RTI Legacy Magazine - 2 - February / March - 2024 by Round Table International

T HE OFF IC I A L ROUND TA B L E I N T ER N AT IO N A L M AG A Z I NE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2024

C E L E B R AT I N G M O ' V E R S Recognizing the Heroes of Movember.

WA L K T H E TA L K 5 Footwear Styles Every Tabler Should Own. N AV IG AT I N G T H E E VO LU T IO N The Impact of AI on Humanity.

LIFEST YLE E D U C AT I O N TR AV EL

IN T HI S I SSUE RTI PRESIDENT EMBRACING A NEW YEAR OF LEADERSHIP | RTI TREASURER ADOPT, ADAPT IMPROVE | COINS PLAYING THE COIN GAME GENERATIVE AI BECOME A BETTER PRO | TABLER.WORLD PROSPECT MANAGEMENT | COMMUNICATION WHAT DO YOU MEME? TRAVELLING GLOBAL FRIENDSHIP | TASTE THE WORLD THE NETHERLANDS | + MUCH MORE

R T I L E G A C Y | CO N T E N T S

WA L K T H E TA L K 5 Footwear Styles Every T abler Should Own

R T I L E G A C Y | CO N T E N T S

In this Issue FEBRUARY / MARCH 2024

6 EDITOR'S NOTES By Mr. Mikael Ejemar Vikström

FROM THE BOARD

24 ASPA REGION By Mr. Shamaal Panagoda

26 AMI REGION By Mr. Leejay Tavares

28 SEM REGION

EDITORIAL & STORIES

RTI PRESIDENT By Mr. Marc Germeshausen

WHAT DO YOU MEME? By Mr. Paul Hoeksema

By Mr. Christos Demetriades

60 PROSPECT MANAGEMENT By Mr. Thomas Menneckemeyer

TRAVEL & EXPLORE 66 TABLING ON THE ISLANDS

CELEBRATING MO'VERS By Mr. Pierre Mörck

By Mr. Antti Kantola

70 GLOBAL FRIENDSHIP

44 PLAYING THE COIN GAME By Mr. Graham Cornelissen

46 NAVIGATING THE

EVOLUTION

By Mr. Graham Cornelissen

12 RTI VICE PRESIDENT

By Mr. Rob Kampschöer

YOUNG TABLERS MEETING By Mr. Frédéric van Aubel

78 TABLING IS TRAVELLING

By Mr. Daniele Cusi

By Mr. Abhishek Lodha

14 RTI SECRETARY

82 TASTE THE WORLD

By Mr. Nadeen Kumarasinghe

By Ladies' Circle International

16 RTI TREASURER By Mr. Omar Himmiche

REGIONAL REPORTS 20 CEE REGION By Mr. Michael D'Aubrey

22 NEA REGION By Mr. Antti Kantola

GENERATIVE AI By Mr. Stephan Zipperlen

F R O M T H E F A M I LY 86 LADIES' CIRCLE INTERNATIONAL Ladies' Circle International

88 TANGENT CLUB INTERNATIONAL By Vasanthi Sivamohan & Marie Moberg

RT I LEGAC Y | EDi TOR ’ S NOTE

Tabling, Travelling and Generative AI By MIKAEL EJEMAR VIKSTRÖM, RTI Magazine Editor, 2023-2024

THE OFFICIAL RTI MAGAZINE

ANOTHER YEAR, and another issue of legacy. with a new year comes new possibilities, new experiences, and of course another year of tabling! we,re taking a dive into the world of footwear. are you a preppy oxford

ROUND TABLE INTERNATIONAL

round-table.org @rtinternational @rtinternational @rtinternational PUBLISHER

or a more relaxed loafer? and old saying goes that you can tell a lot from a person the way he/she takes care of their shoes. another big focus in this edition is ai. using generative ai to become a better pRO, and a deep dive into the aspects of machine learning and it's impact on humanity. Grab a coffee or a cold one and head over to page 46. On the topic of ai - a lot of images in this edition is produced by generative ai - can you spot them all? legacy is a great way to develop as a Tabler and as a person. a huge

Marc Germeshausen president@round-table.org

thanks to all our contributors who is responsible for all our great content.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

one with their own stories from across the world - but with one thing in

Mikael Ejemar Vikström editor@round-table.org

common: The power of our organisation, the friendship and brotherhood

CONTRIBUTORS

Marc Germeshausen Daniele Cusi

we also have some great stories from our travelling Tablers. Each

that makes Round Table what it is! A short intro from my side, now get lost in Legacy - the official Round Table international magazine! Enjoy and stay classy!

Nadeen Kumarasinghe Omar Himmichel Pierre Mörck Paul Hoeksema Stephan Zipperlen Leejay Tavares Shamaal Panagoda Michael D'Aubrey Antti Kantola Christos Demetriades Thomas Menneckemeyer Graham Cornelissen Rob Kampschöer Frédéric van Aubel Abhishek Lodha Vasanthi Sivamohan Marie Moberg Ladies' Circle International

CONTACT

pro@round-table.org editor@round-table.org

Yours in International Tabling

Mikael Ejemar Vikström editor@round-table.org

18 – 22 september 2024 Maastricht, the Netherlands

A lively Romanesque city in the Netherlands with an international character and edgy touch, Maastricht is easy to love. ‘In the heart of Europe’, bordered by Germany to the east and Belgium to the west, you will discover a Carnaval party where everyone can be whoever they want to be!

Program

Wed

Thur

Fri

19 sept

18 sept

Welcome Night Kruisherenhotel Maastricht

Sat

20 sept

21 sept

Councillors meeting Rebelle Maastricht

Annual General Meeting Rebelle Maastricht

Regional Meetings

Carnaval Party Complex Maastricht

Nation’s Night Muziekgieterij Maastricht

Gala Night Chateau St. Gerlach

Dutch Party Muziekgieterij Maastricht

19:00 - 22:00

First drinks

18:00 - 22:30

Included

Hotels

Tickets Centralized locations

Ready for an iconic weekend? Get your tickets here and let the fun begin!

All oﬃcial event venues are conveniently located within a short distance of each other in the heart of Maastricht.

You can choose from a selection of about 20 hotels, ranging from simple to luxurious, according to your preferences.

Pretours We are thrilled to announce three captivating pre-tour options that will kickstart your experience with adventure, culture and exploration.

Royal VIP Pretour

More information www.RTIWM2024.nl

Typically Dutch Pretour

Across the Border Pretour

Stay informed through WhatsApp:

FROM TH 8

HE BOARD 9

RTI PRESIDENT

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

Embracing a New Year of Leadership Mr MARC GERMESHAUSEN, Round Table International President 2023-2024

DEAR ROUND TABLE INTERNATIONAL members, as we stand on the threshold of a brand new year, i am honoured and excited to extend my warmest wishes to each member of our esteemed organisation. The past year has been a journey of growth, collaboration, and shared achievements, and as we step into 2024, I am filled with a sense of purpose and optimism for what lies ahead. First and foremost, i want to express my sincere gratitude to every Tabler within Round Table international. your dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to our shared values have driven our success. Together, we have not only strengthened the bonds of our fraternity but have also made a positive impact on the communities we serve. as we look to the future, i am inspired by the prospect of each member taking up a leading role within our organisation. The essence of Round Table international lies in the collective power of its members, and i encourage each of you to embrace your leadership potential. your unique skills, perspectives, and passion are invaluable assets that can contribute to our organisation's continued success and growth. Taking up any role in Round Table shows a lot of commitment. Commitment towards yourself, your fellow club members, and your family brings you great joy. For over 97 years, Round Table has provided various skill sets for young men. We are fulfilling various local, regional, national and international roles. This year, we are acting as an icon for many more to come. Next to our businesses, work, family and friends, we are engaging us for our movement. but what does leadership mean for us, and how can you prepare yourself and your team to work as one together? i once attended a workshop about Round Table in a local club in South africa. There the question was raised: what is Round Table for you? For some of us, RT is service, charity and showing responsibility towards society. For some, it is fellowship and friendship. For some, it is meeting old friends for the first time and exploring the globe. Some of us are using it for business opportunities and networking. Round Table means something different to every Tabler worldwide. These topics might change during your time at Table, but it binds us all together as one world. when discussing leadership, we must reflect on those various fields as every person, every club, and every association works differently and focuses on other parts. During your year in any leadership role within Round Table, you can contribute and bring in your visions for our movement. you will gain a massive toolbox with new skills, experience, passion, patience, cultural differences, and much more. But what is needed to be a good leader and perform well in your year? in general, we can say that there is no unique way to describe great leadership skills. we, as Tablers, should consider some key elements in taking a portfolio. leadership skills are people's abilities and how they implement various activities, projects, guiding meetings and how to empower others. many books recommend active listening, empathy, the ability to share clear messages and make complex ideas easy to understand, strategic thinking skills, creativity, the ability to inspire and convince others, flexibility, the ability to turn information into action, project planning, etc. This sounds nice in theory, but what can an actual planning phase within Round Table look like. Within Round Table, it is definitely a combination of various skill sets. I would like to give some examples of how i am currently preparing for my presidency:

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

> Be yourself – be a Tabler: we are all equal in Round Table – it doesn't matter which portfolio you hold. The only difference is that our time, profession and family allow us to commit ourselves more than others.

