Rotary Friendship Exchange Brings Cambridge Scholar to Charlotte County Florida
October 9th, 2025
Charlotte County Florida Welcomes Global Exchange Scholar
Charlotte County Florida once again proved that community and collaboration know no borders. Earlier this fall, the Southwest Florida Rotary Club hosted Cambridge University student Samuel English through Rotary International’s Friendship Exchange program.
The visit wasn’t just about travel. It was about connection. It was Samuel’s first time in the United States — and his first look at how Charlotte County blends innovation, resilience, and genuine hospitality.
Staying with hosts Priya Ahluwalia and Mohit Pohani in Babcock Ranch, Samuel saw firsthand how sustainability and community can grow together. Moreover, he experienced the daily rhythm of a region that continues to inspire global leaders.
The Power of Rotary’s Friendship Exchange
The Rotary Friendship Exchange goes beyond sightseeing. It builds long-term understanding between cultures through shared experiences and service. Participants stay with Rotarians, engage with local leaders, and exchange ideas that spark collaboration.
According to Priya Ahluwalia, SWFL Rotary’s Public Image Chair, “The Rotary Friendship Exchange is about more than travel — it’s about lifelong connections.”
Therefore, hosting Samuel was about building bridges, not just sharing meals. “We were proud to show him the strength, innovation, and hospitality of our community,” she said.
Inside Samuel’s Charlotte County Florida Experience
From the moment Samuel landed at Southwest Florida International Airport, he felt the warmth of Rotary’s welcome. Volunteers greeted him with smiles, a handmade sign, and the signature Rotary banner.
Over the next ten days, his schedule was packed. He met with leaders who shape the region’s growth and resilience:
- Syd Kitson, Chairman & CEO, Kitson & Partners
- State Representative Danny Nix
- Charlotte County Commissioner Bill Truex
- Charlotte County School Board Member Kim Amontree
- Mark Odell, Charlotte County Economic Development Office
- Suzanne Herron, Charlotte Community Foundation
- Bob White, Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
- Lee County Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass
- Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson
- Emergency Management faculty at Florida Gulf Coast University
Each visit offered a new perspective. As a result, Samuel gained a deep appreciation for how Charlotte and Lee Counties coordinate during hurricanes and emergencies.
A Lesson in Resilience and Vision
“What stood out most,” said Mohit Pohani, “was how our leaders balance vision with action.”
Indeed, that balance defines Charlotte County Florida. It’s a place where planning meets passion — and where communities prepare together for whatever comes next.
From solar-powered innovation in Babcock Ranch to hurricane readiness programs, resilience runs through every initiative. Consequently, visitors like Samuel leave inspired.
“For the past week and a half, I was living and breathing Southwest Florida,” said Samuel English. “Thanks to Rotary, I saw how Babcock Ranch embodies innovation and resilience. I even had the privilege of interviewing Syd Kitson — his vision truly motivates people worldwide.”
Connecting Cultures, Strengthening Futures
Beyond government offices and research discussions, Samuel found friendship. Every handshake and every conversation reminded him why Rotary matters.
Meanwhile, local leaders discovered something too — that Charlotte County’s story is powerful enough to inspire international audiences.
In addition, the exchange showed how service and education work hand in hand. When people share ideas across cultures, they strengthen communities everywhere.
Why Rotary Chose Charlotte County Florida
Charlotte County isn’t just another destination. It’s a living example of what can happen when visionaries work together.
Situated between Sarasota and Fort Myers, it serves as a hub for collaboration. Moreover, its leaders continually invest in innovation, public safety, and sustainable growth.
The SWFL Rotary Club, based in Babcock Ranch, is the world’s first regional Rotary Club. It unites changemakers from across counties to amplify impact. Hosting an international scholar like Samuel, therefore, was a natural fit.
Lasting Impact Beyond Borders
By the end of his visit, Samuel left with more than memories. He carried lessons about leadership, preparedness, and hope.
He witnessed how a small region in Southwest Florida can model big ideas — and how local partnerships can influence global thinking.
In fact, the Rotary Friendship Exchange showed that friendship and learning can spark lasting change. For Charlotte County Florida, that’s exactly what community is about.
About Rotary Friendship Exchange
The Rotary Friendship Exchange is an international exchange program that allows Rotarians and their families to experience other cultures firsthand. It builds peace, fosters understanding, and strengthens ties between communities worldwide.
About SWFL Rotary
Based in Babcock Ranch, SWFL Rotary serves the entire Southwest Florida region as the world’s first regional Rotary Club. The organization connects diverse leaders to promote service, collaboration, and impact across the state.
Learn more at www.swflrotary.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rotary Friendship Exchange?
It’s a global program that connects Rotary members across cultures through travel, service, and cultural exchange.
Why did Samuel choose Charlotte County Florida?
Because of its reputation for innovation, sustainability, and strong community leadership — especially at Babcock Ranch.
What did he learn from the visit?
He explored hurricane resilience, sustainable planning, and how civic leaders work together to protect residents.
Who hosted Samuel during his stay?
Priya Ahluwalia and Mohit Pohani, members of SWFL Rotary, opened their home in Babcock Ranch.
Which leaders did he meet?
Samuel met state officials, county commissioners, business executives, and educators across Charlotte and Lee Counties.
How does this visit help Charlotte County?
It strengthens global relationships, promotes local innovation, and highlights the region as a model for resilience and sustainability.
Conclusion
The visit of Cambridge scholar Samuel English to Charlotte County Florida represents more than an exchange — it’s a testament to what collaboration can achieve.
Through Rotary’s global network, borders fade and partnerships grow. And as Charlotte County continues to lead in resilience and innovation, stories like this remind the world that community still matters.
