HIT THE GROUND RUNNING - A new club making a big difference - AFRICA south | rotaryafrica.com - Rotary Africa
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AFRICA south | rotaryafrica.com June 2020
26 HIT THE GROUND RUNNING
A new club making a big difference
MEET OUR TEAM Editor Sarah van Heerden Administration Sharon Robertson Chairman Gerald Sieberhagen Directors Greg Cryer Andy Gray Peter Hugo Natty Moodley Annemarie Mostert Lee-Ann Shearing Publisher Rotary in Africa Reg. No. 71/04840/08 (incorp. association not for gain) PBO No: 18/13/13/3091 Registered at the GPO as a newspaper Design & Layout Rotary in Africa Printers Roc Media Advertising Sharon Robertson Sarah van Heerden Tariff card on request at www.rotaryafrica.com Subscriptions Sharon Robertson www.rotaryafrica.com (digital) Contributions rotaryafrica@mweb.co.za Distribution Rotary Districts 9210, 9211, 9212, 9220, 9350, 9370 and 9400 (Southern and Eastern Africa) Contact Rotary Africa PO Box 563 Westville 3630 South Africa Telephone 0027 (31) 267 1848 Fax 0027 (31) 267 1849 Email rotaryafrica@mweb.co.za Website www.rotaryafrica.com The Rotary Emblem, Rotary International, Rotary, Rotary Club and Rotarian are trademarks of Rotary International and are used under licence. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Rotary Africa, Rotary International or The Rotary Foundation.
IN THIS ISSUE...
How is your club remaining connected during lockdown? Share the fun and innovation with us. Email
rotaryafrica@mweb.co.za.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION 23 | Friend Power
5 | President’s message 24 | Exchange student to president
6 | Trustee Chair’s message
7 | More of a good thing ROTARIANS AT WORK
8 | Convention Countdown 26 | Hit the ground running
9 | Public Image 27 | Community effort
10 | Connecting through... 28 | 5 000 and counting
12 | Funding changes 30 | From Ireland, with love
31 | Feeding learners and their families
IN DETAIL 32 | Equipping the frontline
13 | New Foundation 33 | When water returns
14 | District Governors 34 | Get quizzy with it
15 | Zones explained 35 | News ways in a new world
16 | Up for a challenge
17 | Golden opportunity AROUND AFRICA
18 | Stay connected 36 | Club and district news
20 | Coping in lockdown
22 | A century of awesomeness!
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 3
ON MY MIND Sarah van Heerden, editor
During the last week of people are truly valued for what they contribute and
May, I went around the not judged for how they appear. Rotarians know this;
world many times, all it is part of our organisational culture. We work with
while wearing my comfy incredibly diverse partner organisations and inspiring
slippers and never people. We have learned so many lessons that can be
physically moving. shared for the benefit of others.
I was fortunate enough When I see the rabid thoughts shared on social
to be asked to speak at media from people hiding behind devices, I am
two Rotary meetings, revolted. However, without fail, a post from a Rotarian
as well as to join a daily or club pops up. It’s then that I realise that as long as
‘confined chat’ group. there are people like us, we can pull through this. It
Here I met people from will be okay.
almost every continent, In these times, people can choose to sit back
laughed, shared and learned. We did not sit next to and let someone else deal with it or they can be the
each other, but we still met each other - and it was someone else. Yes, it gets scary, but we have ways to
great. Sure, things are different now and there is break through the fear, to reach people peacefully and
still a long road ahead of us, but it will be okay. We heal the cracks that exist.
adjust and adapt and if the pages of this magazine are Today. This week. This month. This year. This time,
anything to go by, we will still find ways to support and right now, is our chance to rise above the upheaval and
help our communities. lead and to make sense of the chaos that surrounds
This is an incredible organisation and what makes us. Now, more than ever, it is time for us to stand up
us stand apart from the other community groups and do what we do best. Bring sustainable, lasting
around us, is that we are connected to more than 1.2 change to our communities and the world.
million other like-minded people… and together we Together, we can create peace and tolerance.
hold the power of change. Together, we can make sure that people are happy,
The world is rumbling and shuddering. I don’t think healthy, fed and educated. Together, we can set an
that by the time we reach the end of this road that example of friendship and acceptance that bridge the
much will remain the same as it was. But that’s alright. boundaries of age, race, religion, gender, nationality
Change is never easy or comfortable. We have big and politics.
problems which need to be taken care of. We need to
start moving forward properly and foster environments We are Rotary and together, we will make it better!
where ethics trump populism and materialism. Where
Thank you to the South African National Department of Health for providing information and resources to share with our readers.
4 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
President’s message
Dear fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and friends Honolulu, we learned about the aloha spirit. Our Rotary
friends in Hawaii showed us that “aloha” means mutual
My Rotary journey began 40 years ago when I regard and affection. It extends warmth and caring with
joined the Rotary Club of Decatur at no expectation of anything in
the age of 25 and it has brought my
family and me many unforgettable
As COVID-19 reached return. The spirit of aloha applies
wherever in the world we may
moments. But nothing could have
prepared me for connecting with
around the globe, we live. As Rotarians, Rotaractors
and members of the family of
the world as president of Rotary
International. My individual Rotary
found ourselves in a Rotary, we are connected and as
aloha has been defined to me:
journey has become a shared
Rotary journey with each of you.
world transformed. Our connection to one another
is based upon mutual respect
All of the incredible people Gay
and I met this year — Rotarians,
We have been forced for our differences as well as our
appreciation for what we have in
Rotaractors and the extended family
of Rotary — will be an inspiration
to connect in ways common. Community is the sum
of individuals — individuals who
for the rest of our lives. We visited
clubs and projects from Uruguay
we could never have have concern for one another,
who care, share and take
to Ukraine, from Nigeria to New
Zealand and beyond. We were
imagined, testing our responsibility.
As I have witnessed
privileged to criss-cross the globe,
circumnavigating it twice and moving
ability to adapt. the members of the Rotary
community act to care for
back and forth between the Northern humanity amid the coronavirus
and Southern hemispheres. Each pandemic, I have seen the
country and each stop held its own Rotary magic. aloha of Rotary. We are indeed people of action. Every
While in Zimbabwe in March, we participated in a day, but particularly during this pandemic, the Rotary
medical vocational training team mission with Rotarians community has demonstrated its aloha spirit. It is a gift
from India, providing health, hope and life itself to the to be shared and we are each a steward of this gift of
thousands who came for treatment. We also felt the Rotary. Gay and I have been amazed, inspired and
energy of more than 300 young people at a Rotary humbled by all of you within the family of Rotary.
