For more than 20 years, JCI Wisconsin has participated in the Twinning program with JCI Hessen, Germany. Each year, members travel overseas to participate in a cultural exchange, network on a global scale, and to share best practices between organizations.
Check out the video below for more details on this Twinning partnership, and to meet Michael and Rebecca from Germany!
Interview Questions Continued:
Tell us about yourself!
Rebecca: I’ve been working in logistics for almost 20 years at a freight forwarding company, and for about a year now, I’ve also been working there as a trainer. I also work at a school, where I help children with their homework and support them with learning.
Over the past five years, I’ve done several additional trainings, mainly in holistic and energetic work. I use methods such as muscle testing and look at how subconscious blocks can influence learning and behavior. What I find especially interesting is that these methods are very versatile and can be used in many different areas and situations.
What’s the biggest difference between life here and at home?
Rebecca: Everything here is much bigger and the distances are much longer. That’s a big difference compared to Germany.
What was the most surprising thing here?
Rebecca: I was actually surprised that you still get plastic straws everywhere here. I love it!
What do you miss the most from home?
Rebecca: I miss my son the most. Unfortunately, he had to stay home because of school. But I hope we can do a trip like this together someday.
What service ideas are you taking home?
Rebecca: I’m taking home many new ideas for social projects and community service. I was really impressed by how fast and easy things are done here and how everyone works together. At one event, everything was cleaned up in just 30 minutes because everyone helped. In Germany, we often make lists and plans and still have only a few volunteers. I would love to take this team spirit back home.
Tell us a cool German word.
Rebecca: A cool German word is “Feierabend.” It means you’re finished with work for the day and now it’s time to relax and enjoy your free time.
What do you want Americans to know about Germany?
Rebecca: Germany is much more than just Oktoberfest. We have beautiful and very different landscapes, many small historic towns and castles, and there is so much to discover even though Germany is actually not that big.
What is your role as a Jaycee?
Michael: Ordinary member of JCI Wiesbaden since 2013. In 2024, awarded the Silver Pin of JCI Wiesbaden in recognition of long-standing active commitment and outstanding efforts in recruiting new Jaycees.
Any interests/hobbies?
Michael: Networking. Love Sailing! Reading (books on the stock markets & investment strategies, psychology, philosophy, historical topics). Traveling (favourite destinations to date: all over Italy, French Côte d’Azur, Paris, Alsace, the Dutch coast, Ibiza/Spain, Poland, Japan…). Coaching in personal development. Visiting museums (19th & 20th-century art). Working out in our office gym. Curious to learn new things.
Career background:
Michael: Started my career in the banking sector (wealth management). Then studies in Communication Sciences & Public Relations, Psychology, and Philosophy. In 2014, I founded my own company, focusing on financial planning, wealth management, portfolio management.
Learn More About Twinning:
Want more information on the Twinning program? Not sure how to get started? Check out the Twinning page of the JCI USA website for all the details!