> Have a great team: usually, some positions are elected, and some are appointed. Choose your team members wisely. you don't need to always be surrounded only

by friends; you also need to look for the ability to fulfil the portfolio. Team spirit and friendship can be built up by accomplishing the year. Try to give space for your team members and let them get involved with their ideas and passions. lead by example and show that the roadmap and deadlines you are given are being kept. Enjoy the time with your team, as the year is flying.

> Make a roadmap: Try to plan your year month per month. See what you would

like to focus on and which tasks you can delegate to your team members. Think about which charity activities you could do. what could be possible side-byside activities with Round Table Family members. plan also the trips you would like to do.

> Always expect the unexpected: Even if you are planning your year precisely, there might be things which you cannot foresee. Try to have a core team

around you that supports you in difficult questions, can suggest how to lead, and can rely on experience within our organisation.

> Enjoy the time and spread the seeds: your year is already over when you

started. Enjoy every moment in your portfolio, and try to spread your seeds. in one year, you cannot change everything. you should continue what your pre-successors started and leave your seeds so others can take care of the growing flowers.

> Don't invent the wheel again: we don't need to develop the wheel repeatedly. Our motto is adopt. adapt. improve. we can use methods from the past, adapt

them to current circumstances, and improve them where needed. This is the way we, as leaders, can show new innovations. These are just some points i would like to raise in this article. Everybody is focusing on various points, and sometimes a little input helps. we should encourage everybody in our club to take a leading role in our organisation. leadership skills can be developed, and we are gaining new abilities daily. within a wonderful team, we can achieve milestones in our community, where we are all rooted. let's show our passion for our movement and be proud to be Tabler! Once more, happy New year!

Yours in International Tabling

Marc Germeshausen president@round-table.org

RTI VICE PRESIDENT

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

Growing step by step Mr DANIELE CUSI, Round Table International Vice President 2023-2024

“The Journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” Lao Tsé

HERE BEGINS OUR JOURNEY for the growth of Round Table. Every single action of every single Tabler is the “step” we need to accomplish our “journey” of growing. i want to tell you my story as a Tabler, the step i made for Round Table. Few years ago, i got a call from the father of my best friend mattia: “ Ciao Daniele, are you ready for helping me and mattia into an amazing project? are you ready for meeting old friends for the first time? Are you ready for serving while having fun?” honestly at the beginning i didn’t know what those words were meaning, but that’s here that i made my step, i said “yes!” at the end of that call. The club of Florence, my city, at that time was struggling, we had only one member left and the italian National board was ready to close the club. after that call, me and others 10 guys who decided to make their step, we met for the first time. Little by Little with the help of the ex members of my club and with the help of our wives and families we started to be Tablers, we started breathing the amazing atmosphere you can find in our association. From that single step we made many others, and every one of us is keeping on making steps, we organize events, we spread our word to the people we know and we think they can become our brothers. Our small steps are keeping alive and healthy my club, it’s not easy but it works. we try to introduce members that are younger than our youngest member, we often spend time with our ex-members so they can tell us the amazing adventures they had in the past, they keep the traditions of the club alive and they are always the best people to ask if you have doubts. The reason i want to share with you my story it’s for making all of you my brothers to understand that small steps, sometimes, are more important than bigger ones; all the small step together of the Tablers all around the world can move our association to a different level of growing. michael Jordan used to say: Never say Never, because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion…

Yours in International Tabling

Daniele Cusi vicepresident@round-table.org

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

RTI SECRETARY

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

The importance of clear & timely communication Mr NADEEN KUMARASINGHE, Round Table International Secretary 2023-2024

OUT OF THE TOPICS i have been requested to write for legacy magazine, this seems to be quite a broad topic J. let me focus on club-level and national-level Tabling communication to make this write-up meaningful. generally, every national board, area board or board at a local club level broadly understands what they would like to accomplish in the Tabling year. as an organisation, you need to focus on many topics, usually stemming from the three-year plan. life is much more manageable with an annual (or a bi-annual) communication calendar. This calendar will include a few items.

> meeting dates so that everyone is very clearly aware of the dates > Dates for the marquee projects of your club or the area. These dates will help

you work backwards and list out the tasks that are required for the project or the event

> Specific dates for publications such as newsletters will allow team members to submit material on time so that the editor of the publication can maintain ontime publication.

> Dates for formal communication, such as the meeting packs and motions. Once these dates are included in the annual calendar, all participants can

actively engage in these communiques, including submitting relevant material, discussing the formats, etc.

> Other strict deadlines include the dates to submit any expense claims, the date to close the accounts for them to be submitted to the auditor, etc.

having an extensive calendar, while it may consume time at the beginning, allows all members to know what is expected of them at the beginning of the year. in the event (which usually can happen with a voluntary organisation such as ours) that a team member is unable to submit material or meet a deadline, others are made aware in advance and in the spirit of not letting the team down, we can still execute what we originally intended to. The above section is more on how communication is structured. Now, allow me to focus on a few key elements of general communication tips, which i have learnt as a Tabler. while the passion shared for Tabling by the national board might not necessarily be of any excess compared to a local club level, the time devoted to Tabling by the national level board member is usually considerably more. as such, it is important that a message is delivered clearly and crisply and, more importantly, provides the message's context. For example, suppose an email is sent from the National Secretary to all member clubs about a change on how the agm venue is selected. in that case, it is essential to provide context, as not all members may have read the minutes which led to such a decision.

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

Secondly, while emails are widely used for formal communication, we tend to use instant messaging services such as whatsapp and messenger. while these tools are great for delivering a quick message, there is a possibility that specific discussions can be taken out of context, which may lead to many misunderstandings and ultimately affect the fellowship within our movement. how a message is read in instant messaging (for obvious reasons) doesn't capture the body language and emotions involved by the communicator. in the event of a complex discussion, i suggest a phone call, a Zoom call and, if the time permits, a physical meeting. as Tablers, we are social creatures, and nothing can match meeting a Tabler face-to-face or virtually and discussing how we can improve ourselves. Thirdly, being responsive. as we all know, someone has taken the time to reach out to you through emails or instant messaging to work on a collective set of goals. while we are all busy with our day jobs and families, it is common courtesy to acknowledge the received message, and in case you require time to respond, do inform the same so that your fellow Tabler will not feel ignored. Finally, as a fellowship and a behavioural organisation, clear communication is one of the most important elements in member recruitment, organising events and ultimately growing our movement. let's all try to be timely, clear and respectful in all our communication in Tabling, whether formal or otherwise.

Yours in International Tabling

Nadeen Kumarasinghe secretary@round-table.org

RTI TREASURER

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

Adopt, Adapt, Improve T H R E E W O R D S T H AT C A N C H A N G E L I F E . Mr OMAR HIMMICHE, Round Table International Treasurer 2023-2024

TABLING IS AN ART, and everyone has his own type of Tabling. Some would join for the gatherings, others mainly to serve the movement, and some for the prestige. but what is impressive is that everyone is aligned on the fact that we live the Table as we live family: Strong, helpful, respectful, careful and full of love. you can see that at the national level. but imagine the surprise when you realize it is so much bigger and stronger internationally. indeed, this atmosphere pushed me to want to go further in the table experience and serve this movement. Treasurer is a position we find in all levels (Local, National and International). We manage the same things but with different scopes. at the local level, we remind tables to pay their annual contributions, and in parallel, we invoice national associations and follow up with the collected money within the agreed deadlines. as a treasurer, there are some non-negotiable principles:

> Respect for the rules: Each operation realized within our association’s activities is governed by the rule book and several guidelines. The first responsibility of the treasurer is to ensure that all the financial operations will be done in accordance with these rules.

> The Key is Transparency: Regularly update The Tablers on the financial

accounts through comprehensive reports. This later must refer to the approved budgets and give a clear look at the allocation of the resources. in this, we also include the documentation of each operation, which facilitates the presentation of accounts and their understanding by Tablers.

> Risk Mitigation Strategies: This goes through an identifying process of

potential financial risks. Once the identification is done, proactivity is a must, as there is an urgency to establish strong internal controls to mitigate these risks.

