Lian Binyon Update

Hey everyone

I am sorry about the delay with writing this. I have been having too much fun and experiencing a lot of new things about not only Canada, but myself as well. For the first couple of weeks I was here, I was very sick, but luckily I didn’t have school!

Speaking of which, school has been a real eye-opener. I have seen many differences, comparing Australian schools to Canadian schools, and it was quite daunting being a new kid (which I have only been once before). I have slowly made friends and people have opened up to the fact I am actually an exchange student – and not another kid who just moved to their school – which is awesome!

I have also made great connections and friends with the other inbound exchange students who are here from all over the world! In February, we had a youth exchange camp for both inbounds and outbounds, where we stayed up north of Mississauga, around three hours drive away. This was honestly one of the best weekends I have ever had, experiencing the cold north, with temperatures dropping to around -15. Meeting all the exchange students for the first time was an awesome thing.

We recently had a weekend in Mississauga where we visited the local waterfalls – Albion Falls and Webster Falls – which were absolutely beautiful! It was also a great day with nice weather and great photo opportunities (which you may have seen on Facebook).

My current host family, the Ngo family, has been very warm and welcoming. They are some of the most genuine people I have met. The kids are very focused individuals who strive to be the best they can and its great to see. Minh and I have got on like brothers ever since we found a common interest in games. We have been out many times to places like Square One in Toronto and will be going to Niagara Falls soon!

I have also been to many sporting events, like the Toronto Raptors vs Indiana Pacers home game in Toronto, and to the local hockey team, the Mississauga Steelheads.

These first three months have been very fast and are starting to feel like they get quicker every month. I am trying to make the most of my time here, regularly attending Rotary meetings and getting out as much as possible. I am really thankful for all the support from the club back home and I am again grateful for you being able to sponsor me on this journey.

Appreciate it, talk soon.

Liam Binyon