Recognition of service reflects global impact and humility
This recognition of service is not a finish line, but a recommitment to the values that bring Rotarians together across communities and continents.
I had the honour and privilege of receiving the Service Above Self Award at the hands of Rotary International President-Elect Olayinka Hakeem Babalola.
The Rotary International Service Above Self Award is the organization’s highest honor for individual Rotarians, recognizing up to 150 members worldwide annually for their exceptional, sustained volunteer humanitarian service. It highlights personal dedication to “Service Above Self” rather than just holding club offices.
The meaning behind the Service Above Self Award
To stand before you today as a recipient of the Service Above Self Award is an honour that leaves me both deeply moved and incredibly humbled.
When I first joined Rotary, I was drawn to the simple yet profound idea that we could accomplish more together than we ever could alone. I didn’t set out to win an award; I simply wanted to be part of the “Magic of Rotary” that unique alchemy where diverse professionals turn their shared compassion into tangible change.
“The motto Service Above Self represents a daily choice to serve beyond ourselves.”
The motto “Service Above Self” is more than just a phrase etched onto a plaque. To me, it represents a daily choice to look beyond our own horizons and see the needs of our neighbors, both across the street and across the globe. Whether we were working on local literacy initiatives, providing clean water, or supporting the global fight to end polio, I have always felt that the true reward was in the work itself.
However, no one achieves anything in Rotary in isolation. This recognition belongs equally to my fellow club members and colleagues in D3141 who stood beside me in the heat of service, to my family who supported my long hours away from home, and to the community members who trusted us to partner with them.
“True leadership is found in stewardship, and our greatest legacy is the kindness we leave behind.”
A recommitment to Rotary’s enduring mission
You have all taught me that true leadership is found in stewardship and that our greatest legacy is the kindness we leave behind.
While I am profoundly grateful for this recognition, I view it not as a finish line, but as a recommitment. There is still much to be done. Let this moment serve as a reminder to all of us that when we put service above self, we do not just change the world we change ourselves.
Thank you, Rotary International, and DG Dr Manish Motwani for this incredible honor and for the opportunity to serve.
