ROTARACT at iLEAD

It is not every time that one gets an opportunity to be associated with an internationally accredited charitable society comprising business minds and professionals spanning across continents, cultures and occupations. iLEAD helped its students (Management department) to mingle with leaders who have taken strong action in exchanging ideas and inviting more such minds. We are talking about Rotary International or Rotarians who are now close to 1.2 million in number and belong to 200 countries (approx), just to devote time and talent in tackling the world's major humanitarian issues.

On the afternoon of 5th of May, the Institute of Leadership, Entrepreneurship & Development arranged a one-hour session of discussion with fellow Rotarians for its students. For starters, Rotaracts are groups that the Rotary Clubs organize to promote leadership, service among youngsters and overall professional development. At present, there are more than 8000 Rotaract clubs in 167 countries. The real reason for arranging this talk session was the desire of the Rotary Club of Calcutta Samaritans for adopting a Rotaract Club under Rotary International District 3291 at iLEAD to be its partner in service. Besides, students would get a great opportunity to interact with experts and learn how to enhance their career as they contribute whole-heartedly towards community and social development.

Among the dignitaries was present Rotarian Amitava Mookherjee, past district Governor International District 3291, Sayan Gupta, President of Rotaract Club of MSIT, Rotarian Vaijayanti Bose, ex-President of Rotary Club of Calcutta Samaritans and Zonal Secretary 17-18 of Rotary International District 3291 and Rotarian Sanjiv Gandhi, District Rotaract Chair who was himself a Rotarian for many years.

The discussion began as Mr. Sanjeev Gandhi provided an intro about how the movement began in its initial days. Being associated with the Youth Movemnet, he stressed on how the students can benefit by joining a Rotaract Club. The partnership with organizations, scholarships, youth exchange and leadership programs, project grants and most importantly the motto of 'service above self' are reason why youngsters these days have understood the importance of being a Rotary member.

Soon after, a very young person Sayan Gupta beautifully explained how he benefitted from his school days by being a amber here. He gave a presentation to iLEADERS and discussed at length about the Rotary Structure (Interact for 13-18 years, Rotaract for 18-30 years and Rotary after 30), alongside other vital projects and four important avenues, which included community service, club service, professional development and international service. He stood a fine example who began early in life and went on to became the President by sheer hard work and dedication.

The discussion came to an end after the 'storehouse of knowledge'; Mr. Amitava Mookherjee inspired students about how it can bring about terrific transformation in them. One has to learn the intricacies of joining this movement and the benefits will speak naturally.

The session was truly enlightening and quite a number of iLEAD students were interested in joining the Club. Needless to say, organizing the event was truly a success.