Rotarian Confident Niyizibyose’s Enriching Tour
Recently, Confident Niyizibyose, a dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga (RCKV), embarked on a personal holiday across various European countries. What started as a leisure trip quickly transformed into a meaningful exploration of Rotary fellowship, forging new friendships, and laying the groundwork for potential international collaborations.
Paris: A Meeting of Minds and Cultures
Confident’s first stop was Paris, where the Rotary spirit greeted him warmly. Despite the holiday season, Rufin BASSILA, the President of the Paris Nord Rotary Club, made time to meet him. Their meeting, set against the backdrop of the iconic Champs-Élysées, was a perfect blend of African camaraderie and Rotary fraternity. Originally from Congo-Brazzaville, Fayo and Confident discovered shared values and visions, paving the way for a strong foundation for future partnerships.
The Paris visit also included a stop at the Rotary Bar, a unique gathering spot for Rotarians during the Olympic period. Located at Hotel Bedford near La Concorde Avenue, this venue served as a hub for Rotarians in the city. Through District Governor Nada, Confident was introduced to Brigitte Courson from the Rotary Club of Paris Avenir. The conversation was not only enriching but also promising for future collaborations between their respective clubs.
Brussels: A Blend of Tradition and Youthful Energy
In Brussels, Confident experienced the vibrant fellowship of the Brussels Ouest Rotary Club. Despite its members being seasoned Rotarians, the club exuded youthful energy. The connection was made through a contact found on the club’s Facebook page, showcasing the power of social media in fostering Rotary relationships.
Confident was treated to a state-of-the-art Belgian lunch, complemented by a glass of wine, making the experience all the more memorable. The presence of the Alain Vanrillaer District President-Elect added a special touch to the fellowship, symbolizing the deep-rooted traditions of Rotary in Belgium. As a token of this memorable encounter, Confident was presented with a famous Rotary hat, a symbol of the enduring bonds formed during this visit.
Lunch with Paris Academies: A Feast for the Mind and Soul
Another highlight of the tour was a delightful lunch with the Paris Academies, a club of intellectuals in the Odeon neighborhood. The setting, the renowned Restaurant Procope, close to the Académie Française, perfectly reflected the club’s intellectual spirit. The conversation during the meal spanned various topics, from Rotary initiatives to global economic trends, cinema, sports, and the arts. This gathering not only provided a culinary delight but also a feast for the mind, reinforcing the club’s name and its commitment to intellectual and cultural engagement.
Building Bridges for Future Collaborations
Confident’s tour through Europe was more than just a holiday—it was an enriching journey of learning and fellowship. Each encounter, whether it was over a glass of wine in Brussels or a conversation in Paris, laid the groundwork for potential international partnerships. These interactions have not only strengthened existing ties but have also opened new avenues for Rotary International joint grants and collaborations.
Though some fellowships were missed due to the holiday season, the relationships established during this tour promise to grow and flourish in the future. Confident Niyizibyose’s journey is a testament to the power of Rotary’s global network, where every meeting is an opportunity to learn, connect, and build a better world together.
