The Important Impact of Rotary youth Initiatives
Ban Ki-moon, Marta Vieira da Silva, Dr. Mae Jemison, Justin Trudeau, and Sadako Ogata.
What do these distinguished individuals have in common? They are all renowned figures in their respective fields, ranging from technology and diplomacy to sports, space exploration, politics, and humanitarian work. Yet, beyond their global fame and impactful careers, another thread binds them: their involvement in Rotary youth initiatives. These programs have significantly shaped their lives and careers, fostering a spirit of leadership, service, and global citizenship.
Ban Ki-moon
Ban Ki-moon served as the United Nations Secretary-General from 2007 to 2016, championing issues such as climate change, human rights, and global peace. His journey towards becoming a prominent diplomat was significantly influenced by his participation in Rotary's Youth Exchange Program. Ban often credits his Rotary exchange for shaping his diplomatic philosophy and commitment to global understanding.
Marta Vieira da Silva
Marta, widely considered one of the greatest female soccer players of all time, has broken numerous records and garnered countless accolades in her sport. Her participation in Rotary's Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) in Brazil played a crucial role in her development. The leadership skills and values she absorbed during RYLA empowered her to become an advocate for youth sports and gender equality, using her platform to inspire and effect change.
Dr. Mae Jemison
Dr. Mae Jemison made history as the first African-American woman to travel in space. Her illustrious career as an astronaut, physician, and engineer was nurtured in part by her involvement with Rotary's Interact Club during her youth. The club's focus on community service and leadership helped ignite Jemison's passion for science and her dedication to service.
Justin Trudeau
Justin Trudeau, the current Prime Minister of Canada, has been a prominent figure in politics, known for his progressive policies and emphasis on inclusivity. Trudeau’s participation in Rotary’s Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) provided him with early leadership training and a strong foundation in public service.
- David Carey
Participative, Passport, or Perfunctory?
Traditional Rotary Clubs meet weekly and have a common district or area in which they operate.
In stark contrast, our "Passport Club" meets only once per month, does it online, and does not have a common thread of location. This is a stark difference.
Until recently I didn't really "click" how different it is because I have never been a member of a physical club. Perhaps a reminder of what a Passport Club is, what we are supposed to be doing with our time and efforts, and how our membership works is in order?
The primary purpose of a having only 1 meeting per month is to allow members flexibility to participate elsewhere. With our geographic spread, we cannot interact like a regular club and, therefore, the "3 weeks off" from club meetings are meant to allow us to connect with other Rotary Clubs, to participate in community events, or to be People of Action.
As a Passport Club member we retain membership to R.I. whilst having a flexible meeting regime to encourage engagement with other clubs. Our once per month meeting is not meant to create a lazy club, but rather a cooperative club that spends its hours elsewhere, doing great things.
Are you participating in our club? Are you a true Passport Club member meeting other clubs? Or are you a perfunctory member going through the motions?
Challenge yourself.
Our next club meeting is on Tuesday, May 28, 12 noon Eastern. See upcoming events list top left for a link.
We have a unique speaker on Tuesday coming to us from Florida. Please attend in person to help us support.
