Yuujou grew from a simple idea: a circle of friendship strong enough to carry a group of travelers around the world. Sisters and storytellers Corinne and Yvonne Eisenring partnered with Oliver Herren, a Swiss internet pioneer, to bring this vision to life. On April 11, six travelers will embark on a 100-day journey with that vision as their sole itinerary. The journey begins with all six in Berlin, Germany, then splits into two teams of three, one heading east and one heading west, meeting each other 100 days later in Tokyo, Japan. Along the way, teams must stay with a friend of their previous host, moving from friend to friend across the globe. There are no prizes, no ads, no scripts, just the expectation that each traveler will creatively document their experiences of human connection along the way.
After receiving over 30,000 applications, Yuujou has narrowed the pool down to ten finalists. Culturs brings you a look at Yvonne Eisenring’s surprise visit to each finalist in this 10-part series.
Finalist #1
Rosanna is a photographer and volleyball player from Toronto, Canada. She was attracted to the challenge of capturing the unique Yuujou experience through her writing and photographs. These skills have helped her immortalize meaningful moments and powerful relationships as she’s pursued her goal of visiting a new country every year. Accustomed to well-planned, jam-packed travel itineraries, Rosanna expressed some trepidation in her original Yuujou application. “I am a little fearful of the unknown but I’m willing to jump in feet first,” she said, “because I know it will be rewarding and worth it. Nothing to lose and everything to gain.” More than anything, Rosanna was excited at the prospect of making new friendships and connecting with people from all walks of life.
“I think this journey will help me discover how I fit in this world and also to appreciate what the world has to offer.”
Watch Eisenring surprise Rosanna in Toronto:
You can read more about Yuujou and follow their journey here.
Ready to meet Finalist #2? Keep reading.
