Help Zara get to France

Hi my names Zara and I am year 11 student in Rotorua. I was lucky enough to be selected to go on a student exchange to France for 10 months. I will live with a French family and be fully immersed in culture and school life. This exchange is something I have always wanted to do to experience a different culture and way of life while showing people my own. I have always wanted to learn about the world and do my part to help it so this exchange seemed an ideal opportunity

I leave in September and before I leave I have a lot of fundraising to do in order to make this trip possible. So far I have personally raised $5000 and although this hasn't being easy ( having to say no to many social activity's) I know it will all be worth it when I step off that plane. Of course it will be a challenge but I'm not doing it because it will be easy. I'm doing it so I can learn another language and appreciate their culture.

I may face many obstacles, physically and emotionally but I know these will make me grow as a person. I will strive to be a proud kiwi ambassador and spread the word that New Zealand is a separate country from Australia!

I am an active member of my community, always trying my best at school, coaching and umpiring as well as playing netball, doing speech and drama and doing some subjects a year ahead.

The exchange costs $14,500 not including spending money and visa costs. I have held sausages sizzles, sold chocolates, do regular babysitting and work for a family of five kids including a disabled child ,weekly. I am saving all my money and my family will help me in every way possible but a majority of it will have to be raised.

I cannot thank you enough for any support you offer me. It goes a long way towards this amazing opportunity I have being given. I will be posting a blog while I am in France and have put the link below so feel free to keep up with me.