Outbounds
I have just returned from an unforgettable two-month experience in Natal, in the Rio Grande do Norte region of Brazil, thanks to the NGSE (New Generation Service Exchange) program. This experience has left an indelible mark on my life, enriching it with new perspectives, friendships, and knowledge.
An Introduction to Natal
My journey began with my arrival in Natal, a coastal city nestled along the shores of the Atlantic. This land, with its breathtaking beaches and vibrant cultural traditions, immediately captured my attention. During my stay, I had the opportunity to explore the city thoroughly, discovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks.
A Professional and Learning Experience
A significant part of my experience was dedicated to my profession. I visited three private clinics, each with its unique approach to medical care. These visits expanded my knowledge and allowed me to observe medical practices in a different context.
Furthermore, I had the chance to connect with higher education in Brazil by visiting two universities, one public and one private. These institutions opened doors to research and higher education in the country, broadening my perspective on academic learning.
Volunteering and Humanity
One of the most meaningful experiences was my involvement in volunteering at a support center for children with cancer. These children, with their courage and strength, taught me valuable lessons about human resilience. The time spent with them was touching and left me with a deep sense of gratitude.
Friendships and Brazilian Family
But what truly made this experience special were the people I met along the way. I was fortunate to be welcomed and supported by the Rotary Club of Natal Portiguar, a group of extraordinary individuals who made me feel at home. These people, with their generosity and warmth, became a second family to me.
Brazilian Culture and Fun
The energy and vibrancy of Brazilian culture are infectious. I immersed myself in the local culture, participating in traditional festivities, dancing to the rhythm of samba, and savoring culinary delights. The joy of living in Brazil is palpable in every corner of the city, and I learned to fully embrace every moment.
Portuguese, a Language of Connection
One of the most fascinating challenges of this journey was learning the Portuguese language. Language is a window to culture, and Portuguese was my passport to a deeper understanding of Brazil. Through the language, I could establish more meaningful connections with the local people and fully immerse myself in the culture.
A World of Diversity and Connections
This experience taught me that, despite cultural and linguistic differences, the human heart is universally linked by compassion and connection. I discovered that deep bonds can be formed anywhere in the world, and life experiences can be a bridge to a broader global understanding.
In conclusion, my two months in Brazil, thanks to the NGSE program, were an unforgettable chapter in my life. I learned, I grew, and I forged lasting friendships. This experience opened my eyes to the beauty of cultural diversity and the strength of humanity. Brazil will always hold a special place in my heart as a source of growth, learning, and love.
Andrea
Hello everyone! I’m Andrea Marchionni and I’m 26 years old. I work in the tourism industry and I’m thrilled to be part of the NGSE (New Generation Service Exchange) Program to expand my knowledge and experiences in this fascinating field.
I wanted to share with you that my journey so far has been absolutely wonderful! I was surprised and incredibly happy to receive such a warm welcome. Remarkably, the language barrier was overcome in no time, allowing me to easily communicate with my new host family. They immediately involved me in their wonderful activities and made sure I lacked nothing. I’m truly grateful for embarking on this extraordinary adventure!
Now, I want to tell you about the organized program that allows me to visit and get to know the marvelous land of Brazil and learn about its working culture. My journey started in the city of Cruzeiro, near São Paulo, where I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture and discover the beauty of the place.
Next, I’ll be heading to Rio de Janeiro, a vibrant and energetic city, where I’ll have the privilege to admire the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and explore iconic landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.
After that, I’ll be heading towards Ilhabela, a paradisiacal island off the coast of São Paulo. I’m really excited to discover its beautiful beaches and immerse myself in its unique culture.
I’m truly grateful for this extraordinary adventure and for all the opportunities that are opening up for me. I’ll continue to share my experiences and hope to learn and grow even more during my time here.
A big thank you to District 2080 and the Brazilian district for their support and for giving me the opportunity to share my experience with all of you.
Inbounds
🇮🇹 Il mio nome Thobias sono in questo momento in Sardegna, Italia Distretto 2080 grazie all’NGSE!
Vi racconterò qualcosa di me!
Estefania from Argentina!
I am Estefanía Jaen Frank, I am a 24 years old Argentinianjournalist who came to Italy for three months to live the experience of New Generation Service Exchange(NGSE). Firstly, I am living for three weeks in Cagliari, Sardinia, where I am attending to SardiniaPost, a local newspaper.
Since I arrived, I felt accompanied by Rotarians, who welcomed me at the airport. Then, they helped and guide me in order to organize my life in Italy. I emphasize on people’s cordiality and generosity.
When the proposal to do a NGSE exchange arrived, rotarians of my district asked me which part of Italy I would like to be in, and I replied it did not matter because I understand that doing an exchange is about being open-minded. Now I am beyond happy because I will live a three-month experience in different parts of the country.
Next weeks I will be volunteer for Cáritas, at the mensaand to a listening service for people who need guide and company. I am enthusiastic for both opportunities because it will enclose me to the situations that we cannot ignore in our societies.
Moreover, I truly believe that learning Italian before coming helped me to integrate faster in the community, with my host family and all people who does this exchange possible. Several times I need to ask for directions or suggestions that I find easier to communicate. Everyone in Cagliari is open to help you. I really love when people say “Figurati!” after I say “Grazie”.