Youth Symposium in Harare. What a thrill it was to be Indeed, I would say that the last part of our shared
with these young people! Rotary year was transformational. We found new ways
This year Rotary launched our new Action Plan to make the lives of others better, new ways to move
and I trust each club is putting that plan to use. I have forward together. And together, we will continue to grow
been energised by the efforts to embrace the priorities Rotary so that we may increase our gift of Rotary to our
I set for this Rotary year: engaging families, providing local and global communities.
leadership opportunities for all ages, celebrating our Gay and I will always remember and treasure our
history with the United Nations in its 75th year and, year with you, our shared journey, as Rotary Connects
most significantly, growing Rotary. the World!
As COVID-19 reached around the globe, we found
ourselves in a world transformed. We have been forced
to connect in ways we could never have imagined,
testing our ability to adapt. We have made tough
decisions, including cancelling club meetings, district
conferences, presidential conferences and, much to
our regret, the 2020 Rotary International Convention in
Honolulu. Together everyone is placing the public good
and welfare first, despite the loss of meetings, events
and experiences that had been planned for years. MARK DANIEL MALONEY
As we looked forward to the Rotary Convention in President, Rotary International
Visit riconvention.org for information about virtual 2020 Rotary
Convention events to be held in June.
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 5
A message from
The Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair
Gary CK Huang
Ni hao, Rotarians! or reimburse COVID-19 activities dating back to 15
As I write this message, the world is in the grip of March in your district’s 2020-21 district grant.
the COVID-19 pandemic. I want to dedicate this column Due to your generosity to our Foundation, the
to the ways that Rotary members, as people of action, Trustees were able to quickly approve millions of dollars
have helped and can help, and share what we are doing for the Disaster Response Fund to make a multitude of
at the Foundation to support you. disaster relief grants immediately available for club and
Rotary has long been a leader in fighting disease district projects related to COVID-19 relief efforts.
and advancing health. The polio infrastructure that As this Rotary year ends, our fight for the cause of
Rotarians have helped build is being used to counter public health is at a critical point. We must overcome
the new coronavirus, in addition to serving countless COVID-19 and continue to build on the many decades
other health needs. In many countries, polio volunteers of programmes and projects of our Foundation.
have been deployed to address COVID-19. If you have not already done so, please do whatever
Rotary clubs and districts have mobilised quickly to you can to help by making a year-end contribution to
curb the spread of the virus. In Italy, clubs in District 2080 our Foundation. Your gift has never been so important.
are raising funds to purchase ventilators and protective When I think of Rotary members truly making a
gear for overcrowded hospitals. In Hong Kong, Rotary difference in their communities, I remember what the
clubs have packed medical supplies, raised funds and great Laozi once taught us about leadership: “A leader
visited public housing buildings to distribute masks is best when people barely know he exists. … When the
and hand sanitiser. Rotary clubs in Akwa Ibom state, work is done … they will say: We did it ourselves.” The
Nigeria, conducted a COVID-19 awareness campaign. world depends on us to lead and for your leadership, I
At the Foundation, the Trustees took swift action to will be forever grateful. Thank you for your past, present
support your work. You can use district grant funds to and future leadership and support of our Foundation.
support local activities, such as purchasing protective
medical gear for health workers. You can repurpose
previously planned activities as a COVID-19 response
ROTARY ROTARY ROTARACT INTERACT RCCs
AT A Members: Members: Members: Corps:
1 217 072 174 030 336 421 10 996
GLANCE Clubs:
36 118
Clubs:
10 996
Clubs:
14 627
• Increase
• Decrease
service above self
As at 17 April 2020
The Object of Rotary Fourth. The advancement of international
understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world
The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the fellowship of business and professional persons
ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, united in the ideal of service.
in particular, to encourage and foster:
The Four-Way Test
First. The development of acquaintance as an
opportunity for service; Of the things we think, say or do:
Second. High ethical standards in business and 1) Is it the TRUTH?
professions; the recognition of the worthiness of 2) Is it FAIR to all concerned?
all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each
Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve 3) Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER
society; FRIENDSHIPS?
Third. The application of the ideal of service in each 4) Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
Rotarian’s personal, business, and community life; Learn more about Rotary at: www.rotary.org
6 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020
Arch Klumph Society:
More of a good thing
The Arch Klumph Society, named for the man welcomed 95 new members — which is a 25 percent
considered the father of The Rotary Foundation, increase over the same period of the previous Rotary
honours Rotary’s highest tier of donors — those year and more than the total for all of 2018/19.
who have given $250 000 or more to the Foundation. Gifts to the Arch Klumph Society, like all donations to
Gary CK Huang sees the Arch Klumph Society as so the Foundation, help fight diseases such as COVID-19.
important that he has made adding to its ranks a major They also provide clean water, save the lives of
focus of his tenure as 2019/20 chair of the Trustees of mothers and children, support education and help
The Rotary Foundation. local economies grow. To learn more about The Rotary
From July 2019 to March 2020, the society Foundation, visit rotary.org/foundation.
The Arch Klumph Society honoured 30 donor couples at One Rotary Centre in Evanston last October.
TOP 10 MEMBER AREAS* *As of 31 March
United States Taiwan India Korea Japan Canada Philippines Australia Brazil Nigeria
509 111 106 95 47 40 23 20 14 13
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 7
Convention Countdown
SAVE THE DATE
20 TO 26 JUNE 2020, FREE ONLINE CONVENTION
Now More Than Ever, Rotary Connects the World: 1am - Greening Rotary Events: Be Plastic-free,
The 2020 Rotary Virtual Convention will join you Offset Carbon, and More!
with Rotary participants around the world during a TUESDAY, 23 JUNE
time of unprecedented challenges. 3pm - Grow Rotary Through New Club Types
Together, we’ll still experience the spirit of 7pm - President-Nominee Session
Rotary, be inspired by innovation, celebrate our 1am - How to Start and Manage RAGM Microfinance
resilience and explore how clubs are addressing Projects/Cómo iniciar y administrar proyectos de
COVID-19. Experience Rotary in action during our Flag micro finanzas RAGM (presented in Spanish)
Ceremony, witness the power of connection during
WEDNESDAY, 24 JUNE
our general sessions, learn new ways to engage with
3pm - Adopt-a-River Initiative: A Rotary & UNEP
Rotary during our breakout sessions, find inspiration
Partnership Model
from our global speakers and much more.