> Compliance and Legal Adherence: To comply with the latest financial

regulations and ensure full adherence to local and international laws. if there is any change in the regulations, financial policies are updated to reflect the latest laws. All financial documents that are produced should abide by these regulations.

in conclusion, being a successful treasurer in Round Table requires a combination of financial precision, strategic thinking, and effective communication. By embodying these principles, treasurers can be confident about managing the association’s finances while ensuring sustainable growth and a positive impact worldwide. Yours in International Tabling

Omar Himmiche treasurer@round-table.org

RT I LEGAC Y | FROm ThE bOaRD

R T I L E G A C Y | R e g i on a l R e p orts

REGIONA RE 18

R T I L E G A C Y | R e g i on a l R e p orts

AL EPORTS 19

RT I LEGAC Y | REgiONal REpORTS

CEE REGION

CENTR AL & EASTERN EUROPE REGION

Adopting, Adapting and Improving in CEE By MICHAEL D'AUBREY , CEE Chairman 2023-2024

DEAR FELLOW TABLER As you can imagine, a lot of time and effort has gone into organising and providing our members with a CEE Tabler’s meeting. Things got off to a rocky start when organising our CEE meeting seemed more challenging than RTbi made it look like last year with their wonderful meeting in Nottingham. prices have skyrocketed in recent years, and in that sense, it is not always easy to offer a quality meeting while keeping the Round Table experience inexpensive. The aim must, however, always be to allow every Tabler to be able to come to events and to attract a younger potential that does not always have the means to pay hundreds of Euros for a weekend away. Quality potential tablers, who might be put off by the high cost of membership or activities, are a loss we should not be willing to bear. Personally, I think the key lies in offering more events where drinks are not included, and food is provided but where it is not necessarily an all-you-can-eat formula. This way prices can easily be reduced to a fraction of what you would pay for an open bar / all-you-can-eat concept, and everyone can, depending on how much they want to drink or eat, make the event as all-inclusive as they want. with the CEETm in ghent, RT belgium has tried to create an event to warm your hearts and get you on the next aeroplane to see us. we hope you will visit the website www.ceetm.org and enrol as soon as possible to join the CEETm from the 5th to the 7th of April 2024 in Ghent, Belgium. I would like to ask the councillors in the region to please promote this event as well as you can and to make sure that as many members as possible can be reached and convinced that this is the place they have to be, this is the meeting they have to attend, this will be the experience of a lifetime. Furthermore, my CEE regional team and i – and in this case, special thanks goes to Joost van velzen and Round Table the Netherlands – have created an extension document. This document is a road map or guideline providing tables with the necessary tools to find new potential tablers. The objective is to introduce this document to RTi on the RTihym in Nepal and to make this document an open

ASSOCIATIONS

RT Albania RT Austria RT Belgium RT Czech Republic RT Germany RT Great Britain and Ireland RT Hungary RT Luxembourg RT Moldova RT Romania RT The Netherlands RTI E-Club

source document that every table worldwide can access through the Tabler.world platform. Finding new tablers and making sure our clubs live on is a challenge we face daily; all the best practices need to be shared to make this project a success. as i said before, the RTi board has set ambitious goals for this year, and i hope to play my part in realising those goals by adding value to our round table movement. Hope all your dreams may come true in this new 2024!

Yours in International Tabling

Michael D'Aubrey ceechairman@round-table.org

RT I LEGAC Y | REgiONal REpORTS

NEA REGION

NORTHERN EUROPE & AMERICAS REGION

ASSOCIATIONS

RT Canada RT Denmark RT Estonia RT Iceland RT Latvia RT Lithuania RT Norway RT Russia RT Suomi Finland RT Suriname RT Sweden RT Trinidad & Tobago RT USA

The Happiest Region is Expanding By ANTTI KANTOLA, NEA Chairman 2023-2024

THE NEA REGION IS KNOWN as the “happiest” region in RTi. by happiness i mean satisfaction within our members to our movement and what it offers to us Tablers. This has been measured by a survey done by RTi a few years ago. To our regions delight it has been possible to observe that RT activities are of considerable interest to our members after covid pandemic. Several wonderful events have been organized in our region during the fall, and our members have also participated in international RT activities in a commendable way. however, the acquisition of new members arouses debate among our member countries every year, and increasing the number of members is one of the most important goals of each member country almost every year. when it comes to increasing membership, one of the most important things is monitoring and increasing the number of members in existing clubs. however, starting new clubs is also a good way to increase membership. During the autumn, two clubs were founded in our Region in a slightly unusual location. Read all about our NEA highlights on the page 66. Enjoy the year 2024 and see you around the Table.

Yours in International Tabling

Antti Kantola neachairman@round-table.org

RT I LEGAC Y | REgiONal REpORTS

SEM REGION

SOUTHERN EUROPE & MEDITER ANEAN REGION

Highlighting Our Largest Associations By CHRISTOS DEMETRIADES , SEM Chairman 2023-2024

GREETINGS from the most eastern island of the mediterranean Sea! i would like to present regional highlights from our region's two largest associations. R T I TA LY The Tabling journey for the current statutory year in Italy took off in September after the summer break. The first stop was the "Frecce Tricolori" event hosted by RT78 Jesolo during the traditional army air Show. it was followed by many season openings like the "Bisteccata" by RT22 Firenze or the "Wine Festival" by RT10 Trento. The half year meeting took place at the end of October in Trieste, side by side with lC italy. During the hym, a new club, lC 18, was chartered. instead of a gala dinner, a region night was held, an event inspired by the Nations Night at the international events. all participants enjoyed it! On the weekend of 25th November 2023, again in Trieste, the iROs meeting between austria and italy was held, with over 20 participants from both associations. This event aims to strengthen the bonds between the two nations by connecting the table iROs. in December 2023, many local tables held their traditional Christmas Dinner. One stands out: on 14th December in Rovato, 6 tablers signed the documents to charter their new table, an event planned for April 2024.

SERV ICE PROJEC TS One of the bigger and more significant fund-raising events, the "Bambini in Festa", was held by RT11 Ravenna on the first weekend of October, after being cancelled in past May due to the floods. October is the month dedicated to the support of the "Cystic Fibrosis

ASSOCIATIONS

RT Bulgaria RT Cyprus RT France RT Gibraltar RT Israel RT Italy RT Malta

Foundation", where many tables sell flowers to raise funds for medical research. many tablers participated in the movember campaign in November, raising awareness for male mental health issues. RT italy participated in the national food drive on 18th November. On 18th December 2023, RT italy donated panettone, a traditional Christmas dessert, to the mangiagalli hospital in collaboration with the regional authorities. Finally, RT 36 Verona held their annual Christmas Service by selling the Pandoro to support people with mental disabilities.

RT Monaco RT Morocco RT Portugal RT San Marino RT Senegal RT Switzerland RT Tunisia

RT FR ANCE Since September, RT France celebrated some club anniversaries that had passed and new members had the chance to meet again and celebrate. The association launched their yearly National Service project. The goal is to collect at least 2024 books for people suffering from Dyslexia and/or Dysorthograpya and donate them to local libraries.

RT I LEGAC Y | REgiONal REpORTS

RT France successfully participated in the movember campaign, reaching the Top 5 list of Round Table participants. great work was done, which laid the foundations for a more successful campaign next year! in November, RT France organised a sports challenge where approximately 160 Tablers from France registered and connected their Strava account to count how many kilometres they ran or bike. The next big event of the association is the CNR (i.e., RT France half year Meeting), which will take place in Bordeaux between 19 and 20 January 2024. There will be many international participations together with local Tablers. The event has been sold out, and the organisers promise a fantastic experience! looking forward to seeing many of you in Nepal for the hym!

Yours in International Tabling

Christos Demetriades semchairman@round-table.org

RT I LEGAC Y | REgiONal REpORTS

ASPA REGION

A S I A S OU T H PAC I F IC R EG ION

Exiting Events on the Way in ASPA By SHAMAAL PANAGODA , ASPA Chairman 2023-2024

HELLO, DEAR FELLOW TABLERS, I hope this message finds you in great spirits and the warmth of camaraderie that defines our incredible Round Table community. These past few months have been nothing short of exhilarating as i embarked on a journey to various corners of the aSpa region, allowing me to connect with and meet many of my brothers. One of the highlights was undoubtedly the Twin Charter ceremony that unfolded with grandeur in Dhaka. witnessing the inauguration of Dhaka Jewel Round Table 3 and Dhaka Youth Round Table 4 was a spectacle filled with pomp and pageantry. what added to the joy was the enthusiastic participation of over 30 new brothers, breathing fresh energy into our beloved fraternity. Round Table bangladesh is now at a pivotal juncture, with younger tablers eagerly stepping forward to take the lead—a promising sign for the future. my travels also took me to india, where i had the privilege of attending the NAGM in Kolkata. The event was brilliantly organized, offering me a glimpse into the unique dynamics of tabling in india. i was deeply impressed by the extensive responsibilities that area Chairmen and their boards shouldered in driving tabling initiatives within their regions. kudos to our brothers in india for their dedication and passion! looking ahead, Round Table Nepal is gearing up to host the half-year meeting 2024, and anticipation is building for what promises to be a fantastic event. I encourage everyone to mark their calendars and join us for an unforgettable tabling experience. Now, here's some news that's sure to make your hearts race with excitement! The aSpa meeting details are out, and it's not just your typical gathering; it's a tabling extravaganza! picture this: a Round Table golf Tournament, a leadership Conclave, and the aSpa meeting. The lineup includes various tour options and a series of awesome entertainment activities. So, block your calendars from May 1st to 5th and get ready to be swept off your feet by the warm embrace of philippine hospitality. Join us as we come together for the ASPA meeting in May 2024—it's an opportunity to strengthen bonds, share

ASSOCIATIONS

RT Australia RT Bangladesh

experiences, and revel in the spirit of our incredible brotherhood. See you all there! Cheers to the exciting times ahead!

