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Winter Break Program Opens Career Exploration Opportunities for Youth in Gwangju

Peter Heaven Culture Academy launches its 3rd term with 39 hands-on courses across culture, sports, and media

As winter break approaches, a new youth program in Gwangju is offering students a chance to explore their interests, talents, and possible career paths through structured, hands-on learning.

The Shincheonji Gwangju Church has opened enrollment for the 3rd term of the Peter Heaven Culture Academy (PHCA), a seasonal program designed for children and teenagers during the winter vacation period. The program is organized for youth members of its children and student groups and focuses on experiential learning rather than classroom-only instruction.


A program built around exploration and experience

PHCA is designed to help young people better understand themselves by trying a wide range of activities in a supportive group environment. Instead of focusing solely on academic outcomes, the program emphasizes cooperation, creativity, and personal growth through shared experiences.

Ahead of the enrollment period, a PHCA 3rd-term expo was held on December 14 at the church, drawing interest from both students and parents. At the event, participants were able to visit hands-on booths, experience sample activities, and learn about the different courses available before applying.

39 courses across five learning areas

According to the organizers, the upcoming PHCA term will offer 39 courses grouped into five main areas: culture, music and praise, sports, media, and digital skills. Enrollment remains open until December 31, and all courses will run throughout the winter break.

Students who attended the expo shared that being able to try different activities helped them think more clearly about their interests and future direction. Some older students who had previously participated in earlier terms returned this year as program assistants, explaining that their earlier experience had influenced their own career decisions.

Community-based youth development

Program leaders described PHCA as more than a short-term holiday activity. They emphasized its role in helping youth develop balance between personal values, community life, and everyday skills, while learning how to cooperate and grow alongside others.

By offering a wide variety of practical courses in one place, the academy aims to give students space to discover abilities they may not have recognized before, while also experiencing teamwork and responsibility within a shared community setting.

Source: https://vo.la/r1CcE5m


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