January 13th 2026 marks 40 years since RCBS was chartered. 40 years of Service above self. 40 years of doing good in the world. 40 years of developing acquaintance as an opportunity for service. 40 years of high ethical standards in business and professions. 40 years of recognizing the worthiness of all useful occupations. 40 years of dignifying each Rotarian's occupation as an opportunity to serve. 40 years of applying the ideal of service in each Rotarian's personal, business and community life. 40 years of advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons, united in the ideal of service.
Well done RCBS!!!! Cheers to 40 more!! Please make every effort to participate in the week of activities a we celebrate this phenomenal milestone.
Previous Meeting Details
Wednesday December 3rd 6:30pm In-Person Business Meeting
With our busy December ahead of us, this business meeting served to update Rotarians on the commitments and expectations of the Christmas season.
PE Kerryann sent us a pre-recorded video to update us on the status of preparation for hamper packing.
Dir Kemi gave us an update on the youth activity and the progress with the gift cards to be attached to the Christmas hampers. She also indicated to us the activities and products for which she needed volunteers for the "Colours of Christmas" (Christmas party at the Nightingale Children's Home).
PP Irving updated us on the ticket sales and volunteers required for "Favourite Things" (the 12th annual Classical Best of Youth Concert, featuring the Barbados Youth Symphony Orchestra and special guests).
Director Graham used the opportunity to educate the club as he shared with us an insightful presentation/ public image learning session titled "Promoting Rotary on Social Media." The presentation focussed on three points:
1. Telling Human-Centered impact Stories
People connect with people, not organizations. By highlighting real faces, real volunteers, and real beneficiaries our social media platforms can build trust, relatability, and community pride while reinforcing “Service Above Self.”
2. Using Consistent, High-Quality Branding & Content Formats to increase credibility and strengthen recognition. This is best achieved by following Rotary’s official brand guidelines, creating reusable templates for announcements, service projects, events, and impact stats, keeping videos short (20–40 seconds) and captioned.
Consistency + quality = professionalism and higher engagement which improves alignment of our club with Rotary International.
3. Using Strong Visual Elements to capture people's attention. An easy way to do this is to use images that feature real-life moments with just a few people, exhibit a sense of emotion and use photos that represent the diversity of your club and community. It is best to use images that show people's faces and that are taken in warm, natural lighting.
Please use the following link to view to the presentation:
Wednesday December 17th- 12:30pm In-person Christmas Lunch, and Election Day
The Rotary Club of Barbados South met on the 17 Dec 2025 for its final club meeting at The Pub Bar and Grill, The Estates, St. George.
The meeting featured the Club elections, where the nominated board for the RI Year 2026-27 and PE for RI Year 2027-28 were elected unopposed under the supervision of our Returning Officer PP Michael Trotman.
The Elected officers were:
Vice-president - PP Marcel Murrell
Secretary - Rtn Mechelle Lewis
Treasurer - Tres Dion Franklyn
Directors - Dir Graham Belle
Dir Kemi Brewster
IPP Terry Hall
Dir Morexa Martin-Gardiner
Rtn Courtney Ramsay
Dir Shem Scantlebury
President Elect 2027/28 - Sec Ryan Best
PP Michael Forde was pinned as PHF+2 and the winner of the weekly raffle was PHF Denise Shepherd-Johnson.
Upcoming Meeting Details
Wednesday January 7th - 6:30pm Zoom Business Meeting
Wednesday January 14th- 6:30pm In-person Joint clubs fellowship quiz
Wednesday January 21st- 12:30pm Zoom Lunch Meeting
Wednesday January 28th- 12:30pm In-Person Lunch- Vocational Awards
Upcoming Events
January is Vocational Service Month
District Governor's Visit: January 15-18
Meals on Wheels
Red Cross Building Warrens
Thursday January 15th
at 8:30 AM
Bridgetown Feeding
Independence Square Bridgetown
Monday January 26th
at 5:30 PM
Meals will be provided by:
IPP Terry Hall
PP Michael Trotman
Rtn Rosanne Trotman
Inspirational
"Live life as if everything is rigged in your favour."
