Finnish exchange student Hilma shared information about her home country and her experiences in Australia, highlighting cultural differences and personal growth. The club discussed ongoing projects, including the End Trachoma program and potential donations, while also planning future events and activities.
Exchange Student Shares Australian Experiences
Hilma, a Rotary Youth Exchange student from Finland, was introduced and shared her experiences in Australia, including her involvement in school life and various activities. Hilma highlighted that her hometown of Rovaniemi, located on the Arctic Circle, is considered the official hometown of Santa Claus and a major tourist destination. She shared her experience working as a post office elf at the Santa Claus village, sorting letters from around the world.
Hilma discussed her life in Finland, highlighting the different seasons and activities she enjoys. She shared her experiences with skiing, skating, and cross-country skiing, as well as her family's ski hikes. Hilma also mentioned the midnight sun, which lasts for two months, and the abundance of edible berries in the forests. She talked about the long summer holidays and the varying temperatures. Hilma also shared her experiences with the sauna and the cottage life. She mentioned the Northern Lights and the darkness during the winter months.
Hilma also shared her experiences with the Narooma Rotary Club, including a duck race event. She discussed her current year at Narooma High School, where she is studying marine studies, business studies, and hospitality. Hilma shared her experiences in Australia, including her initial confusion about the AFL, her visit to Sydney, and her participation in a Rotary camp in Canberra. She also mentioned her involvement in a volleyball team, her visit to the Gold Coast, and her surfing experiences. Hilma expressed her love for the laid-back Australian lifestyle and her plans to incorporate some of these experiences into her future Christmas celebrations. She also mentioned her participation in a swimming competition and her plans to explore more of Canberra.
Hilma reflected on her Rotary youth exchange experience in Australia, describing it as life-changing and the greatest experience of her life. She shares that she has gained confidence, learned many new things, and discovered new opportunities for her future. Hilma expresses gratitude to her host families and everyone who made the exchange possible. She also mentions participating in work experience at a hospital, which she found eye-opening. When asked about adjusting to regular day-night cycles in Australia, Hilma said she adapted easily, and she is uncertain about how she will readjust when returning to Finland.
Club Updates
Travis shared photos from the peace poll ceremony and a quiz about a potential Sunday changeover at the Argyle Inn, Taralga. Rob recommended the Argyle Hotel, praising its food and venue. We also discussed the club's $1,000 donation to the Queensland flood appeal.
Rob Uhl discussed reconnecting with End Trachoma to restart the club's End Trachoma program, involving Molong Rotary and Moss Vale Public as partners. The club agreed to participate.