Rotary Matters Ian Stuart

What is it really like to spend a year overseas on the Rotary Youth Exchange program? 15 year old Tilly Colville spent 2023 in Brazil, learning the language, the culture, the cuisine and the customs. She travelled widely in Brazil and beyond packing in experiences and making friends which will remain with her forever. www.ryea.org.au

Here is how to thank, to recognise and salute
women known to you who are doing something exceptional in the community. Sue
Hayward, Chair of the Rotary Inspirational Womens Awards explains why it
matters and how it all works. Stacy Jane a RIWA winner in 2023 explains how
following dreadful abuse and violence she founded Escabags a practical solution
to assist and support those fleeing abusive and dangerous situations. www.riwa.com.au www.escabags.org

The Bikers Hand is a group of motor bike enthusiasts who share a passion for charity rides and have a deep commitment to helping the homeless and individuals in need. Donations of food, drink, clothing and other everyday items are gathered and distributed to over 35 charities, support groups and school breakfast groups. Founder Tony Davies explains. www.thebikershand.com.au

Dr Marthe Kondemo is visiting Australia from
the Democratic Republic of Congo to learn about innovative women's health and livelihood initiatives to see what may be replicable in the DRC. While here she
will meet a wide range of organisations dealing with such issues as domestic violence prevention, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, disability services
and youth engagement. Despite vast natural resources the DRC has suffered from
political instability, a lack of infrastructure, corruption and centuries of
commercial extraction and exploitation. Her visit is facilitated by Lucy
Hobgood-Brown from the Rotary E-Club of Greater Sydney.

The Rotary Youth Leadership Awards is an intensive leadership experience where students develop their skills as a leader while having fun and making connections. They build communication and problem solving skills and learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers and peer mentors. Thowshi Dimantha, a Sydney student describesher recent RYLA experience and significantly the lessons she learned.

The Rotary Youth Leadership Awards is an intensive leadership experience where students develop their skills as a leader while having fun and making connections. They build communication and problem solving skills and learn from community leaders, inspirational speakers and peer mentors. Thowshi Dimantha, a Sydney student describesher recent RYLA experience and significantly the lessons she learned.