Brazilian daughter

Brazilian exchange student Paula Dias with Flight Sergeant Richard Riley, his wife Cheryl and their son Andrew. Photo by CPL Gary Dixon

By FLGOFF Harriet Pointon

FLIGHT Sergeant Richard Riley, of RAAF Base Pearce, and his wife Cheryl have welcomed a special new daughter into their home – Paula Dias from Brazil.

Paula is an American Field Service (AFS) exchange student and under the program is spending 11 months with the Riley family in Bullsbrook, Western Australia.

The Rileys say that the bonds that have formed between them and their new daughter will last a lifetime and they are already planning a visit to Brazil following Paula’s return to her home country.

Paula regularly visits FSGT Riley, a member of the RAAF Security Police, and Mrs Riley, a Defence civilian, at work at RAAF Base Pearce.

She doesn’t have any immediate plans to pursue a military career on her return to Brazil, but will study veterinary science when she attends university next year.

The Rileys are helping the local AFS chapter find homes for 10 new overseas exchange students that will arrive in August.

“Hosting an exchange student is such a wonderful and rewarding experience,” FSGT Riley said. “I would recommend it to anyone as it is a great way to learn about other cultures and gain friendships that will last for a lifetime.”

If you have a teenage son or daughter who would like further information about participating in an overseas intercultural exchange, or would like information on volunteering to become a host family, phone AFS Inter cultural Programs on 1300 131 736.

AFS is a not-for-profit volunteer organisation with more than 40 years experience in international student exchanges.

 

.