Humanitarianism and Citizen Diplomacy: Lessons from Youthlinc’s Journey to Cuba

In a world where international relations are often shaped by policies and politics, grassroots humanitarianism and citizen diplomacy offer a path to deeper understanding and lasting connections. At Youthlinc, we believe that authentic engagement, education, and advocacy are core to building a more peaceful world. Our recent journey to Cuba, in collaboration with Utah State University through the RootEd Global program (formerly GCL), reinforced the idea that humanitarianism is not just about service—it is about relationships, cultural exchange, and mutual growth.

The Beginning of a Transformative Journey

Our path to Cuba began in 2022 when the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) placed Robin, an entrepreneur from Cuba, with Youthlinc. Robin’s presence was enlightening, offering us a glimpse into Cuba’s history, culture, and the nuances of U.S.-Cuba relations. His stories and insights sparked a desire to experience Cuba firsthand, leading to an exploratory visit in 2023 by myself and Dr. Shannon Peterson from USU. Our journey confirmed that Cuba was an ideal location for a RootEd Global/USU site, emphasizing the role of education and advocacy in humanitarian efforts.

Citizen Diplomacy in Action

In 2024, we took two teams to Cuba—one in May and another in December. These trips were not just about travel; they were about connection. We met extraordinary individuals whose resilience, warmth, and generosity embodied the true spirit of citizen diplomacy. Through shared meals, conversations, music, and collaborative projects, we built bridges of understanding, reinforcing the belief that diplomacy is not solely the work of governments but also of everyday people.

One of the most powerful moments came on New Year’s Eve, when our team joined Cuban friends in song and celebration. The simplicity of that moment—a group of people, from different backgrounds, sharing joy—was a testament to the power of human connection. Ernesto, our Cuban coordinator, put it best: “Thank you for remembering us and putting our humanity first.”

Advocacy and Education as Tools for Change

One of the most profound lessons from our Cuba experience was the role of education and advocacy in humanitarianism. It is not enough to witness; we must act. Our participants were encouraged to use their experiences to advocate for person-centered policies, support educational initiatives, and promote inclusive legislation that uplifts underserved communities. The stories of resilience and ingenuity we encountered in Cuba served as powerful reminders of the impact small acts of advocacy can have.

Small Acts, Big Impact

Youthlinc’s journey to Cuba reaffirmed our belief that humanitarianism is built on relationships. While global politics may be complex, kindness and shared humanity transcend borders. Whether through an exchange of ideas, a moment of laughter, or a shared meal, every interaction contributes to a more compassionate world.

As we continue fostering lifetime humanitarians through RootEd Global, we remain committed to citizen diplomacy—proving that individuals, through small acts of goodwill, can create meaningful and lasting change. Our journey to Cuba was just the beginning, but the lessons learned will inspire advocacy, education, and connection for years to come.