7pm - Rotaract Elevated, Now What?
We have never needed Rotary — and we have
1am - Disruptive Innovation in Rotary Clubs/
never needed each other — more than we do now. We
La innovación disruptiva en los clubes
hope to see you online, because Now More Than Ever,
rotaries (presented in Spanish)
Rotary Connects the World.
THURSDAY, 25 JUNE
GENERAL SESSIONS 3pm - How to Submit a Great Global Grant
SATURDAY, 20 JUNE Application
General Session 1: Together, We Connect 7pm - President-Elect Session
3pm – 4.15pm Johannesburg/Harare 1am - Digital Trends of 2021: Using Tech to Engage
Millennials
SUNDAY, 21 JUNE
General Session 2: Together, We Learn FRIDAY, 26 JUNE
3pm – 4.15pm Johannesburg/Harare 3pm - Engage Young Families with Service and
Alternative Meetings
FEATURED BREAKOUT SESSIONS 7pm - The Rotary Brand
All sessions presented in English unless otherwise 1am - Personal Growth Opportunities: Rotary’s
noted and simultaneous interpretation will be available Alliance with Toastmasters
in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean,
PLEASE NOTE:
Japanese, and Chinese. The below times are all
These Live Sessions will be recorded and made
Johannesburg/Harare
available for On Demand viewing. These were correct
MONDAY, 22 JUNE at the time of going to print but may change. For regular
3pm - Using Virtual Tools to Engage Members updates see: www.riconvention.org/en/honolulu
7pm - Engaging Rotary Alumni
8 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020
Public Image
ADAPT TO MOVE FORWARD By Lee-Ann Shearing, Regional Public Image Coordinator
It’s hard to believe that we are in the final month has a newly licensed vendor – Barry Hewstone located
of this Rotary year. Leadership transition events in District 9400. Please feel free to contact him on
will take on a significantly different structure for baza@icon.co.za for all your Rotary branded regalia.
clubs and districts this year due to the COVID-19 With most business meetings now taking place
pandemic and it will be interesting to see how virtually through various online meeting platforms, I
innovative the investitures will be. Do share them encourage you all to wear your Rotary pins or Rotary
with Rotary Africa (your favourite magazine), won’t branded apparel even if the meeting has nothing to do
you! with Rotary. Be a brand Ambassador in every situation.
June also marks the deadline for districts to be You will also find Rotary backgrounds that you can use
compliant with Rotary’s visual standards. This means on some of the online platforms – good to hide a messy
that every district must use the correct branding and office or home desk if you have taken a day off from
logos as found in the Brand Centre’s Voice and Visual housework or if your filing is piling.
Identity Guidelines. It stands to reason therefore that As we all prepare for the new Rotary year, let us
every club should also comply and if you have not yet celebrate our victories, learn from the challenges we
read the guidelines found in the Brand Centre on the faced in the year past and be purposeful about what we
Rotary website, then I urge you to do so at the earliest want to achieve in the year ahead. We need to make
opportunity. OUR BRAND MATTERS! a decision to be adaptable, innovative and serve our
Consistent and clear branding should be the aim communities in whichever way we can to build a new
of every club in every district throughout the world and better version of the world. We can’t go back to the
regardless of language or culture. Together, we are way things were, so it is up to us to adapt and make it
stronger. And please remember that if you wish to the best we can. Choose to make compassion, love and
sell any items that are Rotary branded you must use sharing the order of the day and include environmental
a licensed Rotary vendor. You will find a list of these issues in every project we undertake. Thank you to
under Manage – Products and Services on the Rotary all Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors and the greater
website. family of Rotary for your service this Rotary year. I
It may also be of interest to note that South Africa salute you all.
Our first
D9120
director
History was made in May when PDG Lee-Ann Shearing
became the first D9210 representative to officially join the
Rotary in Africa Board of Directors. Rotary in Africa, the
company that publishes Rotary Africa (South), had invited
Lee-Ann to join the board in an advisory capacity last year.
This year after the Rotary in Africa constitution was amended
to allow up to seven directors to serve on the board, Lee-Ann was
elected as a director. Greg Cryer, Natty Moodley and Andy Gray
were re-elected and joined Annemarie Mostert, Peter Hugo and
Gerald Sieberhagen on the board. During the board meeting that
followed, Gerald Sieberhagen was re-elected as chairman for
another term.
Rotary in Africa now has seven directors and this year,
celebrates the 93rd anniversary of this magazine.
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 9
Connecting through...
CONNECTING
By Patrick Coleman - Rotary Club of Luanshya (D9210)
Rotary Governors’ Council of Southern Africa Secretary: 2019/21
Human beings are social animals. Our lives depend
on other humans. Human infants are born unable
to care for themselves. Their survival depends on
another human’s efforts.
Remember nature videos of the miracle of birth as
the gangly giraffe or horse or hippo rises to its feet and
takes the first, tenuous steps of its young life, minutes
or hours after birth.
Now remember the scene of human labour and
delivery rooms. The pink newborn lies still in the
foetal position and makes no attempt to do anything.
They require constant attention for the first months of
life. Even when they become somewhat more self-
sufficient, they require much more care than the puppy
who generally leaves the mother at eight weeks.
Our youngest granddaughter is six months old.
She is beautiful! (Okay, all grandfathers say that their
Erica Coleman,
granddaughters are beautiful, but Erica really is!) In
the apple of her
spite of her angelic good looks, she is essentially
grandfather’s
useless. She doesn’t have a job, doesn’t cook, doesn’t
eye, who will
wash dishes, she doesn’t even clean up after herself!
connect with
Her primary purpose in life at this time is to bring great
the world as
joy to parents and grandparents!
she grows and
The good news is that, over time, she will develop
learns. Ed - We
and learn about the world around her through the filter
agree, she is
of other people. These connections to others are key
beautiful!
to not only her survival, but also to her happiness and
the success of her life. The people in her life will help to
Sherry
determine the young lady she becomes.
connecting with
Charles Tremendous Jones said, “You will be the
a student.
same person in five years as you are today except for
the people you meet and the books you read.”
