For nearly four decades, 4‑H Manitoba and Manitoba Agriculture have partnered with the York‑Benimaru Foundation to deliver an international homestay program that brings Japanese youth into Manitoban homes. Now entering its 39th year, the program continues to connect cultures, build leadership skills, and create relationships that last well beyond the visit itself.
Each year, Japanese students travel to Manitoba to live with local 4‑H families, experiencing daily life, rural communities, and Canadian culture firsthand. In return, host families gain a meaningful opportunity to share their way of life while learning about another culture.
“The York‑Benimaru exchange is about more than a visit — it’s about building understanding, leadership, and lifelong connections across cultures.” — Shannon Carvey – Executive Director, Brandon 4‑H Office
This year, 4‑H Manitoba is seeking host families for: • Four female students • Five male students
Hosting is open to families within the 4‑H Manitoba community and offers a hands‑on cultural exchange experience. Students typically take part in family routines, community events, and 4‑H activities, creating connections that often extend long after the program ends. Many host families stay in touch for years, with some visiting Japan, welcoming students back as adults, or building friendships across generations.
“Hosting often becomes a shared family experience that leaves a lasting impression on everyone involved.”— Shannon Carvey – Executive Director, Brandon 4‑H Office
What hosting looks like
Host families provide a welcoming home and include students in everyday activities — from meals and chores to community events and 4‑H programming. Program organizers support hosts throughout the stay to ensure expectations are clear and families feel prepared. Host families don’t necessary need to be 4H families.
“Families don’t need to be experts in another culture — curiosity, openness, and a willingness to share daily life are what matter most.” — Shannon Carvey – Executive Director, Brandon 4‑H Office
Building leadership through exchange
Hosting also plays an important role in leadership development for Manitoba 4‑H members. Youth interested in participating in the reciprocal exchange program to Japan, offered every two years, must first host a Japanese student for a minimum of two weeks.
How to get involved
Families who are curious but unsure are encouraged to reach out. Program organizers can connect prospective hosts with past participants to hear directly about their experiences and answer questions about timelines, expectations, and supports.
“We walk families through every step, from matching to arrival, so no one feels they’re doing this alone.” — Shannon Carvey – Executive Director, Brandon 4‑H Office
Anyone interested in hosting — or seeking more information — can contact Manitoba 4‑H Council Inc. Program Coordinator Linda McRae‑Walker at lmcrae-walker@4h.mb.ca or by calling 204‑726‑1914. Further details on Manitoba 4-H are available on their website here.
Why host families matter
Host families are the heart of 4‑H Manitoba’s international exchange program. By welcoming students into their homes, families provide an authentic Manitoba experience while building cross‑cultural understanding. Hosting also helps develop leadership, confidence, and global awareness among Manitoba 4‑H youth.
