I'll preface this by saying that I'm not directly involved with the project, but that I'm very interested, and recently met the organizing ambassadorial scholars from Johannesburg at a Braai (Barbeque) hosted by my wife (another Ambassadorial Scholar) and myself.

In any case, the project is interesting to me for a few reasons. Foremost, of course, are the beneficiaries of the Aids hike. While the hike is designed to bring awareness and media coverage to the very real problem of Aids orphans in South Africa, the proceeds go to Rotarians for Fighting Aids and in particular, to their ANCHOR program.

Last year's group maintained a blog through the process, and walked from Johannesburg to Cape Town in South Africa (a staggering distance) and was very successful both locally and abroad. This year's group of scholars are planning to head from Johannesburg to Durban (where I live, hence the added interest) through the heart of Zulu-land and one of the hardest-hit populations.

Further this is an inter-district project (9300 and 9270), initiated by Ambassadorial Scholars, and in coordination with hundreds of Rotaractors and Rotarians on the route. To me, particularly in light of connecting Rotarians and their supporters through technology and new media (Digaria) this strikes me as a great step in the right direction.

Further, as an added bonus, it tends to generate great awareness of Rotary both locally and abroad as it's a great 'feel good' news story, with soul and a rich message.

As developments arise of which I'm aware, I'll keep you updated!