Welcome home youth exchange dinner for district 9685.
Juliet, Pete and I (Bernie) had the pleasure of attending this dinner on Friday the 5th February with Pam and Tom. What a wonderful night hosted by Carlingford club at the Muirfield Golf Club, North Rocks.
It was so nice to be able to speak with people from district and to hear of the students’ varied experiences of a Covid style exchange. Whilst many did enjoy some freedom, there were those that were in lock down with one host family for a large portion of the time.
Guest speakers amongst the returning students were:
Chloe Brennan (Switzerland)
Zoe Evans (Chile)
Poppy Guy (Japan)
Jarred Sullivan (Sweden), and our sponsored student.
Valentino Yamasaki.
One theme that was evident throughout the speeches was that they all didn’t want to come home.
Sharon and Robert Sullivan were also there, and Sharon was saying what a different boy Jared is. Some things are still the same but now he will eat so much more of her cooking.
We also witnessed the special presentation of the Ruby Paul Harris pin to Michelle Westland, Social Impact Network, for her services to youth exchange. This award was presented by Susan and John Wakefield Co-chairs of district 9685 Rotary Youth Exchange Committee. Considering Michelle has only just welcomed her son, Ben, into the world 2 weeks ago, it was lovely that she was there to accept her award. Ben was definitely a highlight of the evening too. Each student that spoke singled out Michelle and Winnie Yip for special thanks for looking after them from this end, during such a difficult time. Well done Michelle, congratulations.
During the proceedings it was announced that, at this point in time, the program will be in hiatus until at least until 2023. This is a Rotary International decision, and must take into consideration the unfolding situation around the globe.
We also enjoyed a Chinese dinner together, albeit in a Covid safe environment. Thank you for organising us to be there together Pam Bennett. It was lovely to catch up with you and Tom also.
I have invited Jared to speak to us at one of our meetings soon. He is happy to do so. Perhaps an evening meeting would help him time wise.
Cheers
Bernie
A few pictures from the night.
Rob, Jarred, Pam B and Sharon
Jarred receiving his pins & certificate
Jarred guest speaker about his exchange
Georgia Hill dance performance (Japan)
Michelle Westland receiving her Ruby pin
