We were delighted to welcome back Renato Barboza (1984 Rotary Inbound Exchange Student from Brazil) for a return visit to St. Marys June 1st & 2nd. Renato was accompanied by his wife, Silvia, and mother, Terenzinha. During his visit, we asked Renato to reflect on his Rotary exchange year in St. Marys in 1984:
“I refer to my life as "BC/AC" = “Before Canada/After Canada”! One hundred percent of my life is based on what I learned during my exchange in St. Marys. Who I am now is built on my exchange. I learned to recognize opportunities and not be afraid to take positive risks. Learning English gave me opportunities personally and professionally. I am grateful to my parents for giving me the opportunity to go on Rotary exchange. I am grateful to my 3 host families for welcoming me into their homes. I am grateful to the staff and students at DCVI in 1984 for being so friendly and welcoming!”
Renato Barboza is Founder and CEO of LaFemme Shoes in Birigui, Brazil. Additionally, he and his family raise soybeans on their family farm.
Renato, his wife, and his mother started their Canadian trip in Halifax, driving to Ottawa, Hamilton, and then St. Marys. Along the way, they visited 3 Canadian former exchange students whom they hosted in their home in Brazil. While in St. Marys, Renato planted a tree to commemorate his exchange. He visited with Grant Barton and family, who hosted Renato in 1984. Before leaving St. Marys on Monday, Renato took a memory-filled stroll through DCVI.
Please message the Rotary Club of St. Marys if you remember Renato and would like to connect with him again.