The charm of Jamshedpur, fondly known as the Steel City, continues to weave its magic, drawing people from across the globe back to its vibrant streets. This time, it has brought two Brazilians, Juliana Baeza and Renata Madeira, back to relive the fond memories they created over two decades ago. Their visit is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane but also a testament to the city's warm hospitality and cultural vibrancy.  

Juliana Baeza first visited Jamshedpur during 2002-2003 as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange Programme. Reflecting on her time in the city, Juliana shared, “I have been missing the city and its people for so long that I decided to come back to spend some quality time here. The most vivid memories I have are of relishing ‘Dosa’ and ‘Besan Laddu’. The first thing I did after arriving was to savor these delicacies once again.” Now residing in Brasília, the capital of Brazil, Juliana’s affection for Jamshedpur remains as fresh as it was two decades ago.  

Mother of two kids, Juliana said that her love for India has increased over the years. She would love to send her kids to India as part of student exchange programme.

Echoing Juliana’s sentiments, Renata Madeira, who visited Jamshedpur in 1998, expressed her joy at returning to a place that holds a special place in her heart. For Renata, the trip was not merely about revisiting old haunts but also about reconnecting with the people who made her time in the city unforgettable.  

Their journey back to Jamshedpur is a reflection of the impactful cultural exchange facilitated by the Rotary Youth Exchange Programme. District Counselor RYE PDG Ronald D’Costa explained, “Rotary International District 3250, covering Jharkhand and Bihar, is a certified district for hosting and sending students aged 15-18 years for Long Term and Short Term Exchange Programs worldwide. This initiative fosters international understanding, promotes peace, and nurtures leadership skills among youth.”  

The Rotary Youth Exchange Programme offers a unique opportunity for students to live abroad for a year, immersing themselves in new cultures, learning new languages, and forming lifelong friendships. With participation from over 100 countries, the programme aims to bridge cultural gaps and create global citizens.  

“Our District 3250 started this programme under the guidance of the late PP Surender Sahni, hosting and sending students to and from countries like the US, Brazil, and Germany. Today, Juliana and Renata’s visit is a beautiful example of how the programme continues to build bridges of friendship and understanding between nations,” Ronald D’Costa added.  

The ongoing success of the programme is attributed to the leadership of District Governor 3250 Bipin Chachan, District Counselor RYE PDG Ronald D’Costa, and District Chair RYE PP Satnam Kaur Kapula. They continue to inspire young minds to explore the world, learn from diverse cultures, and build meaningful connections.  

The return of Juliana and Renata to Jamshedpur is a powerful reminder of the city’s enduring charm and the transformative power of cultural exchange. As the Rotary Youth Exchange Programme continues to bring people closer, it invites young individuals aged 15 to 18 years to embark on this life-changing journey and experience the world beyond borders.  

Their visit not only celebrates old friendships but also strengthens the ties between India and Brazil, showcasing the universal language of love, culture, and shared memories.