Dear Rotary Club of Holland,
I always read the eBulletin to stay updated on what’s happening in the club, even from far away. I’m so happy to see that Ed is the new president — he’s the best! Next week marks two years since I returned to Brazil, and I still think about my time there every day. It was the best year of my life, and you all were such a big part of it. I’ll be forever grateful!
I have some great news to share! Have you heard of the Butterfly Effect? It’s the idea that small actions can lead to big, unexpected changes. Like how a butterfly flapping its wings might eventually cause a tornado somewhere else. Well, something just like that happened in my life — thanks to you.
Right after I got back home, in July 2023, I was accepted into a program in New York focused on global peace, and I was only able to go because you covered the program fee. While there, I met the CEO of the organization and made a strong connection with him. In October 2024, he reached out to me about a version of the same program happening in São Paulo in November and invited me to help organize and host it. It was an amazing experience (and a big responsibility!). At that event, I met a Brazilian woman who works as a translator at the UN and is involved in many international organizations. We became friends, and she later told me about a short exchange program to China that she organizes twice a year for young students.
After a long selection process, I found out I was accepted — and I’ll be spending two weeks in China next month! Everything is covered except the flight, which I had no idea was that expensive. Two friends of mine are also going, and I know it’s going to be an unforgettable experience — we’ll visit the Great Wall and the Forbidden City! I wanted to tell you all of this because if it weren’t for the $500 you gave me for the NY event, none of this would’ve happened. So thank you, truly, from the bottom of my heart.
My friends and I plan to spend a few extra days in Shanghai to explore the city, and I’d love to visit a Rotary Club there. We’re also looking for affordable places to stay, since the flights left me totally broke! If any of you happen to know someone in Shanghai who could help with either of these things, I’d appreciate it so much. I’m also planning to email the Rotary Club there to see if I can attend a meeting or meet them somewhere.
Thank you again for everything. I hope I can visit you all soon 🥰
With love,
Liz