An interview with one of our new Regional Ambassadors

The Regional Ambassador Program is now in its second year. Ambassadors are WYSE alumni who volunteer their time to represent WYSE in their local areas, recruit new participants and spread the word about WYSE. In this article, Amanda Harry, Regional Ambassador Program Coordinator, interviews one of our new Ambassadors Marina Triner from Israel.

Amanda: Hi Marina! We are really pleased to have you on board as our newest WYSE Regional Ambassador! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Marina: I am extremely excited to be on board! I am currently living in Jerusalem, am originally from Ukraine, but grew up both in Israel and San Diego, California. I am finishing a Masters in Political Science and Gender Studies, and am working with Arabs and Israelis on the human level to bridge the broken community around me.

Amanda: People hear about WYSE in many different ways, how did you hear about WYSE?

Marina: Like many participants, I heard about WYSE through a friend who participated a few years back. Her energy while speaking about the program convinced me, without knowing much information, that I must apply.

Amanda: Many people dont know what to expect from the WYSE ILP program, what were your first impressions?

Marina: At first, I was a bit intimidated by all the new faces around me. Although the staff were extremely welcoming, I can honestly say I didn't know what to expect. But the best part was my attitude I think - I was very ready to give my all for the experience, and that's why it was so incredible.

Amanda: So, you survived 12 days in the stunning Villa Boccella with 28 of your peers, what was the best part?

Marina: I don't think survival is the right word. Wow - it was really incredible! When I wrote about my experience, reflecting on it after the 12 days, what came up the most was the amazing and incredibly inspiring individuals who surrounded me. I have to say each and every one of them gave me a bit of that puzzle which was to become the WYSE experience. I carry each of them around with me in one way or another.

Amanda: And now that you are back home, why have you chosen to become a WYSE Regional Ambassador?

Marina: WYSE is a gift - a precious and beautiful gift. I think there are so many incredible people in my region that deserve to have this experience, the belief and support of the staff and other participants can empower so many individuals to do incredible things and to positively change their lives. I was given this gift, and I think I must pass it on to others.

Amanda: Thank you for this interview. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Marina: WYSE supported me to attend as have the Jacobs family from San Diego, who I have worked with for several years. They made my trip possible and I would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart for this gift they have given me. I hope it is a gift that keeps giving both in my life and the lives of others through my role as a WYSE Regional Ambassador.

Amanda: We look forward to hearing more from you in the future! 

Special thanks and a warm welcome to all ILP participants who have registered to become Ambassadors for WYSE!!