RT Hong Kong RT India RT Nepal RT New Zealand RT Philippines RT Singapore RT Sri Lanka

Yours in International Tabling

Shamaal Panagoda aspachairman@round-table.org

RT I LEGAC Y | REgiONal REpORTS

AMI REGION

AFRICA , MIDDLEEAST & INDI AN OCEAN REGION

Embracing the Spirit of Unity and Community Across the Region By LEEJAY TAVARES , Ami Chairman 2023-2024

AS I SIT DOWN TO PEN THIS ARTICLE, i can't help but chuckle at the thought of our recent regional meetups - a lively concoction of earnest projects and, let's be honest, excuses to share a cold one with friends. The Round Table isn't just about doing good; it's about making good friends along the way. So, let's dive into the heart-warming, occasionally quirky, but always inspiring world of our associations. A Regional Family of 1,277 Tablers: yes, folks, we're a bustling family of 1,277 members across 12 associations! That's a lot of handshakes and even more shared beers. Community Service: more Than Just a mo' in movember Community spirit is our backbone, and we've shown it splendidly. movember was more than just an excuse for dodgy moustaches; it was a time for raising awareness and funds. and did someone say blood month? we're rolling up our sleeves already! Fellowship: where beer meets benevolence. if you thought Round Table was all about stern faces and serious talks, you're in for a surprise. Our gatherings are where laughter is shared, stories are spun, and friendships are forged. whether it's a project wrap-up or just a casual weekend, you'll find us bonding over a pint or two. Public Relations: Facebook, Our New best Friend. in a bold move, we've embraced Facebook to shout out about our wonderful work. posts, likes, shares – you name it, we're on it. The goal? To connect more, share more, and grow this fantastic family even further. REGIONAL RUNDOWNS Arabian Gulf: Creativity amid Constraints. RTag might face legal limits, but their spirit

ASSOCIATIONS

RT Arabian Gulf RT Botswana RT Cameroon RT Eastern Africa RT Madagascar RT Malawi RT Mauritius RT Nigeria RT Seychelles RT Southern Africa RT Zambia RT Zimbabwe

is boundless. They've turned to hands-on projects, making tangible differences in lives. and hey, who knew meetings in Dubai and blood drives could be so fun? Botswana: From Soccer to blood Drives. botswana is mixing sports with service. Their soccer tournament for blood donation awareness is a stroke of genius. and their clubhouse 'FriShack'? it's the new hot spot for good times and great causes. Eastern Africa: more Than Just a helping hand. Cloth baskets, charity golf, and New year's parties – Eastern africa knows how to blend fun with philanthropy. Their focus on essential needs like blood, clothing, and food donations is truly commendable. Madagascar: For the love of kids and Nature. madagascar is all about the kids and the environment. Their international Children's Day Celebration and reforestation initiative show a deep commitment to future generations.

RT I LEGAC Y | REgiONal REpORTS

Malawi: building a better Tomorrow. malawi's projects, like the Streetwise project and the Rural borehole and irrigation project, aren't just about today; they're investments in a better tomorrow. And their partnership with the 41 Club? That's strategic brilliance! Mauritius: Shared Responsibility, Shared Joy. mauritius is setting an example with their shared responsibility model. From anniversary celebrations to collaborative events with Rotary and lions Club, they're proving that more hands make lighter (and more fun) work. Seychelles: Small island, big heart. Don't let their size fool you; Seychelles is making waves with their regatta and collaboration with the ladies Circle. Their focus on health-related services shows a deep care for the wellbeing of their community. Southern Africa: a healthy Dose of kindness. Southern africa's men’s health Campaign and winter knights project are stellar examples of how we can address pressing issues like mental health and poverty head-on. Zambia: Education at the Forefront. Zambia's commitment to education is unwavering. Their food basket initiative and blood drives are just the tip of the iceberg in their efforts to uplift their community. Zimbabwe: Family, integrity, and Fellowship. Zimbabwe's focus on family, integrity, and fellowship shines through their initiatives like the Jail n bail project and support for pensioners. it's heart-warming, really. A V ISION FOR THE FUTURE as we look ahead, we're not just dreaming big; we're planning big. More members, stronger connections, a unified public relations approach – we're setting the stage for an even brighter future. Togo, you're next on our list! in closing, remember, being a Tabler is more than just a title; it's a journey of laughter, empathy, and impact. here's to many more years of fellowship and service!

Yours in International Tabling

Leejay Tavares amichairman@round-table.org

EDITORIA &S 30

AL STORIES 31

MO R T I L E G A C Y | ce l e b r at i n g m o ' v ers

We step up and care when needed most!

O R T I L E G A C Y | T i m e to m o - u p

CELEBRATING MO'VERS A S S O C I AT I O N S & I N D I V I D U A L S

By Mr PIERRE MÖRCK , RTI Community Service Officer 2023-2024

Once again, the Round Table MOvement has shown that we step up and care when needed most. During Movember, we witnessed numerous engagements and MOments that, in

different ways, shed light on men's health. Most importantly, Tablers worldwide brought out their shavers and proudly showed off their beautiful moustaches on social media. As the acting CSO, I am proud to be part of an organization that consistently proves

Round Table is a fraternity that combines leisure activities with massive contributions to social projects, truly being a part of the change we need to see. Be proud, bro!

VE R T I L E G A C Y | T i m e to m o - u p

Round Table is grateful and proud of you!

DURING MOVEMBER, we had a fantastic Table

Talk with Tom from the Movember Foundation,

who provided us with a lot of information and

inspiration about Movember and its initiatives. We

also received important tips on being there for each

other with practical tools that we can use every day

and in every meeting. The stream is still available on

Facebook and is absolutely worth a watch!

After Movember, it is time to give a couple of

fundraisers a bit of extra focus. I believe we should

express extra thanks to the guys and teams that went

the extra mile in the name of men's health. Thank you

so much for your engagement, your time, and big hearts!

Round Table is grateful and proud of you!

EM R T I L E G A C Y | T i m e to m o - u p

TOP 5 MO'BROS

PIERRE MÖRCK

CHARLES DECHENNE

CHRISTI AN ANDERSSON

JENS STOCKEL

J O N AT H A N B EH I N

TOP 5 MO'TEAMS

RT SWEDEN

RT BELGIUM

TR FR ANÇA ISE

RT DEUTSCHL AND

RT 204 DUBL IN "

R T I L E G A C Y | wa l k t h e ta l k

WALK THE TALK

5 F OOT WE A R S T Y LES E V ERY TA BLER SHOULD OWN

By Mr PAUL HOEKSEMA , Round Table Southern Africa

R T I L E G A C Y | wa l k t h e ta l k

Invest heavily in your bed and your shoes, because if you're not in one, then you're in the other! G E O R G E G L A S G O W.

Whether you're presenting your next big business idea, stepping out to have a couple of cold ones with your Table mates, taking the missus out for a date, or giving your candidacy speech at your Club's AGM, shoes do maketh the man! To ensure you put your best foot forward, the Legacy Team has hand-picked five shoe styles that every style-conscious Tabler should own. So, without further ado, step right up and walk a mile in these shoes (we've added a Tabler portfolio for your next wardrobe sorting day):

R T I L E G A C Y | wa l k t h e ta l k

T HE B ROGUE For the Secretary

The evergreen brogue should be #1 on every Tabler's must-have shoe list. Once you swipe your card and take these gems home, they'll be the cornerstone of your wardrobe. The term brogue comes from the Gaelic word "bro", meaning "shoe." The distinctive feature of brogues is the perforations or punching along the leather uppers of the shoe. They are as versatile as they are stylish. Whether you're dressing down in a pair of stone-washed jeans or dressing up in a tailored suit, the brown brogue will be a staple to your style, ready to be flaunted day or night. Stick to a neutral colour like brown; you can't go wrong.

R T I L E G A C Y | wa l k t h e ta l k

T HE CHUK K A B OOT For the Treasurer

Who doesn't love a pair of great "kickers"? Next up - Chukka boots! This versatile addition to your style arsenal can be worn both formally and casually. Though not as formal as the above-mentioned brogues, they are more elegant than sneakers. They pair well with suits and can also be worn with dark-wash denim or a white t-shirt. For a more elegant and versatile look, go for a dark brown shade, while a lighter shade will give a more casual look. Chukka boots are more on the casual side but can still make your suit look cool. Plus, they offer endless leisure options.

R T I L E G A C Y | wa l k t h e ta l k

T HE OX F OR D For the Chairman

As Tablers and our partners, we attend many black-tie events, and it goes without saying that we like to look classy while stepping out at these events. So, let's talk about the next shoe on our list, the dazzling Oxford. A black Oxford is typically a stylish man's first formal pair of shoes. However, we suggest avoiding the square-toed variety and instead opting for the more classic rounded-toe. In terms of colour, again, we would recommend sticking with the classics, black or brown. Black is suitable for the most formal occasions, such as funerals, weddings, and black-tie events. Conversely, brown is more casual and versatile, with lighter shades being even more casual. These styles are essential for men's wardrobes as they're sleek, dressy and set you apart from the rest.

R T I L E G A C Y | wa l k t h e ta l k

T HE LOA FER For the Public Relations Officer

Next in line, Loafers! They are casual, comfortable, and stylish - making them a go-to option for the style-conscious. These beauties need not be a one-season pony and can be worn year-round. Like brogues and chukkas, loafers work well with formal and casual outfits, making them a go-to option for many people. While they may not be the best choice for a full suit, they look great paired with a sports coat (or Round Table blazer) and denim or chinos. You can choose between suede or leather, penny or tassel. Social or a more casual meeting, loafers are a classic easy-to-slip-on option that adds a touch of style to any outfit.

R T I L E G A C Y | wa l k t h e ta l k

T HE SN E A K ER For the Social Convener

Sometimes, even the most dapper of Tablers opt to dress down. With the casual look now being more popular than ever, it's good to have a reliable and trendy casual footwear option. The canvas sneaker is perfect for all sorts of casual occasions, from getting buffaloed in Cape Town to dancing the night away in Paris. We recommend choosing a pair in a neutral shade such as beige, white or grey. This way, your colour pairing options won't keep you awake. Material-wise - minimalist sneakers in leather, suede, or canvas will never go out of style. The canvas sneaker is stylish, versatile, and a great casual alternative to sandals or flip-flops. It is a perfect choice for a casual summer look.

