GSE Experience
Being a member and team leader of the GSE team to Nigeria has been an honor. I appreciate the opportunity to experience another culture from the perspective of sharing and learning.
This year’s GSE team was made up of a unique group of individuals that work with, in one way or another, special needs children. As a team, we traveled to 11 different schools, an orphanage, and a blind workshop for adults.
Each school presented the opportunity to collaborate with teachers and administrators on techniques and to share ideas. We also were able to see first hand what the needs of the schools were.
For me, another important aspect of this trip was the ability to connect with Rotarians. I have always believed that Rotary is an extension of my family. I now know first hand that this is true. In Nigeria, the Rotarians that hosted us and took us around were incredibly giving and caring. Day in and out they tirelessly took the team around to schools, Rotary meetings, and made sure our personal needs were attended to.
I want to personally thank the District Governor’s, Felix Obadan, and Marty Helman, Assistant Governor, Chiddy Onuogu, Past District Governors, GSE Chair, Elvis C. Chukwu, Ruth Ibrahim (my host), Club Presidents, Margee Ensign (President of AUN), and all of the other Rotarians and non-Rotarians who made this trip a unique and wonderful experience.
I am eternally grateful for this experience and look forward to my next trip to Nigeria.
If you would like me to speak at your Rotary club about the Nigerian trip please e-mail me at wwwings@megalink.net