Speech delivered in Dist 3132 at Aurangabad
“Lead with Heart: Rotary’s Call to Inspire Leadership”
Dear Friends and Fellow Rotarians,
Welcome to the District Training Assembly—a place where ideas come alive, leadership takes root, and hearts unite for service.
Think of this assembly as Rotary’s very own university: a vibrant arena where passion meets purpose, where learning becomes the launchpad for action. This is where future club leaders like you begin—not a slow marathon, but a 365-day sprint to touch lives and transform communities.
In Rotary, leaders may change, but the mission remains unshakable. Passing the baton doesn’t mean stepping aside—it means moving forward together, side by side, encouraging one another with each stride.
Rotary’s strength lies not in buildings or banners—it lies in you. In your heart. In your will to serve. As the world changes, so must we. As needs evolve, so must our service.
You are not just leaders—you are equals among equals. Leading Rotarians isn’t about hierarchy—it’s about humility. It’s not about command—it’s about connection.
As Mahatma Gandhi once said:
“I must follow the people, for I am their leader.”
Leadership is not about walking ahead or behind—but walking with.
This year’s theme, “Unite for Good,” calls on us to light the path for others—with compassion, courage, and clear communication.
Our DGE Sudhir brings with him global insights, fresh perspectives, and boundless energy from the International Assembly. He will guide us—but it is you who must carry the torch.
So ask yourself:
Can I lead?
Better yet: How will I lead?
Because leadership is both an art and a science:
The Art of making friends, awakening enthusiasm, and inspiring heartsThe Science of turning dreams into action, multiplying efforts, and uniting diversityRotary gives ordinary people like us the chance to do extraordinary things.
From eradicating polio to responding to a global pandemic, Rotary has proven again and again:
When Rotarians act, the world changes.
Today, as we prepare for the new Rotary year, we reflect on the miracles achieved through Rotary and The Rotary Foundation. Together, we’ve combined efforts, aligned resources, and created lasting change.
Yes, there’s so much left to do—but if any organization can help transform our world, it’s Rotary.
And if any individual can make a difference, it’s YOU.
You might ask: What can one person do?
As Margaret Mead reminds us:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
So be the leader who inspires not by command—but by example.
Place the right person in the right role.
Recognize that even flaws can carry purpose—like the story of the cracked pot. What we perceive as imperfections may be the very source of beauty.
Put your heart into everything you do.
Mother Teresa, once called “the most powerful woman on Earth,” was asked what gave her such strength. Her reply was simple, yet profound:
“Small work with great love.”
That love comes from the heart. That’s why we say:
Put your heart in what you do.
Success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about what you become in the process.
Let go of ego.
Communicate with clarity.
Appreciate and recognize your team.
Be flexible. Be inclusive.
There’s no room for division. Divisiveness is a disease we must never allow into our clubs. Your leadership must unite—not divide.
Motivation is the key to momentum.
Don’t just speak inspiration—walk it.
A great leader builds not with one hand—but with both—working shoulder to shoulder with others.
Stay humble. Stay hungry:
Hungry to serve.
Hungry to grow.
Hungry to lead with heart.
Let this Training Assembly be your spark.
Not just a place to learn, but a moment that ignites real, lasting change.
Let’s make 2025–26 a Rotary year with no regrets.
A year filled with bold actions, warm hearts, and purposeful leadership.
A year better than the best.
Because the future of Rotary… is YOU.
And when you lead with heart, remember:
“Service Above Self” is not just our motto—it is our mission.
And Rotary… truly creates miracles.
Wishing you a year full of heart, hope, and heroic service.
Let’s Lead. Let’s Serve. Let’s Unite for Good.