Reflections from Barbara Fisk, District Governor 2026-27
The Canadian flag represented on stage during the Rotary International Convention in Taiwan.
There was so much to see, learn, and do in Taiwan. The Convention was one of the best I have ever attended, and there have been quite a few!
The flag ceremony continues to be one of the most moving moments at our Conventions, and this was no exception. Seeing the Canadian flag on stage was a powerful reminder of Rotary’s global reach and the fellowship we share across nations.
Rotary brings together people of all nations through service, fellowship, learning, and shared purpose.
Reflections from Barbara Fisk, District Governor 2026-27
The Canadian flag represented on stage during the Rotary International Convention in Taiwan.
There was so much to see, learn, and do in Taiwan. The Convention was one of the best I have ever attended, and there have been quite a few!
The flag ceremony continues to be one of the most moving moments at our Conventions, and this was no exception. Seeing the Canadian flag on stage was a powerful reminder of Rotary’s global reach and the fellowship we share across nations.
Rotary brings together people of all nations through service, fellowship, learning, and shared purpose.
Global Fellowship in Action
The opening session continued with President Francesco Arezzo celebrating global fellowship and welcoming more than 37,000 Rotarians to Taiwan. This session included amazing, dynamic entertainment in both Taiwanese and Italian styles, bringing together people of all nations through acrobatics, dance, music, and song.
A global message of thanks shared during the Convention programme.
Speakers Who Inspired Us
Nobel Peace Prize laureate and girls’ education advocate Malala Yousafzai was the featured keynote speaker. How amazing it was to hear her story.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, former Senator of Pakistan, also spoke very eloquently about the work being done in Pakistan to End Polio and her ongoing commitment to the cause. Conventions provide outstanding speakers, with stories and details you would never hear elsewhere.
Ayesha Raza Farooq spoke about the ongoing work to End Polio in Pakistan.
Learning, Leadership, and New Ideas
Monday and Tuesday brought the opportunity to delve deeply into targeted sessions on membership, Rotaractors, global changemakers and peacebuilding, grants and foundation, engaging young professionals, forging new partnerships, the climate crisis, handling difficult conversations, storytelling, and even the use of AI to empower clubs. There were so many sessions to learn from.
The House of Friendship
The House of Friendship held many booths on amazing projects, Fellowships, Rotary Action Groups, and the ever-popular vendors. Additionally, the Rotary Village had many outstanding areas dedicated to each of the Areas of Focus and other Rotary matters.
Throughout each day, there were dedicated chats by various experts where members could learn, ask questions, and make connections with like-minded attendees.
Our own Hugh Williams of the Rotary Club of West Ottawa spoke about his Free Reading Program in the BELRAG, Basic Education and Literacy, area of the House of Friendship. You can view Hugh’s presentation here.
House of Friendship
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The House of Friendship offered opportunities to learn, connect, and explore Rotary projects, Fellowships, Action Groups, and Areas of Focus from around the world.
Fellowship Beyond the Sessions
Beyond Borders evening events, ticketed luncheons, Fellowship and Rotary Action Group meetings filled much more of the time, not to leave out all the wonderful tourist sights to be seen.
Creating Lasting Impact
The closing ceremony, along with more stellar entertainment, had President-Elect Yinka introducing his family and sharing his goals for the year: “Be better than your best! Create Lasting Impact!”
President-Elect Yinka shared his message for the year ahead: “Be better than your best! Create Lasting Impact!”
We had a great group of District 7040 members attend. Reach out, and I know they will be happy to share their experiences.
District 7040 members taking part in the Rotary International Convention in Taiwan.
Together, we will succeed to Create Lasting Impact!
Barbara Fisk
District Governor, District 7040
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