Fellowship across borders
Friendship has always been at the heart of Y’s Men International. The November edition of YMI World explores how those friendships grow through shared experiences, cultural exchange and opportunities to connect across borders.
November is Building Fellowship (BF) Emphasis Month, highlighting a programme that has brought club members together internationally since 1931. From Ambassador exchanges and Convention participation to youth development and leadership opportunities, BF helps strengthen the personal connections that sustain our worldwide movement.
This edition explains how the programme works, introduces recent BF Ambassadors and invites clubs to offer hosting opportunities for 2027/28. It also draws attention to declining BF contributions and the importance of continued financial support to ensure these opportunities remain available to future participants.
International President Johan Vilhelm Eltvik shares encouraging examples of Blue Music in action, with clubs in India, Japan and the United States finding creative ways to bring people together. These experiences show how fresh approaches to fellowship can inspire others across our international network.
Elsewhere in this edition:
- Discover the opportunities available through Internships 4 Global Outreach (iGo), connecting young adults with international YMCA experiences.
- Celebrate 100 years of service and fellowship in Hawaii, a remarkable milestone for the Region.
- Welcome two newly chartered clubs in Moldova, extending YMI’s presence and opportunities for service.
- Read about community projects across our Areas, including 300 consecutive weeks of food sharing in Coonoor, India, and environmental action in Kenya.
- See how clubs are addressing loneliness and social isolation through companionship and community activities.
- Learn about new opportunities for YMCA–YMI cooperation, including outreach at the YMCA General Assembly in the United States.
Applications to host a Building Fellowship Ambassador in 2027/28 close on 1 December 2026. Apply now
As November reminds us, international fellowship begins with the willingness to reach out, welcome others and share experiences. Every connection offers an opportunity to strengthen the friendships that unite our movement.
Contributions for the December edition of YMI World, focusing on Christian Emphasis and International Brother Clubs, are due by 15 November 2026.
Let’s keep writing this story, together.