Helga’s Story: Sharing Leuven’s Spirit
Helga, a self-employed deep democracy instructor, has lived in Leuven since her student days. Originally from Limburg, she moved to Leuven for her studies, and the city quickly became home. Helga’s international experiences began early when, at 17, she spent a year as an exchange student in the United States. Later, she studied in Japan and worked for AFS Intercultural Programs, where she led various international projects. These experiences ignited her passion for intercultural exchange, making her a perfect fit for the Ambassador Program.
For Helga, the program offered an opportunity to give back and share her love of Leuven with newcomers. “You don’t have to travel to meet international people,” Helga explains. “Thanks to the Ambassador Program, you can do that right here in Leuven. It’s a chance to see the city through new eyes.” Helga relishes the opportunity to show newcomers a different side of her hometown, seeing it through the fresh perspectives of people like Meggan.
One of the program’s greatest values for Helga is the chance to form genuine connections. Helga believes the program fosters more than just casual encounters—it opens doors to lasting friendships.
Meggan’s Story: Discovering Leuven with Local Insight
For Meggan, who moved from Austin, Texas to Leuven in early 2024, joining the Ambassador Program was a key step in integrating into her new life abroad. Her husband’s work brought them to Leuven, a move they had hoped for, as Meggan and her family had long desired to live abroad. Unlike some expats who gravitate toward larger cities like Brussels, Meggan was eager to experience life in a smaller, culturally rich town like Leuven.
“I didn’t want to just live in another big city and surround myself with other Americans,” Meggan shares. “We wanted to really experience the culture here.” The Ambassador Program offered her the perfect opportunity to do just that.
Meeting Helga was an immediate highlight for Meggan. The two bonded over their shared curiosity and love of art, often exchanging thoughts on local exhibitions and the history of Leuven. Helga’s deep knowledge of the city provided Meggan with an insider’s view that extended far beyond tourist attractions. “Helga has taken me on walks, explaining how different events have shaped Leuven. It’s given me an insight I couldn’t have gotten on my own,” says Meggan.
For Meggan, the program has been more than just a practical way to learn about her new home. It’s been an enriching experience that has deepened her understanding of Leuven’s culture and history.
A Bond that Goes Beyond the Program
One of the most remarkable aspects of Meggan and Helga’s connection is how quickly their relationship blossomed into friendship. Despite starting as strangers, they soon discovered common ground through shared interests and family dynamics. Both Helga and Meggan have sons and enjoy discussing art, family life, and the day-to-day happenings that shape their lives.
Reflecting on their bond, Helga notes, “Initially, we are strangers to one another. It is remarkable that we can be so receptive to one another.”
That’s what makes this program so special—it brings people together in ways you don’t expect
The IHL Ambassador Program: Building Community and Lasting Friendships
The friendship between Helga and Meggan is just one example of the meaningful connections forged through the IHL Ambassador Program. At its core, the program is about building bridges—between locals and internationals, between cultures, and between experiences. By offering newcomers a local perspective and giving hosts the chance to see their city through fresh eyes, the program creates a dynamic, inclusive community where friendships thrive.
As Helga aptly puts it, “Without the program, I wouldn’t have come into contact with all these incredible people and cultures.” Meggan echoes this sentiment, emphasizing how grateful she is for the opportunity to not only learn about Leuven but to form lasting connections.
For anyone looking to broaden their horizons, whether as a newcomer or a local host, the IHL Ambassador Program offers an invaluable opportunity. It’s a chance to explore new cultures, gain unique perspectives, and create friendships that last a lifetime. As Meggan and Helga’s story shows, these connections go beyond a simple introduction—they form the foundation for a richer, more connected community.
If you're interested in joining this vibrant program, whether as an ambassador or as a newcomer, International House Leuven welcomes you to be a part of something truly special.