Page 8 - Rotary District Conference Programme book

MESSAGE FROM DISTRICT GOVERNOR 2021-22

Keith Chow

Dear Fellow Rotarians,

District Conference is a major annual event of District 3450. It is particularly invaluable this Rotary Year. By the time
you are reading this message, I hope that the District Conference Committee and myself are preparing at the hustle
and bustle hall, getting ready to meet all the fellow Rotarians, Rotaractors and honorable guests in person.

Rotary Year 2021-22 is a tumbling year. We were lucky to enjoy a peaceful six months when most District events
such as District Installation, Intercity Meeting, DLDA and End Polio Day have come to a successful conclusion. I
am glad to witness that many club service projects were delivered on schedule and demonstrate our theme Serve
to Change Lives.

Starting from the second half year and onwards, Hong Kong’s fifth wave of Covid-19 pulled the reins on our
events and service projects. We had to postpone or even call off the Rotary Hong Kong Ultramarathon, Rotary
Service Day, RYLA (for our fellow Rotaractors) etc. However, as what I mentioned at District Installation, it is a
good opportunity for us to ponder, to reflect, and to kick the habit. Over the years, some Rotarians have inevitably
suffered from service fatigue. Some may be satisfied with what they are doing and lose the passion on initiating
new projects in this fast-changing world. As the global pandemic unfolds, a new normal occurs and we must adapt
to it, streamlining the preparation progress, having virtual visits as well as delivering the resources in compliance
with social distancing measures. Yet, the pandemic is a resistance. However, I am proud to witness how Rotarians
convert it into assistance.

District Conference is the time for us to assemble Rotarians, Rotaractors and community leaders. It is the time
to enkindle fellowship, showcase Clubs and District services and achievements. It is the time to share ideas and
demonstrate how Rotarians Serve to Change Lives. It is the time we acknowledge accomplishment by Rotarians
and Clubs. Most importantly, it is the time to engage Rotarians to deepen wisdom on vision of Rotary.

To all dedicated Advisors, Assistant Governors, District Officers, and Presidents, may I present my heartfelt
appreciation for your commitment over the year. Let’s march into Rotary Year 2022-23 with accomplishments and
confidence. With the leadership of incoming District Governor Norman Lee and his team, we shall dream big and
take actions; most importantly, Imagine Rotary.

Yours in Rotary

Keith Chow
District Governor 2021-22
Rotary International District 3450

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