Byron Bay High School student Zaza Horstmans has won World Education Program (WEP) scholarship to take part in a semester-long student exchange to Italy next year.
The 15-year-old, who dreams of a future in theatre, won the scholarship with a catchy tune that describes her life on the north coast.
But while Zaza could sing the praises of her hometown for days, she thinks life is just too short to stay in one place.
‘I believe that we need change, we need to travel, to see the world in a different way. Living in a different country, with a different language and a different family seems like a pretty awesome plan! Scary, but awesome!’ She says.
While Zaza is a bit apprehensive about the language barrier she’ll face in Italy, supported by teachers and friends at Byron Bay High School, the year 9 student is learning more Italian every day.
‘I hope to learn as much Italian as I possibly can while on exchange. I also want to create memories that I will look back on for the rest of my life.’
For more information on WEP Australia’s student exchange programs, SLAP, or overseas student hosting, visit: www.wep.org.au