Youth Exchange: Celebrating international connections through the Youth Exchange program

Rotarians Roberto and Cláudia Reis with exchange students Hortense, Gabriela and Olivia.

Rio de Janeiro, August 2024

Reinforcing its commitment to the promotion of peace and understanding among cultures, the Rotary Club of Rio de Janeiro Maracanã welcomed this August the French exchange student Hortense, who arrived in Brazil to participate in the Long-Term Exchange program of Rotary Youth Exchange.

The student was warmly received by club members, who organized a welcoming reception during an official meeting, highlighting Rotary values such as friendship, hospitality and cultural integration. Hortense will remain in Brazil for approximately one year, experiencing daily life in Rio de Janeiro, attending a local school and participating in social activities promoted by the host club.

In addition to Hortense’s arrival, the month was also marked by moments of farewell. Olivia, a Brazilian student, will travel in September to Belgium, where she will participate in the Long-Term Exchange program. Gabriela, another Brazilian representative, will travel in January 2025 to Mexico as part of the Short-Term Exchange program.

Both will experience transformative journeys, acting as ambassadors of Brazil and of Rotary, expanding horizons and strengthening international ties.

"Each young person who travels and each exchange student we receive represents a bridge between cultures. It is an investment in building a more just, peaceful and connected world,” highlighted the club’s exchange committee.

The Rotary Youth Exchange is one of the most traditional programs of Rotary International, promoting educational and multicultural experiences that positively impact the lives of participants and the communities involved.