by: Carol Gage – Friedman
Over the next six months, these young Rotary ambassadors will be conducting research into the culture and history of their host countries as well as learning a new language. Their hard work will pay off on June 7, 2026, when they will receive their blue RYE blazers and prepare to leave for their exchanges. These Rotary Youth Exchange rockstars will spend the entire 2026-2027 school year on exchange in countries like France, Finland, Italy, Spain, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Slovakia, Croatia, Japan, Austria, and Brazil.
They participated in exercises to test their resilience and adaptability. They soaked up sage advice from Rotex, peers who have successfully completed their exchange year, and learned that they must Be Present and Be Grateful, among other B’s, in order to have a positive exchange experience.
RYE builds relationships worldwide. It builds peace through an understanding of other cultures. Young leaders learn firsthand about Rotary values. Service Above Self stays with them as they become adults, and many go on to become Rotarians, as do family members. If you would like to learn more about Rotary Youth Exchange, visit ryese.org or contact D6910 RYE Chair Carol Gage-Friedman at carolgf@ryese.org

RYE Outbound Candidates from Georgia and Florida gathered in Dunwoody the weekend of January 9th for orientation. Second from the right in the first row is Kylee, 6910’s Outbound Candidate. Kylee is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Johns Creek. She is heading to Taiwan.
Over the next six months, these young Rotary ambassadors will be conducting research into the culture and history of their host countries as well as learning a new language. Their hard work will pay off on June 7, 2026, when they will receive their blue RYE blazers and prepare to leave for their exchanges. These Rotary Youth Exchange rockstars will spend the entire 2026-2027 school year on exchange in countries like France, Finland, Italy, Spain, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Slovakia, Croatia, Japan, Austria and Brazil.
They participated in exercises to test their resilience and adaptability. They soaked up sage advice from Rotex, peers who have successfully completed their exchange year, and learned that they must Be Present and Be Grateful, among other B’s, in order to have a positive exchange experience.
RYE builds relationships worldwide. It builds peace through an understanding of other cultures. Young leaders learn firsthand about Rotary values. Service Above Self stays with them as they become adults, and many go on to become Rotarians, as do family members. If you would like to learn more about Rotary Youth Exchange, visit ryese.org or contact D6910 RYE Chair Carol Gage-Friedman at carolgf@ryese.org


