The Rotaractor District 9212 February 2020

CONTENTS Notes

Eritrea | Ethiopia | Kenya | South Sudan

Editor’s RI President District Rotaract Representative (DRR) Be the Plan

Features

Does Rotary Really Open Opportunities?

RAS 2019 Addis Holiday Lunch The Volunteer Rotajams The Newest Twins in Town

Regulars

LET’S

Disturbing the Status Quo The Anti-jigger Campaign The Rotary Effect Eye Camp 2020 Kicking Out Polio with Zumba The Interactor The Emoji Party etc.

CONNECT

@rotaractdistrict9212 Rotaract District 9212 @Rotaract_D9212 Rotaract District 9212 www.rotaractdistrict9212.org

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Press Rewind

Rotaract Photos Rotaract Stories & Moments

Editor's note

I used to fall for people easily. In my defence, I was young and full of life!

One occasion comes to mind. I was in class one, in a dusty school in Rongai named Thorn Tree Primary. (Not to be confused with my alma mater, Multimedia University) That day, there was magic in the air. Literally, in a way. Some magicians had come to school, and the way I remember it, we all gathered in the field that hot afternoon as they taught us to make origami art and various wonderous things from paper. This one guy made a bird and it flew away. I kid you not. It was vivid, the bright red thing, flying out of his hand into the clear blue sky. I should google that.

So, my friend, Eric Kibiru, walked up behind me that day and pulled what was left of my sweater to get my attention. The boys were bored, and wanted to go do something fun. Now, Eric was a legend. We followed him everywhere. See, a year earlier, while we were in Thorn Tree Nursery, Eric had sneaked into the cheetah enclosure of the Animal Orphanage while the cheetah was being fed and gotten very close to emerging without a scratch.

Anyway, I had been showing off to Eric this one trick I hope I can still do. I had learnt it from my uncle, and Eric wanted me to show the entire class. What I’d do was stand up straight with my arms to my side and let myself fall face first until the very last moment when I’d extend my arms and save face.

(See what I did there?)

Welcome to 2020! Your free trial is over and it appears you have opted to maintain your subscription.

This quarter, The Rotaractor is packed. When DRR SK came up with this theme, I was sceptical. I didn’t know what Rotaract was for me. But I was curious about what it was for everyone else, so I went searching. It turns out, Rotaract is a lot.

What I found was life in all its shades. The dark days and the bright, the effort made with low reward, the things we just tried that turned out magical, the love found, the love lost, the complexities and the simple things. I found frustration mixed with hope, visions of the future and reflections of the past, the new kids and the old timers. What I found is in these pages. And it turns out, Rotaractors are human.

Beware, dear reader that you may find things you agree with deeply, disagree with fundamentally, never considered before, always suspected, can relate to, would like to try out, knew would never work, are difficult to look at, are admirable, are reprehensible and every adjective I have left out. But hey, that’s Rotaract for you.

Did I find out what Rotaract is to me? Yes, in a way. It’s that kid, Eric, who I’d fall for anytime because I always knew he’d pick me up.

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Presidential message Happy 115th birthday, fellow Rotarians and members of the family of Rotary!

Much has changed in the world since 1905. Then, the global population was roughly 1.7 billion. Today, it is 7.7 billion. There were 5 telephones per 100 people in the United States 115 years ago. In 2020, it is estimated that 96 percent of the U.S. population has a cellphone — and both China and India have more than a billion cellphones in use.

In the 115 years since Rotary was founded, seemingly everything has changed except Rotary values.

We began, and remain, committed to fellowship, integrity, diversity, service, and leadership. While our Service Above Self motto dates to 1911, the ethos behind those words had already been ingrained

by Rotary’s founders.

As the pace of change worldwide continues to accelerate, the need for Rotary service is greater than ever. It’s one thing to read about service projects, quite another to see them in action and to see the grateful faces of people who have benefited from them. Rotary projects change lives and connect the world. And over the past year, I have seen some amazing Rotary projects in action.

Gay and I visited Japan’s Fukushima prefecture last year. Few places in the world have had to deal with the kind of devastation that visited Fukushima in March 2011, when a tsunami touched off by an earthquake led to disaster at a nuclear power plant. But the story of Fukushima today is not one of destruction; it is one of hope and renewal. Rotary grants have helped improve access to medical and mental health care for victims of the disaster and reduced the isolation of these communities by sharing the experiences of people from other parts of the world who have also recovered from disasters. Our grants have also helped to foster self-motivation and encourage sustainable long-term community recovery across the region.

In Shanghai, I learned about the Careers in Care program. This helps migrant workers fill the need for skilled professionals in elder care facilities. After taking a course, trainees receive certification to boost their employment prospects, while the care industry benefits from an expanded talent pool.

Rotary projects like this are successful because they address a local need, and they have the potential to attract local government funding to sustain their impact.

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PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE

And in Guatemala, Gay and I went to Sumpango. Global grants there provide mechanical cows to produce soy milk; an improved water distribution system; water filters; clean compost latrines; family gardens; support for income generation; and training in WASH and literacy programs. The food items sold there not only provide nutrition to women and children, but also create a source of income for local women.

In every area of focus, and in every part of the world, Rotary projects are improving lives and helping communities adapt in a time of rapid change. As we celebrate another great year for Rotary, let us rededicate ourselves to strengthening the connections that make our service so impactful. We will make lives better as Rotary Connects the World.

Mark Daniel Maloney Rotary International President 2019-20.

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DRR message In December 2019, we danced at the wedding of 2 of my Rotaract Club’s alumni: Eva and Norman, now Mr. & Mrs. Kuria. In January 2020, I joined the Rotaract and Rotary family in Uganda to celebrate the wedding of Leatitia and Allan, now Mr. & Mrs. Ntambi. I love weddings - extremely. They are a celebration of life and love. Humanity is at its best during weddings. Not only now but also in the days of our forefathers, animals were slaughtered to mark this very integral rite of passage. I repeat; I love weddings and then, there are Rotaract weddings - I totally do love Rotaract weddings. Extremely! I shall explain.

Since 2017, our club has had a series of our club members tying the knot; at least one per year. Infact, given this trend, I already booked my year. As such, each year there is a massive Rotaract Club of Nairobi Central re-union amongst members of our sponsor Rotary Club, Rotaract alumni, current members, siblings of members, club guests and friends. Not only do they dress to impress (for Instagram moments) but they will also (behind the scenes) be moving chairs, ushering, organizing logistics, Emceeing, handling photography, doing decor among many other necessities. It’s a beehive of activities in the days leading to the wedding and on the material day. Incidentally, the same group of people, and more, shall be more than ready to usher in the love birds into the wedding reception in a sweat-breaking dance.

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DRR MESSAGE

Well, it is a similar story in our neighbouring district.

A wedding could be a mini District Conference thanks to the attendance of Rotarians and Rotaractors. The story gets more intense when someone whispers that the newlyweds first met at a Rotaract event. Well, this is not the first couple with such a story-line, neither is it the last. Just like in Kenya, Rotaractors run the show ensuring the couple have a smooth and most memorable moment of their lifetime.

By the end of Allan’s wedding, I found a new definition of Rotaractors: Rotaractors are friends you can count on.

I vividly remember when Isaac of the Rotaract Club of Thika shared a harrowing story on how his wife went into labour, just as he was coming from a Rotaract event. In that moment of panic and confusion, he rang a fellow club member who, without question, dropped everything he was doing and rose to the occasion to drive Isaac and his wife to hospital. Further, the same Rotaractor visited severally at the hospital and upon discharge, drove Isaac, his wife and the new born back home. Isaac’s tone while narrating this story was so genuinely thankful.

Whenever one of us graduates, Rotaractors attend the parties and home thanksgiving ceremonies without fail. For weddings, new borns, graduations, Rotaractors show up and stand with, and for each other. Even in trying times; when we have lost a family member, friend or a fellow club member; gone through a tragedy, I have learnt that we always run into the arms of Rotaract members for solace and help.

Most of us joined an organisation in which we only knew the person who introduced us or in most instances, dragged us in. As we acquaint ourselves with the club; meet new faces and take up roles. We find people with common values, virtues, goals and aspirations. Over time, we nurture relationships with friends in whom we confide our deepest truths. We introduce each other to our families, work and non-Rotaract friends. Certainly, as history shows, we gain a second family. Some of us, turn the second family to real family.

What does Rotaract mean to me? Rotaract: Friends You Can Count On.

Samuel Karanja District Rotaract Representative (DRR) 2019-20, Rotary International District 9212: Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Eritrea.

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Be the Plan “Hello DRRE. Are you excited about being DRR next year?”

“What do you intend to achieve during your year?”

These are two questions that I have had to answer any time I meet Rotaractors. I encourage those who are looking for a conversation ice-breaker that this pretty much works for me. I find it pleasurable engaging in this conversation as every time it makes me learn new ways of approaching things. It gives me insight into where our members think we are, and I get ideas for free that many would pay a lot for.

Rotaract’s core goal is to develop leaders. To provide an enabling environment in which young people are able to test their ideas, share insights and make a good contribution towards their communities. We look back at our clubs and there’s no doubt that we are doing well on this front. However, I tend to believe that what we lack is continuity. Most - if not all - clubs held their club nominations and elections in the past month, and the persons elected truly deserve to take the mantle of leadership in out clubs. Many now plan to have a sit down with themselves and their larger teams to discuss what they can achieve during their year. A beautiful list of ideas shall be drawn and ambitious and very achievable targets will be set. They 88

BE THE PLAN

will then prepare for the Rotaract Officers Training Seminar and send in key planning documents to the District. The year will quickly pass by and we will find ourselves here again.

Few of our clubs have taken up strategic planning. Our leadership has for quite some time focused solely on what we will achieve in that one year.

“Hello, President-Elect. Are you excited about being President next year?”

“What do you intend to achieve during your year?”

For a bigger part of the conversation, we have failed to question where our clubs are coming from, what our successes and failures have been and most importantly, where we want to see our clubs in 2-3 years. This has seen us overachieve without making it long term and has also seen us underachieve while making it long term. Leadership for me, just as to Paul Keating, is about two main things, imagination and courage. Our ability to imagine where we want to be gives us the courage to pursue these dreams; the key fuel being members who understand and own the goal. This, we can only do with a visionary and objective strategic plan.

So, whether you are currently serving in your club’s board, whether you have been elected to future leadership or whether you are a committed club member, we all want to win. But leadership, just like life, isn’t a game. This is nothing new, but sometimes to take a step forward, we ought to take a step back to see where we were, are and want to be. Set targets on getting there, align our leadership to understand our imagination of the future and gather the courage to work on our plan. As a leader, your legacy will never be judged by what you do but by how your succession plans impact your people.

During the festive season, as I sat under an ancestrally prestigious tree in my culture known as Ng’oo, enjoying its lovely shade and having a thought of a belief that if you want to dig a well, do so 100 meters from it and you will find a source that never dries, I finally got a shorter answer to what I would like us to achieve. Let’s learn to appreciate those who came before us, appreciate those who are here with us and those who will join us in the future by reigniting our club’s purpose and vision and awarding it with a plan that will see triple its potential in three years’ time. Think bigger, Be bigger and Act bigger.

Going back to the basics.

Kennedy Gaya District Rotaract Representative (DRR) Elect, Rotary International District 9212: Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Eritrea.

