Celine Sardinha, a Rotary youth exchange student, describes her experience in Germany as an eye-opener.
The 18-year-old learner from Marist Brothers Linmeyer travelled as a short-term exchange student. She left the country on November 28, 2022, and returned to Johannesburg in January 2023.
She said she always wanted to travel and learn about other countries because her sister had the opportunity to do so as an exchange student in Italy and Germany.
“In 2018, Rotary came to our school to promote the programme. I was too young at the time and couldn’t go, but my sister did. Having that background about what Rotary is about, helped me to decide I wanted to go. I had to fill out a form, and they neatly organised everything.
“I had to do background checks and choose between five countries. I chose Germany because I always wanted to visit the country,” she said.
Celine said she was treated as one of their own and they perfectly matched her with her foster family.
“I would go again if given the chance because they are with you every step of the way. The highlights of this experience include the friends I made, with whom I still communicate, the food, skiing, attending a beautiful monastery and experiencing the monks’ teaching.
Celine said she advises young people to travel, as it and learning about other countries is fun.
“Travelling is the only thing you pay for that makes you richer inside. Apply and just do it. “I would like to thank Rotary Youth Exchange, my mom and my teachers for this opportunity,” said Celine.
About Rotary Youth Exchange
Rotary Youth Exchange inspires young leaders to serve as catalysts for peace and social justice in their local communities and throughout the world, long after their exchanges ends.
This programme is possible because of the dedication, leadership and passion of the tens of thousands of Rotary volunteers.
Candidates, aged 15-19 are leaders in their schools and communities.
Contact your local Rotary club to see what exchange opportunities are available and what the application process involves.
About the exchanges
Long-term exchanges last a full academic year and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families.
Short-term exchanges last from several days to three months and are often structured as camps, tours, or homestays when school is not in session.
They provide room and board, as well as any school fees. Each programme varies, but students are usually responsible for their round-trip airfare, travel insurance, travel documents (such as passports and visas), spending money and any additional travel or tours.
For more information, visit My Rotary.
