A PERFECT BLEND OF PROFESSIONALISM AND CULTURE - GROUP STUDY EXCHANGE 2013

May 2013 was one of the most memorable & life changing experiences thus far. I had the privilege of being part of the Rotary International Group Study Exchange from Delhi (District 3010) to Germany (District 1900). The opportunity was my first in many ways: going to Germany and being part of such an esteemed programme. It was a blend of two cultures sharing color and diversity of its own to each other. The most important aspect of the study was to learn about the many advancements that Germany has achieved and to bring back something we could incorporate into our society and time.

Our four-member team had the privilege of staying in Germany for four weeks and experienced the culture, life, cuisine, customs and vocational practices of the country. Through this group study exchange programme I have gained international understanding and goodwill through personal connection. While abroad, our team members were able to stay in various Rotarian homes where each of us were shown immense hospitality unlike ever before. To add to such warmth we were also welcomed by the Mayors of Gevelsberg, Herford and Essen.

During our time in Germany we had the pleasure of visitng various Rotary clubs (Gevelsberg/Engelbert, Essen/Hellweg, Herford/Widukind, Essen-Centennial, Ludenscheid & Ludenscheid/Zeppelin), monumental sites (Reichtagsgebaude, Martha Theatre & event centre, Zeche Zollverein etc) and firms (ThyssenKrupp, ERCO etc) but the German culture is one aspect that most spoke to my interests. It was indeed such a thrill to experience the magnificence of German art through concerts, exhibitions, musicals and the Opera. The collaboration between art and culture, the sense of community, and the precise interdisciplinary nature of German ethics stood out greatly. Also, this exchange experience was enriched by the diversity of the country, and I am impressed by Germany's rich history and its current efforts connected to preserving it until today.

My prime focus on a vocational level was on the various humanitarian services that NGO's provided for empowering women. Apart from that being a graphic designer I also wanted to gain more exposure and motivation seeing my favorite graphic designers work.Therefore, having the opportunity to interact with professionals at Frauenberatung (Essen), David&Goliath and Identity Webeagentur has not only been a privilege but has given me a broader idea of both good will and creativity. I was encouraged to know the efforts taken to bring relief to women in distress and on the other hand it was inspiring to see some of the best designers in the country impart creative ideas to bring back home with me. More ever, everything I’ve learned in Germany in my vocation makes it seem like the ideal place for me to continue exploring and building upon those interests.

Taking all these experiences to heart, I left Germany with hope, to instill into my life as a woman and young professional all that has been learned. Most importantly and above all, I hope to reflect and do what was shown to me through the Rotary: Service above Self.

The GSE team from District 1880 met in January 2013 in Chennai.
Here the welcome photo:


Welcome ceremony on arrival in India at Chennai Airport! First night at — hier:
The Presidency Club.

Dear friends,

attached please find the minutes of our Berlin meeting as they were agreed upon between Hubert and me. I will keep in mind our get together as a constructive meeting with good new ideas and a pleasing readiness to cooperate.

I thank you for your cooperation in 2012 and do look forward full of expectations to the coming year. For 2013 and the Christmas period ahead I wish you all the best and send you my warm regards
Peter

>>>download the report<<<

Rotary Global Peace Forum Berlin 2012
- Peace without Borders -
Freitag, 30. November bis Sonntag, 2. Dezember 2012

Please read a detailed report on the forum here: >>Rotary Magazin Nwes<< (in deutsch)