Last year, six students and two staff members had the privilege of attending the 2023 Round Square International Conference hosted by Brookhouse School, Kenya and associated pre-conference tour in Tanzania where we stayed at the School of St Jude.
St Jude’s was founded in 2002 by Australian Gemma Sisia, who dreamed of helping to end poverty in Africa. St Jude’s provides free education to over 1,800 girls and boys from the poorest families in Arusha and surrounds. It is 100% charity-funded and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School are proud sponsors of an attending student, Anthony . During the week at St Jude’s we took part in a three day safari, visiting Lake Manyara National Park, the UNESCO world heritage site, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. We were spoilt with the incredible sights of African wildlife and landscape, not to mention the amazing hospitality of the local people.
The conference had the theme of ‘The New Africa’. We were exposed to an array of talented Brookhouse students with vibrant musical and dance performances, guest speakers including the conference guest of honour, the former first lady of Kenya, Margaret Kenyatta, and Paralympic Athlete, Henry Wanyoike.
After an incredible two weeks, our students made sad farewells to newfound friends from around the globe, having created lifelong memories. Our delegation returned home with a new appreciation of how privileged we are in Australia, a grasp of the Swahili language and a deeper understanding of the value of education. As was said, and experienced, many times during the conference: Ubuntu: I am, because we are.
My RISC 2023 experience was one of the best experiences I will ever have. I met so many new people from all over the globe and I have formed some great new friendships. A highlight for me was seeing all the different animals, from elephants walking in front of our safari car to lions having a nap on the side of the road, it is all an experience I will never forget. :: Hannah, Year 11
The thing I found best at RSIC was the ease of meeting new and inspiring people and making life-long friends from around the globe. I loved that we were kept busy with many activities such as service day where we all joined in playing sport with the school kids and seeing their bright smile and eyes as they defeated us 10-5 in netball. :: Gabrielle, Year 11
Ms Cathy Elliott :: Round Square Representative
