The Rotary Club of Barbados South is proud to announce that it has been recognized with the Rotary International Club Excellence Award for the 2025-2026 Rotary year.
This prestigious recognition is a wonderful reflection of the commitment, service, and teamwork demonstrated by our club throughout the year. As part of District 7030’s outstanding results, 49 Rotary clubs and 3 Rotaract clubs have been recognized with the Rotary International Club Excellence Award for 2025-2026, a remarkable achievement for our district.
For Rotary Club of Barbados South, this award represents far more than a certificate. It is a testament to the collective effort of our members and the many hours of planning, service, fundraising, fellowship, advocacy, and community engagement that took place throughout the year. Every project, every meeting, every volunteer hour, and every contribution played a part in achieving this recognition.
As we celebrate this accomplishment, we also recognize the leadership of Immediate Past District Governor Soraya Warner-Gustave, whose vision and dedication contributed to an exceptional year across District 7030.
The Club Excellence Award is a proud reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together, serve with purpose, and remain committed to making a lasting difference.
Congratulations, Rotary Club of Barbados South!
ALL THINGS ROTARY TRAINING: BUILDING SKILLS TO STRENTHEN OUR CLUB
On Saturday, August 29th 2026, members of the Rotary Club of Barbados South, the Rotaract Club of South Barbados and guests, came together for an engaging morning of learning, collaboration and practical skill-building at the Club’s “All Things Rotary” training session, held at the Light & Power Training Room, Bay Street. The three-hour session was designed to help members become more confident in some of the tools, platforms and concepts that increasingly form part of modern Rotary life. From understanding the fundamentals of Rotary to navigating digital platforms and exploring emerging technology, the morning provided members with practical knowledge they can put to use immediately.
Getting Back to Rotary Basics
PDG Sonya Alleyne led the session on Rotary Basics, helping members strengthen their understanding of the organisation to which we belong. The presentation outlined various terms and terminology used in Rotary and provided an opportunity for members to revisit Rotary's structure, values and opportunities for involvement while better understanding how our Club fits into the wider Rotary family. PDG Sonya also gave an in-depth look into the my.rotary.org platform, showing attendees, how to update their personal information, access reports, make donations to Rotary International and access training courses.
Making the Most of ClubRunner
PP Stephen Broome guided members through ClubRunner, demonstrating how the platform can make it easier for Rotarians to access information, stay connected and manage various aspects of club life. The presentaiton providing an opportunity to become more comfortable navigating its features such as accessing member contact information, searching meeting dates for clubs locally and internationally, as well as planning projects through ClubRunner, using the mobile app and accessing attendance records.
Canva: Making Rotary Look Good
Director Graham Belle introduced members to the basics of Canva, demonstrating how even those with little or no graphic-design experience can create attractive and professional-looking content. Members explored practical applications for Rotary, including creating social-media graphics, flyers, presentations and promotional material. The session also reinforced the importance of maintaining consistent Rotary branding and presenting our projects and activities in ways that capture attention and communicate our impact effectively.
Exploring Artificial Intelligence
The morning also ventured into one of today's most rapidly developing areas: Artificial Intelligence. Director Graham introduced members to some of the everyday AI tools now available and explored how they can assist Rotarians with tasks such as brainstorming project ideas, drafting correspondence, preparing presentations, developing social-media content, summarising information and supporting club administration. The discussion encouraged members to see AI as another tool that can help us work more efficiently to allow us devote more of our time to what matters most, fellowship and service. In closing he stressed that the members should use AI responsibly being conscious of club members’ private information.
RECAPPING THE MONTH WITH RCBS
AUGUST 5th 2026
At our lunchtime, in-person meeting on August 5th 2026, Rotarians learned more about the important connection between oral health and overall wellness from Dr. Leah Mapp, General Dentist. Dr. Mapp, daughter of Rotarian Malcolm Mapp, delivered an engaging presentation highlighting how the health of our mouths can have a significant impact on our overall physical well-being.
Dr. Mapp explained that oral health is closely connected to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses, including asthma and pneumonia. She also discussed periodontal disease, a serious form of gum disease that can contribute to inflammation and the buildup of harmful bacteria, potentially affecting other areas of the body.
The presentation also highlighted the wider impact of tooth loss. Missing teeth can affect nutrition, speech, daily activities, and facial structure. Dr. Mapp outlined several options for replacing missing teeth, including bridges, implants, and dentures. Members were reminded that maintaining good oral health starts with simple, consistent habits. Dr. Mapp recommended brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and cleaning the tongue to help remove bacteria and plaque. She also encouraged regular dental visits, ideally twice a year, to identify and address problems before they become more serious.
