The annual meeting of the Club with our new District Governor is always a fun event, and this year was no different. Our new DG is Christina Hassan, of the Rotary Club of Fish Creek. She began her talk with thanks for everyone who has made this week in SE Alberta so enjoyable. Their whole family has been camping at Gas City Campground, and has really enjoy the "holiday".
Christina began her talk with her experience in Rotary Youth Exchange. She applied too young, and had to wait until she was eligible for the year long, overseas experience. She spent her year in Germany, and learned a great deal about Rotary culture, the power of a group of engaged individuals and knew she had found a group she belonged in.
She then told a story about her personal learning, when she journeyed to Uganda to "solve" the problem of maternal health in that country. She rapidly realized she had a lot to learn, and that determination, conviction and passion were truly needed in any of these situation. It was an amazing story, and through some personal health challenges she learned about the power you have within yourself, to make a significant and lasting contribution.
Christina spoke about some of the challenges facing Rotary, including membership (which our District is apparently doing well at). She introduced us to the Rotary International President who will preside over this year, and over the RI Convention in Calgary in June of 2025.
She also spoke about a few things we won't see this year, mostly because of the focus on the RI convention. But, beyond just the RI convention she spoke about two specific projects that she would like to see get more energy and uptake. First is a new polio initiative, known at the Polio Plus Society for contributions of more than $100 US/year to the eradication of polio. This program will replace the "move for polio" work, to help get us to the finish line of that endeavour. Second, she mentioned the wide variety of Youth Programs that are invaluable in engage youth and getting the Rotary brand out there.
Christina thanked everyone for the wonderful event, and presented President Mike Christie with this theme banner, "The Magic of Rotary". Christina mentioned that this may be the last year of a new "theme" for Rotary, so when the pins were handed out, it was suggested that you hang onto them!
Thanks for the visit, and the inspirational talk. We look forward to a very exciting year.