Business/Speaker meeting via Zoom

President Tony welcomed 20 members before introducing one of the most engaging and enthusiastic speakers we have heard for some time. Luke Addison recounted how he became involved with Rotaract* starting with Freshers’ Week at Winchester University. He went on to explain how the organisation had enthused him, taken him round the country and the world and into many differing situations and experiences.

Asked for his thoughts on establishing a successful Rotaract Club he suggested starting with an event for young working professionals such as a Leadership Workshop, an Employability Panel or an Environmental Event. Find out what young people are doing already, what they want to do and build on those foundations. He said it is necessary to do something most years to maintain recruitment.

Another key factor is the support of the local Rotary Club and local employers. In Luke’s experience Rotaract clubs work best when they are actively integrated with local Rotary Clubs. The key is to ensure that the club is relevant to the interests and the aspirations of young people.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Richard Dyke.

Business meeting – ACTION REQUIRED

Attention of all members was drawn to the updated policies on the Club web-site. To be compliant, it is not only necessary for the Club to have framed relevant and up to date policies but for all members to be aware of their content. Although it may seem dry and boring it is important that all members take a few minutes to look at the relevant pages on the web-site. It is necessary to log in to the members section to view these pages. If you are not sure how to do this and can’t work out what to do contact Andrew Janes. If you have forgotten your log in details there are instructions to follow on the web-site.

Moonraker – thanks if you have responded to John Bird’s email. If you haven’t – please reply urgently even if you can’t help. The team need to know where they stand.

Henry Besley reported that Ian Harkness is making really good progress.

The Ball Draw was won by Stuart Adam (not present) - £75 next time.

Next week – informal – Alex Ennis who is leader of the Somerset County Orchestra and who plays in 2 folk trios will entertain us.

* From the Rotaract UK website - Rotaract Clubs bring together people between 18 and 30 to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fun through service. In communities worldwide, Rotary and Rotaract members work side by side to take action through service.