A young Argentinian student named Francisco Estrada stepped off a plane 35 years ago and into a life-changing experience in Somerset West. As a Rotary exchange student in 1990, Estrada’s time in South Africa left an enduring mark, shaping the man he is today.
Estrada’s journey began in Strand, where he was welcomed with open arms by Strand Rotarians Anita Miller and Ken Lester.
“He was an outstanding student, he played rugby and golf, and even became a cheerleader at Hottentots-Holland High (HHH) School,” Miller recalled.
His linguistic prowess was also evident; being fluent only in Spanish, Estrada quickly picked up Afrikaans, a testament to his eagerness to immerse himself in the local culture. “We’ve always been in touch regularly,” Lester said.
Estrada’s bond with his South African hosts has remained strong over the years, marked by three or four return visits. Today, Estrada is a successful berry farmer in Argentina, raising horses and exporting his produce. He is also a proud father of four, with two daughters and two sons.
But the pull of his “second country”, as he calls it, remains strong. “I remember everything,” Estrada said in an interview with the DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, his voice filled with warmth.
“I was involved in the lifestyle, and they helped me out all the time. Afrikaans I love. To me, South Africa is my second country, and I’m much at home with people that I love.”
This current trip is particularly special as Estrada has brought his family to experience the place that shaped him.
He also planned to revisit HHH to meet with the school principal. “It’s so special to re-live those memories,” he said.
The Strand Rotarians met with Estrada for breakfast on Monday 17 March, before accompanying him to the school.
