Another FLEX student Emil Kurbanov spoke of how living in a rural area in Ohio prompted him to join the local Future Farmers of America chapter of his high school. He said had he stayed in Georgia without this experience, he would never have considered becoming part of such a group. Without knowing it at the time, this changed his life. He returned to Georgia and is law school. His future plans include bringing in new foods, such as the American turkey, to Georgia. He too is the change is wants to see in his country--his world.
After lunch we visited School No. 1. This is a very prestigious public school that only accepts the top students of Tbilisi. The current president as well as the first president of Georgia attended this school. It dates back to 1802. We were awed to be greeted by the youth standing at attention when we entered a classroom. For most of us, it was the first time to be in a school one of our students might have attended.
As the day progressed, social media spread word of our arrival. Our numbers grew by the hour as alumni came to join us. After touring the school, we visited the Georgian National Museum, From the gold of Jason and the Argonauts to the repulsion of the Soviets, we were enthralled by what we learned.
After walking through Old Town, our night ended with food and companionship. We shared laughter, stories and strength. Our faith in our program has been renewed. Our students are returning home to become the change they want to see. We cannot express our gratitude to all those responsible for our involvement. A special thanks go to our alumni Sesili Verdzadze, who has also partnered with World Link with a Future Farmers of Georgia project as well, who helped planned this wonderful, affirming day. (blog submitted by Illinois Local Coordinator Cyndi Oberle-Dahm)