The fact is… We NEED people! Then we see
these words: LOCKDOWN! QUARANTINE! SOCIAL
DISTANCING!
These are not words that we want to hear – especially
during a month when tens of thousands of Rotarians
planned to travel from all over the world to Honolulu,
Hawaii, for our Rotary International Convention.
Just look at the list of cancelled events:
Rotary Peace Symposium, Rotaract Preconvention,
Youth Exchange Officers Preconvention, World Water
Summit, Rotary and the United Nations: Celebrating a
75-Year Legacy of Humanitarian Cooperation, Rotary
International Convention.
The House of Friendship (a popular meeting place
for Rotarians) may be one of the most missed activities
of the convention. Rotary Fellowships and Action
10 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020Groups concentrate all year to present their various When Paul Harris first invited his friends to meet,
goals, projects and activities. Fellowships that meet they were trying something “new” for 1905. That first
during the convention will not be conducted in person. meeting evolved into weekly, face-to-face meetings that
“Virtual” meetings are the new normal. Rotary vendors have become normal for 115 years.
will not be able to display and market their Rotary- Today we are communicating with friends, family and
branded merchandise – another disappointing aspect colleagues electronically by social media platforms like
of cancelling a convention. WhatsApp, Facebook, Signal and ZOOM. If someone
I wanted a new pair of Rotary socks! had told me in early 2020 that walking into a bank with
Rotary District Conferences that were scheduled late a mask covering my face was “acceptable” I would
in the Rotary Year were either cancelled or postponed have laughed out loud. Yet, here I am walking through
(for the positive-thinking DGs). Yep! This is a very Luanshya with my face covered.
disappointing time. Sherry has weekly discipleship class with one
Rotary International President Mark Maloney of her students who was transferred just over 650
Your enhanced online Rotary experience is beginning to unfold. Enjoy a
announced the Rotary Virtual Convention on 20-26 kilometres from Luanshya (an 11-hour drive in Zambia).
June. It won’t be the same, but, like so many other Technology is wonderful!
modern design and search functionality that’s fast and easy-to-use. Easily
experiences of the times, different is the “new normal!”
I have been invited to speak at three Rotary clubs
Rotary is not closed… Just different! We NEED each
other. We Connect By Connecting.
thousands of kilometres from home.
manage your club’s administration functions. Gain access from
your mobile
Your enhanced onlinedevice. Search
Rotary for Rotarians
experience or clubs to
is beginning to connect
unfold. Enjoy a
instantly.
modern design andUpdate
searchyour personalthat’s
functionality profilefast
to and
control what Easily
easy-to-use.
manage information
your club’s isadministration
shared with whom. Coming
functions. this fall,
Gain access from
all ofdevice.
your mobile these improvements will begin
Search for Rotarians or toclubs
funnel
to connect
instantly. into oneyour
Update clearpersonal
and simple
profileplatform.
to control what
informationWelcome to the
is shared withstart
whom.of the new this fall,
Coming
all of theseMY ROTARY.
improvements will begin to funnel
into one clear and simple platform.
Welcome to the start of the new
MY ROTARY.
VISIT MY.ROTARY.ORG TO SEE YOUR LATEST IMPROVEMENTS.
VISIT MY.ROTARY.ORG TO SEE YOUR LATEST IMPROVEMENTS.
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 11and 36-Across’ 54 End of the theme 22 Where 36-Down
home, for short 56 36-Across or studied after
12 Cuban years 32-Down 62-Across, initially
FUNDING CHANGES
14 Recording artist 57 Mötley ___ 24 Puffiness
Janelle 58 Jazz singer Adams 28 Tattoo artist’s supplies
15 Contacted via 60 Start to meter? 30 Outward bearing
WhatsApp 61 Party giver 31 Almost infinite
16 Exam 62 Where 36-Across and 32 36-Across’ spouse
17 Mexican friend 32-Down met and 33 Scare
18 ___ fire under studied, familiarly 34 Easy victory
(made hustle) 63 Pinto, for one 36 Health spa staffer
At the end of May, Rotary International announced but not yet approved on 1 July will still receive the World
19 Start of 36-Across’ 64 Citrus coolers 37 Site of a Herculean battle
that animportant change
is
being implemented
to Fund
theme match for cash contributions.
65 Superlative endings 38 “Understood!”
Global
Grant funding for 2020-21. 21 PartContributions
2 of the theme to Bilko
66 theorAnnual
Snorkel Fund arein invested
39 Item an overhead to
The programme has been very successful and has 23produce
Cat-___-tailsDDF and the World Fund. Cash
(abbr.) valvecontributions
engine
grown at an incredible pace since its launch in 2013. 24inVery
support
small of a grant do not. By supporting 42 Bolivianthe bear Annual
This growth, however, means that Rotary
expects
the
25Fund,
Key below X
members Down
can ensure a steady 44 Hair arrangements
supply of both
26 Book end? 1 On ___ (policing) 45 Quincy identifier
demand forGlobal Grants to dramatically exceed the DDF
27 Help
and World Fund resources for the
46 Fast run
global grant
2 Low-scoring tie
capacity of the World Fund. 29projects that change
Dark reddish-brown people’s
3 Sticky note lives. 49 Treasure ___
Because
of this, the Trustees
of The Rotary In addition,
31 Salad dressing due4toEmail
theaddress
incredible efforts
ender 50 of Rotarians
Fitzgerald and Logan
Foundation decided
that World
Fund resources
will be toingredient
address the 5COVID-19 In the bag pandemic,
51 Make ___ thisin (progress)
year’s
used to match only District Designated Fund (DDF) 35Global
CasablancaGrant budget
character has been fully53expended.
6 Taunt Q-tip, for one When
36 2019-20 RI president 7 Colorful-sounding 55 Moistens
contributions. This
match will remain at 100 percent. the pandemic hit, Global Grant submissions rose 33
38 Hoppy brews, briefly Dodges 56 Clapton’s “___
The match oncash contributions to grants will be 40percent as Rotarians
Finish a prayer moved
8 Ill temper
into action. Down Sally”
eliminated, effective 1 July 2020. Clubs
41 Great or members
enthusiasm with questions
9 With smiles 59 6-pt.mayscores write to
Global Grant applications that have been submitted rotarysupportcenter@rotary.org.
Solution on page 23
CREATE. VOYAGE.
LIDERANÇA.
INSPIRAÇÃO.