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Chapati What is that which comes to mind when I mention Rotaract? Chapati.

new members and they also love the club and become active members. The moment you join Rotaract you actually have ‘*form’ (see citation, hehehe) all through the weekend and that is hilarious. You get to interact with many people at levels you never thought possible. Putting a smile on a kid’s face is on image that can never be wiped from your mind. You may never know A friend of a friend invited her to go help in that what you take for granted others lack. This cooking them for kids, so being a chapati lover I is one among the many things I have learnt and could not resist the invitation, I mean, who can? continue to learn in Rotaract.

I recall being amazed by the many people that turned up. I did not expect such a turn out from Have I been a good member? That I can’t answer, students in campus. Everyone was jovial, telling but I know for sure that I am still learning to do my stories while preparing the chapatis. I was later part as a Rotaractor. Rotaract has been a chapter to learn that it was a Rotaract event. Was that my of growth for me in campus. A platform where I first time to hear of Rotaract? No. I had heard of it get to air my views with no shame or judgement.

As the new theme suggests, Rotary Opens before but never really knew what it entailed.

Opportunities. I have been challenged to attempt My Rotaract journey commenced from then and things I have little to no knowledge about. it has been incredible. Rotaract is a family and friend at the same time. From community works, And here I am, putting to action Scheaffre Okore’s to raiding other club meetings, to having fun times words, ‘Teachability and courage to do the things such as hiking the Elephant Hill (That was my that scare you, things that will stretch you, bring first hike), listening to great speakers who leave new lessons and reward you with the utmost you inspired; and how can I fail to mention the fulfilment’. This article is one such thing.

Emoji Party? Getting to participate in the round *Form Definition: Agenda or plan. Use: “Form table talks on issues that concern us, millennials, ni gani = Whats the plan?” “Niko on, toa form. has been an eye-opening encounter and a game = I’m available. What’s the plan?” (Not to be changer for me. confused for Google forms, et cetera) One of my greatest experiences is when I bring in

This may seem weird but hey, it’s true. My first Rotaract experience was a chapati affair.

Merelyn Okwako

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Rotaract Club of JKUAT.

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The Newest Twins in Town The Ngong’ Hills are comprised of seven hills which are located along the Great Rift Valley, on the Southwestern side of Nairobi. The word Ngong’ comes from a Maasai word “enkong’u” that means a rhinoceros, which is one of the big five game animals.

On the footsteps of Ngong’ Hills is Ngong’ Town, which is rapidly growing and expanding in its robustness to all and sundry who troop in large numbers to the area to do various activities like hiking, biking, athletics, business and celebrations. The town got its name from Ngong Hills many years ago but it has now acquired a status of its own. It’s now the talk of the regions, countries and the entire world. Talk of the village becoming global in its embrace of globalization.

Ngong’ town is home to banks, schools, colleges, and various organizations.

That is how a Rotaract club was birthed in its name in the year 2014. The Club is none other than the Rotaract Club of Ngong Hills where I am currently serving as president for the year 2019/2020. My club comprises young people who are aged between 18-30 years who are young professionals, ardent humanitarians who love to give back to communities that they come from or do not come from, serving and having fun. We hold our fellowships twice a month on Saturdays at the Peace and Environmental Centre(PEC) Guest House located in Ngong along Kibiku Road from 5pm to 6pm.

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In another region and town, one hundred and seventy-nine point seven kilometres away, is a Rotaract Club called The Rotaract Club of Menengai, which has the same mission we do because Rotaract is global.

On the18th day of January 2020, we had hosted RAC Menengai for a special occasion which was twinning. Twin clubs are two clubs from different countries or regions that have agreed to partner with each other to complete special programs.

This involves the personal participation of Rotaractors, be it in a service project or simply a friendship exchange and fun activity. RAC Menengai is from the Rift Valley Region while RAC Ngong Hills is based in Nairobi Region.

On this particular evening, it rained heavily in Ngong Town. I was afraid that it would continue into the night, hence prevent us from signing the precious documents. The expected guests and members had not arrived. We also were expecting the District Secretary, Mr Ambrose Mbuvi to give us a talk on reporting.

After some time, the rain faded to a stop.

Members and guests came in immediately and the meeting started. After the Speech, questions were asked and answers given, after which we went to the signing ceremony, done by yours truly, president Joaquim Jejo Mapacha of Ngong Hills and President Elect Job Luta of Menengai as the District Secretary, directors and members witnessed.

THE NEWEST CLUBS IN TOWN

A strong surge of happiness took over me as I got hold of the pen and signed the statement of agreement and Certificate. It was a day well spent and an act well done. We knew that this was just the beginning of a long-lasting partnership. Long Live the Twin Club of RAC Ngong Hills and RAC Menengai.

Joaquim Jejo Mapacha President 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Ngong Hills.

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ROTARACT AFRICA SUMMIT 2019, ARBAMINCH ETHIOPIA

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Reflecting on RAS 2019 You wouldn’t know how it changes you until it’s at your doorstep! It was a year ago, when the Past District Rotaract Representative Mwombeki shared the news of Rotaract Africa Summit with me. I was unaware of it happening as it was right after my first District Conference and Assembly experience in 2018. Although, the summit intrigued me; I wasn’t able to attend it in Zanzibar.

main tasks of PR, Logistics and Sponsorship, Reporting, Finances, The RAS Chair and Team of the Program drafters. Every team member was part of the brainstorming session. The meetings were focused to the level that we held one of our meetings at the office with flipcharts and projector!!! It was an exciting and stressful experience since registration was going on and we had to keep checking as participants were Fortunately, the DRR and Ethiopia’s Rotaract from different countries.

Country Chair were able to attend, and they I wouldn’t want to pass this opportunity shared the news of Ethiopia being nominated without mentioning how grateful I am for the and selected to be the host of RAS2019. I was experience. Thanks to the RAS 2019 Chair sure I wouldn’t miss it this time round and to Tsegamlak Zerihun for inviting me to be part my surprise, I was part of the Organizing team. of the team; one Rotaract program where the Preparation started from March and the team whole team was ahead and working on their was a group of Rotaractors who had extensive responsibilities. This team was excellent and experience with other programs and Rotaract sometimes we would discuss personal and leadership. professional issues which enriched my brain.

RAS 2019 planning meetings were added to my calendar and we met every week on Tuesday, from 6:30 pm for the next 9 months until the summit took place. The team comprised of 8 individuals who were responsible for 16

One week before the participants’ arrival was the most stressful period. Guests were flying to Addis at different times and the team had to call out for assistance from Rotaract Volunteers to help with welcoming everyone at the airport.

ROTARACT AFRICA SUMMIT 2019, ARBAMINCH ETHIOPIA

146 Rotaractors from 13 countries were on their arrived at the venue. After an hour the three way from different cultures with different tastes. buses arrived at paradise lodge and guests started flowing in. A dancing group sponsored by the city administration dressed in a cultural dress of Wolaita started singing and dancing to the ‘Gamo’ music to welcome the guest.

Sossi and I had to go one day early to Paradise Lodge in Arbaminch, Southern Ethiopia. It was my first experience traveling that corner of Ethiopia. This is where the beauty of Rotaract comes to shine. Members of a recently chartered and vibrant club of Rotaract Arbaminch were our great support. From the time of arrival to escorting us to the lodge; to Joining us in the preparation of the accommodation, meeting hall and meal place ready for our guests.

After 4 hours of allocating participants to their respected rooms, we went out to have dinner and that’s how the Summit was officially opened.

While everyone was enjoying their meal, Representatives from the city administration delivered a welcome speech and gave a gift named ‘Denguza’ (A scarf with pattern of the city’s culture) to DG 9212 Joe Otin, the DRRs represented from Jakob Ssendawula (District 9211); Makazo Makomani (District 9210), Stella Elorm (District 9102), Jaiyeola Constance (District 9110) and Samuel Karanja (District 9212) and Guest Rotaractors.

The Host country’s DRR shared his remarks and the Summit was officially kicked off.

With PDRR Adam leading the Night of Art and Culture, all participants started to walk to the stage and do an introduction of their Attire. It The waiting was over. The Summit day was makes me wonder, how diverse each country is finally here!

Cloudy morning; I went out of the lodge for a run and came back to meditate and catch my breath with the mountain called ‘Yeégzer dildiy’ and greeneries across with Lake Abaya on the left and Chamo on the right.

Communication was going on until the guests arrived from Addis Ababa with warnings of “be prepared to welcome 140+ tired and exhausted guests”. The Pressure was real.

By 2 pm, District 9212 Governor Joe Otin

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ROTARACT AFRICA SUMMIT 2019, ARBAMINCH ETHIOPIA

and the beauty in all. And the party continued with the participants trying out the Ethiopian cultural dances. There was no sleep after that.

On the second day, the Summit training started with the National Anthem of Ethiopia led by Rotaractor Neftalem Biniam, Reciting the four-way test and the Rotary Grace. DG Joe shared insights on Elevating our Leadership Game as Rotaractors and influencing our community, as well as our role in enhancing the Rotary – Rotaract growth and partnership. A video was played straight from the RI General Secretary on the Inclusion and Innovation progression in Rotary International, leading into a panel discussion.

The Vice President of RI, Yinka Babalola was present and shared on the topic of the current and future of Rotaract and Rotary in Africa. Case studies were forwarded and discussed on how to create a lasting change with our professional and leadership development and most importantly on how to deliver sustainable service projects to our communities.

Fellowship time continued, where I got to meet Rotaractors from other districts and network while having dinner and enjoying the Safari theme night.

Saturday was up and it was the day where RAS participants took part in a community service project by Rotaract Arbaminch. The group was divided into two and took a trip to town to plant seedlings at Arbaminch Limat Primary School with 1st - 8th grade classes and RAC Arbaminch.

Members have been working with the Arbaminch University charity club to address the service.

The 2nd School was Chamo Secondary school whereby Rac Arbaminch and AMU Charity together with the community painted 36 classrooms and are on their way to building 4 classrooms in the compound.

RI Vice President Yinka joined and planted one seedling in his name at the school.

After we were done with planting, it was time to go for a visit to one of the sites in Arbaminch. On our way, I was networking and chatting with new Rotaractors about Arbaminch, Photography, Art, Music and our cultures and norms. We had our lunch, enjoying the breathtaking scenery at the Dorze lodge. Participants were in groups enjoying each other’s company. Our trip was cut short by rain and we had to go back the hotel.

On our way back, I get to sit with Emmanuel George who is the District PR Director for D9212 18

ROTARACT AFRICA SUMMIT 2019, ARBAMINCH ETHIOPIA

Rotaractors; sharing our Rotaract experience; how it changed us personally, the difference and similarity of clubs in Ethiopia and Kenya, what each side can adapt and learn from one another, how we have passed through the tough situations during our leadership, and how we have grown in return. Wisdom flowed. It was an insightful connection time.

While everyone was rocking the 80’s Afro pool party, we nominated and selected the next host country which is Ghana and Yinka shared his insights with us.

Yinka alluded that he attended the summit not because he was free but because it was a priority.

Volunteerism isn’t for those who have free time, it’s not an activity you engage to when you are free. It’s an engagement based on giving priority to your personal life and the community which you are willing to serve, he said.

I have met different Rotaractors through this summit that I have shared smiles, good times, new friends and professional linkages. Some of the participants extended their stay in Addis and were able to enjoy our ‘buna’ (Coffee), join Fellowship coffee time hours of different Rotaract Clubs and Cook food of their own and share it with us, the Ethiopians. It was a beautiful exchange exposure.

Africa from Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Ghana, Nigeria, South Sudan, Malawi, Togo, Cameroon, Zambia, Zimbabwe was represented including one from Australia. Long Live Rotaract and It shall flourish in Africa.