The presentation was a timely reminder that oral health is an essential part of overall health, and that small, everyday habits can make a lasting difference to our well-being.
Attendance: 36%
AUGUST 12th 2026
The Rotary Club of Barbados South marked Membership Month with a special lunchtime, online meeting on August 12th 2026, featuring an engaging Member Spotlight Panel Discussion with three of the Club’s past presidents: PP Michael Trotman (2003–2004), PP Katrina Sam Prescott (2010–2011), and PP Richard Kennedy (2014–2015).
Facilitated by Rotarian Denise, the panelists reflected on their Rotary journeys, from what first brought them to the organisation to what has kept them committed over the years. A common theme emerged: Rotary is about much more than attending meetings; it is about belonging, fellowship, meaningful service and relationships. All three past presidents were personally invited to join Rotary, highlighting the continued importance of extending a personal invitation to prospective members.
The discussion also provided an honest look at how club life has changed over the years. The panel acknowledged that the shift to hybrid and online meetings has provided flexibility, but has also reduced opportunities for informal interaction and fellowship. In earlier years, members regularly socialised together, held committee meetings in members’ homes and offices, and developed strong connections with one another and their families.
The panel offered several practical suggestions for strengthening membership engagement and attendance. These included making meetings more engaging and valuable, increasing networking opportunities, reviving a buddy or mentorship system, and reaching out personally to members through phone calls and invitations to participate. The importance of understanding why people join Rotary, and ensuring they continue to see value in their membership, was also emphasised.
The session also celebrated the contributions and experiences of past presidents, who shared memorable highlights from their years of leadership. Their reflections reinforced the importance of strong boards, effective teamwork, continuity between leadership teams, and maintaining meaningful relationships within the Club.
The meeting concluded on a lively note with a fun quickfire session, the Club raffle, won by Rotarian Mechelle, and the usual good-natured Sergeant-at-Arms fines.
The discussion served as an important reminder that strong membership is built on connection, purpose, fellowship and a genuine sense of belonging. As the Rotary Club of Barbados South continues to grow, creating opportunities for members to connect, contribute and enjoy their Rotary experience will remain an important part of building a vibrant and engaged Club.
Attendance: 64%
AUGUST 19th 2026
The Rotary Club of Barbados South welcomed Dr. Anshu Chandra, optometrist and Rotarian, as guest presenter at its evening, online meeting on August 19th 2026. Dr. Chandra shared her inspiring work providing sustainable eye care to underserved communities in Haiti.
Her journey began in Fond-des-Blancs, Haiti, where she witnessed the impact of limited access to eye care and preventable vision loss. Since 2015, she has helped develop a clinic that has grown from a one-room operation into a facility with 11 examinations stations, more than 140,000 free eye examinations and thousands of sight-saving procedures. The clinic also screens premature babies for retinopathy and has recently launched a school vision screening programme.
Dr. Chandra highlighted glaucoma, diabetes, hypertension, sickle cell disease, infections and trauma as major contributors to vision loss, while emphasizing that delayed access to treatment is a significant factor in preventable blindness.
The Global Eye Project is now working toward a permanent eye-care facility, as its current clinic space will no longer be available. The new centre will support continued patient care, surgical services, an optical laboratory and training for Haitian eye-care professionals.
The presentation provided members with a powerful reminder of the importance of accessible, sustainable healthcare and community-based service, while highlighting opportunities for Rotary collaboration and support.
Attendance: 56%
AUGUST 26th 2026
The Rotary Club of Barbados South held its lunchtime, in-person meeting on August 26, featuring a timely presentation by PP Michael Forde on Business Continuity Planning. His presentation contributed meaningfully to the Club’s 2026–2027 theme, “Inclusive Service: Resilient Communities - Prepare. Protect. Empower.” PP Mike emphasized that business continuity is not only about preparing for major disasters such as hurricanes, floods and earthquakes. Everyday disruptions, including cyber incidents, power or internet outages, supplier failures, loss of key personnel and damage to premises, can also bring operations to a halt.
Members were introduced to the five key building blocks of continuity planning: business impact analysis, risk and dependency mapping, continuity strategies, response and communications, and regular testing and review. PP Mike stressed that a plan must be practical, tested and kept current, rather than simply being a document prepared and forgotten.
The presentation also highlighted the importance of knowing how long an activity can be disrupted and how much data or work can be lost, using the concepts of Recovery Time Objective (RTO) and Recovery Point Objective (RPO). The key message was clear: an untested plan is only an assumption; resilience requires preparation, practice and continuous improvement.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of members to the Club. PP Terry Hall presented IPP Jacklyn Broomes with a plaque commemorating her service as President for 2025–2026. In addition, IPP Jacklyn presented PP Terry and Director Shem Scantlebury with tokens of appreciation for their dedicated work during the previous Rotary year.
