July 1, 2024
My name is Gentiana and as your incoming President, I would like to celebrate and promote the fabulous work of the Rotary Club of Ancaster AM. For the past 33 years, this club has served the community while fostering the culture of connectedness and belonging. This year I am truly humbled by the opportunity trusted upon me by my fellows to lead this team of passionate Rotarians whose deeds have impacted not only our Ancaster community but also the greater Hamilton area and beyond. It is an absolute privilege to be elected President for the 2024-2025 term, and I look forward to continuing.
"Service Above Self," is not simply a principal motto of Rotary, but it is also a reflection of ethical leadership and compassion. Our club has raised and donated significantly, realized by the passion behind fundraisers like Autumn Stroll, Car Raffle, and many more. We are proud to have contributed to the Ancaster Rotary Centre, Margaret's Place at St Joseph's Villa, Ancaster Memorial Arts Theatre, McMaster Children's Hospital and Juravinski Cancer Centre and others. Furthermore, I am proud to lead a club that continuously supports and empowers youth to play an important role in social transformation; after all, youth will be leading tomorrow, solving the social and economic problems facing the humanity.
We have the ability to connect in different levels in our community, therefore, we will continue to tackle the needs and provide service projects. This year, it will be one of my goals to raise awareness about mental health and well-being. It is critical at this point to acknowledge this need in our society and work together.
May we continue to grow as Rotarians, in order to better use our skills and talents, to always contribute towards the betterment of the world. I would like us Rotarians to embrace the the theme of the year, "The Magic of Rotary." Together, we will hopefully bring some magic in a distressed world by transforming communities through the creative power of unity and by advocating for tolerance and understanding. It is time to recognize that our individual welfare rests in the welfare of society at large. We are the people of action and global citizens.
Having oneness of humanity in my mind, I look at everyone as a potential fellow Rotarian to collaborate with and do good in our community. I urge everyone to check out the work that Rotary is doing through our social media and activities. Looking forward to a magical year full of service, commitment, innovation and fellowship !
Yours in Rotary
Gentiana Collaku, President