I can’t wait for RAS 2020 in Ghana.

As we have learned “WABEBE..!”

Netsanet Asmelash Immediate Past President, Rotaract Club of Finot.

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What Does Rotaract Mean to Me I remember the first time I returned to the Rotaract Club of Nairobi Central after being away for a year or so, a young couple at the end of the meeting gave their vote of thanks to the club members for coming through for them during their wedding. A beautiful Maria and a huge Legrand, they gave me hope. Not just that love is possible here but that love is still possible. I knew they had it.

That guy looked larger than life. So many people crowded around him after the meeting to chit-chat, I watched him from a distance and our eyes locked but not a word was spoken. I wish someone had introduced us, but what exactly was I going to say to him? Probably, “Heey, I can see why they call you Legrand but why does everyone say that you are awesome? What would you advise me to do with my life? and now that you are gone, I would like to have asked what would you like us to do with you gone?”

It’s been a year, ten days since God took you. I think of you as a Samson, a guy even greater in death than life. A hero to the last breath, made famous in death almost more than in life. The terrorists may have killed your body but you will never die. We still remember you fondly. Especially the ones who knew you. I know in Heaven we will get to finish the conversation we never started.

Rotaract is opportunity, and doors wide open. You could fall in love; you could be great. You could be literally anything.

So, this huge guy, I learned last Saturday from Mr. Mohamed Abdalla, a member of the Rotary Club of Nairobi, and a founding partner of PKF, (I had to add that last part so you know that I know people) during a visit to his home, where he hosted six of us with his beautiful wife for a mentorship session, that Legrand had the brilliant idea during his term as president to unite the Rotarians from the mother club, The Rotary Club of Nairobi and us Rotaractors from The Rotaract Club of Nairobi Central in a mentorship program which has since been running for three years now. Now, if any of these words sound like jargon to you I suggest to you that it’s time to google or ask me about Rotaract.

Rotaract for me is people I would never have otherwise met who I didn’t just meet but they took the time to mould me and pour into my life.

Last year was an epic one for me, I decided to take a holiday in May. the annual Rotaract District Conference and Assembly was in Kilifi and this sounded perfect. Cheap rates, great people, sun, sea and sand. Say no more. On this one particular day we had an industrial visit to Coca-Cola bottlers and learned how the processing is done, and no, I don’t know the secret to the Coca-Cola drink, but on our way back, a curious young fellow sat next to me, camera around his neck, so obviously you know he was worth talking to. We had a chat, that and every other day for the rest of the holiday. About nothing and everything, movies and music, family and fears. Most of my memorable moments were spent doing crazy things I probably should not write about and forging friendships that will endure a lifetime.

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Rotaract is strange people who become friends, friends who become family. A family you can count on.

One of my most inspirational moments was when our current President, Miss Samantha Nyawira, gave her inaugural speech during her installation as president. She had Mr. Mohamed Abdalla as the guest speaker and he challenged us as a club to start a trust fund, which we are now doing. Samantha, standing up there reading her acceptance speech, made me think I could be a president one day. She would later become my sponsor and a good friend who has taught me more in actions than words that leadership is serving, placing others before you and paving the way so that others may walk a clear path.

I can’t enumerate all my experiences on this one piece but going to Uganda, Ssese Islands, meeting Tanzanians, making friends on the bus and boat, Sunshine Rally, putting a smile on a child’s face, Kamiti YCTC visit, sharing my story with young boys, Campus clean-up at UoN, donating a wheelchair in first year, selling book marks, mentoring high school kids, going to house parties, planting trees…

Damn. Rotaract has been quite the experience. For me, I would say, Rotaract is pouring out to be filled. I gave a seed; I have received a harvest!

Check out her blog, on which this post exists. https://joyfulclarity.home.blog/2020/01/24/what-does-rotaract-mean-to-me/

Joy Clare

Rotaract Club of Nairobi Central.

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ROTARACT HURLINGHAM CHARTER

Disturbing the Status Quo Nothing, not even the ‘cats & dogs’ rain we experienced on 30th November, 2019 could stop us from turning up for our Charter night. Everyone, from Rotarians, Rotaractors & guests, showed up at Mystique Gardens, Westlands to witness our special day. African timers didn’t disappoint in their time keeping skills but their killer 80s & 90s looks were definitely worth delaying our Soul Train!

Charter member, Rtr. Paskah Chebet our girl on the mic for the night might have overdosed on energy drink because that energy was the best! Our creative juices were then put to the test with our #PelekaNaRieng for Secret Santa and most members were well surprised with the amazing gifts they received; from customized Jerseys, Diaries, Stash Boxes & even imported scents.

The main agenda for the night was led by our DRR, SK. Our Charter president, Rtr. Karen Rono was more than happy to wear the Chain as her team got inducted. Our Mother Club President Elect, Rtn. Martin Okuthe was also present to witness this and what a joy it was for him, together with a few members from our mother club, to watch their babies get chartered.

Ain’t no party with no after-party, they say, and who are we to disappoint? After the formal bit was done, enjoyment called and we diligently answered. The party started at our local in 22

Westlands then later at Bahamas Breeze.

ROTARACT HURLINGHAM CHARTER

This night will forever be special to each Rotaractor from The Rotaract club of Hurlingham. Special thanks to our mother club, the Rotary Club of Hurlingham & Mystique Gardens for hosting us.

Thank you to Rotary club of Nairobi East and all the Rotary clubs that helped make this happen and to the Rotaract clubs of Milimani, Westlands, Karura, Kitengela, Muthaiga North, Nairobi Mashariki, Nairobi Central, Technical University of Kenya and all our guests. It was a great honour to have such a terrific crowd during our Charter Night.

The party doesn’t stop there, we meet fortnightly on Mondays from 6pm at Hadassah Hotel.

Check us out on our socials. #DisturbingTheStatusQuo

Celine Wanjiru PR Director 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Hurlingham.

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Does Rotary Really Open

Opportunities?

Recently I was having a conversation with one of the members of my club on what it means being a Rotaractor and what value one can attach to or derive from it. A few things came out quite clearly and one of the saddening aspects was how we as Rotaractors underutilize Rotaract and the platform it provides us.

Recently, the RI President Elect Holger Knaack said “Rotary is not just a club you join. It is an invitation to endless opportunities” and that took me back to one December a while back. I was hanging out with a friend who for the first-time mentioned Rotary to me. His selling point of why I should join resonated so well with Knaack’s belief.

I would not say that rotary really opens opportunities forthright but provides that platform for us to exploit the same. Indeed, joining Rotary is the first step, but that in itself is not a guarantee of us enjoying the fruits thereof. We have to reach out, stretch out, be open and take up challenges, take up avenues of service, be the first to say hi, be the one to make the first move, come out of our introverted tendencies and get social.

I have seen people grow. I’m talking of big growth, business wise and in social capital, just by virtue of them not just being Rotaractors but making use of the platform that Rotaract brings along.

Rotary opens opportunities for leadership: The various leadership platforms that Rotaract provides has transformed people who previously were thought to be timid and introverts into great orators, organizers, MCs, trainers, strategists and

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DOES ROTARY REALLY OPEN OPPORTUNITIES?

leaders with cases of people becoming professionals in what they were volunteering in. It all began with a bold decision to take up responsibility.

Rotary opens social opportunities: It provides access to a wide range personalities, nationalities, social statuses and cultures. We get a platform to meet and make longtime friends and in some outstanding cases, life partners or sibling we never had. It is amazing how a gentleman in Ndenderu never in their wildest dreams thought they would get acquainted with a lady from West Africa but oh, the things Rotaract does! How about that guy who got to meet their next mentor, employer and even a vital employee through Rotaract?

Rotary opens professional opportunities: Rotaractors and Rotarians alike are professionals in their respective fields and through Rotary and Rotaract, we are privileged to have professional exchanges where each of us gets to appreciate and grow our know-how of what the other member practices.

It also gives us the opportunity to grow our reach of different professions and gives us a head start when in need of a specific profession.

It has provided a platform for young professionals to hone their skills and grow their capacities in areas in which they volunteer. Take a case of someone who was new to graphic design but volunteered and took up the challenge to serve as a PR director for their club and now they run a graphic design business or that amateur photographer who through Rotaract has grown their business and now that is what feeds them and pays their bills. Or that entrepreneur who gets their first pool of clients from the family of Rotary and Rotaract.

Rotary provides an opportunity to serve and find purpose: Through service projects that we take part in, we get to give back to the community and mother nature. And in some wonderful cases a number of us have discovered our passion and purpose in life through service.

Yes, this and more are what we have access to, but it doesn’t mean any of it will come to us automatically.

We have got to be proactive, take up and properly utilize these opportunities to get the best out of us being members of Rotary and Rotaract.

CERTAINLY, ROTARY GIVES US ACCESS TO OPPORTUNITIES BUT IT IS UPON US TO OPEN THEM.

Peter Mwarangu President 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Malindi.

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The Anti-jigger Campaign Phase 2 My Rotaract journey has been a part of my life that I could have fast tracked to if I knew earlier in life that it was ahead. I joined Rotaract in May 2019. I have learned and accomplished a lot as a community service enthusiast in less than a year. The highlight of it all was the Western Rotaract Anti-jigger campaign phase-2 project that we did from November 28th to December 1st 2019 in Bungoma County, Sirisia Sub-county Masaba and Binyenya Villages. I had the privilege of serving as the secretarary of the Organizing committee for the phase 2 project. It was such an experience! We put in a lot of time and effort in a bid to have everything in the right place. We went through a lot of emotional labor, were thoroughly disappointed a couple of time got turned down severally but on the bright side, we also had some of our plans fall right in place.

The thrilling bit was the project execution. It was such a beautiful time to be alive. I had never before interacted with young transformational youths that are so dedicated to whole-heartedly giving back to the community.

The first day of the jigger treatment was a heartbreaking encounter for pretty much all of us.

You get there, interact with school going kids who are severely affected and have never had a pair of shoes ever since they started walking it does something to you. We did fumigation for homes where we identified severe cases and treated those who could not get to the venue at their homes. In the two days we treated more than 150 children, youths, adults and the aged and felt we had not done enough, we consequently resorted to having a phase- 2 campaign extension in February 2020.

It wasn’t all that somber though back at the resource center where we slept. For the two nights we 26

THE ANTI-JIGGER CAMPAIGN PHASE TWO

had a great time. We bonded, played games, felt young, created friendships and learnt valuable lessons from personal experiences. We had deep conversations that most of us don’t have in that depth every other day till late in the night.

My sincere gratitude goes to all the Rotaractors from the western region clubs. Thank you, guys, for putting in effort and time to make the antijigger phase 2 project a success. My heartfelt gratitude goes to our ADRRs Lydia Lukera and Harrison Agundo. It is through their stewardship that all this was possible. Let’s keep serving in truth and fairness, and let’s keep fostering good will and building better friendships across the world. Let’s keep doing things that are beneficial to all concerned.

Jairus Kibagendi Rotaract Club of Eldoret.

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RACYouthzone...

The Rotary Effect When I look into the past year, most of my vivid memories are of Rotaract. Today, I am in the second year of my Rotaract journey.

The journey that has shaped me into a ”Rotaractor”, an identity that I couldn’t have without The Rotary Effect.

