A Message from our President Elect
I moved to Ottawa in August 2018 to begin my studies at the University of Ottawa in the Master of Political Science program. At 27, returning to school and moving across the country (I am originally from Alberta) felt daunting to say the least. During the first week of classes, there is typically a ‘clubs fair’ at the University of Ottawa where clubs advertise events and promote membership. As I scanned the brochures and asked questions of various clubs and organizations during the Clubs’ Fair, I found that, while many clubs had tempting reasons to join, none were able to fully satisfy what I was looking for. Until I happened upon the Rotaract Club of Ottawa’s booth. I asked the Rotaractor attending the booth, what Rotary/Rotaract is or something to the effect of why should I join this club? I was informed of the various events and fundraisers organized by the Rotaract Club of Ottawa during the year and opportunities for fellowship, but it was after Rotary’s motto, ‘Service Above Self’ was explained to me that I knew I needed to go to at least one meeting.
I am now entering my third year as a member of the Rotaract Club of Ottawa. I am currently the International Service Director for the Club and President-elect for the 2020-21 year. When I accepted the role of incoming President I was thrilled to have the opportunity to serve the club, fellow members and help organize the upcoming years’ events and initiatives. However, since the outbreak of COVID-19, I feel secure saying that any plans and ideas I had for the upcoming year have been irrevocably altered in lieu of an uncertain new reality. At a recent Rotary meeting I attended, Rotarian Nabil Oudeh gave a presentation titled, ‘Leading your Club through change’. I was inspired by the multitude of Rotarians and Rotaractors embracing the change thrust upon the world by endeavoring to embody Rotary’s motto. Uncertainty and change can be tumultuous for anyone, and especially during a global pandemic, however, if the only thing we can be certain about is change then, I am proud and thankful to be alongside other Rotarians, Rotaractors and Interactors who will help to lead the change. COVID-19 is one challenge with countless changes, all thrust upon us, and it will be up to those who are able to embrace this challenge who will help to carve what comes next. I am hopeful that the motto, “Service Above Self” may be a rallying cry.
