Voices of D7020

Send us Fan MailFrench Episode:Cet épisode de podcast présente une discussion entre l’animatrice Vanessa Abdel Razak et l’ancien gouverneur de district Robert Léger sur la préparation essentielle requise pour mener à bien un mandat présidentiel au Rotary. La conversation met en évidence que le leadership efficace commence bien avant la date officielle de prise de fonction, grâce à une planification stratégique, une sélection rigoureuse des candidats et une collaboration avec les dirigeants sortants afin d’assurer la continuité.Léger souligne l’importance d’utiliser les outils établis du Rotary ainsi que les critères du district pour gérer de manière professionnelle les tâches administratives et les objectifs opérationnels. Au-delà des aspects logistiques, les intervenants insistent sur le fait que le maintien de relations humaines solides et d’une atmosphère positive au sein du club est essentiel pour motiver les bénévoles et prévenir l’épuisement des dirigeants.En définitive, cette intervention sert de guide aux futurs dirigeants pour passer d’une simple gestion des activités à la création d’une organisation de service communautaire à fort impact, portée par une vision claire.Preparing to Lead: The Foundation of a Meaningful Rotary YearThis podcast episode features a discussion between host Vanessa Abdel Razak and former District Governor Robert Léger regarding the essential preparation required for a successful Rotary presidential term. The conversation emphasizes that effective leadership begins long before the official start date through strategic planning, objective candidate selection, and collaboration with outgoing officers to ensure continuity. Léger highlights the importance of using established Rotary tools and district criteria to manage administrative duties and operational goals professionally. Beyond logistics, the speakers stress that maintaining strong human connections and a positive club atmosphere is vital for motivating volunteers and preventing leadership burnout. Ultimately, the source serves as a guide for incoming leaders to transition from simply managing activities to cultivating an impactful, vision-driven community service organization.

Send us Fan MailThree months after Hurricane Melissa tore through Jamaica, the adrenaline has faded — but the real work has only just begun.In this deeply human conversation, host Rotarian Nerissa sits down with Lemar James, President of the Rotary Club of Montego Bay, to reflect on what leadership looks like after the storm. When the cameras leave. When the systems strain. When communities are left to rebuild — not just infrastructure, but trust, dignity, and hope.This episode goes beyond disaster response.Together, they explore:The unseen emotional toll of leadership in crisisSurvivor’s guilt, vulnerability, and the weight leaders quietly carryWhy leaving the disaster zone can sometimes be the most responsible actThe difference between having a circle — and having a networkHow equanimity becomes a leadership practice, not a philosophyFrom dark, unlit roads to silent bus rides back from devastated farming communities, this conversation captures the moments that don’t make official reports — but define the kind of leaders we become.This is a conversation about steadiness, humanity, and the kind of leadership that holds when certainty is gone.If you lead people, serve communities, or believe leadership is more than titles and plans — this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season Three of Voices of D7020 — a season dedicated to deeper conversations, bolder questions, and the future of Rotary across our district and beyond.In this opening episode, host Nerissa J. Persaud is joined by District Rotaract Representative Mikhail Raymore and District Rotaract Chair Selwyn Dawson for a powerful and timely dialogue about the invisible barriers that still shape the Rotary–Rotaract journey.Together, Nerissa, Mikhail, and Selwyn explore what it means to move from hierarchy to partnership, from dependency to empowerment, and from two separate paths into one shared movement of service. One Rotary. They speak candidly about identity, leadership, autonomy, culture, and what it will take to ensure Rotary remains relevant, vibrant, and impactful for generations to come.This episode is both a reflection and a call to action — inviting Rotarians and Rotaractors across District 7020 to step into a new way of being: one rooted in respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to building a Rotary that lasts.🎧 Press play and join the conversation that is shaping the next chapter of Rotary.

Send us Fan MailPodcast Description: In this soul-stirring episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa sits down with Past District Governor Dominique Bazin—a woman whose leadership has redefined what it means to lead with courage and compassion.From leading through crisis to weaving peace across islands, Dominique shares the lessons that shaped her year as District Governor and the truths that will echo far beyond it. With grace and humility, she reveals why leadership isn’t about power—it’s about presence, compassion, and the courage to build bridges even when the world feels divided.Listeners will be inspired by her reflections on peace-building in Haiti, mentoring the next generation of Rotarians, and the unshakeable belief that unity does not mean uniformity—it means solidarity.This episode is a heartfelt journey through resilience, service, and the human spirit of Rotary. Whether you’re a leader, a dreamer, or someone searching for hope, Dominique’s story will remind you that peace isn’t the absence of struggle—it’s the strength to rise together.🎧 Tune in to hear:The untold lessons of leadership beyond authorityHow peace became the living heartbeat of her Rotary yearWhy “together we are stronger” is more than a motto—it’s a movementWhat it means to lead with both fire and tenderness💫 “Be the bridge. Start where you are. Extend your hand where there is division.” — PDG Dominique Bazin

