In Gear | Rotary in Southern New Zealand In Gear - Issue 3 | Page 26

Were there particular opportunities for
Rotary highlighted during the assembly?
Mitty Chang talked about change
management and the challenges we face to
attract the next generation.
We still have a big job ahead of us to finish off polio. This
project has shown us the power of working with strong,
and like-minded, partners. We also raised $US100,000
through a “Polos for Peace” sales campaign and a silent
auction of some sports gear. This will fund a peace
scholar and two certificate scholars. We can expect to
see a real emphasis on peace during Ian’s term.
Were there common challenges referenced?
Membership is an issue in the western world. New
Zealand, Australia, the United States and the United
Kingdom are all in decline, which is offset by growth in
India, Taiwan, Korea, Philippines and Indonesia.
In all, what did you take away from the
conference?
Peace scholar Anne Reichert’s presentation
was amazing.
It is always amazing to see the internationality
represented. The literacy project was special, and to
learn so many children in the San Diego area did not
have access to books was a real eye-opener for us.
What were the highlights?
Working with the Rotary International staff. They are
so professional and effective, particularly those in the
learning and development area. The opening night
Olympic-style march past was pretty cool as well –
probably because it announced we were underway after
so many months of planning!
And, finally, the current strategic plan was
discussed, and the governors’ group was
asked then to look at Rotary eight-to-10 years
ahead and give feedback, which Ian Riseley
presented on the last day. All Rotarians need
to hear that speech.
As one of the architects of the global
strategy during your time as Rotary
International director between 2010
and 2012, Stuart, how do you think the
organisation is tracking, locally and
internationally, in line with that vision?
Progress is slow, but it is progress. Often, the legislation
follows reality. There are new clubs emerging and new
ways of doing things starting to gain traction. The weekly
meeting format will not survive universally ... for some
clubs it will, but, more and more, we are seeing project-
based groups emerge. The need for our work remains
in our communities and around the world. How we
deliver assistance will change. It is clear the incoming
president, Ian Riseley, will encourage
this flexibility during his term.
Page 26 | In Gear - Rotary in southern New Zealand - District 9980 | www.rotarydistrict9980.org