Now that you've adopted these stylish walkers, adapt your wardrobe and improve yourself and the world around you one step at a time.

R T I L E G A C Y | p l ay i n g t h e co i n g a m e

By Mr GRAHAM CORNELISSEN, RTI University Manager 2023-2024

Most of us have seen this game being played by Tablers taking out coins around a bar, and then some being happy while others must buy a round of drinks. Read on further to participate and how you can never lose at this game again.

s with many of our Round Table traditions, the exact origin of the coin game is not known precisely. This is clearly a tradition taken from the various armed services across the globe. This is a tradition dating back

many years.

The first mention of the challenge or fellowship

coins in a Round Table setting comes from an old article in the 1980s where several Danish Tablers were seen having customised coins. The coin game has evolved, and only one set of published rules currently exists. These rules have been published by Round Table 128 Bryanston in Southern Africa. These generally accepted rules are:

> It is in every Tabler’s best interest to carry his coin with him at all times.

> The tradition of a challenge is the most common

way to ensure that the members are carrying their coin.

> The challenge, which can be made at any time,

begins with the Challenger drawing the coin, and slapping or placing the coin on the table or bar.

> A challenge can happen at any time when Round Table members get together socially, it does not have to be an official Table event.

> In noisy environments, continuously rapping the coin on a surface may initiate the challenge.

> Accidentally dropping a coin is considered to be a deliberate challenge to all present.

> Everyone being challenged must immediately produce their coin and anyone failing to do so

R T I L E G A C Y | p l ay i n g t h e co i n g a m e

must buy a round of drinks for the Challenger and everyone else who has their coin.

> Each member present who fails to produce their

coin will buy a round of drinks for the Challenger and every member who has their coin.

> However, should everyone challenged be able to

produce their coin, the Challenger must buy a round of drinks for the group.

> While most Tablers usually carry their coin in in

wallets or pockets, the rules permit a challenged

to each association to determine whether to partake. Round Table International and Ladies Circle International have agreed to a joint theme this year. The theme of StrongerTogether showcases our shared values and goals, while the unique designs of the theme show that we are still separate organisations. To celebrate this joint theme, we have created a limited-edition coin with the different designs of the joint theme on each side. Stock is very limited, and

person “a step and a reach” to fetch their coin.

these coins can only be obtained by attending an

> Leaving the room to get a coin is not permitted and

the coin from a board member of LCI, and Circlers

this is determined a forfeit.

official side-by-side meeting. Tablers can only receive can only get this coin from a member of the RTI Board. This encourages all members to join our sister

While many associations partake in this coin game, others do not yet fully subscribe to this tradition. It is up

organisation's events for an opportunity to own an extremely rare piece of International regalia.

R T I L E G A C Y | n av i g at i n g t h e e v o l u t i on

NAVIGATI EVOLUTI 46

R T I L E G A C Y | n av i g at i n g t h e e v o l u t i on

ING THE ION

THE PROF OUND IMPAC T OF A I , M ACHINE LE A RNING , A ND AU TOM AT ION ON HUM A NI T Y

By Mr GRAHAM CORNELISSEN, RTI University Manager 2023-2024

R T I L E G A C Y | n av i g at i n g t h e e v o l u t i on

URING THE FIRST TWO DECADES

Integrating emotional intelligence and empathetic

of the 21st century, we have

understanding becomes a defining trait in navigating

witnessed an unprecedented surge

this evolving landscape. Individuals must harness the

in technological advancements, with

power of technology to augment their connections

artificial intelligence (AI), machine

rather than replace them. As Sinek suggests, leaders

learning, and automation emerging

should foster a workplace culture that values trust,

as transformative forces that are reshaping not just

collaboration, and genuine human interactions,

the landscape of work but the very essence of what

ensuring that technology is an enabler rather than a

it means to be human. Drawing inspiration from

substitute for authentic connections.

the profound insights of modern thought leaders, philosophers and writers, this article delves into the

AI's impact on humanity extends to the ethical

far-reaching impact of AI on humanity, examining how

considerations surrounding its development and

individuals and societies can adapt and thrive in this

deployment. Harari's exploration of the potential

rapidly evolving era.

consequences of a data-driven society raises important

The advent of AI and machine learning has ushered

questions about privacy, accountability, and the ethical

in a profound paradigm shift

responsibilities associated with

in the human experience,

AI. As technology becomes

challenging our traditional

an integral part of our lives, a

notions of identity, consciousness,

collective effort is needed to

and existence. As these

establish ethical frameworks that

technologies advance, we find

guide the responsible use of AI.

ourselves at the crossroads of a profound transformation that extends beyond the realms of work to touch every aspect of human life. Yuval Noah Harari's exploration of the implications of data-driven decision-making in "21 Lessons for the 21st Century" takes

AI's impact on humanity extends to the ethical considerations surrounding its development and deployment.

centre stage in understanding

Simon Sinek's call for ethical leadership resonates in this context. Leaders, both in the technological and political spheres, must champion ethical practices, ensuring that the benefits of AI are distributed equitably while mitigating potential risks. The evolving

the deep-seated changes in how we perceive reality.

landscape demands leaders prioritising humanity

As algorithms become increasingly proficient at

over expedient gains, fostering a culture that places

predicting human behaviour, the very essence of free

ethical considerations at the forefront of technological

will and individual agency is called into question. It

advancements.

prompts a reflection on the delicate balance between the convenience of predictive technologies and the

Jordan Peterson's exploration of the interplay

potential erosion of human autonomy.

between individual responsibility and societal structures becomes particularly relevant. In the face

In the age of AI, the dynamics of human connection

of AI's transformative power, individuals must hold

undergo a nuanced evolution. Simon Sinek's emphasis

themselves accountable for ethical decision-making

on the significance of human relationships in "Leaders

while societies establish legal and ethical frameworks

Eat Last" gains relevance as AI, while enhancing

that safeguard the well-being of all.

efficiency, lacks the emotional intelligence inherent in human interactions. The challenge lies in preserving

As AI and automation take on routine tasks, the human

genuine human connections amidst the digital

pursuit of meaning and purpose comes into sharper

algorithms and automated responses that populate

focus. Peterson's emphasis on individual responsibility

our daily lives.

and the search for meaning in "12 Rules for Life"

R T I L E G A C Y | n av i g at i n g t h e e v o l u t i on

provides a philosophical lens through which to view this quest. The challenge lies in navigating a world

of what makes us uniquely human. The impact of AI, machine learning, and

where traditional notions of work and achievement

automation extends beyond individual adaptation

are redefined, and individuals must proactively

to broader societal implications. Addressing

seek avenues for personal fulfilment.

issues of inequality and ensuring inclusivity in

Harari's exploration of the impact of AI on job

the workforce becomes crucial. Governments,

displacement in "Homo Deus" raises concerns

businesses, and educational institutions play

about the potential erosion of meaning tied to

pivotal roles in creating policies that promote

traditional employment. As routine tasks become

equitable access to education and opportunities.

automated, individuals are compelled to reevaluate

The need for a collective effort to bridge gaps

their sense of purpose, seeking fulfilment beyond

and ensure that the benefits of technological

conventional career paths.

advancements are shared across all segments of society becomes imperative. This involves

In this era of rapid technological evolution,

developing inclusive education systems, providing

the traditional education model undergoes a

support for displaced workers, and creating policies

fundamental transformation.

that promote fair distribution

The emphasis on lifelong

of opportunities.

learning in the face of

A global perspective

uncertainty becomes a

becomes essential as AI,

guiding principle. The ability

machine learning, and

to adapt and acquire new

automation transcend

skills becomes paramount as individuals navigate a landscape where the demands of the job market are in constant flux. Educational institutions must evolve to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the age

As humanity stands at the intersection of its creation — intelligent machines — the challenge is to strike a harmonious balance.

of AI. The emphasis shifts

borders. Societies must navigate cultural and geopolitical shifts, recognising the diverse impacts of technological advancements on different regions. The idea of building trust and fostering a sense of belonging resonates here, emphasising the importance

from memorisation to cultivating critical thinking,

of collaboration and mutual understanding on a

creativity, and adaptability. Online courses,

global scale.

workshops, and continuous learning initiatives

become essential tools for those seeking to stay

As we stand on the precipice of a new era, the

relevant in an ever-changing world.

challenge is not merely adapting to the changes

As humanity stands at the intersection of its

wrought by technology but actively shaping the

creation — intelligent machines — the challenge is

narrative. By embracing the transformative power

to strike a harmonious balance. The collaborative

of AI while upholding our core human values, we

potential between humans and AI is immense,

can navigate the complexities of this evolving

offering opportunities to enhance creativity,

landscape and ensure that the integration of

problem-solving, and the overall human experience.

technology serves to elevate, rather than diminish,

Simon Sinek's concept of the "Infinite Game" gains

the human experience. In doing so, we embark

new dimensions in this context. The challenge is

on a journey where the intersection of humanity

not to "win" against technology but to participate in

and technology becomes a harmonious dance,

an ongoing, adaptive relationship with it. Success is

enriching the human experience and fostering a

measured by integrating technology into the fabric

future that embraces the full spectrum of what it

of human existence while preserving the essence

means to be human.