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa  sits down with District Governor-Elect Lindsey Cancino (2026–2027) to explore one of Rotary’s greatest engines of change — The Rotary Foundation.From the historic fight to End Polio Now to the innovative ways clubs across the Caribbean are leveraging global and district grants, Lindsey offers a powerful inside look at how the Foundation transforms generosity into measurable global impact. He shares stories of perseverance, leadership continuity, and the importance of education and awareness in unlocking Rotary’s full potential.This conversation reminds us that the Foundation isn’t just a fund — it’s a force. A living example of what’s possible when passion meets purpose, and when service truly rises above self.🎧 Tune in to learn:Why the fight to end polio is closer than ever — and why it still matters.How District 7020 clubs can better access and manage Foundation grants.The incredible 1,100% ROI of Rotary’s giving power.Why continuity, education, and storytelling are key to Rotary’s future.Listen, learn, and be inspired to give, lead, and serve with purpose.🌍 Connect with us: Follow Voices of District 7020 on your favourite podcast platform, and stay tuned as we continue to amplify the voices, stories, and impact shaping Rotary’s future across our District and beyond.

Send us Fan MailBullying isn’t just a schoolyard problem—it’s a community challenge that demands bold action. In this episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa Persaud sits down with Past President Tamara Chang-Bromley, our District Membership Attraction Chair, to explore the powerful Be a Fren, Not a Bully initiative.Born from the Mentoring and Training Leaders for Tomorrow Programme in partnership with the Rotary Club of Liguanea Plains, this campaign is more than awareness—it’s a movement. From peace murals and music to empowering students through art, literacy, and empathy, the initiative is transforming schools into safer, more inclusive spaces for children to learn, grow, and thrive.Together, we unpack how Rotary’s values of peace, inclusion, and service come alive through this project, why community partnerships are the real currency of change, and how service like this can inspire new generations of leaders.✨ Whether you’re a Rotarian, educator, parent, or changemaker, this conversation will spark ideas on how you too can recognize needs and transform lives.🎧 Tune in and be inspired to take action—because when Rotary steps up, entire communities rise.Reach out for more info on BE A FREN NOT A BULLY

Send us Fan MailWhat if giving a child a book could change the fate of an entire village?In this powerful episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa sits down with Past President Chris Bailey of the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman to explore one of Rotary’s most transformative international service initiatives—the Guatemala Literacy Project (GLP).From stories of unimaginable poverty to moments of hope, resilience, and full-circle impact, Chris shares how GLP evolved from a grassroots fellowship tour to one of Rotary’s largest and most effective multi-district, multi-club partnerships. You'll hear the moving story of Sergio, a young boy whose birthday sandwich turned into a scholarship, a degree, and a thriving career.Together, Nerissa and Chris unpack the key ingredients that make GLP sustainable—from teacher training and family outreach to community-led continuity and cultural alignment. Whether you're a Rotarian, an educator, or simply someone who believes in the power of service, this episode will leave you inspired to think bigger about literacy, equity, and the long game of change.🔗 Learn more or sponsor a student at: GuatemalaLiteracy.org

Send us Fan MailEpisode 5: A Membership Convo with Karen and PatrickIn this episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa Persaud sits down with two remarkable leaders — District Membership Chair Karen Pinder and Rotary International Director for Zones 33 & 34 Patrick Eakes — to tackle a bold question: What is the real problem to solve in Rotary membership? Is it recruitment, or is it relevance?Together, they break down the Membership Action Plan (MAP) and the Membership Success Center, showing how these tools are designed not to overwhelm with statistics but to humanise the Rotary experience. From understanding terms like attrition and net growth, to exploring why half of new members leave within three years, the conversation dives deep into how clubs can shift their focus from simply adding numbers to building relevance that retains and inspires.Patrick and Karen share practical insights, relatable examples, and even a glimpse into the future with upcoming AI-driven tools, all while reminding us that at Rotary’s core, we’re not in the numbers business — we’re in the people business.Tips you can put into action now:Ask your members directly — through surveys, focus groups, or conversations — and act on what you hear.Keep engagement personal — make sure members feel valued, connected, and involved from day one.Use MAP resources — from webinars to awards to the Membership Success Center, lean on existing tools for guidance.Simplify the language — translate technical terms like “attrition” into everyday conversation so members understand and own the issues.Focus on relevance, not just recruitment — create meaningful experiences that make people want to stay.If your club has ever asked “Where do we start?” or “How do we keep members engaged?”, this episode offers clarity, courage, and a fresh reset in thinking about membership growth.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa Persaud takes you to the very heart of HANWASH—the Haiti National Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Initiative. What began as a bold vision to provide clean, safe water for every community in Haiti has grown into a movement that is reshaping lives, restoring dignity, and creating a blueprint for sustainable change.Joined by three extraordinary leaders often called the “godfathers” of HANWASH—Past Rotary International President Barry Rassin, Past Rotary International Director Jeremy Hurst, and Past District Governor Robert Légaré—this conversation peels back the layers of how HANWASH began, the challenges faced, and the cultural transformation it inspires.From the first spark of an idea to multi-decade goals that could one day make universal access to clean water in Haiti a reality, you’ll hear stories of resilience, partnership, and leadership in action. Together, these visionaries share candid insights on why this mission matters, how it continues despite adversity, and what it will take to see it through.Whether you’re a Rotarian, humanitarian, or simply someone who believes in the power of people united for good, this episode will leave you inspired to be part of something bigger—something that changes the course of history.🎧 Discover why HANWASH is more than a project—it’s a promise.

