By Muhammed Toor (YES 2023-2024, Pakistan, placed by AIFS/AYA in Greencastle, IN)

Indianapolis, known as the "racing capital of the world," was the site for one of my most memorable KL-YES program experiences. Our day began with an exhilarating 1.5-hour trip from Greencastle to one of the world's most renowned racing tracks.

When we arrived, the racing track's sheer enormity left us in awe. It was a place full of rich history and where stories were born. Our adventure began with a visit to the racing museum. A fantastic collection of racing automobiles, memorabilia, and other motorsports-related artifacts surrounded us.

The excitement grew as we got closer to the track. Although there was no scheduled race that day, we were able to explore the racing circuit with an experienced guide. We embarked on a journey that allowed us to observe the track from the driver's perspective. It was a remarkable experience that I will always cherish.

Nevertheless, the true enchantment of the day occurred beyond the confines of the racetrack. We continued our adventure by delving into the rich cuisines of Pakistan, my home country. At a Pakistani restaurant, we sampled authentic dishes, including spicy chicken karahi and naan bread. My host family embraced the gastronomic journey much to my joy. Their appreciation of Pakistani cuisine demonstrated food's capacity to bring people together, break down boundaries, and foster connections.

Our idyllic day in Indianapolis was a wonderful blend of racing excitement, cultural enrichment, and the joy of sharing these experiences with my host family. We treasured the time we spent together and our cultural exchange will always have a special place in our hearts. We were all thankful that the YES program had brought us together and allowed us to create memories that would last a lifetime.

Ultimately, it wasn't just about traveling to the racetrack; it was about the journey of discovery, the connections we formed, and the diverse cuisines we experienced together. I would like to thank the YES program for making my aspirations come true. This day will live on in my mind as a testament to the wonders of cross-cultural dialogue and the YES program's ability to create meaningful relationships worldwide.