TRAVEL.
LEADERSHIP.
INSPIRATION.
TRAVEL.
LEADERSHIP.
INSPIRATION.
SHARE. FORMATION. DIVERSÃO.
LEARN. FUN.
LEARN. FUN.
SERVICE. SERVICE. SERVICE.
海外体験。
DÉCOUVERTE.TRAVEL.GROW. TRAVEL.GROW.
LEADERSHIP. LEADERSHIP. LEADERSHIP.
学び。 LEARN. LEARN.
TRAVEL. TRAVEL. TRAVEL.
ACTION. ACTION. ACTION.
CONNECT.
奉仕。 VIAJES. SERVE. SERVICE. SERVE.
DISCOVERY. SERVICE.
DISCOVERY. DISCOVERY.
AVENTURAS. FRIENDSHIP.
FUN. FRIENDSHIP.
FUN. FUN.
DIVERSIÓN. FUN. FUN.
Descubra um mundo novo fora da sala de aula. Discover a world outside the classroom through Discover a world outside the classroom through
Participe de um programa intensivo de liderança que an intensive leadership experience that builds an intensive leadership experience that builds
se baseia em técnicas de comunicação, solução de communication skills, teaches creative problem- communication skills, teaches creative problem-
ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE
problemas e maneiras de transformar o mundo num solving, and challenges you to change not only solving, and challenges you to change not only
LONG-TERM LONG-TERM LONG-TERM
lugar melhor. yourself but the world. yourself but the world.
Long-term exchanges build peace one young person Long-term exchanges build peace one young person Long-term exchanges build peace one young person
at a time. Students learn a new language, discover at a time. Students learn a new language, discover at a time. Students learn a new language, discover
Join the global movement of young leaders taking Join the global movement of young leaders taking Join the global movement of young leaders taking
another culture, and live with host families for a full another culture, and live with host families for a full another culture, and live with host families for a full
新世代交換 NEWtoGENERATIONS
action build a better world. Exchange ideas with NEWtoGENERATIONS
action build a better world. Exchange ideas with action to build a better world. Exchange ideas with
academic year. Become a global citizen. Start in one academic year. Become a global citizen. Start in one academic year. Become a global citizen. Start in one
SERVICE EXCHANGE
leaders in your community and mobilize your friends SERVICE EXCHANGE
leaders in your community and mobilize your friends leaders in your community and mobilize your friends
of more than 100 countries. of more than 100 countries. of more than 100 countries.
目標をもって海を渡り、異国での奉仕活動に参加し、短 to develop innovative
Professional solutions
development toathe
with world’sUniversity
purpose: most to Professional
develop innovative solutions
development withtoa the world’sUniversity
purpose: most to develop innovative solutions to the world’s most
期間の滞在で新しいスキルを学びたいと思う大学生やフ pressing
studentscommon challenges.
and young professionals learn new pressing
students common challenges.
and young professionals learn new pressing common challenges.
レッシュ社会人にとって、
この上ない特別な経験ができる
ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE
skills, learn a language, and take action through
ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE
skills, learn a language, and take action through
ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE
でしょう。
SHORT-TERM
humanitarian service during short-term, customizable
SHORT-TERM
humanitarian service during short-term, customizable
SHORT-TERM
Toma acción, promueve la comprensión internacional
exchanges. Short-term
Take action, build exchanges
international immerse young people in Take action, build
understanding,
exchanges. Short-term exchanges
international immerse young people in
understanding, Short-term exchanges immerse young
y forja nuevas amistades alrededor del mundo. and make newanother
friendsculture.
around Some live with
the world. host families for and
Develop up make new another
friendsculture.
aroundSome live with
the world. host families for up
Develop another culture. Some live with host f
Desarrolla tus aptitudes de liderazgo mientras your leadershiptoskills
threewhile
months,
you while
discover others
the embark
power on a tour or to skills
your leadership threewhile
months,
youwhile others
discover the embark
power on a tour or to three months, while others embark
descubres el poder de Dar de Sí antes de Pensar en Sí go to camp for a few weeks.
of Service Above Self and find out how serious Go on an adventure in go to camp for a few weeks.
of Service Above Self and find out how serious Go on an adventure in go to camp for a few weeks. Go on a
y cuan divertido es el verdadero liderazgo. leadership canone of more than
be seriously fun! 100 countries. leadership canonebe of more than
seriously fun!100 countries. one of more than 100 countries.
Create your own promotional
cards to showcase your youth
CREATE. SHARE. CONNECT.
activities. Available now in
Rotary’s Brand Center.
YouthProgramsCard_RotarianAD_halfpage.indd 1 2/6/17 2:32 PM
0 | The Rotarian July 2019
Create your own promotional
materials to showcase your
_combos_v1.indd 60
club and its activities. 5/22/19 4:10 PM
Available now in Rotary’s
Brand Center.
See www.rotary.org
12 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020IN DETAIL
NEW
FOUNDATION
FOR
SOUTHERN
AFRICA
Anne Botha is the CEO of The Foundation of
Southern African Rotary Clubs NPC. She is
supported by a board of directors.
The Foundation of Southern African Rotary Clubs Rehmeyer and Grant Daly
has been registered as a non-profit company. The The first board meeting was held on 13 February in
foundation was formed to secure the financial Cape Town and the next step is to develop a business
support of corporate South Africa for Rotary plan for the foundation.
projects. Most of the funding generated by the Foundation
Last year, according to Trialogue, a consultancy of Southern African Rotary Clubs will come from CSI
in South Africa that focus exclusively on corporate contributions and to a lesser extent, from BBBEE Social-
responsibility issues, the total estimated CSI economic Development and Section 18A Donations.
expenditure was R 10.2 billion which represented a five These funds will be distributed to qualifying districts
percent increase from the R9.7 billion estimated spend and clubs in exactly the same way as the distribution
the year before. Rotary projects and beneficiaries from the The Rotary Foundation, through District and
harnessed very little of this. Global Grants. Clubs will be able to use this funding
The Memorandum of Incorporation and name as their club contribution towards a Global Grant.
have been approved by the legal team of The Rotary Administrative costs will be calculated and charged
Foundation with the stipulation that the current district according to The Rotary Foundation guidelines.
governors of Districts 9350, 9370 and 9400 (the only The main objective of The Foundation of Southern
executive officers of Rotary International) must be African Rotary Clubs is to channel the vast benefits
executive directors of the company. The new foundation of CSI spending in South Africa to Rotary projects
has nine directors - three from each district. and beneficiaries with no negative impact on funding
Anne Botha is the CEO of the foundation and the intended for The Rotary Foundation.
current board members are: District 9350: DG David Rotarians who contribute to this Foundation will
Holtzhausen, Carl-Heinz Duisberg and Ian Robertson. not be eligible for any of The Rotary Foundation
District 9370: DG Jaco Stander, Wally Jacobs and recognitions.