R T I L E G A C Y | g ener at i v e AI

HOW GENERATIVE AI CAN INFLUENCE YOUR WORK AS PRO By Mr STEPHAN ZIPPERLEN, RTI Content Manager 2023-2024

R T I L E G A C Y | g ener at i v e AI

With the 1st anniversary of ChatGPT ChatGPT,, it's safe to assume that Generative AI (GenAI) is here to stay. The best way to look at it is from a perspective very different from what science fiction taught us.

R T I L E G A C Y | g ener at i v e AI

ENERATIVE AI (GENAI) is a broad label describing any type of artificial intelligence (AI) that can produce new text, images, video, or audio clips. Technically, this type of AI learns patterns from training data and generates new, unique outputs with the same statistical properties. At its current level of development, we need to accept it with

a grain of salt and audit the results. Yet, with growing sophistication, especially regarding the automation aspects, GenAI will become more and more interesting and relevant.

AI isn't looking to take over. Intelligence doesn't necessarily seek power; many examples indicate quite the opposite. AI's advent is neither "like the computer "nor "like the internet "- the image I prefer when talking about AI is the photo camera. AI is not a better camera but a new invention on the same level. What do I mean by that? AI empowers every one of us to turn a creative vision into reality. Before photography, you needed to be skilled with a pencil, canvas, and oil paint. Photography changed this, just like Gen AI changed how anyone can create images, montages, and dreamscapes. Yet the sheer number of AI tools, possibilities, and buzz might be overwhelming and make it tough to get a decent footing, especially when you're just trying to cope as a PRO for your table, your associations, and your project. So, what to do now? Take Gen AI as a sounding board, a partner in crime, so you never have to start from a blank page. Ask GPT (or any large language model) to create a plan for the next three months. In a post per week, describe your audience (potential members, potential donors, general public) and your target (new members, more donations, awareness of your project). Create lists of ideas and themes of posts and start from there. Once you have ideas, use Gen AI Image creators like Dall-E or Midjourney to illustrate these (if they are general enough, like RTI's New Year's post of an empty book signifying the new year ready to be shaped by you - if you want to illustrate stories with people involved, please stick to real pictures.) You can even let GPT write the draft of the post-texts for you - I highly recommend that final texts should always be audited and re-written to avoid a recognisable "Written by AI "style and to optimise written posts for different platforms (e.g. more hashtags, more emojis for Instagram, different text style for LinkedIn or other business platforms).

R T I L E G A C Y | g E N E R aT i v E a i

And how do you get started? with a topic. it's so hard to try AI "just to try it ". So pick a topic (your next post for Check-In Tuesday) and go from there. here is the raw output from my example:

TAG L I NE 1: "UNIT Y IN COMMUNIT Y: EVERY TA B L E , A C I R C L E O F S U P P O R T." visual Concept: an image of hands joined over a table, symbolising unity and support.

TAG L I NE 2 : "A M O M E N T T O R E F L E C T, A L I F E T I M E T O CO N N E C T." visual Concept: a serene image of a reflective surface, like a lake at dawn, paired with the Round Table logo.

R T I L E G A C Y | g E N E R aT i v E a i

TAG L I NE 3: "TOGETHER, WE TURN 'ONE DAY ' I N T O ' DAY O N E .' " Visual Concept: A calendar with "Tuesday" circled and various people engaging in supportive discussions.

TAG L I NE 4: " S H A R E A S E AT, S H A R E A S TR E N G T H ." visual Concept: an inviting table setting with an extra chair symbolises openness and community.

Just using the prompts from this, Dall-E 3 (staying with Openai solutions for this example) creates these visuals. For images with a Logo: Use "silver disc "instead of "Round Table logo "and add the logo manually. Yes, some of those might look slightly off or don't make sense once you look closer (or count fingers); some just don't work - but for the short time invested, the output of things that work is definitely a way to scale the content on your channels presenting the strength of Round Table to a wider audience. in reality, social media, the constant flow of content on topics people are interested in, is invaluable. In contrast, single posts on highlights and the most awesome projects drown in the daily battle for reach.

R T I L E G A C Y | w h aT D O yO u m E m E ?

WHAT DO YOU MEME? have you ever laughed out loud at a meme or found one that perfectly captures your feelings or situation? if so, you can attest to just how influential they can be. By Mr PAUL HOEKSEMA , Round Table Southern Africa

R T I L E G A C Y | w h aT D O yO u m E m E ?

ast November, Round Table International fielded the "RTI Meme Contest". With scores of entries streaming in, the Table community shared the gift of laughter and highlighted our world-renowned Tabler humour. a huge congratulations to Jonas midstrup (Round Table Denmark), and thank you to all the entrants for all the moments of much-needed laughter. but, it's not just a meme...

W H AT D O W E M E M E ?

memes are becoming increasingly popular these days, and if you're not using them to promote your business, you're missing out on a great opportunity. memes are not only hilarious but they can also be used to convey a message quickly and effectively. in case you're not familiar with the term, a meme is a funny image, video or text that is copied and widely shared by internet users. They are an excellent marketing tool that Clubs and businesses can use to connect with their target audience. memes are highly shareable, help to humanize our brand and facilitate bonding over relatable issues. moreover, they are versatile and cost-effective. Creating a meme is relatively inexpensive and can offer a great return on investment for your Club's page or business. if you have a good sense of humour, you can easily create a meme using free online tools and share it across your social media channels without spending any money. it's also worth noting that you don't need to be a professional graphic designer to create a meme. Free online tools, such as Canva, can be used to create memes effortlessly. These are some of the reasons why you should consider using memes to promote your Club or business to reach a wider audience. To avoid putting our name in disrepute, remember to keep it clean. So, get your meme on!

R T I L E G A C Y | p ros p ect m a n a g e m ent

"A fool with still a fool, b right tool in hands, and can happen. 60

R T I L E G A C Y | p ros p ect m a n a g e m ent

a tool is but put the n the right miracles ." If you're reading this article, you must be a fully-fledged Round Table Family Member - a Tabler, Club 41 Member, or maybe even a Circler who passionately loves our Family and the movement which unites us all. And because of this love, we want to ensure our life-changing movement never dies. By Mr THOMAS MENNECKEMEYER, IT & Tabler.World Manager 2023-2024

R T I L E G A C Y | p ros p ect m a n a g e m ent

ADLY, IT'S NO SECRET that our global Member numbers are decreasing yearly, making initiatives like our biggest recruitment project, "Operation Headhunter", an absolute necessity for Round Table to survive. To achieve a turning point from decline to growth, we need to do our utmost to find new prospects and to avoid losing possible Members due to neglect or just plain foolishness.

We are losing prospects because of multiple obvious reasons:

> Clubs deny prospects if there are already 2 (or more) Tablers in the Club with the same occupation.

> Clubs decline prospects if they are "full". > Clubs lose prospects because of laziness, e.g., waiting too to long contact a proper candidate, or waiting too long to make a decision, on whether a prospect is proper

Tabler material or not. These are only some examples and by no means a complete enumeration. Of course, there are valid reasons to decline a prospect, but sometimes, this prospect is perhaps a perfect fit for another Table. If a Club is "full", why not work on chartering a new Table (in the same town or nearby)? If a prospect does not fit your Table, perhaps suggest another Club. We should never forget that in addition to physical Clubs, we also have our RTI E-Club, and in larger Associations, perhaps a national E-Club will also make sense. There are many more reasons, why we either lose prospects before they acquire prospect status or during their time as a prospect. We can't and should not accept the loss of potential Members if there's action to be taken to avoid this from happening. To support us with this tremendous challenge, we introduced a new module in Tabler.World called The "Prospect Management" module. This consists of an e-form, which is available for both internal & external prospects. Internally, you can propose a prospect; externally, a prospect can send a request to join. The biggest benefit here is that engagement can be tracked and managed. Associations can see if there are pending requests at a Table level. Round Table International can follow up on requests where no Association is located, or no module is enabled. This new tool will help us retain prospects that we would have lost in the past. Like all software, this module will only work if the data is consistent and complete. You must use it to its full potential by capturing the details of possible prospects. Take a moment to think about it, you have an already established network - who could be a possible candidate in your circles? It should not necessarily be your best friend and not somebody in your town. Think beyond the horizon and go through all your acquaintances. Will somebody fit into Round Table? If so, talk to him and don't forget to enter him afterwards in the Prospect Manager.

TRAVEL & EX 64

& XPLORE 65

R T I L E G A C Y | Ta b l i n g on t h e i s l a nds

NEA REGION HIGHLIGHTS

Tabling on the Islands By Mr ANTTI KANTOLA, NEA Chairman 2023-2024

During the autumn, two clubs were founded in our Region in a slightly unusual location.

R T I L E G A C Y | Ta b l i n g on t h e i s l a nds

RT 136 TÓR SH AV N The Faroe Islands are an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean and an autonomous territory of Denmark. Round Table Denmark chartered their latest club to Faroe Islands. RT 136 Tórshavn saw the light of day on October 31, 2023. More than 70 international guests participated in the celebrations. Round Table Denmark chartered in 1936 is first Round Table outside England and the largest association in our region in terms of membership.

