Welcome to a New Rotary Year!
As we begin this new Rotary year together, I feel immense gratitude for the path that has been paved by the passionate leaders who came before me. I follow directly in the footsteps of District Governor 2024–2025, Dave Duskin—a Rotarian whose dedication, professional wisdom as a Solicitor (Attorney At-Law), and quiet strength have left a meaningful legacy. Dave followed a remarkable leader, Past District Governor David Lukov, whose heart and soul rested in highlighting the importance of inspiring clubs to ensure members felt like they “belonged”. I also extend heartfelt thanks to the many Directors, committee members, and volunteers whose steady efforts have brought thoughtful, lasting change throughout our District.
One of Dave’s key accomplishments was the work he and Goldfinch Award recipient PDG Bev Harrington championed in the development of our District’s policies and procedures, now reflected in the updated District Leadership Plan(DLP). This important initiative, first brought forward by Past District Governor Raj Rajagopal 2022-2023, produced a framework of policies that continue to guide efforts with clarity and purpose. Thank you, Phoenix MacLaren, and others, who contributed to the proof reading and final resource document used in 2023-2024 which is available on the Rotary District 5050 ClubRunner Documents page. The District Leadership Plan is a testament to our shared commitment to thoughtful leadership.
To all the People of Action who have served on District Boards and committees: thank you. Your dedication, time, and heart have helped make Rotary District 5050 a thriving, vibrant, and inclusive force for good.
We are part of a global movement rooted in action and compassion. As Rotarians, we do more than speak of change—we live it. And in 2025–2026, we are reminded of the resilience that defines us. With the unexpected news that Rotary International President Elect Mario César Martins de Camargo will not be serving as President due to health, personal, and professional reasons, we are called to step forward with the grace and adaptability Rotary is known for. On 1 July we welcome newly elected Francesco Arezzo of Italy as the Rotary International President for 2025-2026. An orthodontist by profession he calls on members to “Unite for Good” asking Rotary members to “be a force for unity in a world increasingly divided by politics, geography, and ideology.”
Our history proves we are built for this. For over 120 years, Rotary has endured—through wars, crises, social upheaval, and shifting tides. Yet we continue to rise, grounded in Service Above Self, and united by our desire to lift others. We lead not from ego, but from empathy. We act not out of fear, but out of courage. And through it all, we remain grounded in the Four-Way Test and the values that make Rotary a beacon in an ever-changing world.
Being a Rotarian is not just a role—it’s a privilege and a responsibility. The world needs more Rotarians. Our communities, our environment, and our future would be better for it.
This year, I will focus on asking Clubs to participate in the following goals:
- To develop 3-year rolling plans for strong succession, Club resilience, and future leadership.
- Create meaningful board and member experiences to boost engagement and Club vibrancy.
- Grow membership through innovative Club models and inclusive outreach.
- Strengthening youth engagement by building better connections between Interact, Rotaract, RYE, Y.E.S. and other youth programs.
- Elevate Rotary’s Public Image by leveraging technology and collaborative tool so that both our communities and members clearly see and understand the impact of Rotary.
- Grow Foundation giving and deepen awareness of the Rotary Foundation’s powerful global and local impact.
Let’s lead with purpose and build a Rotary that’s ready for tomorrow.
As July begins, Rotary’s focus is on Maternal and Child Health. Assistant Governor Carla Hanson shared a powerful example of Rotary in action: the Rotary Club of White Rock, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Tanga, Tanzania, has leveraged a Rotary Global Grant to create a fully equipped surgical skills lab in Dodoma. This collaboration—with Canadian obstetric surgeons (CNIS), the local hospital, and university—will build the capacity of young medical professionals in obstetric surgery. In the immediate future, thousands of women and children will benefit from improved care. In the long run, this initiative will transform the healthcare landscape for generations.
This is Rotary at its finest: local action, global collaboration, and lasting impact. I applaud the Rotary Club of White Rock for accepting the opportunity, engaging both local and international Rotarians, collaborating with experienced partners, and sharing this story through various media sources to the wider community. You’ve shown how powerful our movement can be when we act with purpose.
This is just one story among many. Across Rotary District 5050 in Canada and the US, Rotarians are quietly changing lives—and the world—for the better. Let’s share our stories and invite others to join us.
Let’s move into this Rotary year with courage, creativity, and compassion. Together, we are People of Action. And together, we will keep rising and supporting each other.
With Gratitude,