Anne Botha. District 9400: DG Maurice Stander, Daran
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 13MEET OUR 2020/21
DISTRICT GOVERNORS
D9210: Lucie Kasanga D9211: Rosetti Nabbumba Nayenga
D9212: Patrick Obath and his spouse Theresa
Ngonyo Obath (Terry). D9370: Maud Boikanyo
D9350: Carl-Heinz Duisberg with his wife Caroline. D9400: Annemarie Mostert with her spouse Hans.
14 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020ZONES EXPLAINED
By Regional Public Image Coordinator Lee-Ann Shearing
Rotary is divided into zones. Zones are further Region 28 (District 9210, 9211, 9212, 9350, 9370 and
divided into regions. Regions are assigned districts, 9400), Region 27 and Region 26.
and districts are comprised of clubs. Each region has regional coordinators appointed by
Until recently we were part of Zone 21 encompassing Rotary International who work with the zone director,
Africa, Middle East and parts of Europe, distinguished district and club leadership. These regional appointees
by 21A (Africa) and 21B (Middle East and Europe). As of are there as resources to assist districts and clubs in
April 1st 2019 Africa finally became its own zone, Zone their various areas of expertise.
22. Each zone has a director who serves on the board The regional coordinator roles are: Regional
of Rotary International for a two-year period. Zoning Coordinator (all membership matters), Regional
is reviewed from time to time and largely depends on Rotary Foundation Coordinator, Regional Public Image
numbers of Rotarians. Coordinator, Endowments/Major Gift and End Polio
Until July 1st, 2019, there were 3 regions in Zone Coordinators.
21A. Region 22, 23 (encompassing District 9400, 9370, Each coordinator has a team of assistants to help
9350 and 9210) and Region 21. The new regions are them.
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 15UP FOR A CHALLENGE?
The COVID-19 lockdown has resulted in Rotary
Family Health Days (RFHD) being postponed until
contact RFHA NPC Chairperson, PDG Grant Daly on
072 071 8111 or email dalyg@hillary.co.za.
February 2021. However, this does not mean the This additional funding “has the potential to raise
programme is losing momentum as a Global Grant R260,000 for RFHD 2021 which will be part of our
has been registered to support its future funding commitment for the Global Grant application. This has
says Martin Scholtz, the southern Africa programme the added potential to translate into an over R1m return
director. from the Global Grant application (1:4),” explained
To help maximise grant’s funding potential and Scholtz. “This will go a long way to securing the financial
invest in the fight against the spread of communicable resources needed for the successful hosting of the
(including COVID-19) and non-communicable diseases, Rotary Family Health Days in South Africa and Lesotho,
Scholtz and his team have issued two challenges to as well as provide RFHA training to the broader COSA
Rotary Districts and clubs in Southern Africa. community, as part of RFHA Inc’s Strategic Alliance
The first is the 2021 Inter-District Challenge where Country initiative.”
clubs can pledge R1 000 and districts can allocate This is not the only grant that is being applied as
$5 000 from their DDF commitment to the Rotary Scholtz confirmed that the RFHA Inc had “received
Family Health Day DG Challenge by 30 June 2020. confirmation that the application for a Programme of
This additional investment will contribute to the Global Scale grant has been received.” The outcome of the
Grant funding and help in ensuring that each Rotary application is not known and apparently more than
club that hosts a RFHD site will be able to claim up to 60 applications have been lodged with The Rotary
R7 500 for costs. Foundation.
The second challenge is the RFHD Paul Harris Each year, this new grant structure will provide one
Fellowship recognition. The RFHA NPC Board has project with $2 million from The Rotary Foundation’s
secured five of these recognitions from RFHA Inc World Fund. These competitive grants are designed
director and chairperson, Sandra McKersey, who to respond to a need that a community has identified
donated them in the interest of raising funds for RFHA and benefit a large number of people in a significant
NPC. These will be awarded on a first come first served geographic area using a sustainable, evidence-based
basis in recognition of a donation of R7 500 each. intervention with measurable outcomes and impact.
Rotary clubs or their members who are interested may
16 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020CENTENNIAL PEACE PROJECT
A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY
Clubs can nominate people for mediation training by
Mediators Beyond Borders
Rotary club presidents in Districts 9350, 9370 and Mediation Steering Committee at ljmorison@gmail.
9400 are invited to nominate members of their clubs com.
to attend specialised community mediation training. Once the committee has received the nominations
This is part of a project that is being launched by it will, “engage with the nominees to offer them an
the Inter-District Mediation Steering Committee. As opportunity to obtain an internationally accredited
a steering committee in order to establish a panel qualification in community mediation under the banner
of community mediators as part of a peace project of Mediators Beyond Borders International, which is
to celebrate Rotary’s centennial on the continent. supported by Rotary International,” said Mostert.
“We look forward to creating a legacy. Our Rotary These mediators will obtain mediation certification
legacy will be an African Mediators in Africa for Africa by attending a multi-day online course (in English)
Vocational Training Team project. This will help in specifically customised by the international body for
bringing peace to our continent for the next 100 years!” Southern Africa’s community dispute resolution needs.
explained centennial chair, Annemarie Mostert. The Rotary clubs and their members may also nominate
theme of the April 2021 celebration will be “Mediation”. any experienced mediators, who are not Rotarians,
The establishment of such a specialised panel from their communities for this mediation training
dovetails with the Rotary Foundation focus area of opportunity. Due to the social distancing restrictions
Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution. imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic that prohibit large
The committee is particularly interested in Rotarians gatherings, the training will be done via virtual platforms
with close ties to the community and who have and for logistical reasons, the initial phase is being
experience in mediation. Clubs may submit the names, limited to Rotarians of Districts 9350, 9370 and 9400.
contact details and the number of years experience in As soon as it is feasible, this training opportunity will be
mediation that their nominees have to the Inter District extended further into the continent.
