On the last day of the 26th, the Rotary Club of Marília-Pioneiro held the inauguration meeting, enthusiastically welcoming two exchange students from the Rotary International program. The businesswoman and president, Áurea Aparecida Di Manno, along with the veterinarian and Youth Exchange Program (YEP) Officer, Monaliza Andréa Salemme Marega, had the joy of welcoming the two young participants. Gabrielle Kathleen Bird, our inbound exchange student from Australia, is in Brazil until December, while Maria Clara Daura de Almeida is preparing to depart for Pune, India, in August, where she will undergo her long-term exchange.

During the meeting, club members had the chance to get to know the exchange students better and share enriching experiences. Gabrielle, who is enjoying her stay in Brazil, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and the opportunity to immerse herself in Brazilian culture. She emphasized the importance of the exchange program in her personal growth and the development of lasting international relationships.

Maria Clara, about to embark on her journey to India, demonstrated excitement and anticipation for the long-term exchange. She highlighted the significance of building connections with people from different backgrounds and cultures, aiming for mutual understanding and the creation of a more peaceful and harmonious world.

President Áurea Aparecida Di Manno and YEP Officer Monaliza Andréa Salemme Marega, along with the Coordinator of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and sociologist Sandra Paula Daura, Maria Clara's mother and Gabrielle's host in her home, reinforced the ongoing importance of the youth exchange program as one of the strategic goals of the Rotary Club of Marília-Pioneiro. This joint initiative reflects the club's commitment to promoting intercultural education, peace, and global friendship.

The Rotary International exchange students are examples of young individuals engaged in exploring and understanding different realities, contributing to the creation of a more promising future. The Rotary Club of Marília-Pioneiro is proud to welcome these talented young individuals and wishes them an enriching experience during their exchanges.