Hi, I am Boniat Tilahun, a fourth year Pharm. D student at Addis Ababa University, College of Health Sciences, member and Vice-President of Rotaract Club of Solyana in Ethiopia, District 9212. And my Rotaract journey has been nothing short of a road of wonders, but like any road it has had its bumps. Coming into this youth program I had expectations, expectations that weren’t met. Early in January 2018 I came across a post about Rotary and became so highly fascinated by its pillars and values that I decided to join a Rotaract Club. Every Rotaract club is different and has its own club culture and I couldn’t find one that I belonged to. I had to plug and re-plug to find a niche in Rotaract, and after getting frustrated for not being able fit in anywhere, I decided that even if I couldn’t have fellowship, Rotaract could still be a place where I would serve my community and develop professionally. I went ahead and joined a club that executed projects in areas of focus of Rotary that interested me.

A few months into my membership I learnt that I am not only a member of a Rotaract club but a global citizen and that I fit in everywhere, with an internationally recognized identity that is a Rotaractor, which is interpreted as a selfless volunteer and a reliable professional, everywhere I go.

I was stimulated by The Rotary Effect and ignited with positivity and volunteerism across different community service projects, boosted through mingling and networking sessions plus personal and professional development trainings that kept enabling me to grow into my best self. I made irreplaceable friends and got priceless mentors in my own club, clubs in Ethiopia, across Africa and organizations that I’ve been introduced to through Rotary.

So I chose to make Rotary my way of life, determined to give the youth the privilege of such a life by serving and leading in my club and creating awareness about Rotary and Rotaract both in and out of the organization to promote the joy in “Service above Self”, “Fellowship through Service and Professional Development” and the prestige and honor of its membership. Rotary is invaluable. It gave me a life outside of the student bubble and a platform to grow, discover myself and serve to my heart’s desire!

Boniat Tilahun

Vice President 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Solyana.

PR Director, RYLA Connect Ethiopia.

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Police Service

Illuminated

On the foothills of Ngong, which is in Kajiado North sub-county and Kajiado county, Kenya lies a number of government offices that offer services to the community. One of these facilities the Ngong’ Police Station. On that particular day, 16th November, members of the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of Ngong Hills were gathered outside the administrative headquarters. A quick sweep of the eye revealed men and women of different ages, from different fields of training like law, education, medicine, engineering and so on. The day was sunny, unlike most days when mornings are chilly and dull.

The members were not there to book in a suspect or to bail out a culprit. No, they were there to prove that the police are good people who understand everything that citizens go through and that they also need support and fellowship. This was done through a project that will foster understanding and interaction between the police and the community of Ngong’ which involved tree planting and painting of the whole police station.

Without wasting time, we were directed to the places where holes had been dug and started planting trees as we conversed with mother nature. After that, we went back to the front of the police station.

The Officer Commanding the Police Station, Mr Mburu, directed us and a team of professional painters whom we had hired to the male and female cells where we started to remove the old paint and replace it with white and cream paint as we talked and laughed. We also interacted with persons who had been held at the station as they thanked us for making the place to look brand new.

We did the painting until 2 o’clock when we took a break and headed to Matasia Resort for fellowship and lunch with all who had come, including neighbours and residents. The rest of the painting was to be continued by the professional crew through the following weeks. After the exercise, both the outside and inside looked brand new. The blue, red and yellow came out clearly and shone brightly.

Then came the day of Commissioning when The President of The Rotary Club of Ngong Hills, Mr Martin Miriti, the president of the Rotaract Club of Ngong Hills, Mr Joaquim Jejo Mapacha and the President Elect of RC Ngong Hills Mr John Mwangi, together with other Rotarians and Rotaractors officially commissioned the newly painted Police station to the OCS Mr Mburu and the Traffic Commandant Mrs Sugut as they exchanged pleasantries. A flag of the organization was given to the police as a sign of friendship.

Pictures wee taken for documentation purposes and we called it a day. A few weeks later on 20th January, a placard which showed the Rotary Four Way Test was mounted on the wall to rubber stamp the fact that for sure, the police offer services to everybody and are friendly because they had demonstrated what is said by the Four Way test during our time with them.

Joaquim Jejo Mapacha 30

President 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Ngong Hills .

Kicking out Polio with

Zumba

We are this Close! It is often said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and that’s what we as Rotarians, Rotaractors, family and Friends of the Rotary Club of Ngong Hills came to do on the 24th of October 2019 from 7.00p.m.to 8.00p.m. To celebrate World Polio day in style, we had a Zumba session. Our choreographer started us off with warm-up exercises. Then, bit by bit we started dancing, and adding movement to our bodies. It is quite interesting to note that when we dance, we also laugh our hearts out and that’s what happened that evening.

We weren’t the same when we left. Some broke into a sweat, some needed a massage and many showed they had spent an eternity without physical exercise. But above all, we knew our contribution was going to add to milestones in the fight for polio eradication.

We didn’t how fast time had flown by, and that the event had come to a close. We took photos thereafter and left feeling rejuvenated and thankful because the night was calm and there was a drizzle to bless the evening.

Lucy Njenga Secretary 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Ngong Hills .

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A Penny for your thoughts Antonius Muia, Rotaract Club of Ruiru, Kenya.

Before I joined Rotaract I had no idea that one day I would ever be addressing people as their leader. I became the president of Zetech University and this is all because I walked the path of Rotaract.

People believed in me and I was mandated to lead the club. It’s from that time I realized that you only need to be in the right place with the right people and that place is Rotaract. Rotaract is the best place to be and I am proud to have joined the family. It’s the only place you can interact freely without limitations and do great things.

Lennah Kinoti, Rotaract Club of Nkubu, Kenya.

Caleb Abey Hailu, Rotaract Club of Arbamnich, Ethiopia.

Rotaract for me is a place where I found myself and discovered my true potential.

In Rotaract I gained more than I gave; wisdom, a big heart, a humble approach and a loving family.

Being a Rotaractor gave me an opportunity to serve my community with diligence, and provided me with a unique platform assisting me in becoming a business and professional leader.

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“Lena, why would you love me to join Rotaract?”

I’ve heard this question from several of my friends that don’t have a clue what Rotary/Rotaract is all about.

For me, in the last one year I’ve been active in Rotaract, it has been fun in everything you do. Be it making hearts smile, developing my skills or simply attending the club meetings, I love how when you are amongst Rotaractors you’ll more often than not end up making a new friend.

This is in line with this year’s theme, “Rotary Connects the World”. I’ve been able to connect with very many people in just a year. ONE YEAR, guys!

For me, Rotaract means fun, Fun, FUn, FUN and endless FUN!

A PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

Job Trevor Ondeko, Rotaract Club of Menengai, Kenya.

I reminisce on the first time I attended a Rotaract meeting with some particular nostalgia. From just being dragged to the club by my then roommate, I have become an ardent Rotaractor ever since. What made me stay is perhaps the exemplary warmth shared among Rotaractors. Rotaract for me is a place where I get to unwind creating lasting relationships from the conversations I share with fellow Rotaractors and Rotarians. It is a place that provides the platform for me to create lasting impact in communities (and in myself) through small acts of compassion but whose results have lasting effects in the society. Simply put, the meaning of Rotaract for me is a place where I find a nexus in fun, professional development, fellowship and community service.

Mercy Nyakio, Rotaract Club of Embu, Kenya.

Before I joined the Rotaract club of Embu, my social life was basically non-existent. I had never before felt like I was positively impacting the society until I attended my first community service, where we issued a wheelchair to someone who really needed it. Rotaract has not only provided me with a vibrant social life, but also made me feel like I am a part of something special. Every weekend, I look forward to the event of the week, where we make someone smile, laugh, and bond until I forget I am supposed to be an introvert.

So, what does Rotaract mean to me? It means everything.

Stella Kaniaru, Rotaract Club o f Taita Taveta University, Kenya.

Rotaract is like discovering the ocean after being used to puddles.

When you immerse yourself into the full Rotaract experience, you get to experience growth and impact in immeasurable ways. And the best part about it? You gain a family and a lifetime’s supply of memories in the process.

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A Penny for your thoughts Nelson Jacob, Rotaract Club of University of Juba, South Sudan.

I have always been searching for paths on which to develop myself not just academically but also socially, and for paths that lead to engagement in constructive activities that could benefit everyone concerned.

When I joined the Rotaract Club of the University of Juba, my aspiration became reality. Through Rotaract I have been able to activate my public speaking skills through Rotaract-talk programs and acquire knowledge about peace and reconciliation through the Mothering Across the Continent project in partnership with Rotary.

Through Rotaract, I have also been invited to attend the first Internet Governance Forum in South Sudan. Through my active visibility in Rotaract projects, I have been given an internship opportunity by the International Peace and Democracy Organisation. Additionally, through Rotaract, I have managed to reach places and people such as the State governor and others who I thought I couldn’t meet. In Rotaract I have been able to reach the needy groups in the community, which has always been my primary life. Apart from that, I have been able to talk to people from diverse cultures who open doors of opportunity for me. Through interaction, I have built a family with friends.

Rotaract is not just a club but a haven that gives opportunities and great sense of meaning and purpose in life. It is a family that welcomes everyone and invest the culture of good will and better friendship in and between human and nature.

Stephen Ngobia, Rotaract Club of Eldoret, Kenya.

InI am Ngobia Ras Taariq, charter president of the Rotaract Club of Eldoret, and the first Ras Tafari President in District 9212. For Iman, being a volunteer means that InI is offering something – something that is neither required nor an obligation. Having worked/volunteered with non-profits in-country and outside, InI has realized and observed that volunteering holds different meanings for different persons. Everyone volunteers for a different purpose but when they start devoting a piece of themselves for giving back to the community there is one common thing everyone experiences: Personal growth.

So, in not so few words, what Rotaract means to InI is Opportunity! (and Iman is very opportunistic ) having the opportunity to find friends, connect with the community, learn new skills, and even advance my career. Giving to others also helps protect my mental and physical health. It reduces stress, combats depression, keeps me mentally stimulated, and provides a sense of purpose.

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A PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS

Nancy Ikoli, Rotaract Club of Thika, Kenya.

To some it’s just a word but to us it’s more A peaceful home, not a place of war A nest to grow individually and communally Found locally but spread internationally What place other than Rotary and Rotaract It’s not a school where you have to study But a shoulder to lean on when you’re not steady You’ll offer yourself in service for free No monthly salary, commission or fee To fill your heart with a love for social work And to find others like yourself Mention Rotary to the world You’ll have more reason to serve humanity with a smile

Monica Wanjiku, Rotaract Club o f Limuru, Kenya.

Rotaract has moulded me into a better person socially. Before I joined Rotaract, my life revolved around work and home. I have created diverse friendships thus expanding my networks.

Rotaract is growth, on a personal, leadership and professional level. It is where we create lasting solutions to our communities’ greatest challenges.

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The Volunteer

This is an interview with Rtr. Netsanet Asmelash, better known as Vamye. She’s a member of the Rotaract Club of Finot, where she served as president in the last Rotary Year, and just now, I’m waiting for her to get back online. She’s had a long day with meeting after meeting, so I’ll try to be patient.

(Waits five seconds) Helloooooo I’m here Oh yay. My computer is misbehaving, but let’s see what we can do.

Bad, bad pc. Behave.

Very helpful. Thanks. smh now look I lost my train of thought.

(Regains train of thought) So, tell me a little about yourself. I mean, I already know the basics. You are Rtr. Netsanet Asmelash, Immediate Past President, Rotaract Club of Finot.

And currently, membership director for Rotaract Clubs in Ethiopia, correct?

Yes. Yes. Correct.

but what do you do for a living?

