Since its inception in 2017, the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) has been at the forefront of promoting Taiwan's global engagement through its "Taiwan Youth Overseas Expatriate Bridging Program." Each year, the program selects promising university and college students from Taiwan, offering them the opportunity to immerse themselves in overseas communities. So far, 665 participants have taken part in the program, which has earned widespread support and positive feedback.
In 2024, the program extended its reach to Bangkok, Brisbane, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Orange County. Over the course of a week, 59 Taiwanese students engaged in a range of activities designed to deepen their understanding of overseas compatriot affairs and foster ties with local Taiwanese communities. The program included visits to the overseas offices, compatriot associations, compatriot schools, as well as local institutions that play a key role in promoting Taiwan's presence abroad. By connecting with young compatriots and influential community leaders, participants also gained firsthand insights into the complex dynamics that shape Taiwan's global relationships. Beyond networking, the program also served as a platform for cultural diplomacy. Participants, acting as informal ambassadors, introduced audiences abroad to Taiwan's rich and diverse cultural heritage through performances and presentations.
Crucially, the initiative offers more than just an academic or cultural exchange. For many participants, it serves as a springboard into deeper involvement in overseas compatriot and diplomatic affairs. The hands-on experience allows these young leaders to return to Taiwan with a renewed sense of purpose, positioning them to contribute in meaningful ways to the nation's international outreach efforts.
