03/05/2026
Service is where Rotary begins for me.
It is the first of our five guiding principles because it is the one that shapes everything else. Service Above Self is not just a phrase we repeat, it is a way of thinking, a way of leading and a way of living.
I have always believed that true service is not about recognition, it is about responsibility. It is about showing up where you are needed, listening before acting and working with sincerity to make someone else’s life a little better.
Whether we are supporting education, healthcare, access to clean water, women’s empowerment or care for the elderly, every act of service carries the same purpose, to create dignity, trust and hope.
Rotary teaches us that service activities and programmes bring about greater world understanding and peace. I have seen this myself. When people come together to serve, differences become smaller and humanity becomes stronger.
Through the work of individual clubs, we build a culture of service across Rotary and there is no greater satisfaction than knowing that your time, effort and intent have created meaningful change for someone else.
For me, leadership has never been about standing in front. It has always been about standing beside, asking one simple question, how can I help?
Because in the end, it is all about service.
