Carmine, a world leader in the making

Carmine van der Westhuizen (14) is in Washington DC representing her community and school at the People to People World Leadership Forum.

“What I am most excited about is to travel overseas and in particular to the USA,” said van der Westhuizen. “I see this opportunity as an honour and privilege.”

The People to People World Leadership Forum offers students a unique blend of specialized educational, leadership and cultural exposure through a variety of programmes, as well as an itinerary filled with the highlights of the hosting community.

The Northcliff resident added that this opportunity will change her way of thinking, especially about leadership.

She, along with 250 other pupils from around the world, are taking part in the leadership forum which among other things, focuses on the history of the United States Government, the civil and cold wars. They will also visit some of the Smithsonian museums in Washington DC.

According to the Smithsonian museums’s website, the institution has world class attractions with a variety of exhibits ranging from a 3.5 billion-year-old fossil to the Apollo lunar landing module. Visitors enjoy examining more than 137 million objects, including many irreplaceable historic artifacts, works of art, scientific specimens and cultural exhibits. Smithsonian museums comprise of 19 museums and galleries, and staff provide guided tours, hands-on-activities and special programmes for guests.

Throughout the programme Van der Westhuizen will learn how iconic leaders throughout history have handled world events.

The programme also includes various hands-on activities such as working with professional speakers, small-group workshops and visits to significant memorials andmuseums.

Details:  www.peopletopeople.com