July 21 was an exciting day for 16 Japanese students who arrived in Airdrie from Shonan Gakuin Junior & Senior High School in Fujisawa.
The students' 10-day visit to Canada is made possible by Muskoka Language International (MLI), a provider of programs for young international students.
According to Ayla Tafreshi, national senior manager of student care at MLI, the company's mission is to host and educate international students, local families, and their own team.
With a focus on care, integrity, relevance, and rigour, MLI aims to create safe, supportive, and transformative experiences for all involved.
“We provide meaningful learning experiences across Canada for international students, local families, and our own team in their lifelong journeys of learning,” Tafreshi said.
MLI has been operating in Canada since 1994 and is known for offering comprehensive product opportunities for young students across the country. In Airdrie, the students will be participating in an English language learning program at Muriel Clayton Middle School and staying with local host families for 10 nights.
“Our co-founders, Mike Ruby and Bev MacWilliams, started MLI in 1994, bringing their backgrounds in education and tourism together,” Tafreshi said.
“[We are] continually striving to offer the very best experiences for international students choosing to visit Canada – staying in “small town Canada” with over 100 locations Canada-wide.”
Tafreshi emphasized the importance of great host families in creating a warm and supportive environment for international students.
Host families are expected to embrace cultural diversity, showcase Canadian culture, and support students in developing essential life skills. MLI Homestay carefully selects and evaluates potential hosting candidates, conducting interviews and home visits to ensure students' safety.
“Host families are expected to create a safe and welcoming space where students can improve their language skills, learn about new cultures, and apply their knowledge to daily life,” Tafreshi said.
“MLI host families are only eligible to host up to three students the mix of long-term and short-term students at the same time, while all individuals hosted by a family are required to be of the same gender.”
To participate in the MLI Homestay program, host families receive compensation in the form of a tax-free stipend. It's essential for both host families and students to abide by guidelines and codes of conduct to ensure a respectful and safe environment throughout the homestay experience.
“Hosts are required to sign contracts with MLI Homestay, which are renewed annually. All adult members of host families must obtain a clear criminal record check and all hosts are required to have valid home insurance,” Tafreshi said.
“MLI Homestay will maintain all the mentioned documents in the system for any further references.”
With programs throughout Alberta, MLI Homestay encourages families to apply online to become hosts and contribute to the cultural exchange experience. People interested in becoming a host family can visit mlihomestay.com/contact-us/
In the meantime, the Japanese students are set to embark on a journey of learning and discovery in their new and highly anticipated Canadian adventure.