– Rumi
Club Directors & Officers
President: Jacklyn Broomes
Vice President: PP Stephen Broome
Immediate Past President: PP Terry Hall
President Elect: Kerryann Ifill
Secretary: Ryan Best
Treasurer: Dion Franklin
Director Service Projects: Shem Scantlebury
Director Club Administration: Morexa Martin-Gardiner
Director Rotary Foundation: PP Vivian-Ann Gittens
Director Public Image: Graham Belle
Director of Membership: Carrie-Ann Morris-Searle
Director of Youth: Kemi Brewster
Sergeant-at-Arms: PP Brian Lashley
Rotary International Officers
President - Francesco Arezzo
President Elect - Olayinka Hakeem Babalola
General Secretary/CEO - John Hewko
District Officers
District Governor - Soraya Warner-Gustave (St Lucia)
District Governor Elect - Maurice Saad (Pointe-a-Pitre)
Assistant Governor - Paul Ashby (Barbados)
Let's Celebrate
Belated Birthdays
4th December - Michael Searle PIS Carrie-Ann Morris-Searle
8th December - Trevor Sealy
9th December - Randolph Straughan
18th December - Cleviston Haynes
20th December - Kerryann Ifill
20th December - Courtney Ramsay
Birthdays
5th January - Nisha Thani (PIS Hiranand Thani)
17th January - Jamalia Frederick
22nd January - Nicole Hall
25th January - Malcolm Mapp
26th January - Robert Chase
29th January - David Clarke
Anniversaries
3rd January - Terry Hall and PIS Howard
7th January - Cleviston Haynes and PIS Claire
16th January - Patricia Downes-Grant and PIS
Rotary Club of Barbados South - Spotlight
Hamper Packing 2025
Once again our hamper packing project was a resounding success. We managed to prepare and distribute 200 hampers to needy families. This year, we were able to add a few more items to the packages than we did last year.
Bright and early on December 13th, Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors and a few friends gathered at Guardian General Sports Club to assist with the effort. It was a well organized system of fellowship and fun. After the packing was completed, we attached the tags which were personalized by the students of the Interact Clubs of Queen's Collage and Princess Margaret Secondary.
The usual treats were provided that allowed us to fellowship over breakfast when we were finished. Well done PE Kerryann and her team in ensuring that we were able to attract the appropriate funding and sponsorship to allow us to yet again execute this legacy project.
A special thank you to Rtn Nigel for allowing us to use the premises at Guardian General and to anyone who contributed in any way to making this effort a success.
Colours of Christmas
For the second consecutive year, the Rotary Club of Barbados South was able to partner with the Kevin Greenidge Charitable Trust and the Rotaract Club of South Barbados to bring Christmas Cheer to the children of the Nightingale Children's Home under the leadership of Dir Kemi.
After the Hamper packing effort was completed on December 13th, Rotarians moved to the residence of the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados to participate in the wrapping of the presents for more than 80 children. Additionally, hampers were prepared to be presented to the children's home. These hampers were stuffed with supplies that were generously donated by Rotarians, Rotaractors and Interactors. Following this effort, a small group visited the children's home to erect and decorate a Christmas tree.
On December 14th, a large group consisting of Rotarians from RCBS, Rotaractors from the Rotaract Club of South Barbados, Interactors from the Interact Clubs of Queen's College and Princess Margaret Secondary School along with representatives from the Kevin Greenidge Charitable Trust descended on the home to bring Christmas cheer. This group hosted an amazing party for the children which involved painting, colouring, making Christmas decorations, karaoke and fun games. The group also provided tasty treats and drinks to the children.
The highlight of the afternoon was the visit from Mrs. Claus who presented beautifully wrapped gifts to each of the children at the home. DJ Shady once again facilitated the background music, the music for musical chairs and the hosting of the karaoke.
The administrators were extremely happy and expressed satisfaction with the items that the group gifted to the home for use with the children. Apparently it was all more than they had expected.
