Exchange students love Durban

OUTWEIGHING any feelings of trepidation about studying abroad and a universal excitement about the unknown journey in front of them was something Spanish student Enrique (Quique) Gonzalez Esteva and Belgian student Johanna Polet experienced when they decided to study in South Africa. They are part of the Rotary Club of Durban North and Rotary eClub youth exchange programmes.

Though the duo have completed their schooling in their home countries, they decided to explore the wonders of South African culture and in Quique’s case, improve his English.

Quique, originally from the Canary Islands said his mind was made up after his sister visited the country a few years ago. “She mentioned how friendly the people were and how the weather was similar to ours back home. I’ve been in Durban for four months and I have loved every moment,” he said.

The 19-year-old, who is currently at Northwood School, added he saw himself as a national ambassador. “Most people that meet me immediately talk about bull fights, paella and Barcelona. But a lot don’t really know where the Canary Islands are. So I’ve been talking about the cultural distinctiveness between the islands and the mainland,” he said.

Belgian student Johanna, who is schooling at Danville Park Girls’ High School said she was impressed with the cultural diverseness of the students in her class. “You have 11 official languages, you can’t get any more diverse than that. Living near the sea has also been super, I love swimming and scuba diving, so it’s been a bonus to be so close to the ocean. I’ve been here for eight months and I’m sad to leave,” Johanna said.

The duo have admitted they have learned a few Afrikaans and Zulu words and have yet to try biltong.

To find out more about the Rotary Club exchange programmes, contact Hillary Augustus on 082 556 0299.