By Rtn Mark Asiimwe
Sometimes, the greatest gift a parent can give a child is the courage to let them go. That's why the question is not simply where your child could go. It is who they could become when they return.
When Martinah Faith Kitiibwa left Uganda for her Rotary Youth Exchange, she was stepping into a world she had never experienced before. New surroundings, unfamiliar people and a different way of life awaited her. But perhaps the biggest change would not be the country she was going to. It would be the person she would become.
For her mother, letting her go was not necessarily an easy decision. Martinah was the only child at home, and the thought of having her live thousands of miles away for a year came with its own emotions. Yet, her mother chose to support the opportunity.
That decision opened a door to a year of growth that Martinah would carry long after returning home.
Through Rotary Youth Exchange, Martinah experienced what it meant to live in another country, adapt to a different culture and build relationships beyond familiar borders. She formed lasting connections with people who became more than friends. They became part of an extended family shaped by shared experiences and memories.
But the most important lessons were personal.
Away from the familiar comfort of home and her mother's daily presence, Martinah discovered that she could make decisions, navigate challenges and take responsibility for herself. She developed independence and leadership skills, and gained a confidence that comes from learning to stand on your own.
She also discovered something important about growing up: independence does not mean loving home any less. Sometimes, distance helps you appreciate the people who gave you the courage to explore the world.
Martinah remains grateful to her mother for allowing her to take that step, and to the Rotary Youth Exchange team and Rotary International for making the experience possible.
Her story raises an important question for parents. What opportunities might our children miss if we hold on too tightly? And what might they discover about themselves if we give them the chance to grow?
Rotary Youth Exchange 2027-2028: Applications are open.
The programme offers eligible students an opportunity to spend one academic year in another country, experience a new culture, build international friendships and develop independence, confidence and leadership skills.
Students must be aged 1-17 as of July 2027, be in secondary school or Grade 10 and above, and be recommended by a Rotary club. They must be willing to serve as ambassadors for Uganda and return home after the exchange year.
Rotary provides tuition funding in the host country and host family care. Parents or guardians are responsible for the student's air ticket, insurance, passport, visa and vaccinations. A mandatory physical seminar for interested students and parents will be organised in Uganda in 2027.
The application deadline is Monday, 30 November 2026.
Apply here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11u5iwC3OZiaowy-XlM9vNXdtBiyK9SCc/view?usp=drive_link
For guidance, contact:
Rtn. Mark Asiimwe
Rotary Youth Exchange Chair, District 9213
0708 583358 | d9213rye@gmail.com