Newly installed President of Rotary Club of Central Tortola Mr Sanjay Surtani, right, with Past Governor of District 7020, Mr Vance M. Lewis. Photo: Rotary Club of Central Tortola.

Some Members of the Rotary Club of Central Tortola, which was chartered on January 15, 2021. Photo: Rotary Club of Central Tortola

The vibrant Rotary Club of Central Tortola has installed its third President, Mr Sanjay Surtani, who has endeavoured to continue the growth of the club and the club’s core projects, as well as focus on mental wellbeing and literacy. Photo: Rotary Club of Central Tortola

Saving and restoring the mangroves have been a priority for the Rotary Club of Central Tortola. Photo: Facebook

The installation ceremony for Mr Surtani and the new Board was held at CocoMaya on Virgin Gorda on Monday, July 3, 2023.

‘Uniquely positioned to drive transformative change’

Mr Surtani, in his installation speech, said he believes the Rotary Club of Central Tortola, as well as all Rotary Clubs in the VI, with its diverse membership and unwavering commitment to service above self, is uniquely positioned to drive transformative change.

“By leveraging our collective skills, knowledge, and resources, we have the capacity to address pressing issues, uplift the marginalised, and champion the causes that matter most. As the president for Rotary Club of Central Tortola 2023/24, I pledge to lead with vision, compassion, and inclusivity,” Mr Surtani said.

Speaking to Virgin Islands News Online today, July 5, 2023, Mr Surtani emphasised that he wants to ensure continuity in the growth of the club and the clubs core projects, such as the Car Raffle, Christmas present giving, and Mangrove planting to name a few, “as well as ensure we continue to expand our reach in the community through various clean up based initiatives.

“I also, in keeping with the priorities of Rotary International and Our Rotary district, would like to ensure mental wellbeing and literacy is something the club continues to promote and build on.”

‘Stay motivated’- Outgoing President Shan Mohamed

The businessman also extended appreciation and congratulations to the Outgoing President Shan Mohamed and the entire Outgoing Board for their dedication and tireless efforts.

Mr Mohamed, in his final speech as President, said communities face new challenges and evolving needs every day; however, it is the duty of Rotarians to adapt and innovate, to find creative solutions to challenges.

Noting that Rotarians must continue to serve with the same enthusiasm and determination that brought them together, Mr Mohamed encouraged them to stay motivated,

“Remind yourselves of the impact you have made and the lives you have touched. Remember that your service is not in vain, that it matters deeply to those who benefit from it. Let us continue to be the catalysts for change, the champions of our communities. In our hands, we hold the power to transform lives, to create lasting change. Our communities are counting on us, and we cannot afford to let them down.

“Let us lead with courage, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to service. Together, we can build a brighter future and leave a legacy of service that will inspire generations to come,” Mr Mohamed stated.

‘The Action Club’

Dubbed ‘The Action Club’, the Rotary Club of Central was officially chartered on January 15, 2021, with President Ms Nelcia St Jean at the helm.

Its membership continues to grow and the club has been impacting the community with various projects over its short existence.