Rtn. RAYMOND MAWANDA

As an active Rotaractor with the Rotaract Club of Nakawa Mubs, I had the pleasure of meeting CP Dorothy and Miss Tee when the Rotary Club of Kampala Springs was still a provisional club. Intrigued by their passion and dedication, I began regularly visiting their club and eventually became a non-dues paying member. Attending service projects and engaging in home hospitalities solidified my connection with the club, and I soon realized that Kampala Springs felt like a second family to me.

The defining moment came when I had the privilege of being inducted into Rotary on a boat by District Governor Mike Kennedy Sebalu. This unforgettable event holds a special place in my heart and serves as a significant milestone in my life. As a young self-employed individual, I have gained invaluable knowledge and insights from fellow Rotarians. Through Rotary, I have been able to expand my network, connecting with individuals whom I can consult on important matters. One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a part of Rotary is the opportunity it provides to support the less privileged through our diverse range of service projects and activities. Witnessing the positive impact we make in the community reaffirms my commitment to service.

Attending the Rotary District Conference further deepened my love for Rotary and reinforced my belief that, indeed, service is above self. I am grateful for the experiences, connections, and opportunities that Rotary has provided me, and I eagerly anticipate the start of the HOPE Year, where I know I will have even more opportunities to serve and make a positive impact in our community.

In conclusion, as I eagerly await the upcoming HOPE Year, I am excited about the prospect of serving as the Club CEO. This role will allow me to contribute further to the club’s mission and work closely with my fellow Rotarians to make a meaningful difference.

Embracing the Unexpected, Finding Purpose.

Embarking on my Rotary journey has been an exhilarating ride, filled with intriguing discoveries and personal growth. Over the past eight months, I’ve come to realize that true happiness, fulfillment, and the joy of giving stem from within. I’ve learned that stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing new experiences is key to self-discovery. Initially, I had mistakenly perceived Rotary as a club primarily for the ‘oldies’ with ample free time on their hands. However, everything changed when I received a warm invitation from my friend and mentor, the extraordinary President, Ms. Caroline Mboijana, to attend a club fellowship one relaxed Thursday evening in June 2022. The reception I received was exceptional, and it felt as though the Rotarians had an uncanny familiarity with me. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and I immediately felt a sense of belonging within the Rotary family.

In just a few weeks, I found myself diving headfirst into the Rotary experience. I attended a remarkable Home Hospitality event hosted by Rtn. Alice, where I was warmly embraced by fellow Rotarians. I even eagerly participated in the Rotary Cancer run one Sunday morning, discovering my newfound fitness along the way. And then came the unforgettable visit from the District Governor on October 6th, an experience that still resonates within me and serves as a story worth sharing.

As I look ahead, I am filled with anticipation for the greater things to come, thanks to the visionary leadership and strong foundation laid by our Rotary community. I am committed to embracing new opportunities, contributing my skills, and making a lasting impact on the world around me. Together, let us raise our glasses in a toast to the Rotary family worldwide!

It is a great opportunity to lead a club and make a positive impact to the community. I felt a sense of pressure to perform well and meet the expectations of club members. Overall being elected President Nominee is a significant achievement in my Rotary journey but it is something many strive to achieve.

I promise to bring fourth absolute best and lead our club to great heights. I am greatful for the confidence and trust you have placed in me and promise to exceed your expectation. With this in mind, I will commit myself to strive to foster a more collaborative and inclusive environment for our club. I will encourage open communication and team work and more impactful projects that benefit our community.

I intend to set up a board in waiting which will work in close collaboration with the incoming board so that there is smooth transition. I will work hand in hand with the incoming president to establish short term and long term goals for the club.