Bellingen Rotary is farewelling two outstanding international students who have completed their year-long exchange in our community.
Taro Okamoto from Japan will return home on Monday 21st July,and Sofia Escarcega from Mexico will follow on Wednesday 23rd July. Both students have been warmly welcomed by Bellingen host families and have made lasting connections at Bellingen High School and within the community. Their time here has been filled with adventure, learning, and friendship through the District 9660 Rotary Youth Exchange Program (YEP).
YEP, provides students aged 15–17 with the unique opportunity to live and study in a different country for a year. It is a one-for-one exchange that not only broadens horizons but also builds lifelong cultural understanding. Students typically live with four host families, giving them a diverse experience of local life.
Since 1960, Bellingen Rotary has welcomed 27 international students and sent 22 local students abroad, maintaining one of the highest participation rates in the region. Current outbound student Ollie Ehmann loving life, living in Japan, while Django Stark recently returned from an unforgettable year in Mexico. Meanwhile, Zweli Vockler is preparing for his 2026 exchange to Spain.
Taro and Sofia have left a strong impression on students, families, and Rotarians alike. Taro became proficient in Aussie English, and was a standout in mathematics, while Sofia learnt our Aussie lingo and both students embraced all the experiences on offer—from surfing and camping to forming close friendships at school.
Bellingen Rotary sincerely thanks the generous host families who opened their homes and hearts to Taro and Sofia. Your support makes this life-changing program possible.
Looking ahead, in August, Bellingen Rotary will welcome Murilo, a 17-year-old student from Brazil. Murilo will attend Bellingen High, is sporty, friendly, and excited to experience Australian life. He enjoys basketball, tennis, running, going to the gym, and spending time with his dog. He dreams of becoming a mechanical engineer. He also loves watching movies and aspires to become a mechanical engineer.
Bellingen Rotary are currently seeking local host families to welcome Murilo during his exchange year. Hosting is for a 3 to 4-month period and is a unique opportunity to share our culture, build lasting international friendships, and support a young person’s educational journey.
Interested in being part of this rewarding experience?
Please contact Diana Christian on 0402 901 273 for more information.
Be a part of something life-changing – for Murilo and your family!