming activities from FUSIA representatives.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Reece explored the bustling streets of New York City when she came across an intriguing antique store and museum along Lexington Avenue. The museum's focus on European history offered Rachel a unique opportunity to delve into the past of a continent she had long been fascinated by. The artifacts ranged from ancient to more recent times, each providing a glimpse into the lives and civilizations of bygone eras.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Gia and Reece (CCIP NYC participants) as well as Xin Kai, Derreck, and Pranav (FUSIA self-placed interns) are all from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, interning in the US with their J-1 internship program sponsored by FUSIA. They joined together in NYC and visited the iconic neighborhood of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), which offers a magnificent view of the arches of the Manhattan Bridge, located on the Brooklyn side of New York City.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

Reece embarked on a memorable excursion to Half Moon Bay Coastal Train in San Francisco, which proved to be an eye-opening experience. This scenic train journey took her along the stunning West Coast of the United States, offering a stark contrast to the fast-paced culture she was accustomed to on the East Coast.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

In February 2023, RO returned to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Macau to hold CCIP informational talks and conduct interviews with interested universities for the CCIP Internship in NYC program. Many alumni attended these events and shared their positive experiences with potential new participants.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications

In January 2023, the RO and ARO traveled to Hong Kong to prepare for the launch of the CCIP Internship in NYC program. They met with various universities to gauge interest in the summer program and also gathered feedback from past interns about their positive experiences and the benefits they gained from the program. Using this information, FUSIA is now preparing to launch the CCIP Internship in NYC program in 2023.

Copyright (c) 2024 | All rights reserved | FUSIA Communications