Thank you so much District 2080 and NGSE Committee to give me this incredible opportunity that I dreamed a lot about.
Greeting from Estefania at the New Generations District Seminar – Rome 2023-11-15
I’m Estefania Jaen Frank, I’m 24 years old and I’m from Argentina. I thank District 2080,
her governor, Maria Carla Ciccioriccio; the Rotary Club Cagliari Est to welcome me in
Sardinia; the Rotary Club Latina, Rotary Club Latina San Marco and Rotary Club Terracina Fondi
to host me in Latina; the coordinator of NGSE, Luciano Di Martino and the families who have me
opened the doors of their homes.
When I graduated in journalism last April, I already knew I wanted to have an experience
professional abroad. At the same time I was studying Italian for pleasure. In this way, I have
thought it would be interesting to combine profession and language.
The NGSE representatives of my district 4945 (Argentina-Uruguay) asked me if I had
a preference regarding the place to carry out the exchange in Italy. I responded immediately
“no”, because I understand that the essence of this experience means being open to proposals from
places and cultures.
Today I’m happy I responded that way because I find myself making an exchange
distributed between Cagliari, Latina and Terracina (Lazio) for five weeks. In the latter region
I will have an experience at LazioTv.
As for Sardinia, in the first place where I arrived, Monserrato (Cagliari) I
I immediately felt at home: the friendliness of the people and the equality with the climate of the
province where I live in Argentina. When I first went out I often got lost because there
The distribution of the streets is different from what I’m used to.
In addition, Cagliari has various options to get to know it: beach, blue sea, museums, clubs and above all
for Sardinian food. Without a doubt the immersion in this land has been characterized by culture
historical but also gastronomic. I leave Sardinia knowing new cheeses, breads and desserts, types
of meat and fish but also of pasta. Someone told me that in Italy you eat very well and
he was right.
Another notable feature is the people. There is a disposition to help and then to say
“not at all”. Furthermore, the Rotarians welcomed me kindly and gave me the opportunity to
share my experience during a club meeting
As regards the professional part, in the three weeks spent in Cagliari I was
busy at SardiniaPost, a regional online newspaper where I was able to publish mine
experiences in Sardinia through a blog. Plus, I learned how journalism is done in Italy
and I managed to get hold of the profession’s own techniques.
At the same time, I volunteered at Caritas in two services: at the Listening Center for
Foreigners at Kepos and at the Mensa. In both spaces I met kind people who understand
that will and attention can change another person’s day. Dedicate the time and
Providing spaces where we can encourage our independence is fundamental in ours
society. Especially when it comes to people in difficulty who have found a place in Italy
where to start again.
As creators of hope we must take responsibility in the pursuit of helping those
he needs. There are many ways but the great news is that we can do it as Rotarians,
professionals, volunteers but above all as people. We create hope every day and
I thank Rotary for giving me the opportunity too.
Exploring Rome with NGSE: Between Architecture, Art and Pizza
I had always dreamed of having a unique and inspiring experience abroad, and my adventure with
NGSE in Rome, Italy, exceeded all expectations. My residence with a lively family
Roman with three children, a dog and two cats made my stay even more special.
My first assignment was at the studio of Alio Virgilio, an architect specialized in restoration.
His stories about the architectural heritage of Rome made my days even more
interesting. Together with Alio, I visited numerous dog breeders, participated in evaluations of
apartment, performed static calculations and worked on computer drawings. There was never a shortage of opportunities
to relax with a good cup of coffee in the picturesque Roman bars.
Then, I had the opportunity to do damage in Roberto Tripi’s studio, specialized in interior design.
My role involved creating 3D models, contributing innovative ideas during the
team meetings. Lunch, often based on pizza, became a moment of sharing and joy
with my colleagues.
In addition to working, I was lucky enough to explore Rome, a city that screams culture and art from everywhere
corner. I visited a lot of historical monuments, and the icing on the cake was the visit to the museums
Vacations with my host family. Crazy artwork and stories that take you on a journey
through the centuries.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to attend Rotary meetings and discover the
“take care of me” project, where detained women train as dog trainers, working
with the Rotarians’ affectionate dogs. Furthermore, I dedicated time to volunteer actions,
making sandwiches for the homeless in Vacano City and selling chocolate hearts for
Telethon in Piazza del Popolo.
A truly special moment was the Centenary Rotary Club’s plan to celebrate the Feast of St
Nicola, a German tradition in which we prepared biscuits benefiting a charity. There
collaboration with my host family and other Rotary members made that event a lot
fun.
My host family was fundamental in my learning of the Italian language,
encouraging me to practice during dinner. Furthermore, contact with work colleagues and local people
while exploring the city it helped improve my confidence in the language.
In conclusion, my time in Rome with NGSE not only provided me with professional skills
significant and indelible cultural memories, but it also gave me the opportunity to learn Italian
in an authentic and stimulating environment. I would like to express my gratitude to all those who have
made this extraordinary adventure possible. I look forward to returning to Italy and Rome in the future,
to relive good memories and see old friends.
By Melina Krach