Well done to all concerned!!! This well executed effort is the type of thing that makes Christmas memorable.
Favourite Things
Yet again PP Irving, PIS Ayo and their planning committee organized a spectacular event in the form of our Classical Best of Youth concert featuring the Barbados Youth Symphony Orchestra directed by Joy Knight GCM and our special guests Myles Gittens and Shantal Martin.
The night was extraordinary!! Made more so by the return of the “voice” with PHF Denise as master of ceremonies. Special thanks to President Jacklyn for crafting and delivering an address that articulated what our favourite things should be all about and the many Rotarians and Rotaractors who came together to ensure that the show was a success.
Extra special thank you to PP Hiro and the other Rotarians who consistently contribute financially toward making this event a success. None of this would be possible without you.
Images of the elves - the volunteers who gave of their time on the big night (missing are PP Peter, Sec Ryan, Rtn Courtney, Rtn Glyne and Rtn Kammie)
Bridgetown Feeding
Images of Individuals who assisted at Bridgetown Feeding.
Another successful installation of Bridgetown feeding was completed on December 29th 2025. Tres Dion, Dir Morexa and Rtn Damian provided the meals on behalf of RCBS. We were able to serve a total of 90 meals, as only 36 were delivered from RCBW and not the usual 54.
Meal distribution happened quickly, thanks to the efficiency of the Rotarians who were present. Thank you to everyone who came out to assist. This project makes a significant impact on the lives of needy Barbadians and none of this will be possible without you.
We’re deeply grateful for donors like you who make Doing Good in the World possible. Your support this year helps The Rotary Foundation fund meaningful, sustainable projects that improve lives in communities where Rotary members serve.
With contributions from donors like you around the globe, Rotary members work with each other and our partners to accomplish amazing things that transform communities. Your gifts are so much more than donations. They bring health, opportunities, and hope to neighbors, friends, and families. Learn more about how we are accomplishing this together.
Thank you for your dedication to helping people through Rotary service and by your generous gifts to our Foundation. Your support allows these projects to change lives, and we are truly grateful.
Sincerely,
The Rotary Foundation.
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL
UNITE FOR GOOD IN TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN ROTARY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION,
13–17 JUNE 2026
Everyone’s Talking About Taipei—Don’t Be the One Who Misses Out!
Let’s be honest, by now you've probably heard someone mention the 2026 Rotary International Convention in Taipei. Maybe you've even said, “Sounds cool,” without really thinking much more about it.
But here’s the thing: this one’s going to be different. Over 30,000 Rotarians from around the world will be attending this multi day event. Districts are organizing travel groups, roommates are being lined up, and pre/post trips are starting to take shape. You don’t want to be the one left out.
Register Early and Save Don’t miss out on early registration savings!
Hotel space is filling up quickly. Book your accommodations early! Keep in mind that General Sessions will be held at the Taipei Dome. Breakout Sessions and the House of Friendship will take place at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center (TaiNEX). Strategically choose lodging close to the areas you’ll spend the most time in. Click here to book your hotel.
Host Organizing Committee (HOC) Events
Don’t miss the exciting local experiences planned by the Host Organizing Committee during Convention Week!
📍 End Polio Now Cycling Tour Dates: Sunday, June 7 – Saturday, June 13, 2026
Embark on a 7-day cycling journey in support of Rotary’s signature cause.
🏃 3K or 12.5K Run Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026 Time: 6:00–9:30 AM
Start your day with a scenic run—choose your distance and pace!
🎭 Taiwanese Opera Experience Date: Sunday, June 14, 2026 Reception: 6:30 PM | Performance: 7:30–9:30 PM
Immerse yourself in Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage through this special performance.
🍽️ Host Hospitality Night Date: Sunday, June 14, 2026 Time: 5:30–9:00 PM
Enjoy warm fellowship and local flavor with clubs from across the region.
