Back in August 2014, Rotary Melbourne had the pleasure of welcoming Julie Hindkaer, a bright and adventurous student from Skive – a small town a few hours from Copenhagen, Denmark – as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program.
During her year in Melbourne, Julie embraced every opportunity, staying with four generous host families – the Mavros, Hunter, Yerondais and McIntosh families – who each played a key role in shaping her Australian experience. She was thoughtfully supported throughout by her counsellor, Jenny Taing.
Although it has been several years since Rotary Melbourne last hosted a Youth Exchange student, Julie’s story is a reminder of the deep personal and cultural connections this program fosters. The impact of a single exchange year can be lifelong.
We were delighted to see Julie in Melbourne when she visited our club meeting at the Sofitel this April.
Today, Julie is thriving as a Management Consultant for a multinational engineering firm in Denmark. Never one to shy away from adventure, she is currently preparing to set sail with friends on a two-month voyage around Tahiti – an exciting chapter that echoes the spirit of exploration that brought her to Australia over a decade ago.
Julie’s journey is a testament to the enduring value of Youth Exchange and the lasting friendships it creates. As Rotary Melbourne reflects on its proud exchange history, stories like Julie’s affirm the program’s ongoing relevance and importance.