Right. And you are an architect by training,

Architect by training and practice actually. I do graphic design and Digital Marketing as a Freelancer by the name LynColors.

Oh yes, I’ve seen Lyncolors on Instagram. Beautiful, evocative imagery. And we’ve used some in previous editions of the magazine. Very nice of you. Thanks!

So, last year we talked about a forum you attended. A forum you spoke at, actually, for women in business. Could you tell me a little about that?

I was invited by AWIB in Ethiopia; Association of Women in Business in Ethiopia to share and give insights about volunteerism, what it is, how and where the members can exercise.

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THE VOLUNTEER

What sorts of things were they interested in learning?

Most of them weren’t aware of what volunteerism was. They believed that it was something that you do when you acquire some substantial amount of money and are privileged and so on. In addition, they didn’t know where and with whom they could be of service to their communities.

So, they were of the impression, like most people, I suppose, that it was something one considered when they were beyond the struggles of everyday life.

Exactly.

I’m curious, how did they then react to you, a relatively young person, telling them about volunteerism?

That’s an excellent question.

(George did not act smug at all) I was myself surprised at first, when they contacted me. It was a recommendation.

I had no idea what level of understanding they had on the topic or which age group they were in. The only information I had was that all were woman.

During the program, after careful consideration of the audience, I let them ask all the questions they had about volunteerism before I started sharing pointers. And man, there were a lot!

I started with my own story, about how I started volunteering when I was 7 years old and a grade 2 student, teaching classmates who were interested in tutoring after class hours. No one asked me to do so. My classmates were continuously coming to me to help them with classwork we had. When their number started growing, I decided to stand before them and explain things had been taught in the way I understood them. I think that story got their attention.

That, I think, was my first moment of serving someone with what I had. I was the youngest in my class, and it did not require any money.

Wow. Quite an early age. And did this come naturally to you or do you think it was a conscious choice you had to make?

Could be the effect of being first born! Tbh I 37

THE VOLUNTEER

thought it was something normal until the principal of the school had to call in my parents to tell them the school had no hand in it. And I guess my parents didn’t see any harm in it, so they were willing to let me stay at school after class to tutor other children. That continued for three years straight.

I figured this was something natural for me. I am always drawn to sharing what I know and supporting others, big or small. I have a lot of energy for it. I continued, getting involved in supporting a young woman and her child and later on, when I joined Rotaract.

Wow! You’re one in a million, Vam. And certainly, the forum you spoke to on that day had to have mentioned that.

This reminds me, actually, of a question I often grapple with from people outside Rotary. Family even, who ask me, “what do you gain from this Rotaract? Are you paid?”

Did you meet similar questions in your conversation, and how did you respond?

Yes! That’s a question my family, friends, relatives and even strangers ask.

When I first joined it was very tough, especially with my parents. They didn’t want me to exhaust my energy, and did not know anything about Rotary. For them, it was an organization that says they are serving the community but are instead using the funds for their own personal gain. I explained to them how I was cashing in on the training I got and skills I acquired and they let me be.

But for the rest, whenever they ask, “what do you get out if it?”

I respond, “What are you willing to give?”

You can only ask for something in return if you are investing in it.

Wow! I think a lot of us go through that. I’m actually working on inviting more of my friends and family to Rotary and Rotaract. I’ll tell you how it goes. But on the response to strangers, that’s pretty poetic. I’ll use that.

Ahhh You told me about a particular lady who went on to try and start a Rotary Club in her town. Tell me a little about that. Did she have an innate desire to volunteer and suddenly see an avenue?

And how has that worked out for her so far?

So, after the forum, one of the ladies came to me and told me how she wasn’t a member of the association but had driven from Weldia (a city out of Addis) to partake in the discussion on volunteerism 38

THE VOLUNTEER

because her husband, who is a Doctor, wanted to know about it. She told me how he was immersed in helping the patients who come to the hospital solo. He was practicing at a Hospital in Adama - and that’s when I suggested to her that he can call some more interested people with him and form a Rotary club so as to have support and more reach to serve the community.

We did connect well and things were looking good. Sadly, the condition of the country couldn’t let them mobilize at all. But the dedication was something! Crossing cities to get know-how about volunteerism and be engaged more!

True! That was quite something. And I think it has the potential to still happen, with their dedication. I hope they, and you try again sometime.

But, speaking of traveling cross-country and the state of the country at the time, you were in the process of forming new clubs in various places, in your role as membership director. Do you think you made some progress that incoming membership directors can build upon? The Rotaract Club of Arbaminch, for instance, are an incredibly vibrant club and are doing good work.

The more the merrier as they say. And that was my first plan as the membership director.

I started off the Rotary year with a training on Rotaract Club Health Check, membership retention and extension training to the existing Rotaract clubs. It was a fruitful one, from the feedback I have gotten from the participants.

The next plan was to go full on targeting universities and communities out of Addis Ababa.

The first hiccup was the need for a mentoring and sponsoring Rotary club, something Rotary in Ethiopia is working on currently. I went through with it with the hopes of spotting potential Rotary members to support the Rotaractors.

We had meetings and recruited members in Debrebirhan, Harar and Bahirdar. We also met and stayed in contact with founding members of a Rotary club in Gonder to form a Rotaract club in the university there, and in the process got in contact with an excellent club in formation in Dilla as well.

Then the main hiccup hit and crippled the engagement in Gondar, Harar and Bahirdar, including an already chartered club in Jimma. It was a big disappointment, honestly. But safety comes first. So, we had to hit pause on those.

Debrebirhan and Dilla have some room for engagement. I believe as the first membership director for Rotaract in Ethiopia and in unfavourable times, I am trying my best in keeping records and things to work on and adjust as a country for the next person to take over the responsibility.

Certainly, your successor will have a, not necessarily easier path, but one where the challenges are clearer. There is huge potential for Rotary and Rotaract in Ethiopia. Especially with the official registration that took place this January.

I really hope so!

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THE VOLUNTEER

Alright. One last question before I let you go.

OK! Name 5 uses of a stapler without staple pins.

Why make it so hard? the other one was fun.

OK, do want to answer the other one?

Maybe.

What was the last gift you gave someone.

Does it need to be tangible one?

Not necessarily.

A candy.

Oh wow. Me too, I think. Two Saturdays ago, I went to a shop and bought a bunch of sweets and went to give them to peeps at a Rotaract district meeting. He he That’s really beautiful !

Adults get so excited when you give them candy though.

Very true. Why didn’t you ask me about the last best gift I received?

Well, do tell me.

If you promise not to ask for details.

I promise.

A hand written letter.

I’m regretting a certain promise now…

No questions .

Sigh. I haven’t seen a handwritten letter since high school. But it’s OK. (accepts sadly) It has that sentimental value. Ink bleeding on paper True. Very true. Thanks for being a wonderful interviewee, Vamye.

Oh one last thing!

Uh huh?

I love you all !

Awww I’m sure we all love you too. (Agree now, dear reader) Thank you for having me!

Karibu sana.

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41

Tallman Tales I learnt about the Rotaract Club of Nairobi-Muthaiga North through my Dad who belongs to its mother club, The Rotary Club of Nairobi Muthaiga North. I was eager to join, looking forward to the many connections I would make and the many community service projects I would take part in. Who am I kidding? I was just fresh out of high school and I had nothing productive to do. And who at that age wanted to go home early?

Their late-night meetings were the perfect excuse.

On one particular Tuesday in January last year, I decided to attend my first meeting solo. I took my smart casual attire and man wasn’t I killing it! I could see people stealing glances on my way to the matatu stage. I then boarded a matatu from Kasarani expecting to alight at Garden City Mall and make the short walk to Roasters Inn. Being an evening, the fare charge was thirty shillings and to be honest I felt robbed for that short travel. Even before I could give the conductor his due, the driver sped off and left him at

42

TALLMAN TALES

Roysambu. I thanked the gods and started salivating at the *smokie pasua I would relish later that night.

My fantasy was cut short by the realization that I might miss my alighting stage now that there was no conductor and the driver was driving fast with no signs of stopping. Talk to the driver? What of the loud music? Stand at the door and wave at the side mirror? I could barely see clearly. What would I even do?

It is then that the thought came like lightning: Jump you coward! How my mind convinced me that I’m a MARVEL Superhero is still a wonder. Anyway, my physics teacher told me short people have larger mass and that they are closer to the ground…or something like that. And I’ve always admired how the conductors do it flawlessly. You. Yes, you – reader - know you agree with me.

And so, when we approached the bumps at Garden City Mall, I made the jump. The first three seconds were epic. Man, I was flying and I had things under control. Remember the smart casual I chose? Who knew the shoes had no treads and were flat? I hit the ground hard, rolled twice and slid to a halt. My spectacles were on the tarmac, my arms were grazed and my trousers were torn all the way to the hip.

The bus had stopped.

I don’t know what hurt most. That the passengers on the bus thought I was escaping so that I would not pay the fare, that the conductor was seated at the front all this time, or that a lady was telling others to help while she herself wouldn’t do it. I stood up and walked away fast. This was not because of shame. No. The conductor was mad and was coming to me. I simply feared and my animal instincts kicked in.

I still attended the meeting, completely knowing no one, and I knew I had to stay. They had sausages, cakes and coffee. I even forgot about my accident and had a good laugh. I got to tell this story at their next meeting and they laughed.

I love those guys and I’ve stuck with them since that day. I am now a member of the club and serving in the Public Relations Docket. Despite the challenges of dealing with humans, I love it here. I learn. I would say I grow but well, check my height. It really doesn’t matter if you have the wrong reasons for joining, go on and make mistakes while at it.

Moral of the story: I got to eat the *smokie pasua and vowed to never encourage my brother to join the club. There was no way my Dad was going to pay for all those activities for two people. *Smokie Pasua (Noun): A smokie split in two then filled with kachumbari and possibly pilipili For the definitions of kachumbari and pilipili, come to DisCon 2020.

Tallman Rotaract Club of Muthaiga North.

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Eye Camp 2020 The Rotaract Club of Bahati in Conjunction with their mother club, The Rotary Club of Nairobi Utumishi, VOSH-USA and Hands of Mercy Ngunjiri Foundation held their annual signature project from the 13th – 18th of January. The third annual free eye camp covered most areas of Bahati and 7 schools where they managed to reach out and treat 2198 people and issue eye glasses.

The medics from VOSH-USA offered screening services and referred the tough ailments to various hospitals countrywide. The area MP Hon Kimani Ngunjiri joined and thanked the Rotaractors and urged the member to always monitor their Health Status.

On the sidelines of the free eye clinic, two visiting medics Steve House and Monica Van Overmeer while visiting one of the primary schools promised to support 50 Children with uniforms among other learning materials in order to make their learning comfortable. Unlike previous years, the visiting team came with a Rotaractor, a student on exchange program from Germany who donated balls to all primary schools to encourage growth of all-round pupils.

The people of Bahati have embraced the initiative terming it as thoughtful, benevolent and highly beneficial. Access to basic health services is a challenge to many people, but access to specialized clinics like dental and eye clinics is even more challenging.

This initiative would not have been possible of it were not for the efforts of the Patron David Muiru, who brought together VOSH-USA, ROTARY CLUB OF NAIROBI UTUMISHI, HANDS OF MERCY NGUNJIRI FOUNDATION and the hosts, ROTARACT CLUB OF BAHATI. SEE YOU NEXT YEAR, SAME TIME SAME PLACE!!!!

Mathew Kuria Ngunjiri 44

Rotaract Club of Bahati.

