Compassion Amid Calamity
A crown of roses sat a little askew on her head, her hand rested on the handle of a suitcase that had travelled a long way, and a shy smile did most of the talking. When 17-year-old Valentina stepped into the arrivals hall at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, the long journey from Brazil gave way to a moment of recognition. A small group of Lions stood waiting to welcome her—not with formality, but with familiarity—holding a placard with her name.
The high school final-year student from Ribeirão Preto in São Paulo State is the first participant in MD 321’s Youth Exchange Program, launched this Lion year. The warmth of the welcome continued in Parwanoo, a quiet town in Himachal Pradesh, where Valentina is staying with the family of PDG Vineet Goyal of District 321A2. Speaking over the phone, she shared her excitement about learning more about India’s culture and history, as well as trying the local food.
Back home, Valentina lives with her parents, her 12-year-old brother and two cats, Molly and Sandy, whom she admits she will miss. Alongside her studies, her days are usually filled with games, horseback riding—her favorite sport—gym sessions, and music.
For Valentina, this exchange program connects naturally with interests she already has. Her curiosity for languages will find new ground in Hindi. Her love for reading will meet Indian stories. And the long walks of Brazil’s countryside will give way to new routes along the foothills of the Himalayas.
Growing up with an Italian father who works as an engineer and a Brazilian mother employed in banking has already exposed her to different ways of living. This three-week visit adds another layer to that understanding. She sees youth exchange programs as a way for young people to act as messengers of goodwill—learning through shared meals, conversations, and everyday life.
MD 321’s Youth Exchange Program opens this space for learning, building understanding that reaches across continents.