On June 6th, 2025, Mike Benz, Youth Exchange Chair, reported Minneapolis Uptown Rotary Club's Youth Exchange Program was celebrating a new chapter as Irene, a student from Minneapolis, embarks on a month-long cultural exchange to the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany.
With the support of her parents, Kwame and Alyssa, Irene is eager to immerse herself in German culture, language, and traditions while living with her counterpart, Johanna and her family. This exchange fosters a true cultural partnership, as Johanna will return with Irene to Minneapolis for a month, allowing both young women to share their experiences. Mike's update also included some kind words about Irene and her family:
"Great news from our friend Kwame. He and his wife Alyssa put their daughter Irene on a plane to the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany yesterday. Irene is a bright, enthusiastic, and adventurous student at Minneapolis Washburn High School who just finished her freshman year. One can only imagine the possibilities that this experience could open up for her.”
This program truly embodies the North Star Youth Exchange’s inspiring slogan: “We are building world peace, one student at a time.” The Minneapolis Uptown Rotary Club is proud to support the development of global citizens, fostering empathy and understanding through these invaluable exchanges. We extend our gratitude to our club members and the community for their ongoing support, making a difference one student, one friendship, and one journey at a time.