Christmas Celebration with the Kids from

Edget Besera Secondary School

Every year, the Rotaract club of Lewet prepares an event at one of the public schools found in the busiest, most chaotic places in Addis Abeba which is Merkato. Some people say it’s the largest market in Africa, but as its exact boundaries are as shady as some of its characters, this is a little hard to verify. (Editor can’t even) Merkato is full of different items from the smallest of things to as large as it gets. The say you will find anything you want in Merkato. Thus, Merkato is also full of different kind of people. Some maybe thieves, some are businesspeople, some are buyers, some are people who carry items for the shoppers and some are just there for the mood. But one thing that’s true about Merkato is that it created a job opportunity for most of the youth here in Ethiopia.

Enough about Merkato. Let’s head to how our day was with the wonderful kids at Edget Besera. The Rotaract club of Lewet have been doing the Christmas celebration for over 5 years now and each year the kids wait in excitement to have a fun-filled day with Rotaractors and Rotarians. We spend the day in the school compound preparing snacks and food for the kids and then eating together,

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dancing and playing games. We would like to thank our sponsors of the day: Sunchips Ethiopia and Coca-Cola.

They helped us provide chips and drinks for 300 kids and that cannot go without appreciation.

Just like Merkato, the school is dynamic, with people of different ethnicities and religion. Hence, even though some of the kids don’t celebrate Christmas, they were there to have fun with their friends and have a good time with us as well, which made us realize how wonderful it is to always come together for each other in the good times and the bad.

One of the things that struck us was their taste in music. We expected it to be Ethiopian cultural songs but they didn’t even move their shoulders or anything for it. Before they got bored with us, I called upon a kid named Biruck and asked him to help out Rotaractor DJ sunny (she is not really a DJ though). As soon as Biruck sat with sunny, the mood in the class changed. Everyone started getting off their seats, jumping, shaking and grooving to the African songs coming out of the speaker. It’s funny how our continent’s songs are influencing the kids of our generation, from the dance culture to understanding the Swahili language and singing along.

It was definitely one of the best days for Rotaractors that joined us for the day because they get to let loose and dance with kids. I just wish the magazine had a video version so I can send the funny dances seen from our fun filled day at EDGET BESERA. (Editor sends a rag tag team of time pirates to the near future to acquire the necessary technology. Watch out for this piece on https://timeline.rotary9212. org/) Thank you very much and enjoy the pictures.

Mark Dereje Secretary 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Lewet.

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Homemaker and Motherhood through When I joined the British curriculum of education and had to take part in community service, I knew to expect to play with children, sing songs, donate gifts and leave.

This was because before getting hands-on experience, all I had for a frame of reference was the pictures I saw in newspapers and The Insyder and Pulse magazines.

Pictures showing students from different schools smiling alongside orphaned children.

Service

As a kid, when you look at those smiling faces and adolescent teens squatting down beside them, sharing the same joyful expression, you don’t get to know the work that was put into producing those happy faces.

I visited Angel Centre for Abandoned Children with my Rotaract team and I, for once, got to work in the kitchen. You don’t realize how incapable you are of cooking until you are on a time crunch, having to cook for fifty children.

I diced bell peppers and tomatoes. Tomatoes were a piece of cake, but bell peppers were more fun and complicated. Carrots were the challenge. There I was, slicing the carrots into circular shapes before cutting them in a cross (that was my attempt at dicing).

No sooner had I embarked on the second half of the carrot than an older team member hurried over in foolish amazement. I told her that I wouldn’t be able to do it in any other way.

“When you’re a mother of three hungry boys, you learn to do these things lest they eat you for breakfast,” she said and showed me how to correctly dice. It was difficult. I spent those minutes contemplating my life in the kitchen, as a mother and wife. There was strength that I had to build to do some of this chopping. Endurance and patience as well.

I wouldn’t want to embarrass myself and set food on the table that would make my children make fun of me. Children are very honest. They would tell me to my face!

After lunch, we got to spend time with the children. Some were clingy and sedentary while others were like bunnies hyped up on sugar. There was every variety. All beautiful, all angelic. I sat tucked into a chair with a little girl, watching the others play and couldn’t bring myself to fathom how a parent could abandon their child. I was surprised by my contemplation because before this, I was pro-choice and pro ‘give the baby away’. But as I sat there and looked at their angelic faces, I knew deep down, that every child is here to bless the world. That there is no way a baby is a mistake.

There may be some parents in special circumstances, incapable of nurturing a child. But abandonment to me, is just as inhumane as abortion. Leaving the Centre, I learned that community service isn’t only about uplifting hearts but also to learn more about yourself and the world and in turn, give you valuable lessons to shape the future.

Roosie Kuloba

Rotaract Club of University of Nairobi.

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2020

Experiences & Expectations For their first fellowship of the year, the Rotaract Club of Kitale held a club assembly. Here is a brief account of that evening’s highlights.

This was an exciting time for each one of us to do a flashback to 2019 as we set expectations of ourselves and our club in the new year as a means of strategic planning. We had the opportunity to share our personal successes and lowest moments. Here’s what we learnt: 1. There are no limits to what we as a club or individuals can do. - Rtr.Gabriel Dak (Club Immediate Past President) 2. Planning is essential for success, as failing to plan is planning to fail. - Rtr. Boiyo Chebet Truphosa (Club President) 3. It is good to have a personal growth visions and missions, and values that can guide you towards them. - Rtn. Moses Ng’ania (Club Patron 2019/2020) 4. Choose courage over comfort. - Rtn. Antony Gitei (Club mentor) 5. Boldness is rewarding. - Rtr. Allan Onsinyo (Club President Elect 2020/2021) 6. Your biggest fear can be your greatest opportunity. Go for whatever your heart tells you.

It was a very motivating evening for each of us, something that only happened through us talking as a team. Happy 2020!

Diana Wendy Atieno 48

Secretary 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Kitale.

Addis

Holiday Lunch It’s early Tuesday morning. The month and a half long fasting is coming to an end, and you’re woken up to slaughter the sheep or chicken, an Ethiopian holiday tradition. You carry out your task, be it preparing the dish or getting the house ready, and you can finally sit. Once the food has been served, you gather around the table for a family breakfast, there’s a traditional coffee ceremony, the room is scented with the aroma of incense and a holiday special TV program is playing in the background.

A typical Ethiopian holiday is celebrated with family as such. But for Rotaractors, holidays are much more than just spending time with family and friends. There are tens of thousands of people in Addis who are out on the street, have no family, and are financially constrained to celebrate the holiday the way they want to.

This is where the Addis Holiday Lunch comes in.

Organized on a rotational basis among Rotaract clubs in Addis, AHL prepares a lunch and clothing donation event for those in need. Throughout the Ethiopian calendar’s year, AHL is observed on three holidays reaching more than 1000 people.

Putting to effect the Rotary motto, “service above self”, Rotaractors spend the days leading up to holiday making sure to collect enough clothes, carrying out fundraisers and searching for sponsors.

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AHL Ethiopian Christmas Edition took place on January 7, 2020, and was the latest AHL event to have taken place. The Rotaract Clubs of Abugida and Solyana took responsibility for the preparation of Christmas AHL; and because of partners such as the National Blood Bank of Ethiopia, Unilever, Negus Malt & Aqua Addis Sparkling Water, the event was a success. More than 100 Rotaractors and Rotarians came to support prior to and during the event.

Once food and drink sponsorship was secured, the remaining major task was sorting clothes (by gender and age). Members of both clubs carried out their responsibilities in collecting and sorting clothes in addition to other Rotaract clubs that dedicated their coffee time to support the cause. During the event, food, drink and clothing donation areas were all facilitated by Rotaractors.

AHL Christmas Edition proved to be another great event bringing Rotaractors closer and making sure as members of the society, Rotaractors are giving back to the community. The Rotaract Club of Abugida and Solyana would like to thank all their partners, members, and supporters for organizing a successful event.

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Upcoming Events

13th - 15th Feb: Mt. Kenya Hike 23rd Feb: Ethiopia National Rotary Day/Rotary International Anniversary 29th Feb: Western Region Rotaract Officers Training Seminar (ROTS)

1st - 2nd Mar: Ethiopia Rotaract Officers Training Seminar (ROTS) 7th Mar: Mt. Kenya Region Rotaract Officers Training Seminar (ROTS) 8th - 14th Mar: Rotaract Week 12th - 15th Mar: RYLA Ethiopia 14th Mar: Sunshine Rally 21st Mar: Nakuru Region Rotaract Officers Training Seminar (ROTS) 28th Mar: Rotaract Kenya Sport’s Day 2nd - 4th Apr: DisCon 10th - 12th Apr: REACT 25th Apr: Coast Region Rotaract Officers Training Seminar (ROTS)

9th May: Nairobi Region Rotaract Officers Training Seminar (ROTS) 16th May: Thika Region Rotaract Officers Training Seminar (ROTS) 30th May: Rotaract Kenya Fashion Show Concert 51

The Interactor At the time of this interview, August 2019, Rtr. Angad Singh is the president of the soon to be chartered Rotaract Club of Nyali, Mombasa. But this is not his first leadership role in the Rotary world, and most Rotarians and Rotaractors would remember him better as an Interactor. He spoke at the DCA in 2018, as his club, the Interact Club of Oshwal Academy Mombasa, was awarded the best Interact Club in the district.

This is a conversation with him on his journey with Interact, Rotaract and Rotary since he joined in 2014.

When did you join Interact?

When I was in year nine, or form two.

So, you just joined a random club in school?

Well, I was always quite fond of doing charity. Because of my religion and my parents, I got joy in helping people. We had class, then activities on Wednesday. I joined this club called charity Charmers and Interact was introduced in the same year. Later, we merged the two clubs into Interact.

We had elections not too long after, and I was elected president. Our first project was a feeding program, then clothes drives, book drives and so on, before we took on bigger initiatives.

We also had a project with KSPCA, the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals. These were projects that required little funding.

What did you do with the KSPCA? The KSPCA rescues stray animals such as dogs and cats, vaccinates, feeds and houses them. Since the government already has enough difficulty feeding humans, not much is done for stray animals. What we did was connect

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THE INTERACTOR

KSPCA to hotels, so that waste food, which was mostly in good condition would not go to waste. Even in our school, other waste would go in a different bin from food, and that would be collected and provided to animals. We’d also support them through monetary donations.

Then we moved on to doing bigger projects when we got to year 10. Most of us were 15 or 16 years old at the time. Our first was a borehole project, the first any Interact or Rotaract Club had done in our district.

Of course, we continued to do the smaller projects, providing books, stationery, clothing, and slowly fundraising in school in new ways. We’d have non-uniform days, when students would come to school in their home clothes, and pay 100 bob.

In a school of 500 students from year 1, that would be Ksh. 50,000 collected just like that. Added to the bake sales, and movie shows in school, we fundraised and purchased educational material. It was not easy at first though, and at times we would make so little I would wonder how we were to achieve our goals.

But I am a believer in the saying “Give a man a fish and you’ll feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you’ll feed him for a lifetime.” So, we did a borehole project in Kilifi.

A borehole is sustainable because, first, it provides drinking water. That same water is useful for hygiene and sanitation purposes. It can also be used to water people’s farms. That gives them crops, which gives them food in time. And then surplus food can be sold, which earns them an income which is used to send their children to school, and the coming generations get education and they can move up in life.

We did this project at just the right time because there was a drought at the time in Ganze, Kilifi.

It had not rained for just over two years.

The borehole helped over 6000 people.

