ReCII at
Rotary International Singapore Convention 2024
The Rotary E-Club Ibiza International (ReCII) recently had the privilege of attending the RI Convention 2024, held from May 25th to 29th in the vibrant city of Singapore.
Representing our club were Denise Klischan, President of ReCII, Secretary of the Rotary Action Group for Menstrual Health & Hygiene (RAGMHH) and Ramona Balota, member of ReCII.
This annual convention is a hallmark event for Rotary International, bringing together Rotarians from across the globe to share ideas, network, and celebrate the spirit of service.
A Vibrant Gathering of Global Changemakers
The convention kicked off with an impressive lineup of general sessions and parallel breakout sessions. These sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics aligned with Rotary’s seven areas of focus, including
-promoting peace,
-fighting disease,
-providing clean water, sanitation and hygiene,
-saving mothers and children,
-supporting education,
-growing local economies,
-and protecting the environment.
The event app proved to be an invaluable tool, helping attendees navigate the extensive program and select sessions that matched their interests.
Keynote speakers included RI President for 2023/2024, Gordon McInally, who emphasized the critical importance of mental health initiatives.
He passionately encouraged Rotarians to engage in projects supporting mental health, underscoring his message with a call to action for increased involvement in the Rotary Action Group on Mental Health Initiatives.
RI President (2024/2025) Stephanie Urchick was also a powerful and compelling speaker on this illustrious occasion.
Memorable Connections and Innovative Ideas
One of the highlights of the convention was the House of Friendship, a bustling hall filled with booths from various Rotary groups, fellowships, and collaborators.
It was a space where new friendships were forged, ideas were exchanged, and future collaborations were envisioned. The spirit of camaraderie and the shared goal of making the world a better place transcended cultural and national boundaries, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Denise Klischan, also co-founder and secretary of RAGMHH, used this platform to advocate for the use of reusable and sustainable menstrual products. She highlighted the environmental benefits of such products and their role in keeping girls in school in underdeveloped countries. The booth attracted significant interest, with many Rotarians eager to support menstrual health projects.
Cultural Exchange and Local Flavors
The convention was not just about business and learning; it was also a celebration of local culture and flavors. One of the standout social events was the Host Night, organized by the Rotary Club of Marina City Singapore.
This culminated in one of the most memorable moments of the convention when Denise had the honor of representing our club on stage. As she extended our heartfelt greetings to the Rotary Club of Marina City Singapore, she shared the exciting news that our club had just been officially approved. The reaction was nothing short of extraordinary.
Upon hearing this announcement, the entire room of 200 Rotarians erupted into applause, giving ReCII a standing ovation. The warm and enthusiastic response was both unexpected and deeply moving, filling us with a profound sense of belonging and encouragement.
Adding to the moment's significance, Mrs. Ambee Majumder, the Master of Ceremonies, graciously exchanged club banners with us, symbolizing the beginning of a new friendship and collaboration.
This gesture of goodwill and camaraderie underscored the unifying spirit of Rotary, where every new connection strengthens our collective mission of service above self.
Another memorable event was the GastroBeats night, despite being drenched in tropical rain. The rain only added to the fun, with attendees huddling together under umbrellas, enjoying local delicacies, and dancing to live music late into the night.
Impact and Future Plans for ReCII
The convention was a treasure trove of inspiration and new ideas for ReCII. The emphasis on mental health resonated deeply, prompting discussions on potential projects within our club.
The connections made and the innovative practices observed will undoubtedly benefit our club's future initiatives, encouraging a broader, more global perspective in our activities.
Reflections and Gratitude
Attending the RI Convention 2024 was a profoundly enriching experience for Denise and Ramona.
It reinforced the power of Rotary's global network and the shared values that bind us. The opportunity to meet so many dedicated individuals and learn from their experiences was both humbling and inspiring.
We are excited to bring the spirit of this convention back to our members and look forward to implementing new ideas and fostering global friendships.
As we continue our journey, we remain committed to the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self," striving to make a positive impact in our communities and beyond.