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of Voices of District 7020, we return to Rotary’s roots to explore a foundational, often-overlooked question: What is the Object of Rotary—and why does it still matter today?Join host Rotarian Nerissa Persaud and special guest Cathy Guilbard, past president of the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman and executive leadership coach, as they unpack the deep purpose that underpins all of Rotary’s service. Through rich storytelling, lived examples, and practical insights, they explore how the Object of Rotary, our core values, and tools like the Four-Way Test create a way of life—not just a checklist of principles.Together, they reflect on:Why newer members can feel overwhelmed by Rotary’s language and structureHow to make our values feel real and lived, not just recitedThe acronym FLIDS (Fellowship, Leadership, Integrity, Diversity, Service) and how it helps Rotarians remember what mattersWhy revisiting the Object of Rotary is vital for building a legacy that endures across generationsHow innovation—like this very podcast—is one way we carry the torch forward without diluting our essenceThis episode is more than a Rotary primer—it’s a heartfelt call to every Rotarian to reconnect with the why behind our service and to become intentional carriers of culture, character, and change.

Send us Fan MailIn this thought-provoking episode of Voices of District 7020, host Rotarian Nerissa is joined by Past District Governors David Kirkaldy and Haresh Ramchandani for an honest, forward-looking conversation about Rotary’s greatest challenge — and opportunity — today: membership.Together, they ask the bold questions: How do we grow Rotary through new and innovative club types? Why must we rethink the traditional model to reach new communities? And what does it really take to create a club experience that keeps members engaged and thriving?From the power of cause-based and companion clubs to the mindset shift needed to meet people where they are, this episode unpacks the fears, resistance, and possibilities that come with growing Rotary in ways that serve a changing world. Haresh and David share practical insights and real stories from across District 7020, reminding us that innovation isn’t just a trend — it’s essential for Rotary’s future.Tune in for ideas, honest reflections, and a renewed sense of purpose. Because now more than ever, the world needs Rotary — and it needs each of us to build it together.

Send us Fan MailDans cet épisode d’ouverture inspirant de Voices of D7020, la Rotarienne Nerissa s’entretient avec le Gouverneur de District Bill Aiken, à la veille de son installation. Ensemble, ils explorent les moments décisifs qui ont façonné son parcours rotarien — du saut de foi pour dire « oui » au poste de Gouverneur de District, jusqu’à la vision profonde qui sous-tend le thème de cette année : Reconnaître les besoins, transformer des vies et S’unir pour le bien.Bill partage des réflexions sincères sur l’équilibre entre une vie professionnelle exigeante, la force de l’action communautaire et la manière dont la continuité stratégique et les nouveaux modèles de clubs peuvent nourrir une croissance explosive au sein de notre district si diversifié.Cette conversation authentique nous rappelle que l’impact du Rotary commence avec chacun de nous — en restant à l’écoute de nos communautés, en bâtissant des partenariats porteurs de sens et en servant avec courage, foi et cœur.Écoutez, laissez-vous inspirer et rapportez ces histoires dans votre club alors que nous avançons ensemble, avec audace, vers cette nouvelle année rotarienne.

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring opening episode of Voices of D7020, Rotarian Nerissa sits down with District Governor Bill Aiken on the eve of his installation. Together, they explore the pivotal moments that shaped his Rotary journey — from the leap of faith to say “yes” to becoming DG, to the deeper vision behind this year’s theme: Recognize Needs, Transform Lives and Unite for Good.Bill shares candid reflections on balancing a demanding professional life, the power of community-driven action, and how strategic continuity and new club models can fuel explosive growth across our diverse district.This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that Rotary’s impact starts with each of us — staying attuned to our communities, building meaningful partnerships, and serving with courage, faith, and heart.Tune in, be inspired, and carry these stories back to your club as we step boldly into this new Rotary year — together.