CELEBRATE
ROTARY
0 0
#RotaryAfrica1
On 21 April 1921, the Rotary Club of
Johannesburg, the first Rotary club in Africa,
was chartered and so began and era of people
exchanging ideas and creating lasting change.
We call these friends, neighbours and leaders
Rotarians... And in 2021, we will celebrate them!
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 17Stay connected through
Rotary’s online Learning Centre
ROTARY CONNECTS THE WORLD - that is Kimberly Kouame, learning resources manager at
Rotary President Mark Daniel Maloney’s theme and Rotary International.
despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 Often, the first time Rotarians use the Learning
pandemic, Rotarians are continuing to connect with Centre is when they are elected to a club office. But
one another and the world. Rotary’s new Action with more than 600 courses in over a dozen languages
Plan calls on us to increase our ability to adapt - (including more than 80 in English), the Learning Centre
and members are coming up with innovative ways has something to interest every Rotarian.
to serve their communities and create opportunities Here are a few to pique your interest; find them all at
for fellowship. Many clubs are meeting online for rotary.org/learn.
the first time, re-imagining fundraisers and other
events and reinventing planned service projects.
Rotary’s online Learning Centre has resources
COURSES
that can help you stay connected to the organisation
and to one another. Instead of meeting one week, for
instance, everyone in your club might choose a topic
¶ Is Your Club Healthy?
When your club isn’t able to meet in person, it can be a
to learn more about and then report back to the other
members. You might even decide to develop a webinar challenge to keep members engaged. Now might be an
using Rotary tips and resources. “The Learning Centre ideal time to assess the state of your club and ask
courses could be used for general knowledge and for members what is working for them and what isn’t.
brainstorming, action planning and idea sharing,” says
¶ Your Membership
Plan
Perhaps you’ve been
thinking about creating
a long-term plan for
membership. This is a
course that offers a
helpful worksheet and
step-by-step guidelines
for crafting a strong
future for your club.
¶ Building a Diverse
Club
In line with Rotary’s
focus on diversity,
equity and inclusion,
this course can help you
expand your club’s
membership to include
people from different
walks of life.
18 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020¶ Committing to
Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion
This course offers a
closer look at our DEI
statement and how you
can put those values into
action.
¶ Practicing Flexibility
and Innovation
This course guides you
through some of the ways
your club can be
innovative, with advice in the world. This course will walk you through the
on subjects such as setting up satellite clubs. century-long history of the Foundation and its role
in grant-making, supporting polio eradication efforts,
¶ Kick-Start Your New Member Orientation and funding the Rotary Peace Centres.
If your club has had trouble retaining new members, with
people joining only to leave a few years later, this course ¶ Becoming an Effective Facilitator
can help. Get tips on how to make sure your new members Develop your leadership skills for Rotary and beyond
feel welcome and engaged. through this course, which guides you on how to
effectively work with a team to define and achieve
¶ All About Rotary Peace Fellowships objectives.
Perhaps you know someone who might be a good
candidate for a Rotary Peace Fellowship and you want ¶ Mentoring Basics
to be able to talk knowledgeably about the programme. Mentoring has always been one of the cornerstones of
Or maybe you would like your club to be more Rotary. This course identifies the traits of a good
involved. This course will give you information on mentor and suggests some best practices to make sure
Rotary’s Peace Centres and the requirements and your mentoring relationship is beneficial to all
deadlines for applicants. concerned.
¶ Building Rotary’s Public Image ¶ Essentials of Understanding Conflict
Rotarians are people of action, and we want the We’ve all had to deal with interpersonal conflict,
world to know what we are accomplishing. But how whether the issues are small (who sits at which table
can you get the message out? This course will teach at the meeting?) or large (what are our club’s
you how to build awareness of Rotary and its work. priorities?). This course gives you tools to understand
different types of conflict and describes conflict
¶ Planning Your Projects: Service Projects management styles.
Committee
This course is designed for people serving on a club ¶ Leading Change
service projects committee, but anyone can benefit Change is hard, especially in a collaborative
from the ideas about how to carry out effective projects organization. This course offers ideas on how to lead
— with tips on doing a community needs assessment a group of people through organisational change, how
and executing the project. to assess people’s readiness for change, and how to
deal with resistance to change.
¶ Rotary Foundation Basics
The Rotary Foundation is central to Rotary’s work
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 19COPING IN LOCKDOWN
By Regional Public Image Coordinator Lee-Ann Shearing
The whole world has had to deal with sudden change thanks to
Covid-19 and daily routines have been interrupted and disrupted
in ways we could not have imagined at the start of 2020.
As Rotarians, we are aware of those less fortunate who are struggling to survive and in need of food,
clothing and warmth as their income streams have dried up through no fault of their own. I applaud all
those people who are addressing these needs.
However, there is another need which is not so obvious and that is mental health. Even the strongest can
succumb to this invisible foe and I felt that this is a subject that we need to discuss and tackle.
Having done some research, the findings throughout seem to all agree on steps we can take and steps we can
encourage others to take, to help us through these difficult days. Here are some recommendations I have found
useful.
1. Plan your day. 2. Move more every day
If you have been used to going to the office every With more connections now being made online for
day, it can be a huge adjustment to work from home. meetings we tend to be stuck behind our computer
It is essential for our identity, our self-confidence and screens for much of the day. It is vital that we get up and
our purpose to establish regular routines. Get up at move between meetings; schedule “activity” if it helps.
the same time each day. Believe that you are travelling Being active reduces stress, increases energy levels,
to the office (walk around the house or the garden, can make us more alert and can help us to sleep better.
believing that this is the route to your office). It is also Find fun ways to increase your daily exercise – dance to
important to set aside times for movement, relaxation, the bathroom, leopard crawl to the kitchen for a cuppa
connection, reflection and meals. - have some fun!
20 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 20203. Try a relaxation technique
Meditation, deep breathing exercises, focusing on the present, painting, drawing. Find something that works for
you and practice every day.
