As we begin a new Rotary year, I would first like to express my sincere gratitude to outgoing District Governor Aaron Carlson for his exceptional leadership, dedication, and unwavering support. True leadership is not simply about guiding others—it is about creating an environment where people are empowered to grow, inspired to dream, and supported in achieving those dreams. Aaron exemplified this kind of leadership, fostering a district culture where innovation, collaboration, and possibility could thrive.As I step into the role of District Governor, I do so with great humility, gratitude, and excitement for the year ahead. I am honoured to serve alongside such dedicated Rotarians as we continue our mission of service on both sides of the border.
This Rotary year, Rotary International President Olayinka H. Babalola has called on all Rotarians to embrace the message “Creating Lasting Impact.” President Babalola reminds us that Rotary’s work is not simply about creating change—it is about creating change that endures. He has challenged us to build welcoming clubs, deliver meaningful and sustainable service projects, and recognize how Rotary transforms not only the communities we serve, but also ourselves.
Creating lasting impact means looking beyond immediate results and focusing on sustainable change—change that strengthens our clubs, transforms communities, and inspires future generations of Rotarians. As your District Governor, my commitment is to help our clubs dream boldly, lead courageously, and create meaningful impact that will be felt for years to come.
PHOTO (L to R): DG Joanne Serkeyn, IPDG Aaron Carlson
This year offers many exciting opportunities for fellowship, collaboration, and service. We begin with the Second Annual PolioPlus Society Fellowship between District 7080 and District 7090 on July 18 at Tim Hortons Field, where we will gather to enjoy fellowship at a Hamilton Tiger-Cats game while raising awareness and support for Rotary’s fight to eradicate polio. Additional district fellowship events will follow on August 15, September 18, and October 24. I encourage all Rotarians to participate and take advantage of these opportunities to strengthen connections across our district.
This is an extraordinary time to be a Rotarian. The world is facing immense challenges—division, uncertainty, conflict, and hardship. Now more than ever, the world needs leaders who embody Rotary’s guiding principle of Service Above Self.
Rotarians are uniquely positioned to make a difference. We advocate for those without a voice. We support those facing hardship, trauma, and disaster. We restore dignity by helping individuals and communities become self-sustaining and resilient. We extend compassion, hope, and practical support where it is needed most. Simply put, we are the helping hand that reaches out when others need us.
Raising awareness – Human Trafficking in District 7090
As we begin this Rotary year, I encourage each of us to focus on what unites us. We have far more in common as Rotarians than we do differences. Our shared commitment to service, integrity, fellowship, and peace is what defines us.
This message of unity is especially important to me as someone involved with Rotary Action Groups working to combat slavery and human trafficking. Throughout this year, I hope to raise awareness that human trafficking is occurring within our district—on both sides of the border. Regardless of where we live, what perspectives we hold, or what differences may exist among us, there is one truth we can all agree upon: there must be zero tolerance for the trafficking and exploitation of children and vulnerable individuals.
Together, we can raise awareness, educate our members, support survivors, and strengthen prevention efforts. As a district, we have the collective power to protect vulnerable people and help prevent countless lives from being forever changed by exploitation.
July is also a special time as we celebrate both Canada Day and Independence Day. These celebrations serve as a meaningful reminder that we are Rotary’s first international bi-national district. Ours is a district built on friendship, partnership, and shared purpose. The strength of our district lies not in borders, but in the relationships and common mission that connect us.
Having recently returned from the Rotary International Convention 2026 in Taipei, one message resonated deeply: Rotary must continue to evolve in order to remain relevant and impactful. The world has changed dramatically since Rotary’s founding. Technology, social media, changing family dynamics, and evolving generational expectations are reshaping how people connect, engage, and serve.
Change can feel challenging. Often, people do not fear change itself—they fear the loss of control that can accompany it. However, meaningful growth requires adaptability. Embracing change does not mean losing Rotary’s identity; rather, it ensures Rotary remains strong, vibrant, and accessible for future generations.
New Opportunities
I encourage every club to remain open to new possibilities—whether through membership growth, satellite clubs, companion clubs, flexible meeting formats, or innovative service models. Rotary’s strength lies in its ability to meet people where they are and provide meaningful opportunities for service in ways that fit their lives. When someone expresses interest in joining your club but struggles to fit the traditional model, I encourage you to ask a different question: How can Rotary adapt so this person can belong?
Rather than asking people to fit into one mould, we must consider how Rotary can create pathways that welcome diverse lifestyles, responsibilities, and commitments. Inclusion begins with flexibility.
I know firsthand that being a Rotarian can change a life. Rotary changed mine.
This year, I encourage each of us to share Rotary’s story boldly. Invite others to experience the power of service, fellowship, and purpose. Offer them the opportunity to become part of something greater than themselves. Through Rotary, we not only transform communities—we transform lives, including our own.
Together, let us lead with courage, serve with compassion, and embrace innovation. Together, we will create lasting impact.
Joanne Serkeyn