Despite the absence of overseas travellers – and inevitable apologies from those for whom the rush hour commute is an impossible burden, President John presided over a most successful session.

 

Speakers were Science teacher Yi Biao Ang – the fourth OTHC teacher to be selected for the wonderful RYLA leadership development opportunity and Jordyn Murray, the first teacher to win the award in 2022,

 

Yi Biao really appreciated the exceptional quality and relatability of speakers – noting how patterns of open, honest communication and a safe environment facilitated exceptionally speedy progress – while the new experience of social enterprise greatly widened his understanding beyond previous frameworks. Then the island experience allowed areas traversed in the talks to be put into practice, with changing of groups allowing new knowledge to be applied more widely, offering invaluable insights and pushing him to show initiative.

 

Both Jordyn and Yi Biao had the most vivid memories of walking on scoria at 4am – with the 42km round-island walk – but Jordyn had the added experience of ceaseless, torrential rain! Yi Biao particularly appreciated speaker Phil with his skilled message of de-escalation, while Jordyn fondly recalled Kevin Biggar, with his Planning to win and Three Bastards rule!

 

Positive thinking of Why not me? I am. I can. I will! have continued to be guiding messages for her, noting the most important message of all is how you act in everyday life.

 

Discussion was very lively and informed, with Peter Ross noting that the Army input now coming from older volunteers was actually an advantage, because of the depth of life-wisdom they are able to offer.   

Meeting captain John Scott concluded events, by leading Rotarians in a rousing song.