PP Terry was further honoured with an Above and Beyond Recognition for her outstanding contribution, while PP Hiranand Thani was recognised as a Quiet Rotarian, acknowledging his consistent and valuable service behind the scenes.
Attendance: 38%
SPOTLIGHT ON SERVICE
RCBS LEGACY PROJECT - BACK-TO-SCHOOL VOUCHERS
The Rotary Club of Barbados South completed its annual Back-to-School Voucher initiative on August 27th 2026, continuing its longstanding commitment to supporting children and families in need.
Sixty vouchers, valued at $200 each, were presented to Mr. Colin St. Hill of the Child Care Board, under the Social and Empowerment Agency. The vouchers, redeemable at Woolworth, will assist families with essential back-to-school needs as the new school year begins.
This year’s initiative was made possible through funds raised at the Club’s annual Summer Luau cruise, along with a generous private donation from our very own PP Hiranand Thani. The Club extends sincere appreciation to all who contributed to making this annual project possible. Special thanks are extended to Director of Service Projects, Courtney Ramsay, for organising and coordinating this meaningful initiative.
Through the Back-to-School Voucher project, RCBS continues to invest in the well-being and educational success of children in our community, helping them to start the school year with greater confidence and dignity.
BRIDGETOWN FEEDING
The Rotary Club of Barbados South continued its monthly Bridgetown Feeding initiative on August 31st 2026, providing 112 meals to persons in need in the Bridgetown community.
Rotarians, including those from the Rotary Club of Barbados West, gathered at Independence Square to assist with the distribution, combining service with the fellowship that has become a hallmark of this important project. The Club’s Bridgetown Feeding initiative has consistently brought members together to provide meals while building stronger connections through hands-on service.
The Club extends sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed meals, time and support to make this month’s feeding possible. As always, the success of the initiative depends on the commitment of Rotarians who continue to show up and serve.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
UPCOMING MEETINGS:
September 2nd 2026 - Evening In-Person Meeting; Savannah Beach Club at 6:30 pm
September 9th 2026 - Lunch Zoom Meeting at 12:30 pm
September 16th 2026 - Evening Zoom Meeting at 6:30 pm
September 23rd 2026 - Lunch In-Person Meeting; Savannah Beach Club at 12:30 pm
September 30th 2026 - Fellowship; BASE, Greenwich Village at 12:30 pm
BRIDGETOWN FEEDING:
Date: Monday, September 28th 2026
Location: Independence Square, Bridgetown
Assignments: PP Brian Lashley, Rtn. Denise Shepherd-Johnson and PP Hiranand Thani
BIRTHDAYS :
Rtn. Lynn Rollins - September 14th
Treas. Dion Franklin - September 17th
PP Terry Hall - September 27th
PP Hiranand Thani - September 30th
ANNIVERSARIES :
PP Trevor and Andrea Sealy - September 6th
ROTARY ANNIVERSARIES:
PP Marcel Murrell - September 2nd
PP Michael Forde - September 23rd
Hon. Rtn. Dr. The Most Honourable Kevin Greenidge - September 26th
august is Membership and New Club Development Month
August is Membership and New Club Development Month in Rotary, a time to celebrate the strength of our membership while encouraging others to join the Rotary family.
Rotary is more than an organisation; it is a community of people who come together with a shared commitment to service, fellowship and positive change. Our members bring diverse experiences, skills and perspectives, strengthening our ability to respond to the needs of our communities and create meaningful impact.
Membership Month also reminds us that growth is about more than increasing numbers. It is about creating an environment where members feel welcomed, valued and inspired to participate. It is about building connections, developing leaders and giving people opportunities to use their talents in service to others.
As we celebrate our current members, we are also encouraged to look beyond our existing circles and invite others to experience Rotary. There is someone in every community who wants to make a difference, build meaningful relationships and be part of something bigger than themselves.
Coming up in September: Basic Education and Literacy Month!
As I sat beside my father in the hospital, listening to the quiet rhythm of machines that now spoke more steadily than his own voice, life felt stripped down to its essentials. Serious illness has a way of doing that. It reveals what matters most, and it reminds us - sometimes gently, sometimes painfully - of what should matter to all of us.
