NEW YORK, NY — August 21, 2026 — Approximately 40 FASCA members, counselors, and parents from the FASCA New York and Princeton, New Jersey chapters gathered in New York City for an inspiring educational visit to the United Nations Headquarters and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York (TECO-NY). The full-day program gave young Taiwanese Americans a firsthand opportunity to explore international diplomacy, understand global issues, and learn more about Taiwan’s contributions and international challenges.

The event was jointly organized by the New York and Princeton FASCA Chapters. New York Chapter counselors David Kwang, Flora Tang, and Chialin Wang, along with Princeton Chapter counselors Tina Liu and Bright Lin, led the participants on the visit. The day began with participants gathering near the New York Public Library before walking together to the United Nations. Divided into two groups and paired with buddies, participants joined guided tours of the UN Headquarters, including the iconic General Assembly Hall and Security Council Chamber. They learned about the UN’s history and mission, as well as its work promoting peace, humanitarian assistance, international cooperation, and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

For the students, the visit was more than a sightseeing experience. Seeing how representatives from different countries and cultures work together highlighted the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and understanding in addressing global challenges such as human rights, climate change, sustainable development, peace, and security. The experience encouraged students to think about their own roles as future leaders and cultural ambassadors.

Following the UN tour, the group traveled to TECO-NY for a special briefing on Taiwan’s international situation. Lishan Chang (張麗賢), Deputy Director-General of TECO-NY, spoke with the students about Taiwan’s diplomatic challenges and resilience. She emphasized that Taiwan remains committed to contributing to the global community despite the obstacles it faces, and encouraged the next generation to take pride in Taiwan’s determination. She also urged FASCA members to participate actively in FASCA programs and activities to promote Taiwan and increase its visibility around the world.

Students also attended a briefing titled “Taiwan at a Glance,” presented by Michael Yen-Kai Chen (陳言楷), Deputy Director of the UN Task Force. He highlighted Taiwan’s democratic values, technological strengths, and humanitarian contributions, reminding students that Taiwan’s influence extends far beyond formal diplomatic recognition.

Deputy Director Shu-hui Lai (廖淑惠) of the Culture Center of TECO in New York further encouraged the students to become bridges between Taiwan and the international community. She explained that FASCA, launched by the Overseas Community Affairs Council in 2011, develops second- and third-generation Taiwanese American youth into young cultural ambassadors who can help share Taiwan’s contributions and voice with the world.

The students left the program with a stronger understanding of both global affairs and Taiwan’s unique international position. Benjamin Tu, FASCA Princeton Vice President, reflected that seeing the General Assembly in person deepened his appreciation for international dialogue and representation and reminded him that “everyone’s voice should be heard—and that should include Taiwan.”

For FASCA members, the message was clear: they want to be voices for Taiwan.

As FASCA leaders emphasized, when young people are willing to learn, participate, and speak out, Taiwan will never be invisible. Through their knowledge, service, and voices, FASCA youth can continue helping the world see Taiwan as a partner in peace, democracy, humanitarian service, and global progress.

Reported by Benjamin Tu and Connor Shih of FASCA Princeton Chapter, and Calvin Lee of FASCA New York Chapter.