R T I L E G A C Y | Ta b l i n g on t h e i s l a nds

RT 129 Å L A ND The Åland islands are an archipelago in the Baltic Sea and an autonomous region of Finland. The chartering of Round Table in Åland has been in talks in previous decades. During the corona pandemic, a few Swedish-speaking clubs in Finland, especially RT 62 Pargas, finally decided to take care of the matter. RT 129 Åland was chartered on November 25, 2023 in the presence of over a hundred guests from Finland, Sweden, The Netherlands, Germany and France. Round Table Suomi-Finland chartered in 1948 is the second largest association in our region in terms of membership.

RT I LEGAC Y | glObal FR iENDShip

STRENGT 70

RT I LEGAC Y | glObal FR iENDShip

THENING GLOBAL FRIENDSHIP THROUGH TRAVEL By Mr ROB KAMPSCHÖER, Round Table The Netherlands

R T I L E G A C Y | g l o b a l fr i ends h i p

N 2020, I WAS INDUCTED to Round Table when

and unable to join. We flew via Dusseldorf, where we

the virus got me… Corona hit the world, and

met another couple – a Tabler and his wife – and went

personally, I felt it as well. Physically, I was not

to the bar for a drink. We arrived early as other Tablers

able to travel due to the effects of the virus on

started dripping into the airport. Recognizable at the

my health, and the virus held the world in its

orange Table regalia and, of course, the Rondel. Wow,

grasp due to international travel bans.

this was a great atmosphere and a great start to an adventure. Landing in Marrakesh, even more Tablers

Then, after some time, the world and I started to

arrived from all directions. More Rondels everywhere.

feel better when I saw the trailer for the HYM '22 in

After the transfer, we went to our hotel, freshened up,

Marrakesh. After being unable to go on holiday for

and then went to the location of the opening party. My

some time now, I shared the video with my wife. You

initial thought was: "What the … is this?"

must know my wife has Moroccan roots, and since we were married, I have not visited Morocco. So, this

People worldwide are talking to each other, greeting

was two birds in one stone. We would either have a

each other, sharing pins and stories, and wearing

nice table event in a warm environment or have a long

lots of colourful regalia. I remember telling myself I

romantic weekend in Morocco with my wife. Either way,

would need a lot of beer to become part of this. This

we could not lose.

was so out of my comfort zone that I felt extremely uncomfortable. In other words, I was overwhelmed.

I did not know national Tabling, let alone international

Overwhelmed by the ambience, kindness, fellowship,

Tabling. So, I have tried to make other Tablers from my

and laughter, everybody had an enjoyable time. So, I

Table enthusiastic to join us on the trip to Marrakesh—

drank a few drinks and started to connect with people.

two of my fellow Tablers were again struck by COVID-19

After two beers, I started collecting pins and, even

R T I L E G A C Y | g l o b a l fr i ends h i p

more importantly, the stories behind every pin, which

tours is the people you are meeting there. They often

became memories. Memories of people from all over

become friends for life, and although you meet those

the world, old friends I have met for the first time. Both

people for the first time, you have a strong connection

nationally and internationally.

with them due to the experience you are experiencing together. You get invited to their local clubs' events

Then, a virus caught me again, The international

and national Table events like AGM's. It's crazy and

Tabling virus. That virus hit me even stronger than

unbelievable. The fact these people are all Tablers could

Corona. The experience in Marrakesh was so intense

be one of the reasons. For Tablers, it does not matter

that I wanted more of it—new events were planned.

who you are, where you are from or what you do for

I had to come to ARTSA, I was told. The next month,

a living; you are a Tabler. That is all that matters. And

I went to ARTSA. Typically, I would save days off and

this is an experience and an opportunity one does not

money for trips and carefully plan this. However, I

often get. What effort you put into Tabling and making

experienced a Tabling event and knew this would be ok.

connections, you will receive twice as much back. I have

ARTSA was my first international Tabling event with a

friends all over the world in places. I have told my wife

pre-tour. Oh - my – God: pre tours are so good. They are

I would never go there, even if it was for free. And it

the best way to see the country you are visiting through

is exactly those countries I have been visiting, being

the eyes of local Tablers.

home hosted at, and guided through.

The convenors put so much effort into giving you

And with every event, the bond grows. International

a world-class experience. They run the extra mile.

Tablers do not say goodbye; they say: "See you

No travel agency can provide you with a holiday

somewhere around the world." Priceless.

experience like this. Another good thing about pre-

R T I L E G A C Y | yO u N g Ta b l E R S m E E T i N g

UNVEILIN ESSE in the vibrant world of Round Table Belgium, an event serves as the gateway for newcomers to discover the heart and soul of the organization. The young Tablers meeting, or yTm for short, is a gathering that takes place every September. it brings together all the newly initiated Tablers from September of the previous year to august of the current year. The primary aim of these meetings is to introduce young members to the broader Round Table community, allowing them to connect with members from different clubs.

R T I L E G A C Y | yO u N g Ta b l E R S m E E T i N g

NG THE ENCE

ROUND TA BLE AT THE YOUNG TA BLER S MEE T ING

By Mr FRÉDÉRIC VAN AUBEL, Round Table Belgium

R T I L E G A C Y | yo u n g ta b l ers m eet i n g

W H AT I S T H E YO U N G TA B L E R S M E E T I N G ? The YTM is an evening where the essence of Tabling takes centre stage. New members who have joined Round Table in the past year receive a special invitation from the National Board to attend this event. During the YTM, the National Vice President immerses them in the world of Round Table, accompanied by some legendary Tablers. This fantastic evening is meticulously organized in collaboration with the various zones across the country. During the YTM, members receive explanations about the history and traditions of Round Table. They get acquainted with their zone, the national board, and receive insights into international Tabling. It is a delightful evening filled with camaraderie, food, and drinks, concluding with an entertaining quiz. The YTM is not just about local Tabling; it is designed to pique the interest of young Tablers in international experiences. From each zone, the winner of the quiz is granted the opportunity to embark on their first international Tabling adventure at the CEETM,

HIS TORY

courtesy of Round Table Belgium. Last year, several young Tablers had the chance to attend the CEETM in

The history of the Young Tablers Meeting is a testament

Nottingham, opening doors to a world of international

to Round Table Belgium's commitment to fostering

Tabling experiences.

connections, both within the country and beyond. The concept of the YTM was born in the mid-2010s, inspired by practices in neighbouring countries. The French Round Table organized a weekend induction for new Tablers, while our Luxembourgian friends held a gathering for newcomers. Additionally, the youngest Tablers from each zone accompanied the Dutch national committee to the CTM (as it was known at the time). This prompted Round Table Belgium to introduce an evening event in each zone, dedicated to enlightening newly initiated members about Round Table in Belgium and internationally. Hosted by zone presidents, these gatherings are guided by the National Vice President, often featuring a former Tabler who has been actively involved. These events serve as a platform for sharing experiences and passion, passing on the spirit of Round Table to the younger generation. The inaugural Young Tablers Meeting took place in 2015, and the winners were invited to the CTM in Luxembourg. It's worth noting that Michael D'Aubrey, the current President of CEE, emerged as the quiz champion that year, highlighting the power of the mentorship and inspiration provided by the senior Tablers.

R T I L E G A C Y | yo u n g ta b l ers m eet i n g

I M P O R TA N C E O F T H E Y T M

communities," he says. "It's about inspiring young Tablers

New Tablers are typically introduced to local traditions,

to carry forward our legacy of service, friendship, and

customs, and procedures by their sponsors and clubs.

international collaboration."

However, Round Table extends far beyond the boundaries

In conclusion, the Young Tablers Meeting stands as

of individual clubs. It encompasses the club, the region,

a testament to Round Table Belgium's commitment to

the country, and the international community.

nurturing a vibrant community of Tablers. Through a rich

The YTM brings together young men at the early

history and a focus on connecting young members with

stages of their Tabling journey, where the possibilities

the broader Round Table family, the YTM continues to

within Round Table are limitless. It provides a platform for

play a crucial role in shaping the future of this remarkable

newcomers to meet members from other clubs, enabling

organization. It is an event where the spirit of Round Table

them to share their initial Tabling experiences. In doing so,

is passed from one generation to the next, ensuring that

the YTM fosters a sense of unity among its participants,

the legacy lives on.

creating connections that transcend club boundaries. EXPER IENCE OF THE V ICE PRESIDENT MA X POUILLE One of the most notable features of the Young Tablers Meeting is the involvement of the National Vice President. Max Pouille, who has served in this role, shared his perspective on this unique event. "The YTM is a remarkable occasion for both new Tablers and our organization as a whole," Max explains. "It's a moment when we get to pass on the torch of Round Table values and traditions to the next generation." Max highlights the importance of the YTM as a bridge between the past and the future. "By inviting former Tablers who have made significant contributions, we demonstrate how Round Table has shaped lives and

R T I L E G A C Y | ta b l i n g i s tr av e l l i n g

TABLING I TRAV 78

R T I L E G A C Y | ta b l i n g i s tr av e l l i n g

IS VELLING By Mr ABHISHEK LODHA, Round Table India

R T I L E G A C Y | ta b l i n g i s tr av e l l i n g

T’S AN HONOUR FOR ME to write my feeling in

essence of tabling. 2017 I went for the backpack trip

words, though it’s not easy but totally worth it.

hopping seven countries and meeting new friends Via

In spite of being 15 years into Tabling It took me

tabling. In spite of being introvert, I had never faced

almost half the tenure to realise that there is

any issue in my Travel. I have always felt comfortable

something which I have not explored in Tabling

and welcomed anywhere I have been. Till now I

yet, Travelling. In 2015, my first International

have been to more than 15 countries and have been

travelling to West was Via tabling, the Indo Dutch cycle

homehosted over 50 times . Most of the friends that I

tour and that is where I was first home hosted by my

have met in my journey are now family for me.

