Rotary International’s Focus on Youth and Expansion: RI President-Elect Camargo

October 1, Hyderabad: Rotary International President-Elect Mário César Martins de Camargo, who is set to assume the role of President in 2025, visited Hyderabad to attend the Rotary Global Members Conclave. During this, Camargo, highlighted the need for a stronger presence on social media to attract younger members and broaden the organization’s global impact. He acknowledged that Rotary's current engagement on social platforms needs improvement and called for a shift in mindset, stating that while Rotary's rich history is important, the focus must now be on the future.

Camargo emphasized Rotary’s unique leadership development opportunities, positioning it as a prime choice for young people seeking to grow professionally. He spoke from personal experience, sharing how joining Rotary at 23 years old during an exchange program transformed his life and career. Rotary, he said, offers an unparalleled global network, connecting local clubs to an organization spanning 185 countries.

He praised the growth of Rotary in India, where membership has doubled over the past 20 years, fueled by the country’s burgeoning middle class. This, he believes, represents the organization's best chance for global growth. He noted that Rotary’s overall global membership stands at 1.2 million. He stressed the need to increase numbers to tackle key community challenges such as peace, sanitation, and literacy.

Camargo urged the media to help promote Rotary’s mission and work beyond its existing membership base. "We are in the business of changing lives," he said, stressing the importance of publicizing Rotary's positive contributions to attract new members and expand its reach. On parting note, Camargo urged youth to join the Rotary.

Key Points from Camargo's Interview:

Camargo’s Visit to India:

This was Camargo's seventh visit to India, starting from 2008.

Observes significant economic growth and infrastructure expansion with each visit.

Rotary’s Global Presence:

Rotary International comprises 1.2 million volunteers, with 120,000 younger members known as Rota Rectors.

Focus on connecting professionals and developing leadership skills, especially through international exchanges.

Membership Growth Priorities:

Camargo aims to increase the number of Rotarians, which has stagnated at 1.2 million globally.

Emphasizes the importance of showcasing Rotary’s community projects to attract new members.

Three-Year Plan for Membership and Fundraising:

Rotary follows a rolling three-year plan for membership development and raising funds for the Rotary Foundation’s humanitarian efforts.

India’s membership growth has been exceptional, growing 102% since 2004.

Partnerships and Polio Eradication:

Rotary has partnered with global organizations, including the Gates Foundation and the Birla Foundation, to support polio eradication efforts.

Over $1.2 billion has been donated towards this cause.

Diversity in Rotary:

Rotary started as a male-only club but now has 27% female participation globally.

Camargo stresses the importance of increasing diversity to enrich discussions and ideas.

Business-like Approach:

Rotary must adopt more business-like strategies in leadership and project management.

A key challenge is nominating the right people for leadership roles in a structure where roles change annually.

Youth-Focused Programs:

Camargo emphasizes Rotary’s commitment to youth programs such as Rotaract, Interact, Youth Exchange, and scholarships.

Personal experience with the youth exchange program had a transformative impact on his life.

Communication and Media Outreach:

Rotary needs to be more active in both social and traditional media to promote its projects and attract younger members.

Wants to shift focus from "who we are" to "what we do" to dispel the perception of Rotary as an elite organization.

Rotary’s International Reach:

Rotary is present in 185 countries and 33 regions worldwide.

Its international network fosters skills development and connects members globally.

Leadership Development:

Rotary provides valuable leadership training, teaching essential skills such as public speaking, motivating others, and volunteering for community service.