Opening Our Doors to the World: Host Families Needed This October

Wednesday, October 8, 2025 – Later this month, Sooke will welcome high school students from Japan for a week of cultural exchange. From October 21 to 26, these students will attend local secondary schools and experience daily life in our community. Their visit is part of a longstanding program coordinated by MLI Homestay, which has brought meaningful international connections to the Greater Victoria region for many years.

For local families, hosting a student is more than offering a place to sleep – it’s about opening your home, sharing everyday routines, and creating moments that can last a lifetime. As Cheryl Lee, COO of MLI Education Group, reflects, “Even just a few nights can spark lasting connections and unforgettable memories.”

This beloved tradition was temporarily paused during the pandemic but returned last year with enthusiasm and warmth. The students’ time in Sooke gives them a firsthand look at Canadian culture, while local hosts often discover how much they learn in return — about language, food, friendship, and the joy of seeing your community through fresh eyes.

Right now, 12 more host families are needed to ensure every student attending Edward Milne Secondary School has a welcoming home during their stay. Families can choose to host one or two students, and support is provided to make the experience easy and rewarding.

As Lynette, the local program coordinator, reminds us, “It’s not about having a perfect home – it’s about sharing everyday moments that create lifelong impact.”

By stepping forward, Sooke families can help strengthen global connections and showcase the warmth and hospitality that define our community.

• Contact: Jodi Andersen
• Phone: 416-996-9740
• Email: jandersen@mlihomestay.com
• Website: mlihomestay.com/hosts