Dutch Bros. The experience of being Home hosted in a different country was totally phenomenal and surreal.

After that, my hunger grew, and I kept looking for more

It was totally different than the way I’ve been travelling

and more of these opportunities. To my surprise, there

cross country. And since then I kept on travelling for

was a tank load of it everywhere. AGM, half-yearly

Tabling.

meets, numbered meets, pretours, tie-ups, travel bingos and what not. My advice to all the young and old

In 2016, I went to South Africa for ARTSA and that is

tablers is to come out of ur cocoon and try travelling

when I realised that I have been totally missing the real

for tabling atleast once you will upgrade yourself in

R T I L E G A C Y | ta b l i n g i s tr av e l l i n g

mental, emotional civil and social sectors of life. most

practice, but earning the Pink Buddy Travel Award did

countries look the same from the outside. Still, you can

make me truly emotional.

only understand a vast cultural difference when you live with the local brothers and spend time with their

Today we have a homehost circle with over 15 countries

families. And trust me, being hosted by people you

in the group ready to welcome each other as and

have never met or even heard before and they let their

when one is travelling . We make a point to meet

house and kitchen open for you and letting you crash in

each whenever we are travelling around and this is

and mix with all family members is not a thing we can

all because of our beloved organisation Round Table

practically think of in today's time.

International, promoting and encouraging us to travel as much as possible. so start travelling as much as you

Every country has unique ways of expressing its love to

can. As far as you can and meet as many friends as you

guests and their gratitude to their brothers. Witnessing

can.

this, my perception changed towards society and my horizon expanded with the cultural exchanges over

Abby

time. I have now been invited to various meetings

A Pround Tabler.

and events to share my experience and my travelling

R T I L E G A C Y | ta ste t h e w or l d

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Order the LCI Recipe book from LCI Treasurer treasurer@ladiescircleinternational.org

R T I L E G A C Y | ta ste t h e w or l d

G E T A TA S T E O F T H E N E T H E R L A N D S

Bitterballen By LADIES’ CIRCLE THE NETHERLANDS, from the LCI Recipe Book

Holland’s favorite snack. Bitterballen are deep-fried and crispy breaded rounds with a tender, savory filling. Traditionally made with beef, they can also be prepared with chicken, veal or even with mushrooms, for those that prefer a vegetarian option. Preparation 30 min Cooking 5 min

DIRECTIONS Melt the butter in a skillet or pan. When melted, add the flour little by little and stir into a thick paste. Slowly stir in the stock, making sure the

INGREDIENTS 100 grams (3.5 oz) butter 150 grams (5.3 oz) flour 700 ml (23.7 fl oz) beef bouillon 30 grams (1 oz) fresh onion, minced 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced 400 grams (14 oz) cooked meat, shredded Salt Pepper Nutmeg

For the breading 50 grams (1.8 oz) flour 2 eggs, beaten

roux absorbs the liquid. Simmer for a couple of minutes on a low heat while you stir in the onion, parsley and the shredded meat. The mixture should thicken and turn into a heavy, thick sauce. Pour the mixture into a shallow container, cover and refrigerate for several hours, or until the sauce has solidified. Take a heaping tablespoon of the cold, thick sauce and quickly roll it into a small ball. Roll lightly through the flour, then the egg and finally the breadcrumbs. Make sure that the egg covers the whole surface of the bitterbal. When done, refrigerate the snacks while the oil in your fryer heats up to 190C (375F). Fry four bitterballen at a time, until golden. Serve on a plate with a nice grainy or spicy mustard. Makes approximately 20 bitterballen. Lay on a wire rack while cooking remaining dough. May be kept in warm oven (225 degrees) until ready to serve, or serve immediately with toppings.

50 grams (1.8 oz) bread crumbs

FROM TH F 84

HE FAMILY 85

R T I L E G A C Y | rt i f a m i ly

L A D I E S ' C I R C L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L

The Legacy of Ladies' Circle International

By LADIES’ CIRCLE INTERNATIONAL Board 2023-2024

HE LADIES CIRCLE International

Association has grown in size and influence, having

brings together women from various

established member clubs in more than 39 countries

backgrounds and cultures to promote

worldwide.

friendship, personal development, and community service. With a rich history

The association's activities are centred around three main foundations: friendship, personal development,

spanning over six decades, the association has made

and community service. In this 65th year, we are

significant contributions to the lives of its members and

focusing on Sisterhood. Friendship is at the core of

the communities they serve.

the association, with members forming lifelong bonds

The roots of the Ladies Circle International

and supporting each other through various stages of

Association can be traced back to 1936 when a group

life. Regular meetings, social events, and international

of women in England came together to form a social

gatherings allow members to connect and build lasting

club. This club aimed to provide a platform for women

friendships.

to meet, socialise, and engage in charitable activities.

Community service is a fundamental aspect of

This small group of women soon realised the potential

the Ladies Circle International Association. Members

of their organisation and decided to expand its reach

actively engage in various charitable projects

beyond the borders of England.

and initiatives, addressing the needs of their local

In 1959, the Ladies Circle International Association

communities. The association also collaborates with

was officially established to promote international

other organisations and participates in international

friendship and understanding among women. The

service projects, further extending its impact on a

association quickly gained popularity and attracted

global scale.

women from different countries who shared a common passion for community service and personal growth. One of the defining characteristics of the Ladies Circle International Association is its commitment to

In this anniversary year, the International Service Project is Kvinna till Kvinna, hosted by Ladies Circle Sweden to support female empowerment. Throughout its history, the Ladies Circle

cultural exchange and understanding; in 2024, this

International Association has received recognition and

is still true. Just as with Round Table International,

accolades for its outstanding contributions to society.

members from different countries and cultures come

The association has been commended for its dedication

together to share their experiences, traditions, and

to promoting women's empowerment, fostering

values, fostering a sense of unity and respect. Through

cultural understanding, and positively impacting

various activities and events, the association promotes

communities worldwide.

cross-cultural awareness and appreciation, enriching

With its rich history and unwavering commitment

the lives of its members and the communities they

to its core values, the association continues to inspire

serve.

and empower women to make a difference in their

LCI Day is celebrated on the 11th of February, and this year, the date coincides with the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, so Ladies Circle International will be celebrating its members who have excelled in the science field on this day.

Over the years, the Ladies Circle International

Association is a global organisation that

communities and beyond, and this is the true legacy of Ladies Circle International.

R T I L E G A C Y | rt i f a m i ly

TA N G E N T C L U B I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Heartfelt Appreciation for Making a World of Difference! By VASANTHI SIVAMOHAN , IRO Tangent Sri Lanka 23-24 , Project Convenor-TCI Support Team 23-24 & MARIE MOBERG, President, Tangent Sweden 2023-2024

A BENCHMARK PROPOSAL - MEANINGFUL TO ALL

Our fundraising target for the building materials for the clinic restoration was agreed upon with TSL to cover

President Marie Moberg of Tangent Sweeden, an

approximately 50% of the cost, SEK 70,000. During

exceptionally perceptive, passionate lady opting to

the fall of 2023, TS have by doing several fundraising

support her goddaughter’s nation, expressed her

initiatives, all from:

willingness to Vasanthi Sivamohan, IRO Tangent Sri Lanka, at the 2023 AGM in Stratford-upon-Avon. A vision moulding to reality. E X PA N S I O N O F R E S T O R AT I V E D E N TA L C L I N I C L A DY R I D G E W AY H O S P I TA L ( L R H ) - C O L O M B O LRH for Children is the largest free of charge Paediatrics

> selling donated Sri Lankan tea, > Christmas advent calendar, > the President charity pin, > local club gatherings any many more,

Hospital in Sri Lanka. It serves as the national referral centre for paediatric care for Sri Lanka. The drive for this dental care unit for underprivileged

At the time when I’m writing this short news article,

children in desperate times at the LRH is truly a blessing.

we are about to transfer the funds to our sisters for

There is just one chair with minimal facilities and no

them to start on the next phase of the project, the

‘waiting area’. The project is headed by President Virangi

building.

Godamanna and her committee, Tangent Colombo 2,

I am so proud that we have embarked on this

under the direction of TCI Support (Project) Team/TC Sri

exciting project together, and I am looking forward to

Lanka.

the next phase and to seeing it all completed. I would

The initiative is scheduled for February 2024, intending

also like to take this opportunity to thank all members

to be fully operational by 14 April 2024, coinciding with

of TS who have contributed to this. Without you this

the Sri Lankan New Year. Together with other means, it’s

would not be possible!!

an honour to have Tangent Sweden support this move financially. I also look forward to many such opportunities and outcomes within countries embracing sisterhood. S TR ENGTHENING OUR CONNEC T IONS IN CON T I N U E D F R I E N D S H I P, Friendship | Gratitude | 1st attempt in TC world Reward | Warm smiles This is the first time that Tangent Sweden has initiated our own service project, besides supporting Ladies Circle Sweden’s and International’s respective projects, so we were very glad to do this for our Tangent sisters.

Thus, we were able to raise SEK 90,000!

Let Friendship continue – to grow and flourish!