My father was facing advanced cancer. The path was uneven and often cruel, yet even in that difficult space I was struck by a simple truth: Every person, everywhere, deserves access to care that honors their dignity. Not just treatment but compassion. Not just medicine but the assurance that their life holds value. Watching nurses move with practiced grace and doctors offer both honesty and hope, I was struck by the thought that millions will never experience this level of support. Not because their lives matter less but because access to care remains uneven across countries and communities. This is not a political argument; it is a human one.
Every family deserves the same chance at healing. Through my years in Rotary, I have come to understand that The Rotary Foundation shows us how this belief is shared across cultures and nations.
At a time when international development funding for disease prevention and treatment is contracting, vital health projects risk losing momentum. Our Foundation - and you, our members - provide the community-driven support needed to keep that from happening.
We are funding vaccines in Pakistan, training health workers in Mozambique, and strengthening fragile health systems in Guatemala. Through the Foundation, international cooperation is not an abstract ideal. It is a responsibility, achievable when people choose to act with generosity, partnership, and shared humanity. I am so proud of our collective leadership.
Sitting there, holding my father’s hand as he drifted in and out of sleep, I was reminded of how fragile and precious life is. The measure of a just world is not found in its wealth or its power but in how fiercely it protects the vulnerable.
My father’s fight was personal; sadly, he died in June. But the fight for equitable, compassionate health care that honors every life equally is universal. It belongs to all of us. Through your generosity and commitment to our Foundation - and through the simple act of caring across borders - we move closer to a world where no one is left behind.
RCBS foundation contributions 2026-2027
Foundation contributions thus far for this Rotary year are as follows (USD):
The Rotaract Club of South Barbados held its first meeting of the new Rotary year on Saturday, August 22nd 2026, bringing members, prospective members and Rotarians together to kick off another year of service and fellowship. The Club is part of the Rotary Club of Barbados South family and continues to provide young people with opportunities for leadership, service and personal development.
Although President Shanika was unable to attend, Director Ayana capably conducted the proceedings. Following a few fun icebreakers, she shared a message from President Shanika and outlined the Club’s plans for the first six months of the year. Proposed activities include Rotaract Spiked, the Rotaract Reading Room, the Nightingale Christmas Party and assisting with hamper packing.
The four prospective members in attendance were invited to share their own project ideas and suggest the types of activities they would like to see from Rotaract South. Four Rotarians also participated in the meeting, contributing to an engaging discussion on the proposed activities and offering support and guidance as the Club plans for the year ahead. The meeting was a positive start to what promises to be another exciting year for Rotaract South. We wish President Shanika, the Rotaract board and all members every success as they continue to serve, lead and make a difference in the community.
DISTRICT 7030
RCBS RECOGNISED AMONG DISTRICT 7030'S TOP THREE FOR JULY 2026
The Rotary Club of Barbados South is proud to be recognised among the Top 3 Clubs Per Capita for Annual Fund Giving in Rotary District 7030, as of August 1, 2026. Contributing US$24.48 per capita, this achievement reflects the collective commitment of our members to supporting the work of The Rotary Foundation and transforming communities locally and around the world.
This recognition is especially meaningful because it shows what can be achieved when a club comes together around a shared purpose. Every contribution, regardless of size, helps Rotary respond to pressing needs, support sustainable projects and create opportunities for people and communities to thrive.
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL UPDATES
India’s Bharat Pandya selected to be 2028-2029 Rotary International President
Bharat Pandya, a member of the Rotary Club of Borivli, Mumbai, India, is the selection of the nominating committee for Rotary International president for 2028-2029. He will officially become the president-nominee on 15 September if there are no other challenging candidates.
After receiving undergraduate and postgraduate degrees from Seth G. S. Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, Pandya practiced as a general and laparoscopic surgeon for 38 years. Among other professional recognitions, he was awarded fellowships by the Association of Surgeons of India and the International College of Surgeons and earned the Borivli Medical Brotherhood’s Outstanding Performance Award. He is a founding member of the Association of Minimal Access Surgeons of India and was a board member and vice chair of Jan Shikshan Sansthan, a government-sponsored vocational training and skill development institute. He received the Mumbai Gaurav (Pride of Mumbai) Award from Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha and the Indian Global Foundation.
Pandya has served as an RI director and treasurer and on numerous committees, among them the Finance Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee. He has served in multiple positions for The Rotary Foundation: trustee, vice chair, Executive Committee chair, and vice chair of the Finance and Stewardship committees. He is currently chair of the RI Programs Committee and vice chair of The Rotary Foundation Programs Committee. He served on the India PolioPlus Committee in 2011-15, during which time India was certified polio-free.
Pandya and his wife, Madhavi, a past district chair of Inner Wheel District 314, are Major Donors and Benefactors. They have two daughters and one granddaughter.
:
:
