As always our informal social evening held at the Golden Lion Pub was lively and filled with friendship and laughter. Our new Firework Night coordinator, Crispin Tomlinson, introduced Jamie from Round Table (the organisers) who encouraged volunteers from Rotary – a great tradition and one which our members always rise to!
Our speaker for the evening was our scholarship student, Thomas Bwambale, who gave us an interesting and inspiring presentation about his recent visit to Thailand.
The title: Global Social Impact Project By Future Sense Foundation. After a very long and delayed plane and road journey, the group finally reached their destination – Mae Sariang.
Their planning included getting to know each other, learning basic language and courtesy. Then up to meet the hill tribes and their students who lived in the beautiful, unspoilt hill area.
Life is simple there for the students who have very little and was likewise for Thomas and his colleagues. When teaching began the students were split into small groups. They were taught a variety of subjects – for the comprehensive programme covering many social and personal skill subjects, please read Thomas’s incredibly interesting presentation via the link at the end of this blog.
Not only did Thomas and his colleagues give out education they received much in return. They participated in a rice planting initiative which will feed hundreds in the coming months. They learned to cook using local products and recipes. Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary, plus environmental sustainability which was also part of the programme – this included the planting of 650+ trees at local schools and taking part in a weekly community litter pick-up.
There were shared lessons and cultural exchanges which promoted much laughter and learning. Many other adventures, games and visits filled this wonderful one month experience in Thailand. Many friendships and memories were made.
Thomas concluded his beautifully presented account with his thanks to all in Winchester Rotary who had helped to make possible this visit of unforgettable experiences.
Thank you, Thomas.
Diana Brooks
For a few photos click here
To view Thomas’ slides (compressed version) click here
