D5000 is starting up a Young Professional Exchange (YPE) program, similar to the GSE (Group Study Exchange) program, which was discontinued years ago. YPE is a Rotary District created program intended for young professionals (Rotarians or non-Rotarians) 25 to 35 years old. The purpose is to provide young professionals with opportunities for cultural immersion and professional development abroad with the goal of building a new generation of global leaders with global experience and perspectives. This program allows participants to gain cultural experiences, observe and engage with their professional fields, share skills and build international and personal relationships with other countries. They will also have the opportunity to network with professionals in their field, participate in humanitarian service projects and build relationships with host families and other Rotarians.
Duration: 10 days. 4 young professional participants will travel to the partner country where they will be hosted by Rotary Clubs and will take part in various activities such as visiting companies arranged by host club(s), social gatherings, cultural presentations. We will reciprocate with a group of young professionals from partner country. They will be visiting companies, attend cultural programs, renew friendships with District 5000 participants, sightseeing, and if their visit falls on district conference, will participate in it. Participants bear their own costs, unless subsidized by the sponsoring Rotary club(s).
Preparation
Selection of participants normally be made at least 6 months before scheduled travel, however, for this first exchange, we are looking to do this in July 2026. During this time, monthly meetings will be required to establish rapport, goals, expectations and fellowship amongst them.
Partner Country
Partner Country will be identified by committee. Partner Country can be a sister club of one of the member clubs.
If you are interested in this program or your club would like to sponsor a group, contact Marietta Bustamante at marrietta.bustamante@gmail.com