Ciedele shared some of her experiences in what is a very different exchange this year.  She is living on the outskirts of a small city.  The nearest big place is Dusseldorf.  The first month was quite normal and she found her German was steadily improving.  However, after the first month Corona took over and she has been in quarantine.  She can get out for a walk, but is basically staying home.  She has used the time to develop her needlework and cooking skills.  Sadly for her, many of the Exchange’s activities now won’t take place, including the Europe Rail journey.  She has, however, enjoyed her time there.  She was due to change host families this weekend just gone.

 

Tania gave us a very interesting “Who Am I?”

Tania was born on the North Island of New Zealand.  Her family came to Australia in 1971.  While here Tania attended 10 different Primary Schools and 1 High School.  She trained as a fine dining chef and had the opportunity to travel to New Zealand, Fiji, USA (backpacking,) and Canada before returning to Australia.  Looking for a career change, Tania gained Nanny qualifications and worked in the UK and Germany, enjoying working with kids. She retrained again and worked with software for 8 years at 2 different energy companies.  Tania has also worked at the Fiona Stanley and Perth Children’s hospitals.  She is now an instructional designer with Serco.

Tania met Franziska around 12 years ago and subsequently became involved with the Rotary Club of Midland including having a term as President.  She had the opportunity to do a Group Study Exchange in Georgia in the USA.  Eventually, Tania joined the Kalamunda club. 

Tania has been involved at District level – she was on the Foundation Committee for a year and is still on RAWCS.  Currently, Tania is strongly involved with the Darling Range Seniors Hub.