IMPACT Speaker Series

Rotary International is accelerating its environmental sustainability efforts worldwide, and this episode gives you exclusive access to its strategy straight from the source. Nicki Clayton, Rotary International’s Area of Focus Manager for the Environment, spearheads the Community Action for Fresh Water initiative —Rotary’s pioneering strategic partnership with the United Nations Environment Progra...

Rotary’s commitment to peace and positive change is at the heart of everything we do. But what happens when the very foundations of that work are undermined by war? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Phill Gittins, an internationally recognized peacebuilder, Rotary Peace Fellow, and Education Director at World Beyond War . Phill will share research, evidence, and powerful real-l...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Marina LeGree, the founding director of Ascend Athletics , as she shares the incredible journey of empowering young women through sports and leadership in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Hear firsthand stories of resilience, teamwork, and personal growth as Marina highlights the real-world impact of Ascend’s programs. Whether you’re interested in girl empowerme...

In this insightful discussion, Jörn Fleck, Senior Director at the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center , explores the key challenges and opportunities shaping the US-EU partnership. From navigating trade disputes and security concerns to Europe's quest for strategic autonomy, this conversation offers expert insights into the future of transatlantic cooperation. Whether you're interested in glo...

Ever feel like your awesome stories are getting LOST in the digital noise? In an era of information overload, storytelling has become both an art and a survival skill. So, how can we effectively tell our stories in an overcrowded ecosystem when we have less than 5 seconds to impress? Join us as we dive into the latest strategies and techniques for crafting compelling narratives that capture attent...

Congo faces immense challenges—conflict, displacement, and systemic poverty. But in the heart of Eastern Congo, the Eastern Congo Initiative (ECI) is transforming humanitarian aid through groundbreaking approaches. Join us as we dive into the inspiring work of ECI, founded by Ben Affleck and Whitney Williams. Discover how they've empowered over 107 Congolese startups, supported 3,700 survivors of...

Hunger affects over 828 million people worldwide, with many working families struggling to put food on the table. Explore how Nick Marino’s initiatives have provided food to over 6 million individuals and mobilized thousands of volunteers. He will share the powerful stories behind his work and the incredible impact of the ⁠ Feed The City ⁠ events. ⁠⁠⁠⁠worldimpactrotary.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@wor...

In this engaging program, you'll learn about the fascinating world of bees and how they serve as a gateway to STEM education, conservation, and environmental stewardship. Discover how the ⁠ Planet Bee Foundation ⁠ is on a mission to change the world - one bee and one mind at a time! ⁠⁠⁠worldimpactrotary.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@worldimpactrotary

What if we told you that the next frontier for Rotary is the Moon? In this episode, we sit down with long-time entrepreneur David van de Velde, the visionary behind the Rotary on the Moon program. Discover how this innovative initiative, which has its roots in an anti-bullying program, aims to connect Rotary Clubs worldwide in a place free from war, politics, and borders. ⁠⁠worldimpactrotary.com⁠⁠...

What were you doing when you were 13 years old? Chances are, not as much as Orion Jean, TIME's 2021 Kid of the Year. Join us for a captivating conversation with the powerhouse behind the " Race to Kindness " campaign. Discover how his journey began, be inspired by his passion for spreading kindness, and learn how you can join the movement. Get ready to be motivated and empowered to m...

Ever wondered how service organizations can be both impactful and incredibly fun? As a change agent for inclusion, Mary Lou Harrison shares her insights from over 50 years of transforming service into a thrilling journey. We'll learn about the magic that happens when unique experiences, talents, and voices come together in service. worldimpactrotary.com youtube.com/@worldimpactrotary

What does it take to create a healthcare space that genuinely respects and embraces Indigenous cultures? Dr. Sean Yaphe, co-founder of the Indigenous Health Centre of Tiohtià:ke , takes us on a profound exploration of cultural safety, wellness, and the power of inclusive healthcare. We'll also discuss the challenges faced by the Indigenous community due to generations of trauma and limited acc...