🎼 NSO Rotary Evening Gala (Symphony Performance) Date: Monday, June 15, 2026 Reception: 6:30 PM | Concert: 7:30–9:30 PM
An elegant evening featuring the National Symphony Orchestra in celebration of Rotary.
This is our paired Zone’s signature tradition—an evening of fellowship, laughter, and inspiration from our Rotary leadership during Convention week. It will take place on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 5:00–8:00 PM. Whether you drop in for a bit or stay the whole time, you’re welcome and encouraged to join us for this fun and meaningful gathering.
Stay tuned for the location and ticket purchase details. The timing is designed to be flexible, so you can come for an hour or more and still enjoy other Sunday events on the Convention schedule. We can’t wait to come together again—it won’t be the same without you!
Recorded Zoom Session
Our first Taipei Promotions Team Zoom Session in October featured Rotarian and travel expert, PRID Brad Howard. Brad shared what to expect at a Rotary International Convention and some of the not to miss events. If you missed it, check out the recording here: https://youtu.be/xy6jFni4xeM.
Current Taipei Attendance Statistics: Top Paid Countries
Taiwan – 23,057
United States – 1,922
Japan – 1,870
Korea – 755
Philippines – 516
Nigeria – 471
India – 412
Canada – 265
Uganda – 165
Zone 33 – 144
Zone 34 - 218
Fun Taipei Fact: What is the Taipei 101?
Taipei 101 is a 101-story skyscraper in Taipei, Taiwan, famous for its iconic design. The tower's design is a stylized bamboo stalk, with eight sections of eight floors each, symbolizing good fortune. It is also known for its lotus flower-like base. It is the 11th tallest building in the world and was the tallest building in the world from 2004 to 2009.
For overall Taipei Convention promotions, contact your Zone Promotions Chairs: PDG Debra (Debbie) Corbett
📧 debbcorbett@gmail.com | 📞 (704) 340-1806 PDG Heather Kellen
📧 hakellen@gmail.com | 📞 (478) 244-1714
Rotary District 7030
Registration is still open for the 2026 District Conference in St Lucia
Rotary District 7030 Conference 2026 – St. Lucia Awaits!
Save the Date: 22nd to 25th April 2026 Location: Stunning Saint Lucia
Get ready to Experience Rotary in Paradise at the 2026 District Conference!
From vibrant culture to breathtaking views, this conference will be a celebration of Service, Fellowship, and Impact. Don’t miss your chance to connect, collaborate, and create lasting memories with Rotarians from across our District.
One of the most significant features of all our Christmas activity was the Rotary South family fellowship.
The members of the Rotaract Club of South Barbados, the Interact Club of Queen's College and the Interact Club of Princess Margaret Secondary School contributed significantly to all the projects which occurred throughout the Christmas season.
Both Interact clubs participated in personalizing the tags for the Christmas hampers. Both Interact groups and Rotaract South also donated supplies to the hampers that were presented to the Nightingale Children's Home. The backpacks that were presented to the home were all provided by Rotaract South.
The members of Rotaract south as well as both interact clubs were present to assist with hamper packing and hosting the Colours of Christmas event. Their participation made a significant contribution, especially to the fun and fellowship at the children's party.
Finally, the members of Rotaract South especially, President Shanika, contributed significantly to Favourite Things as they showed up on both night to assist with the cast refreshments. The fellowship and service was amazing!! These are the things that contribute to the building of a strong and integrated Rotary family. Well done everyone!!!!
Please click the images below to find out more about our club members
Past Presidents
Paul Harris Fellow
Honorary Rotarians
THE OBJECT OF ROTARY
The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and in particular, to encourage and foster:
First: The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service;
Second: High ethical standards in business and professions; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society;
Third: The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business and Community life.
Fourth: The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service
THE FOUR WAY TEST
ROTARY GRACE
RCBS Banking Information
Club Account: CIBC Rendezvous 09616-1625923
Charitable Trust Inc. Account: CIBC Bridgetown 09606– 1001168072
Mailing Address: Club Secretary, G.P.O Box #995, Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies.
Rotary Club of Barbados South Charter Banner