By Enitan Sophie Oluwa

Reflecting on the first 100 days of my presidency, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and hope. For me, being the President of the Trendsetters Club, with the theme “Magic of Rotary” has been an incredible journey. One that has presented both challenges and light we require for our achievements.

Typical of every journey of this nature, at the beginning of this journey, we encountered our share of challenges. Navigating the complexities of project planning, worried about where and how the  funds will be gotten from. As a young woman and development practitioner, I have faced moments of doubt and uncertainty, I mean, no one really tells you how much of a chore rallying community support could get. This particular aspect of leadership tested my resolve as a person. 

In all this, I have also experienced the unflinching support of dedicated members of my club members, family, and friends. From those who listen to me rant, those who guide me and offer advice and suggest better ways to approach tasks. The many encouragement I get from concerned persons have continued to serve as a reminder of the strength the VILLAGE I am curating possesses.

Despite these challenges, this journey has brought me and my Club remarkable milestones. Together, we have initiated impactful projects that address critical needs in our community, from educational initiatives, to health campaigns and youth development. Our Maternal and Child health project where we had a session on radio. We were at Jordan 105.5 FM where we spoke about the importance of supporting young mothers and their babies. In commemoration of World Breastfeeding Week, August 1st – 7th, 2024, we also worked with nursing mothers in Kwakwa Uku Primary HealthCare Centre, Agege. The project included Educational workshops on breastfeeding and maternal health, distributed breastfeeding supplies and nutrition packs, support sessions for new mothers to share experiences and building community. We also donated drugs and consumables to the healthcare centre. 

As part of our commitments to youth leadership and community service, we sponsored five young persons to the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) held at the Citizens and Leadership Training Centre; Sea School, Apapa, Lagos. Our goal is to continually support youngsters on their journey to becoming. We provided mobility support for Miss Abidemi Olajumoke Raji, a polio survivor. For literacy programs and initiatives in line with September as Basic Education and Literacy month in Rotary, we partnered with the Maryland Primary & inclusive school education unit of Maryland to deliver quality education for pupils with special needs. The Club is taking up the responsibility of providing an Arts teacher for a period of one year. The Club has assumed the Salary implications for the position. The Club made a commitment for six months and will renew the same. 

Each project embodies the spirit of service that defines Rotary, proving that we can indeed conjure the magic of change when we unite our efforts. Our collective passion and commitment have transformed ideas into reality, and I am proud of what we have accomplished.

Looking ahead to the 265 days remaining in this Rotary year, I am filled with hope and ambition. For the opportunity we have  to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and continue to inspire others through our work. With your help, I am confident that we can overcome any challenge and amplify our achievements.

Thank you for your trust, your energy, and your belief in the magic of Rotary. Together, let’s make the most of the days ahead!

Enitan Sophie Oluwa is President, Rotary Club of New Lagos, Ikeja, District 9112