Whether they’re visiting museums in Spain, eating pizza and pasta in Italy or enjoying the spices of Asia - Hayley Wilson, Belinda Cuomo and Dylan Arvidson will all be a long way from the outback this year as they explore new horizons thanks to the 2008 AFS International Student Scholarship Programme.

Hayley, Belinda and Dylan – all from the Pilbara - were chosen to study abroad in the countries of their choice as part of Rio Tinto’s ongoing partnership with AFS Intercultural Programmes.

Dylan Arvidson, 15, has spent most of his life in Tom Price and has just departed for ten months to Hong Kong.

“I’ve lived in Tom Price with my family for more than 12 years and I’m beside myself with excitement that I’ve been chosen for a scholarship.

“Hong Kong has always been a place I’ve wanted to visit as I understand the importance of China to the Pilbara. I’ve already started learning a few basic Chinese words and one day I hope my ability to speak another language and understand different cultures will be helpful.

“I’m so fortunate to be a winner and I’m looking forward to this once in a lifetime opportunity. I’m going to try and learn as much as I can during my time away.”

For more information on AFS visit www.afs.org.au.