Title: Lessons in Leadership and Compassion: My Journey with the Rotary Club of Wexford
As the current President of the Rotary Club of Wexford for 2023/2024 and member since 2020, I’ve embarked on a journey that has not only transformed me as a leader but also deepened my understanding of community, empathy, and the power of giving back.
Embracing Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
Leading a diverse and dynamic group like the Rotary Club of Wexford, I’ve learned that emotional intelligence is the heartbeat of effective leadership. It’s about more than just managing tasks and organising events; it’s about connecting with a diverse group of people on a human level. Understanding the emotions, motivations, and aspirations of our members and the community we serve has been pivotal. This empathetic approach has not only nurtured a more inclusive and supportive club atmosphere but has also driven our initiatives to be more impactful and resonant with the community’s needs through our projects including Careers Connect, Just 1 Life, Youth leadership Development, Interact Loreto, Bikes for Africa, Christmas Hampers, Rotary Tree of Remembrance and some exciting new initiatives coming up with our environmental project group.
A Transformative Leadership Journey
Joining the Rotary Club of Wexford in 2020 marked the beginning of a profound phase in my leadership path. I was honoured to take up the President role in July 2023 after serving as secretary and vice President. Each meeting, project, and interaction within the community has been an essential building block in this transformative journey. Since stepping away from the corporate world in 2021 after two decades, I’ve embraced the challenges and triumphs that come with change. Leadership for me has evolved into a lifelong learning journey, underpinned by humility and a growth mindset. It’s about inspiring action through personal example, leading with a blend of integrity, vision, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to service above self.
Finding a group where I could be my authentic self, feel a sense of belonging, and fulfil my passion for giving back was paramount in this new chapter of my life. The Rotary Club has not just met these needs but has exceeded my expectations, providing a platform where I can contribute meaningfully while continuing to grow both personally and professionally and make lifelong friendships along the journey. This experience has been more than just a role; it’s been a vital part of my journey towards becoming a more impactful, empathetic, and service-driven leader.
The Power of Relationships and Community Engagement
One of the most profound lessons from my time with the Rotary Club has been the importance of relationships and active community engagement. Whether it’s through local projects, fundraising events, or international partnerships, the strength of our club lies in the bonds we forge – within our group, our Rotary Ireland network and with the broader community. These relationships are the channels through which we make a real difference, be it in supporting educational initiatives, creating road safety awareness or aiding international humanitarian efforts including the End polio now project.
Giving Back: The Heart of Rotary
At its core, Rotary is about service above self. This ethos has reinforced my belief in the significance of giving back. The joy and fulfilment that come from making a positive difference in someone’s life are immeasurable. It’s a reminder that in whatever capacity we can, giving back to our community is not just a responsibility but a privilege that enriches our lives in countless ways.
As I continue my journey with the Rotary Club of Wexford, I carry with me the lessons of emotional intelligence, the growth from transformative leadership experiences, and the enduring value of community relationships. These experiences have not only shaped me as a leader but have also reinforced the belief that together, we can make a lasting, positive impact on the community we live in Wexford and the world around us.
Interested in learning more about the Rotary Club of Wexford please visit our website on www.rotarywexford.com or contact us on rotarywexford@gmail.com
In leadership and service,
Natasha
