On the evening of 9 October 2025, the Rotary Club of Zimbali was transformed into a hub of international camaraderie, fellowship, and purpose. In what became a truly memorable gathering, the club welcomed fellow Rotarians from across Botswana, exchange students from Europe, and passionate leaders from across District 9370 — all united under Rotary’s global mission of service above self.

A Room Full of Purpose

The meeting began with club president Fidel Okillah welcoming guests and members, setting the tone for a night that celebrated unity in diversity. In attendance were representatives from the Rotary Club of Maun Okavango and Rotary Club of Gaborone in Botswana, District Assistant Governor and ICC Chair Ash Maharaj, Rotaract members from RC Zimbali, and Youth Exchange (YEX) students from Germany, Belgium, and Sweden.

Each guest took a moment to introduce themselves, share their Rotary journey, and highlight the incredible work being done in their respective clubs and regions. This gave everyone in the room a renewed sense of what it means to be part of a global network of changemakers.

AG Ash Maharaj: A Veteran in Service

AG Ash Maharaj brought with him a wealth of experience, having served in Rotary since 1995. With four terms as Assistant Governor, and his recent appointment as the International Cooperation Committee (ICC) Chair for District 9370, Ash shared his deep passion for hands-on service projects, particularly those addressing women’s health and economic empowerment. His ongoing initiatives include sanitary towel drives and sewing machine projects that have already transformed communities — showcasing how small interventions can have long-lasting ripple effects.

His commitment and vision resonated with many in the room, reminding us of Rotary’s ability to innovate and adapt in addressing urgent social needs.

Botswana in the House: Gaborone & Maun Rotarians

Rotarians Douglas and Glenda Craig from RC Gaborone proudly shared their 15-year Rotary journey. Their club is currently engaged in hosting Youth Exchange students (YEX), emphasizing the power of cultural exchange in building global understanding. Their support of the program was both practical and heartfelt, underlining how important host clubs are in shaping the student experience.

From RC Maun Okavango, David Luck and Kate Nelson offered insight into their exciting community project — the Water Roller Project, locally dubbed the “Hippo Rollers.” These innovative water transportation devices reduce the burden of water collection in rural communities, especially for women and children who often walk long distances for water. The club only recently chartered, but has already made waves with this impactful initiative.

In a wonderful show of solidarity, AG Ash committed to supporting the Maun club’s roller project — exemplifying the spirit of collaboration that Rotary encourages.

Youth Exchange Students: Cultural Ambassadors

The evening also featured heartfelt introductions from the Youth Exchange (YEX) students — bright young ambassadors from Germany, Belgium, and Sweden who are spending a year in South Africa. Each of them shared reflections on their experience so far, speaking warmly about South African hospitality, their host families, and the enriching cultural lessons they’ve embraced since arriving.

Their presence in the room reminded us that Rotary’s youth programs are not just about exposure, but about building bridges between cultures, generations, and ideals. These students are the embodiment of Rotary’s vision for peace and understanding.

Rotaract Rising: The Next Generation Steps Forward

RC Zimbali’s very own Rotaract members, Trishana and Tiarah, also took the floor to introduce themselves and speak about the growing energy within the club’s Rotaract chapter. With renewed youth engagement on the agenda this Rotary year, it was heartening to see these young leaders taking up space and driving the conversation on service and leadership.

Their involvement is a clear signal that the future of Rotary is in capable, enthusiastic hands.

Fellowship in Action

While the evening was filled with formal introductions and impactful project discussions, it was also a space of joy, laughter, and mutual admiration. Conversations flowed, ideas were exchanged, and bonds were formed — not just between individuals, but between clubs and countries.

What stood out most was the collective energy in the room: a shared commitment to service, curiosity about each other’s work, and a readiness to collaborate for greater impact.

Looking Ahead

As President Fidel closed the meeting, there was a palpable sense that this was not the end, but the beginning of something greater. With new relationships forged, project support pledged, and cultural understanding deepened, the Rotary Club of Zimbali reaffirmed its role as a connector of people, ideas, and action.

This gathering was more than a meeting — it was a reminder of Rotary’s heartbeat: that no matter where we come from, we are united in our mission to do good in the world.