4. Connect with others are grateful for. Keep a gratitude journal or gratitude jar.
Social distancing can make you feel isolated and Do something just for you every day.
alone so it is important to make time to connect with
6. Improve your sleep.
others. Staying at home, especially if you live on your
So many people have told me that their sleep patterns
own, can feel lonely. Find creative ways to keep in touch
have changed since lockdown. Feelings of uncertainty
with colleagues, friends, family, and others to help you
and changes to daily life may mean you have more
(and them) feel more connected and supported. Explore
difficulty sleeping. There is a lot you can do to improve
ways of connecting that work for you, whether that is by
your sleep. Aim to go to bed and get up at the same
post, over the phone, social media or video-chat. This
time each day, even at the weekend if you can and try
could be anything, from sharing a cup of tea over video,
to get some natural sunlight (by opening your curtains
playing an online game together or simply sending a
and windows) where possible. This helps to regulate
supportive text-message.
your body clock which can help you sleep better. Wind
5. Reflect and practise self-care. down before bed by avoiding using your phone, tablet,
One of my mantras is be kind to everyone you meet computer or TV for an hour before bedtime. Whatever
but also be kind to yourself. It can be beneficial to look works for you is what you need to do.
at your successes each day and think about what you
7. Talk about it
A problem shared is a problem
halved. Find someone you can talk
to about how you are feeling. We
all have times where we are scared
about what the future may hold,
worried about how we are coping
(or not coping) and struggling with
not being able to be with family or
people we love. Everyone is dealing
with something so do not be afraid
to talk to your friends and your
nearest and dearest. Some people
may experience intense anxiety
that can affect their day-to-day
life. Try to focus on the things you
can control, such as how you act,
whom you speak to and where you
are getting your information from.
Check on your neighbours, your
friends and your family. Together
we can get through this!
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 21Doug and his family celebrating his birthday last year.
A CENTURY OF AWESOMENESS!
Monday 8 June is a special day in District 9350 as day, quite a few of these students keep contact with
Rotarians will take a moment to celebrate the 100th Doug. Only a few months ago a couple was visiting
birthday of Past District Governor Doug Withey. Cape Town and I believe, paid him a visit. I know that
A Rotarian since 1969, he was president of the while José was still alive, they visited some of these ex-
Rotary Club of Roggebaai in 1977/8 and again in the students during their travels overseas.
mid 80s. In 1978/9 he chaired the Youth Exchange I can honestly say that I regard Doug as one of the
committee and served as District Governor in the year Rotarians that I’ve known to be the very embodiment
1980/1981. The RI theme for his year in office was Take of what Rotary is all about: Service and Fellowship.
Time to Serve. José was also the perfect Rotary wife, who not only
As Doug’s 100th birthday approached, PDG June supported Doug, but also in her own right was active as
Webber asked some Rotary friends and his family to a Rotary Ann doing their own projects.
share their favourite Gentleman Doug anecdotes.
Rain Morgan:
District Governor David Holtzhausen: Doug embodies the values of Rotary in everything he
“It is an honour to have Doug as a member of our does – whether this was his corporate ‘life’ as Manager
District. His many years of service to Rotary are an of Norwich Union in South Africa (he retired in 1980 after
example to all Rotarians. We in District 9350 will join 42 years of service), his service in WWII, his interest
him virtually in celebrating his 100th Birthday.” in sport - particularly rugby, where he was actively
involved with refereeing in East Africa and South Africa.
Pieter van Niekerk: He was also committed to his church and willingly took
Doug joined the Rotary Club of Roggebaai much up effective leadership roles in numerous committees
about the same time that I transferred from the and organisations. However, his greatest role remains
Goodwood club in early 1970s. His enthusiasm for that of a family man; Doug and José had four sons,
Rotary was immediately evident. The whole Withey nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren – which
family often got involved in the various club projects. makes for an impressive family get-together!
As district governor he and José made a valuable I have been fortunate to have known Doug and
contribution to our district and Doug remained involved José since the early 1970s and observed first-hand the
on various district committees for many years. They quiet, determined way Doug lives his values. Around
were involved in almost everything our club did, right Doug’s 65th birthday, I asked his eldest grandson (who
down to acting in Roggebaai’s annual Christmas party was about nine years old) what he had learnt from
plays, which used to be an annual fun event. Granddad. He thought for a bit, then replied: “If you said
One of Doug and José’s favourite projects was the you’ll do something, you’d better do it well.” And this
Rotary Youth Exchange programme. Doug chaired sums up the man: Honesty, compassion and integrity
the committee that co-ordinated this portfolio and they in all things at all times. He also has a wonderfully dry,
hosted many Exchange students in their home. To this clever sense of humour that goes a long way.
22 | Rotary Africa ∙ June 2020FRIEND
POWER
This month PDG Lynette Stassen (D9350)
shares her story about friendships -
Rotary friendships. It is a story about
how Rotary friends connected through
opportunities provided by Rotary and
how the power of this made a difference.
It started in January 2017. The first connection was
arranged by the Rotary Club of Vero Beach Sunrise
(D6930, USA). It was the 10th anniversary of home-
hosting district governors-elect from all over the world by
this club in Florida. During the week, the governors-elect
had the privilege of bonding during the week before the
International Assembly in San Diego began. It was there
that I met incoming Governor Prafull Sharma from Mumbai
India, whose charming wife set up a Facebook group PDG Lynette Stassen with PDG Prafull and
for the incoming governors which we all still use to stay Rosie Sharma. Below: One of the sites visited
connected. during the friendship exchange.
The second connection was made in February 2020
when Rotarians from District 9350 went on a 10-day
Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) to Mumbai. Not only
did the hosts become firm friends, but they connected with
many wonderful Rotarians at their DISCON20. The pure
enjoyment of the trip included Indian cuisine and exploring
the beauty of Mumbai all while learning about and
participating in some of the cultural events. A WhatsApp
group was formed so that we could stay in contact and
continue to learn from each other.
In April, a third connection was made through giving
in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The clubs in the
Mumbai district worked to ensure that protective clothing
was provided to the frontline helpers as early as possible.
From the start of this pandemic, The Rotary Foundation
(TRF) put processes in place to support and expedite Global
Grants requested by districts. The Foundation waived the
compulsory 30 percent contribution from an international
partner so that the grants could be processed in the fastest
possible time. With 19 clubs in D3141 prepared to give,
the only requirement left was for an international partner
and thanks to the friendships formed, D9350 was asked
to be that partner. The grant was submitted and approved
within a week.
The common denominator in all these connections is
lasting friendship, underpinned by respect and love for
fellow Rotarians in other parts of our world. Without Rotary
these unforgettable memories would never have been
made and we would not have been able to make as great
a difference.
June 2020 ∙ Rotary Africa | 23You can also read