Ever wondered how a single organization can make a significant impact on global healthcare? What drives their mission? How do they provide healthcare to those who need it the most? Olivia Rennacker, Manager of Partnerships and Philanthropy at Direct Relief, shares insights that will not only expand your understanding of global health challenges but also inspire you to be part of the solution. worl...

What if one man's story could change your perspective on life? Overcoming the challenges of childhood polio, Ronald Kasule faced not only physical obstacles but also societal stigma and the unthinkable prospect of his life being cut short. Against all odds, he not only survived but emerged as a symbol of resilience. For over 15 years, Ronald has been a tireless advocate for disability rights,...

In today's dynamic world, service organizations face unique challenges. But what does it take to overcome them and move forward? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Valarie Wafer, former Rotary International Vice President and a staunch DEIB advocate. Together, we'll explore the art of adaptation, the strength of inclusivity, and the magic of service projects that make a difference....

What does Rotary and heavy metal music have in common? Prepare to be amazed as we dive into the captivating story of the Rotarian Metalhead Fellowship . Inspired by the passion of Felix Heintz , this vibrant community defies stereotypes and celebrates Rotary's diverse spirit. Through this unique fusion, they create a dynamic force for positive change in communities worldwide. Discover how they...

If you have ever started a new life in a different country, you'll relate to Lisi Brizuela 's story. Lisi is the founder of Leb Bunt e. V. , a non-profit organization that runs the award-winning initiative Das Hallo Projekt where she empowers individuals to embrace diversity and fosters intercultural understanding within communities. Discover how her organization creates a mutually benefic...

In this episode, we are joined by Jonathan "JT" Wu , a highly accomplished executive from Georgia with a strong commitment to educational policy and supporting the next generation. As the Founder and Executive Director of Preface , he is dedicated to bringing together public and private sector expertise to help children from all backgrounds access the tools, resources, and mentorship the...

Do you have a hobby or passion you would like to explore with friends from around the world? Do you want to build a global community around your profession or cultural identity? Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Brett Morey is an accomplished surfer, entrepreneur, and dedicated Rotarian who has been making a positive impact on the world for more than 30 years...

Do you happen to be familiar with the idea of DOGOODERY? During this program, you will have the opportunity to hear from Chris Wells , a Rotaractor and Rotarian from the United Kingdom, about his incredible journey and the many challenges he has overcome in his quest to improve the lives of people around him. Chris countered the inevitable existential graduate bothering of his 20s by founding a Ro...

Juana Gräter is the Director of Fundraising for Foundations and Institutions at World Bicycle Relief , a non-profit organization founded in 2005. Nearly one billion people in rural regions of the world live in communities far from the nearest paved road, walking for miles each day to survive. Distance is a barrier to attending school, receiving healthcare, delivering goods to market, and other cri...

Noëlla Coursaris Musunka, a Congolese/Cypriot philanthropist and international model, is the Founder & CEO of Malaika, a grassroots nonprofit that empowers girls and communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo through a school, a community center, and a clean water program.  Founded in 2007, Malaika has grown into a fully-functioning ecosystem that consists of a free accredited school...

Co-Founders and best friends Josh and Adam were looking for ways to give back to the world through business.  Starting with no equity and sharing Adam’s salary on a handshake deal, they’ve built Humanitix , one of the world's leading technology charities, funded by the foundations of Google and Atlassian.    This for-purpose ticketing platform directs 100% of the booking fee profits to educati...

An exciting episode with two of the most influential figures in the global health community. Peter J. Hotez, M.D., Ph. D. , and Maria Elena Bottazzi, Ph. D ., nominees for the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize, are joining us to share their groundbreaking work on vaccines. As leaders in the fight against neglected tropical diseases and COVID-19, these experts have developed a low-cost vaccine and are determi...

For the last episode of 2022, our guest is Rutger Mazel. A historian, senior broadcast journalist for the foreign news section of NOS Nieuws, and member of the Rotary Club of Leefklimaat. 2023 marks the centenary of Rotary in the Netherlands . A unique occasion to reflect on our past and take pride in our accomplishments. Learn more about the first 100 years of service and how to participate in th...