Matthew English, the winner of this year’s Adventure in Citizenship Rotary speakoff, is hoping to start an Interact club at Corner Brook Regional High.
Matthew English not only wants to repay Rotary for an inspiring trip to Ottawa, but is hoping to pass along the qualities of leadership and community the worldwide club is known for.
The winner of this year’s Adventure in Citizenship Rotary speakoff in Corner Brook wants to help finally get an Interact club started at Corner Brook Regional High.
“Judging by what I have learned about Rotary and the Interact club, I am really looking forward to it because it will get a lot of people more involved in the community,” English said.
Interact is a club for people ages 12-18, which reflects the values and initiatives of Rotary.
Although a bit nervous about taking on such a leadership role within his school and community, the 16-year-old believes the Adventure in Citizenship trip he experienced in May proved helpful in preparing him.
As part of a contingent of about 200 youth in Ottawa, English spent four days learning about Canada and what it takes to be a leader.
He was particularly taken aback with the citizenship ceremony they attended.
“You learned how powerful and important it is that we don’t take for granted being Canadians,” he said.
The social aspect of the experience will never be lost upon him, he said.
“It was so amazing meeting all the people, making friends,” he said.
“There was about 200 people there, and I didn’t know anybody. The opportunities to meet new people were phenomenal.”
