This may be of some assistance for those taking notes during the business meeting.
Last Week
It was an inspiring talk by Dalene Bishop of the Teddy Bear Foundation on the help they provide for abused children and their parents.. Not only medical and psychological assistance but also role play for court appearances and many other aspects of rehabilitation as well as ensuring that perpetrators are punished. The Club responded by donating contributions to are weekly "Porky Pig" collection to go to the Teddy Bear Foundation and it was well supported by members. Dalene will talk to us again in the future about other projects of The Teddy Bear Foundation.
Next Week
Le Club des Marques is the largest producer of Armagnac with 400ha of vineyards. It owns the biggest collection vintages dating back to 1888.
International - Malaysia
My life-changing journey: Rotary Friendship Exchange in Malaysia
By Dr. Vishwanath Lele, 2022–23 president of Rotary Club of Pune-Kothrud, India
When I began my year as president of the Rotary club, one goal stood out: to participate in Rotary’s Friendship Exchange Program, a unique opportunity for members and friends to travel abroad, stay with fellow members, and experience different cultures through the lens of service and fellowship. Open to anyone with a spirit of adventure and a desire to build international connections, the programme fosters lifelong friendships and often leads to collaborative service projects across borders.
That dream came true with a 10-day journey from India to Malaysia. My application received a prompt response, and every detail of my visit was planned with remarkable care and generosity.
First Impressions and Warm Welcomes
Initially, many thoughts came to my mind—how the host families would be, how I could spend such a long time with them, and how I could travel to Malaysia without knowing the cities.
I arrived at Kuala Lumpur Airport after a delayed flight, missing my bus connection. Yet even waiting at the bus stop felt pleasant — clean, well-equipped, and peaceful. The scenic ride to Ipoh, a city in northwestern Malaysia and my first destination, revealed lush mountains and serene landscapes. That evening, I attended a Rotary club installation ceremony, marking the start of a whirlwind adventure.
My host family made me feel instantly at home. Their kindness and hospitality erased my initial worries about spending time in unfamiliar surroundings. I felt as if I was staying with one of my relatives!
Exploring Penang and Sharing Rotary Wisdom
Next, I travelled by bullet train to Penang, a coastal gem surrounded by beaches and mountains. My host came to pick me up from the station, and a Rotary club hosted a dinner for me.
The next day, we visited Penang Hill — a place with dense forests, fresh air, and vibrant wildlife. Then we travelled to unexplored villages, beaches, and interacted with some fishermen.
I delivered a session on High-Performing Teams at one Rotary club meeting. The club’s diverse membership — Indian, Chinese, and European — was enthusiastic and welcoming. We exchanged flags and discussed potential collaborative projects. Their appreciation reaffirmed the power of shared learning across cultures.
Leadership and Legacy in Bandar Sungai Petani
Another Rotary member then accompanied me to Bandar Sungai Petani, where I stayed with a senior Rotarian and former government minister. His energy and humility were inspiring. He lives by The Four Way Test, which he credits for his integrity in public service.
The next day, we travelled to see a river, a mangrove forest, and unexplored archaeological sites.
I delivered a session on High Impact Leadership at the local Rotary club, and once again, the response was overwhelmingly positive. The journey back to Kuala Lumpur was filled with meaningful conversations and laughter, deepening the bonds of friendship and shared purpose.
District Conference and Final Reflections
Due to a last-minute change in host arrangements, I was graciously accommodated in a hotel for the final leg of my trip. We dined at a prestigious club and attended the host district’s conference for three days. The event was impeccably organised, and I felt proud to represent my district and club.
On my final day, one of the key organisers of my friendship exchange personally drove me to the airport. This new friend’s sincerity, care, and humility left a lasting impression. She spearheaded an initiative to display the Four Way Test at major railway stations, a powerful symbol of Rotary’s values in public spaces.
A Journey That Changed Me
I consider the Rotary Friendship Exchange program a life-changing experience for me. I got an excellent opportunity to travel to unexplored places, met extraordinary people, and all the Rotarians extended hospitality beyond imagination. These memories will stay with me forever.
Rotary truly opens doors — not just to new destinations, but to deeper understanding, shared purpose, and global connection.
No comments:
Post a Comment