It was dug in a school, so the community now gets free water, and so does the school. There was a small clinic being built as well, and they benefited too. The water was tested and found to be fit for consumption.

Who maintains the borehole? In case something happens to it?

The school and local administration have the contractor’s contact, as well as mine. So, whenever there’s a problem they contact him or me directly.

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THE INTERACTOR

The funds provided to the chief by the government are usually enough to do repairs though. The borehole can last 6 to 12 years for the number of people and usage.

How much did it cost?

The project cost Ksh. 160,000.

We had a second borehole project, which we got a donor to fund, in the Kaloleni area. It cost Ksh. 1,500,000 because of the high altitude. It needed bigger machinery to dig deeper. While the donor wanted to do the project themselves, Interact was the bridge to between the donor and the beneficiaries.

What we did for that project was construct a pond, so that all the runoff would be collected, and animals could come and drink it, because a lot of water goes to waste around collection points whenever it is pumped. That helped 15,000 people plus 5,000 cattle.

That was some good thinking. Now, tell me about the solar powered borehole.

This was done very recently. We opened it just this July. It cost Ksh. 362,000.

This was under the Interact Club of Oshwal Academy?

Yes, it was. I had finished the school, but it was a project we’d started while I was president. And it was opened while my sister was president. The club was able to continue with the project.

This is the first solar powered borehole project by an Interact Club in the world, isn’t it?

Yes, and the first for any Interact or Rotaract Club in our district.

Quite an achievement there. I wonder about the fundraising. How long did it take and how did you achieve it?

Well, as we had done before, we did movie shows, bake sales, and it took us a while. The good thing was that our school and the principal were supportive. Every term we would have one fundraiser, say a bake sale or a non-uniform day, such as on Valentine’s, when we’d have a theme, say red and white or red and black. We’d also have a bake sale the same day.

We’d be helped by parents to bake cake and sell. We also made cards. There were football tournaments in school sometimes, and when we did bake sales during those, people supported us.

You guys were awarded the best Interact Club in the district in 2018. How was that?

Yes, at the DCA in Naivasha. I was given an opportunity to give a presentation. We were told that we had done projects that even Rotary Clubs had not. That was really something, as people under 18 years, in high school.

What we did was help out everyone we could, from short term, to sustainable projects. When there were children from other schools who needed help, say with wheelchairs for the disabled, 54

THE INTERACTOR

we’d help them. We even worked with artisans in the area to make recycled tire slippers (akala) for needy children, and this helped both the children and the artisans we hired.

We were given the Humanitarian Award at the Watoto Africa Soccer Awards (WASA) in 2017. And most recently, at the Rotaract DCA in Kilifi, we were recognized as the most inspiring Interact Club in the district.

You can find all our projects on our Facebook page, Interact Club of Oshwal Academy Mombasa. All our activities and projects have been documented there.

And now you’re starting a Rotaract Club?

Yes, the Rotaract Club of Nyali. We are to be chartered at the end of this month.

We have already started working on a project to aid a lady who is affected by polio and cannot walk.

We donated a wheelchair to her, but she is uneducated, making it difficult for her to earn a living.

Soon, we’ll have her admitted in a school free of charge, to learn stitching so that she can feed her family and sustain herself. We have documented this project with a video on our Facebook page.

Have you thought about the transition and how it might be different being in a Rotaract Club than in an Interact Club?

Well I have been asked before how we were able to be so successful, and I’ve noted that there is a difference. In school, we had it easier. We’d do things faster, with less formality. Call it “Jua kali” style, where I’d meet a member in the corridor and we’d assign tasks and monitor progress on the spot. But with Rotaract and Rotary there is more procedure and formality, less action.

There were more chances to run into each other in a school.

Yes, and once you’re out of school, fundraising is a bit more difficult. People are busy and running into each other is not easy. Also, most of the people who have joined our Rotaract Club have done so with the objective of service and aren’t used to the formality of meeting weekly for fellowship.

Well, as you said it’s different in school from outside of it, and fellowship is an integral part of the Rotary experience. But knowing what your members are like and why they joined is a good thing, and you should tailor your club experience to fit that.

One final question then. What have you learnt from Rotary?

I have learnt the need to be more formal with documentation of processes, requests and the like so that information is available for the future, and in case of opportunities or problems. A welldocumented process is easier to understand and intervene in, and is more likely to be entrusted with more. I’ve learnt how to grow something slowly from the smallest size, just as the Rotary foundation started with a donation of $26.50 and now has billions in contributions. I’ve met new people, and gained knowledge and new ideas.

Angad Singh President 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Nyali.

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WHAT’S GOOD? What good is knowing that you have a plan on the night before a public holiday in the parte after parte month (read December). Well, somehow the gods of public holidays decided an international holiday was not enough for us. We needed an extra day somewhere to always remind us of 1964 (consult history teacher for more information) What’s better is a plan involving wine and music. I don’t know a better combination to welcome the holiday mood. All this with the cherry to the icing being an event organized by a Rotaract club.

Wazzuuuuuuuur..! (hint hint) Never had I ever been to a concert. I was excited, over the moon even. I was not sure how excited one was supposed to be, which was good because it kept me awake and waiting for the next act throughout the night. I could not imagine the end of such a beautiful night. Wine, music, good friends and new friends.

Oh my goodness how in the word do people who live on Waiyaki way go home? No offence but that line for buses to waiyaki way at 5pm could be longer than the one to heaven. Try standing there when you’re excited, anxious and late to get to a concert. I had to contain myself and I must admit thirty minutes is a long time to contain my excitement. I finally decided to take matatus to Westlands then cross and take another to safaricom. This turned out to be a brilliant idea until I was all covered in mud.

I was the last passager to board the matatu which was within seconds headed to westlands.

Clearly thus far my plan was working. we safely and within record time got to Westlands. What an amazing trip. Before I knew it, I was all covered in mud. The matatu right in front of the one I had alighted from was stuck in a pool of mud and the driver was struggling to get it out.

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WHAT’S GOOD?

The result? Mud splashed on me. Luckily, I was wearing brown. I didn’t know how lucky I was until I Looked down at myself and saw the camouflage.

It is a wonderful feeling, I tell you. Next time you see a chameleon, smile. Let it know you know how happy it feels to be able to blend in everywhere.

After that dramatic encounter I decided to take a bodaboda to MJ Center, I mean it would be fast, hair blowing and convenient given that I was late for my first ever concert. Joshua got me to exactly opposite the MJ center, the proverbial Canaan for the day given that I had already crossed my brown sea and gotten myself dirty. We forgot one thing, however. There was a ditch I had to cross before getting to my actual Canaan and it was another hurdle but…

Finally, I got into the MJ Centre. Thank the heavens the concert started yet. Of course, I had to use the powder room. I needed nice lighting to see how well my clothes were playing chameleon. There they were, the song birds of the evening. The female ones at least. I didn’t know this until after they were up on stage and my heart resisted the urge to shout that I know the girls from the powder room and that we had had a really good vibe in there.

The music was fantastic. Every musical talent that went up on that stage served a different kind of dessert and each hit a different spot. Let me tell you (if you can please read *wacheni sasa niwaambie…).

There was even an EP/ Album launch by Suzziah. Pretty dope stuff. If you ask me however who my all-time favorite was… I will tell you. All this time we sipped and drank from our glasses and cans. The music was excellent and the artists powerful and talented. I guess I have never been in the presence of such powerful sets of lungs all in one place. You’re taking too long to ask. I will tell you either way.

Okello Max was my favorite artists of the day because I love mother tongue and mother tongue fused in a Swahili song slaps differently.

SO WHAT’S GOOD? A LOT OF THINGS ARE GOOD. WHAT’S GREAT, HOWEVER, IS ATTENDING ROTAJAMS .

Susan Maina Rotaract Club of Riara University.

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What is Rotajams Anyway?

It started as a thought. A random one. There were a couple creatives who were looking to perfect their craft as well as interact with the masses. There was a club, so very proud to be part of the Rotary International family, and inclined towards the creative industry. 100+ years of Rotary’s existence, each club reaching their milestones, contributing more and more to Rotary’s rich history and a one-year old Rotaract Club’s members asked, how does this club make an impact? How will people remember 58

them? It started as a thought.

ROTAJAMS

Rotajams is a partnership between Jamhuri Events, an events company keen on promotion of artistic content and the Rotaract club of Lang’ata, keen to bring a whole new way of viewing Rotary to the general public. The concept is to figure out the fusion of music, poetry and the creative arts in a way to attract people and having them contribute to your cause voluntarily. It is a flagship project for President Fatma Muhaji and her board. It was created to spread awareness of the creative world in and around Rotary circles and vice versa, work with aspiring and promising young entrepreneurs, act as an avenue to raise money for club projects as well as entertainment for the general public.

Rotajams is still in its pilot operational phase as we plan, execute and tweak little details here and there to figure out what works and what does not. It was initially designed to happen after every two months, but that frequency is likely to be altered in the coming days. Everyone involved, including the artists, play a vital role in the execution of the event. It is ideally a partnership. All the revenue collected from ticket sales and booth space is channelled to the club kitty where disbursement to various projects is done. We found a way to raise money but, in a fun, all-inclusive way. In addition, Rotajams conveniently manages to touch on various club committees at once, including fundraising, PR, club and community service.

So far, we have managed to run two independent events under the Rotajams umbrella, Rotajams: Halloween party (Oct 2019), which also happened to be our inaugural one, and Rotajams: Wine on a Wednesday (Dec 2019), which might as well be the best one yet. We have managed to feature several artists with zero knowledge of what Rotaract is and does. Highlights of course being Serro and Suzziah, with poets from the creative MMU art group - Upskul, and the growing studio - Snowball Industries.

It is after the December edition that we started getting inquiries, majorly from the creative scene, about what Rotajams is and how to be a part of it. This is a different type of traction not experienced in Rotary circles. It is this energy that we intend to build upon. So many more editions of Rotajams are cooking.

We believe Rotajams can be a revolutionary idea, and we call out on all clubs to back us up on this one. We call for support in as far as attending and sharing of the information is concerned. Help us be part of the change we want to see in the society. Music, poetry, creativity has never gone wrong with humanity. Together we can spread our agenda and through Rotajams, amplify it to the max. Let’s do this.

Feel free to follow our pages to stay updated! #NotAnArtist

Kefa Odindo PR Director 2019-2020, Rotaract Club of Lang’ata.

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Darling Fridays Friday mornings

Nothing feels better than this Weekend plans all up in the air Friends, drinks and parties loading Always catching up with some Ben, Sandra or Oliver To avoid going out with Grace, Of course, in the name of prior plans Friday afternoons What could beat the anxiety?

Weekend plans that don’t exist Just self and substance abuse loading Always avoiding plans with friends To fold distracting undecided thoughts on paper Friday nights But what is loneliness?

Nobody is calling Do I even have friends?

Always hugging my annoying self Why am I like this though? #Disturbed 60

Another One! Another blow in my guts tonight My throat bleeds to death Because this is what happens When your guts don’t care about trusting you I am afraid of myself Life is f***g cruel And I know my feelings will burn in hell As I sing Amen with the most High Another crack in my existence tonight My soul drowns in my blood Because this is what happens When you don’t know the colour of peace nor happiness I am tired of trying Life is too f***g long And I know my mind is not a safe place As I keep protecting it with my life #Disturbed

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Am I? Am I missing out?

Do you think so?

Is love really comforting?

Is happiness really as pleasing?

Does talking really half solve it?

Is a family really necessary?

