My journey to South Korea will forever change my mindset and inspire me to leave my comfort zone …

Traveling to Seoul, South Korea, represents a new chapter. It’s a chance to learn about a culture completely different from my own, to study Korean, and connect deeply with locals, classmates, and my host family. As a young black man, I’m aware of the challenges I might face abroad, but I see them as opportunities to build courage, understanding, and awareness across cultures.

Coming from a Haitian household, culture and love—especially of food and family— are big. Yet my lack of cultural appreciation dulled these experiences. I believe that my experience in South Korea will in turn help me to appreciate my Haitian upbringing. I intend to value Korean culture to celebrate my own even more; while also sharing my culture with the locals. This trip isn’t just about travel. It’s about transformation. Comfort zones have held me back long enough. I refuse to live in fear—God gave me life to grow, challenge limits, and live boldly.

Growing up, my comfort zone was my haven—a place where everything felt warm and secure. But over time, I realized it also held me back. I often ran from challenges instead of facing them, watching others succeed while I stayed in the same place. The pain of regret taught me that comfort can sometimes be the enemy of progress.

My name is Malik Jean-Baptiste. I am passionate about reading manhwa and binging K-Dramas. This year, the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) has given me a partial scholarship to participate in their “Korean Language and Culture Program” through the unwavering support of Hartford Youth Scholars.

With your support, I look forward to fundraising 4,000$ :

2,500$ = Roundtrip Flight Ticket To South Korea

1,000$ = Emergency Money

500$ = Spending Money