Welcome to the Breaking Perceptions Blog!

In the summer of 2009 Cortez Alexander from Chicago and Robyn Williamson from London both took part in a programme that involved bringing together groups of young people from London, the USA and Iraq to learn about each other's cultures and break down any stereotypes and misconceptions.

This programme was a life changing experience. We learnt not to judge each other based on what we see in the media and how to fully accept each other for who we are, not for the stereotypes that society places on us. All of those on the programme remain friends despite the miles of ocean between us and we know that young people from anywhere around the world can speak to one another and build positive relationships. We may be from different countries but we all want connect together to change the world.

This blog aims, in a formal sense, to enhance international relations between young people from all over the world. Together we will improve understanding, education and perceptions of each other's countries through debate, dialogue and digital media.

We will answer many questions you may have about other people's countries by posting information on different topics ranging from the small things like food and clothing to the larger ones like politics and economics. We will also have video and audio with people of different countries debating different topics and telling you about their country and culture. This is where YOU can play a part. We want you to email us at:

breakingperceptions@gmail.com

with your articles, audios and videos all about you, your country, your culture or maybe just you and your friends debating different topics.

So here is to the start of a groundbreaking journey!

See you later, salaam, Fir Milenge, à plus tard, hasta luego, Auf Wiedersehen, じゃね and Goodday mate!