Across Continents; One Rotary Family

September 19–29, 2026

For ten unforgettable days, Les from Signal Hill Rotary joined fellow Rotarians from Rotary District 5320 on a Friendship Exchange to Kenya—an experience that went far beyond sightseeing.

From the highlands and tea plantations to the classrooms of local schools and the remarkable wildlife of the Kenyan savanna, we experienced a country through the people who welcomed us into their communities. Most importantly, we discovered how quickly Rotary friendships can cross thousands of miles, cultures, and languages.

Experiencing Kenya Through Its Communities

Our journey took us into communities and landscapes that gave us a deeper appreciation for life in Kenya.

We hiked through the beautiful highlands, visited dairy and tea farms, and learned firsthand about the people whose livelihoods depend on agriculture. These visits offered a glimpse into the daily lives of Kenyan families and the importance of sustainable agriculture to local communities.

We also spent time learning about the educational needs of local schools. Meeting educators and seeing the challenges facing students reminded us that the desire for opportunity and a better future is universal—and that Rotary has an important role to play in helping communities build that future.

Investing in the Future of Nairobi's Children

Our visit to Nairobi also brought home the profound educational needs that exist within some of the city's most underserved communities.

At Shammah Splendid High School, located in one of Nairobi's informal settlements, we saw both the challenges facing students and the determination of educators who are working to give young people a better future. Education can be transformative, but it requires the basic infrastructure and technology that many students in these communities do not have.

In response, Rotary District 5320 committed $23,000 to support the construction of new classrooms and a computer laboratory at Shammah Splendid High School.

This commitment represents something much larger than a financial contribution. It is an investment in students who deserve the opportunity to learn in a safe and supportive environment and to gain access to technology that is increasingly essential to education and employment.

The project is a lasting reminder that friendship can lead to service, and service can create lasting change.

Learning the Power of Peace

One of the most meaningful parts of the exchange was learning about the tribal conflicts that have affected the region.

Rather than simply hearing about conflict from a distance, we had the opportunity to learn from local perspectives about the challenges communities have faced—and about the role Rotary played in bringing people together and helping broker peace.

It was a powerful reminder that service is not always about building something tangible. Sometimes, the most important work is creating a space where people can listen to one another, rebuild trust, and find common ground.

Witnessing the Circle of Life

One of the most extraordinary moments of the journey came during our safari, when we witnessed something that very few visitors ever have the opportunity to see: a successful leopard hunt.

Leopards are famously elusive, solitary, and difficult to observe, making a successful hunt an exceptionally rare sight in the wild. We watched in awe as the leopard patiently stalked its prey, culminating in a dramatic and unforgettable encounter. It was a powerful reminder that a safari is not simply about seeing wildlife—it is about witnessing nature unfold in its own time, completely beyond our control.

For everyone in our group, it was one of those rare moments when conversation stopped and cameras came out. We simply watched. The experience was thrilling, humbling, and something none of us will soon forget.

Connecting With the Next Generation of Rotary

In Nairobi, we had the opportunity to attend a meeting of the Rotaract Club at the University of Nairobi.

Meeting these young leaders was inspiring. Their energy, ideas, and commitment to service demonstrated that the future of Rotary extends well beyond our current generation. Across countries and cultures, young people are stepping forward to address the needs of their communities and make a difference.

Friendship Without Borders

Ultimately, the greatest gift of the Kenya Friendship Exchange wasn't a photograph, a safari, or a destination.

It was friendship.

Over ten days, Rotarians from District 5320 and our Kenyan hosts shared meals, stories, long drives, hikes, meetings, laughter, and countless conversations. We arrived as people from different communities and continents. We left as friends.

That is the extraordinary power of the Rotary Friendship Exchange: it transforms international travel into something much deeper. It allows us to experience another country not simply as visitors, but through the eyes of friends.

For Les and the Rotarians of District 5320, Kenya will forever be more than a place on a map. It is a collection of people, stories, landscapes, and friendships that will remain with us for a lifetime.

Ten days. Two continents. One Rotary family.

. . . and friendships that will last a lifetime.