On 14 March, Maksym Matsyboka, a master’s student of the Department of German Philology of the “Language and Literature (German, English)” educational programme at Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy, attended a UNESCO forum in Paris as part of a team of Rotaractors.

The forum brought together Rotarians from all over the world, including diplomats, scholars, representatives of international organisations, entrepreneurs, and young people.

This time, only two Rotaractors from Ukraine participated – Maksym and Mariia – and for them it was a great honour to represent their country within such an international community.

The forum programme was intensive and covered topics such as the global healthcare system, the future of education, peace and security, as well as the role of international organisations in a rapidly changing world. Representatives of various institutions, experts, and Rotarians shared their insights. The forum was opened by Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo. Following the meeting, a White Paper containing proposals was prepared. It will be submitted to UNESCO, WHO, and UNICEF for further international discussions.

The participants also had the opportunity to meet members of Rotaract Paris, Rotaract London, and Rotaractors from Switzerland, exchange contacts, discuss potential joint projects, and even record a short video interview.

Such meetings are truly inspiring. They demonstrate that local initiatives are part of a broader international movement in which people from different countries work together to make the world a better place.

The Department of German Philology