Identity Through Exchange: How Empathy Is Learned - Jyarland's Story

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Jyarland Daniels—a YFU (Youth For Understanding) study abroad alumna, former YFU USA board member, and founder of Harriet Speaks.Jyarland reflects on her transformative experience as a high school exchange student in Japan during the 1990s, offering a rare and powerful perspective on the long-term impact of youth exchange programs. From her early life in foster care to her arrival in Sendai, Japan, she shares how resilience, curiosity, and cultural connection shaped her journey.Through stories of overcoming language barriers, navigating identity as a Black American abroad, and building lasting bonds, Jyarland illustrates how intercultural learning fosters empathy, representation, and global peace. Her experience ultimately led to the founding of Harriet Speaks, an organization focused on dialogue, equity, and inclusion.🎧 In this episode, you’ll hear:How studying abroad can transform lives and open doorsThe unique challenges and triumphs of being a Black exchange studentWhy cultural exchange is essential for global understanding and leadershipPerfect for future exchange students, host families, educators, and advocates for diversity in international education, this episode is a moving reminder of the lifelong impact of global learning and cultural exchange.For more info on Harriet Speaks: https://harrietspeaks.com/For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/Chapters:00:00 – A Full Circle Moment01:00 – Meet Jyarland Daniels01:44 – Life Before Exchange03:10 – Why Japan?05:26 – Resilience Through Foster Care07:37 – Language Barriers and Preparation12:14 – Arrival in Sendai13:33 – Bonding with Oji-san16:06 – Reconnecting with Her Host Family20:17 – Being Chosen: Race and Representation24:03 – Harriet Speaks: The Origin Story26:03 – Race, Bias, and Empathy in Japan31:14 – Planting Seeds Through Harriet Speaks33:16 – Exchange and Criminal Defense36:08 – Advice for Future Exchange Students38:21 – Exchange as a Path to Global Peace40:32 – Representation in Exchange Programs41:45 – Sushi, Soy Sauce, and Snack Stories44:24 – Final Reflections and FarewellHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels