37,000 Rotarians. One Purpose. One Rotary Family. By Colleen Coons
Attending the Rotary International Convention in Taipei was an unforgettable experience and a powerful reminder of what is possible when people of action come together. More than 37,000 Rotarians from around the world gathered in Taipei, including an incredible 20,000 Rotarians from Taiwan, creating an atmosphere filled with energy, friendship, innovation, and service.
Throughout the convention, I was inspired by thought-provoking general sessions, engaging breakout workshops, and the vibrant House of Friendship, where Rotarians shared projects, ideas, and best practices from every corner of the globe. While our languages, cultures, and traditions may differ, one thing was abundantly clear—we are united by a common purpose: creating lasting change in our communities and around the world.
Taipei was an exceptional host city. The warmth, hospitality, and generosity of the Taiwanese people made every visitor feel welcome, and the pride of the Taiwanese Rotarians shined throughout the entire convention. It was a true celebration of Rotary's global reach and the friendships that connect us across continents.
I returned home inspired, energized, and grateful to represent Rotary District 5495. The experience reinforced that Rotary is far greater than any one club or district—it is a worldwide network of leaders and volunteers who are united through service, friendship, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
As Rotary looks toward the future, the spirit of "Unite for Good" is more than a theme—it is a call to strengthen our connections, embrace new ideas, and work together to create even greater impact in our communities.
I look forward to sharing highlights, key takeaways, and ideas from the convention with our district. Join us on August 6, when I'll provide a more detailed recap of this incredible experience and discuss how we can bring what we learned in Taipei back to District 5495.
