The Dundee Rotary Club, in collaboration with the Dundee Bowling Club, hosted a lively social event with a ‘Boer and Brit’ theme on Saturday afternoon. The gathering brought together club members and guests for an afternoon of camaraderie, lawn bowls and cultural exchange.

A highlight of the event was the official welcome of Phelan Magnus Yech, the club’s new Rotary Youth Exchange student from Germany.

Seventeen-year-old Phelan hails from the historic city of Oldenburg. He attended several schools in Germany before being selected for the prestigious Rotary International Exchange Programme. He arrived in South Africa in July and is currently a learner at Dundee High School.

“It’s been a warm welcome,” he said with a smile. “Dundee is very different from my hometown, but the people are incredibly friendly, and I already feel at home.”

Phelan will stay in Dundee until June next year, living with various host families from the Rotary community. This cultural immersion is a key part of the exchange experience. Upon returning to Germany, he plans to complete his secondary education by 2028.

“I’m really looking forward to making good friends at school and learning more about South African culture – especially the food, music and wildlife,” he added.

Rotary Club president Michele du Plessis expressed her joy in welcoming the exchange student:

“We are proud to continue the tradition of hosting international students. These exchanges are about more than just travel – they foster lifelong friendships and promote global understanding.”

The Boer and Brit event – a respectful nod to South Africa’s rich and complex history – provided the ideal setting to introduce Phelan to the community in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

“It was a wonderful afternoon,” Phelan said. “I really enjoyed the game of bowls, even though it was my first time! And I’m starting to understand South African humour too!”

The Rotary Youth Exchange Programme promotes peace and cross-cultural understanding by giving students the opportunity to live and study abroad. The Dundee Rotary Club has been actively involved for many years.

“It’s a privilege to host young ambassadors like Phelan,” said a club member. “He will learn from us – and we will learn from him.”

The Rotary Club encourages the wider community to welcome Phelan when they see him at school events, Rotary functions or community activities during his stay in Dundee.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.