Guest Speaker – Youth Exchange

Penny Sell introduced herself as a former Rotary Exchange Student, to Japan,  sponsored by the Rotary Club of Tallangatta some years ago … 1980’s ?  She spoke of her strong belief in the Exchange Programme then, and currently, and its humanitarian values being as important today as was the case in her year. Penny spoke of embracing the culture of her host country, being involved in festivals, weddings and other special events. Her motto for her year was … ‘Rotary teaches to adapt’.

Penny then introduced us to her daughter, Gabriel, who returned earlier this year from a Rotary Youth Exchange to Germany, living in Oberursel, a city about the same size as Albury-Wodonga.  Gabby was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Wodonga and recently gave an excellent address at the 9790 District Conference in Ballarat.  Gabby’s opening quote was the Rotary Four-Way-Test … her basis of support during her special year. Gabby outlined her preparation prior to departure, her assimilation on arrival (smile and say ‘Yes”!), including weekly language classes, new friendships, extended family … her host families were all involved in various professions. She enjoyed school, food, people, art school and beer (with permission from her hosts)!! Gabby mentioned the lifestyle of the people, similar to Australia, humorous, good natured, very punctual and organized.

Travel during her year included a caravan tour of Sweden, with her host family, as well as the Y.E.Europe Tour, with all other Exchange Students, including Italy, Spain, Belgium, Hungary, Monaco.

Gabby was complimented on her command of the German language, achieving 100% in a language skills diploma course. The Mayor of Oberursel was so impressed with her ability in this area that he has offered Gabby employment in local government for her Gap Year after she completes her HSC at Albury High School. An offer  which Gabby intends to accept. A number of members commented after our meeting that Gabby’s address was the best we have ever heard from a returned Exchange Student … sorry Alice !!  Gabby exhibited attributes of a proud Australian Rotary Exchange Student ……PS. Gabby says she is now re-learning how to speak English!