An Alliance Impacting Youth
This year marked a significant collaboration between District 42 Toastmasters Youth Leadership Facilitators – Marcy Field, Irma Goosen, Geetha Nicodemus, Arobo Ako, and Christina Kruis – and Rotary International Exchange students, resulting in a profound impact on youth development. The facilitators lent their expertise to support Rotary students. Through a series of online sessions and a dedicated workshop during their family orientation weekend in April, the facilitators empowered these students to hone their communication and leadership skills, preparing them for the journey ahead.
Rotary District 5360, is renowned for its exchange programs sending and receiving students from various corners of the globe annually. Rotary District 5360 Conference held in Drumheller this May 4, invited inbound students from Brazil, Chile, Japan, Italy, Denmark, and Germany to share their transformative experiences. Having immersed themselves in Canadian culture since the previous fall, they enthusiastically recounted their adventures, from the exhilarating Banff Ski trip to navigating the quirks of Canadian weather and wardrobe challenges. Their narratives resonated with fellow attendees, leaving a lasting impression and igniting a shared sense of camaraderie.
The inclusion of the students’ testimonials in the Rotary District Conference program marked a pioneering initiative and the positive reception has sparked hopes of integrating inbound students into future conferences, underscoring the enduring impact of this alliance on youth engagement and empowerment.
Looking ahead, outbound students are poised to embark on their international adventures, venturing to Japan, Sweden, Brazil, Chile, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Switzerland this August. Armed with newfound skills and perspectives, they are eager to represent Canada and Rotary with pride, guided by the invaluable feedback and support received from the YLP team. As they prepare to share their stories and aspirations with their host Rotarians, the spirit of collaboration and mentorship continues to flourish.
As we embrace the future, guided by the words of Rotary founder, Arch C Klump,
No one can tell us what Rotary will be tomorrow, but one thing is certain: What Rotary will be tomorrow depends upon what Rotarians do today.
We recognize that the development of young leaders lies at the heart of his legacy. The success of this alliance between Toastmasters and Rotarians reaffirms our commitment to nurturing the next generation of global citizens and leaders, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.
Christina Kruis
President, Heart of the Rockies Toastmasters
Treasurer, MVP Advanced Toastmasters