Isn’t companionship really just overrated?

Is change really inevitable?

Is God’s plan really the s**t?

What does trust the process even mean?

Does love really fix a broken person?

Is crazy even an actual thing?

Is marriage really as sweet as the wedding pictures?

Do you even know what you are really doing on earth?

Is death as painful and as unfortunate as people put it?

People who haven’t even died before!

I’d like a beach house though #Disturbed

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Happy Dance I’m in a good mood tonight I will run around with my monsters Experience every sweet grief in my gut Kiss my shy demons goodnight Braid my skeletons with colourful Brazilian hair Tattoo flowers over my flaws Have a strategy meeting with my fears Dance to the sounds of heartaches Embrace a few of my wicked nightmares Put make up on my broken smile I will get stuck in my wilderness And wish to never return I’m weak and happy about it tonight Tonight, I will live my Empty Life One degree over gladly #Disturbed

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Emoji Party SN2 To us, Rotaract is about the friendships we make, and that is what led to the ideation of the emoji party, an emoji-themed annual event geared towards bringing people together for fun and networking. We wanted to go beyond our club, in an event set-up, given that our club is one of the clubs in diaspora of Nairobi and that sometimes makes it challenging for us to join other Rotaract clubs during their meetings and activities. We wanted a platform in which people felt free to connect, and a theme that everyone understood or could relate to since everyone uses emojis.

Therefore, we held the second emoji party on the 16th of November 2019 at Park Place along Magadi Road from 12pm and a swallowship which lasted till 4am on 17th November. The event brought together about 200 Rotaractors and friends from 21 partner clubs and beyond. We had partner clubs in the regions as follows; 2 Central, 2 Western, 1 Coast and the remaining 16 from Nairobi. The theme of the emoji party season two was bond, fun and connect. The activities held were not only meant for fun but also to help the attendees bond. The highlight of the emoji party season two was the performance by Nelson, a ventriloquist comedian, with his partner in crime Jonte.

We want to thank the following Rotaract clubs for partnering with us: The Rotaract clubs of UoN, UoN Afya, UoN Parklands, Muthaiga North, JKUAT, Eldoret, Kakamega Central, DeKUT, Chuka University, Youth zone, Ngong Hills, Ongata Rongai, Limuru, Kikuyu, Milimani, Nairobi Central, Muthaiga, African Nazarene University, Riara University and Technical University of Kenya.

We also want to acknowledge Thought Oasis Events and 66 shots for MCeing and merchandise respectively. See you next Rotary year for the emoji party season 3.

b u l C t c a r a t o R a l e g n e t i K f o 64

EMOJI PARTY SEASON TWO

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Untitled Outcry God willing,

Kenya should be the home of my future kids, But, unfortunately, it’s a sad country we live in.

44 versions of us meant to form a productive society, But instead we decide to use it to wreck sanity,

Bring a whole new level of disgrace to humanity, Political leaders busy filling their stomachs and pockets, Why? With public money they swindle from their I will never understand that mentality, electoral dockets, See, Positions given to them by the public, who expect It doesn’t really matter where you come from, a lot in terms of progress, your county, And NO to tribalism, nepotism, or other kinds of Or where you are affiliated politically, problems, In the end, we are One, certainly, Instead have development, reduce the public outcry and protest.

And even if we realise this gradually, You know,

Eventually, I pray, we get to understand this reality!

Gone are the days when a gov’t job would be ready for a graduate right after school, So blind that we miss the goal to attain unity,

And it’s not coz he is a fool, but the system is just Instead, we end up having neighbours as enemies, poorly managed by goons, Individual insecurities, Who expect something in return for their service In a land well fought for, once a British colony, to you Ati kutoa kitu kidogo ndio kesi yako isikike kwa The highest degree of bulls*t, if you ask me! ukamilifu,

Or having work interview questions like ‘who sent you?’, Instead of ‘What qualifications have you?’ (sigh) So sad, hizi vitu, But kwa ground ni true.

The 254, Our country,

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Like yesterday, a change ought to be coming!

So the next time you see a beggar in town, Give him some food, delete his frown,

Or when a friend asks for some monetary aid, Don’t hesitate, assist till her bill is paid.

An artist will invite you to her gig, Please don’t make false promises a thing, Be wary of that politician marinating you for a

vote, Ask yourself, is he the real G.O.A.T? Keep your friends and enemies close.

Dear Njoki,

That day when your child asks about the days of yore, Were they filled with malice, deception and war?

You will have something to tell that isn’t entirely wrong.

There were those who believed in a change, In our time and beyond,

We may not yet have achieved the intended end goal, But we shall not stop until humanity is restored! #NotAnArtist

Kefa Odindo Rotaract Club of Lang’ata.

When around you I feel safe. I forget my pain, peace I gain. At your sight my facial muscles you excite, opening a door way that shuts away my sore past.

As you approach, my mind is emptied and all I can think about is you. In writing have I inscribed my feelings for you. With picturesque drawings I have illustrated my sentiments for you.

Ever since you came into my life I feel different.

Hope once more feels hopeful. The first time we conversed is a time that’ll never elude me. When you asked my name and it so happened that it was yours too. When we colored our first drawing together, shared our first jokes. Strangers at first, now I can never stop thinking about you. Your transpiration an inspiration.

Whenever you are away I am ambushed. My troubles reignite. That’s why when I get a pen and paper and my emotions I pour. The words ‘we’re in love’ may not be appropriate for our relationship, but what I know is I truly love you.

Regards, Njoki, Thunguma CYEC.

Dan Kiama Rotaract Club of DeKUT.

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Lessons I’ve Learnt as a PR Director in Rotary

I joined the Rotary fraternity about 8 years ago. I’ve had the honour of serving as Board member throughout this time. Seven of those years were as a Public Relations Director. I started out as an International Service Director, which is the equal of Foreign Affairs Minister.

I stumbled upon the PR role out of my love for IT. IT has no relation to public relations, I know. But as an IT enthusiast, I was always looking for new trends. When Facebook and Twitter launched in Kenya around 2008/09, I joined and became a huge fanatic. As a very young person then, I was very active, posting all manners of content.

Public Relations Director – The Experience & Lessons I first got appointed as a Public Relations Director during the 2013/14 Rotary year. At the time, I was still a fresh Rotaractor at the Rotaract Club of Embu. Mind you, I’m a trained banker and accountant/ auditor. I’ve never done a course, leave alone unit on public relations. But I still got the role by virtue of my experience on social media marketing. My duty was to simply publicize the club on social media – a task I did perfectly.

Over time, as I grew in Rotary I discovered more about the role. In 2015 while serving as an Assistant District Public Relations Officer, I was tasked with coming up with a magazine. Our predecessors had successfully come up with a Rotaract magazine that was easily shared via WhatsApp. During my tenure, I did things differently. I designed an online version using online tools. It flopped. Badly, to be precise. However, it was a learning experience.

Lesson 1: Never be afraid to try something. And if it fails, learn from the mistakes, go back to the drawing board and re-invent yourself.

In the same year, I discovered graphic design, which was limited to making simple posters for Rotaract clubs. Very few clubs at the time were making posters as it was a very expensive undertaking. Postermaking was the next step that would define the role of a public image officer. The posters I was making then were majorly for an event I was running called Mentor 101. Compared to now, the posters were horrible. But it opened an opportunity to introduce a new thing into Rotaract/Rotary circles.

PR Officer in 2017/18 Rotary Year The 2017/18 Rotary year was a very busy time for me. I was serving as a public relations director in three places. First, as District Rotaract Public Image Officer, Public Relations Officer for Rotaract Parklands and Public Relations Officer for the 93rd Rotary DCA in Naivasha. One would ask how one person would serve all those positions at a go. Well, I did. And I enjoyed every single bit of it.

That Rotary year was a learning experience, hence a very successful year. At the Rotary DCA, I was 68

introduced to website development and maintenance. Basically, my work was to ensure the event website was up to date and working optimally. With zero knowledge on websites, I turned to big brother – Google – and I was able to do a decent job. And got an award to show for it.

District & Club PR In the same year, I served in two other public relations roles. These were the most engaging roles and required the most effort. Being District Rotaract PR Officer meant overseeing the overall public image of the District and guiding clubs in the District on the same. At the same time, I was PR Director for my then Rotaract Club, the Rotaract Nairobi Parklands. Huge plate, right? introduced to website development and maintenance. Basically, my work was to ensure the event website was up to date and working optimally. With zero knowledge on websites, I turned to big brother – Google – and I was able to do a decent job. And got an award to show for it.

The award I received from the District Governor for serving in the DCA as a PR Officer.

In order to undertake these two crucial roles, I set up two set of teams that I’d work with. One team was assisting at the District level, and the other at club level. Each member of the team had a specific role to undertake during that year. The district had a four-member team – Chief Editor of the District Magazine, District Magazine content officer, Media Relations Liaison and Digital Media Officer. The Rotaract Parklands team was comprised of Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Club Magazine Content officers. Even though I was the team leader in both teams, I too had a role to play. Using my graphic design skill, I’d design all posters and the two magazines. And each member was accountable for their role. In our monthly briefs, we’d take stock of the past month’s work, our failures and how to improve in the following month.

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Rotaract Public Relations Achievements From these two roles, a lot was achieved in that year. The biggest achievement was the District and Club magazines. Even though my predecessor had started the DRR Times, I chose to rename it The Rotaractor to reflect the stories and projects by Rotaractors. The magazine is still being made by the current District team.

The second edition of the Rotaractor Magazine produced during my tenure.

Other achievements in that year included growing Rotaract Parklands social media presence by over 80%; increased social media presence for the Rotaract District. Working as a team made it possible for all of these to be achieved. And it set a precedent for future teams to build on.

From this experience, there are two lessons I derive.

1. If you want to go far, you walk with a team. A lot is achieved by working as a team and this was a huge contributor to the achievements above.

2. Leadership is not about being the boss and issuing orders. It’s about developing and sharing your vision with the team and taking part in actualizing the vision with them.

Public Relations Director in Rotary Madaraka The best decision I ever made since joining the Rotary family was to become a Rotarian. Rotary Madaraka inducted me as their member on June 1st 2018. Immediately, I was co-opted into the Public Relations committee of the club. At the time the club was redesigning its website and revamping its social media platforms. My role was to mostly design club posters.

Having served in the committee for one year, I was appointed the following Rotary year as the Public Image Officer of the club. Before assuming the role, training for all public image directors in the country was done. The training involved insights into Rotary’s branding guidelines, Rotary story telling, social media management and more. My biggest take was the branding guidelines. I had read them before but never quite understood them, despite being a graphic designer. And from the training, I learnt the mistakes I was making in my designs.

Serving as Public Image Officer for my Rotary club has, by far, been the best experience. I still have five months left of my term, hence can’t take stock of what I’ve achieved yet.

However, one achievement, or two, I can proudly talk of is developing Rotary stories for my club that have been shared on the club website. This is in turn is helping attract guests every Monday to our meetings. Secondly, a deeper understanding of the branding guidelines has enabled me to develop better looking graphics for the club that easily tell of the Rotary brand.

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A Penny for your thoughts

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CREDITS CONCEPT ART Netsanet Asmelash (lyn.colors)

PHOTOS RAS PR Team Rikkie Tumaini Roy (kenyanfashion.co.ke) Respective Rotaract Clubs

EDITORIAL TEAM Hilda Ndonyi Perpetual Machua Wilson Karogo Ngotho Paul Karuri Nuruhussein Mohammed Catherine Njeri