One of the World's Best Kept Leadership Secrets

There are many organizations that use the multiplicity of relationships to effectively lead and make a difference in their community, country and world. Last evening I was fortunate to participate as a part of one such an organization, in a meeting of district presidents and international service directors. The organization is Rotary. www.rotary.org

My first real experience with Rotary was in 2006 when my very dear friend Alex Macrae asked me to be his lunch guest at a regular Rotary meeting. Have you ever walked into a room and within seconds of surveying the room, you feel yourself backing out the door – hoping no one notices as you conclude that you don’t belong?

But for his reassurance of Alex as a long-time member of Rotary and a member of what seemed at the time the Club’s overwhelming demographic, I would not have entertained staying – I would not have given this organization a chance.

That was 2006. Three years later, I am listening to even more amazing stories of the difference Rotarians are making all over the world, the hope and vision of doing more and marvelling at what a special group of people I get to hang with.

You see, my decision (with prompting) has significantly enhanced my understanding of networks, networking and the multiplicity of relationships. It has broadened my leadership dimension and deepened my passion for diversity and engagement.

Next blog, I’ll share specifics of how including Rotary as a part of my leadership, diversity and engagement journey has enriched my life and purpose. Your organization may not be Rotary, indeed you may still be searching – but I often think about my decision to embrace difference and have faith and trust in my friend and mentor when he said Rotary needs you. I think I needed Rotary - one of the world's best kept leadership secrets. Check it out and judge for yourself! www.rotary.org