Embarking on a global adventure: the Rotary youth exchange long-term programme
Imagine spending a year immersed in a new culture, living with different families, and navigating a foreign school system – all while making lifelong friendships.
Jean Bernardo from the Rosebank Rotary Club recently shed light on the Rotary youth exchange long-term programme, a unique opportunity for South African students to immerse themselves in a foreign culture and make lifelong connections. The programme offers an opportunity to dive into an entirely new world, combining education, cultural immersion, and personal growth.
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Every August, students from across the globe touch down in South Africa to embark on a unique academic adventure. They join local schools for the last term of Grade 10 and continue into Grade 11 with the new school year starting in January. By August of the following year, they head back home, having experienced a full cycle of South African school life. This programme not only includes academic integration but also exposes students to summer holidays, a tour with fellow exchange students, and stays with 2–3 different host families, each committed to offering a genuine taste of South African culture.
To join, students aged 16–18 must navigate a selection process that includes applications, interviews, and a financial commitment of around R35 000 for airfare and insurance. Host families, carefully vetted through interviews and home visits, are tasked with offering a welcoming environment and treating the students as one of their own, blending them seamlessly into everyday life.
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Language immersion is a key component, with local schools and families encouraged to use the home language, helping students gain fluency and cultural insight. Support structures are robust, featuring school buddies, Rotary-appointed counsellors, and mentors to assist with the transition. Students contribute to household chores and adapt to new family routines, with continual support from their Rotary counsellor.
Italian student Nidia Roveri is currently experiencing the vibrancy of South Africa. From exploring the lively streets of Johannesburg to immersing herself in local traditions and cuisine, Nidia has embraced every aspect of her exchange. Her engagement with community events and festivals highlights the programme’s goal of fostering deep cultural understanding. Nidia’s experience illustrates the reciprocal nature of the programme, where both students and host families gain invaluable insights and connections.
Looking ahead, South African student Lize Simone van Heerden is preparing for her exchange to France. Inspired by a presentation from a former exchange student, Lize chose France, driven by a lifelong dream to explore its culture. She is eager to dive into French cuisine, experience local customs, and improve her French language skills. Despite anticipating challenges such as homesickness and language barriers, Lize is determined to make the most of her time in France, fully engaging with her host family and the new environment.
The Rotary youth exchange long-term programme remains a powerful platform for students to expand their horizons, build lasting relationships, and gain a deeper understanding of global cultures. Through these exchanges, students like Nidia and Lize not only enrich their own lives but also contribute to a more interconnected and empathetic world.
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