Creating an equitable relationship between Rotarians and Rotaractors requires intentional effort from both groups. Here are some key approaches:
1. Mutual respect and recognition
Acknowledge that both groups bring valuable perspectives and skills. Rotarians offer experience and established networks, while Rotaractors bring fresh ideas, technological savvy, and energy.
2. Shared leadership opportunities
Create joint committees with equal representation and decision-making authority from both groups. Rotate leadership roles between Rotarians and Rotaractors.
3. Mentorship that flows both ways.
Establish two-way mentoring where Rotarians guide Rotaractors on professional development, while Rotaractors mentor Rotarians on digital engagement strategies or current social issues.
4. Clear communication channels.
Establish accessible platforms for ongoing dialogue that accommodate both groups preferences.
5. Equal recognition of contributions.
Ensure both groups receive appropriate credit and visibility for their work in club communications and community recognition. The most successful collaborations recognise that equity doesn’t mean treating everyone identically — it means giving each group what they need to be full partners in Rotary’s mission of service.
6. Collaborative project planning.
Design service projects together from inception, ensuring both groups have meaningful input on goals, strategy, and implementation.
7. Regular joint meetings and social events.
Foster personal connections through shared activities to break down generational barriers.
Let me expand on these approaches.
1. Mutual Respect and Recognition
- Hold forums where both groups share their perspectives on Rotary’s core values and how they envision implementing them
- Include Rotaractors in district conferences as speakers, not just attendees
- Acknowledge and celebrate Rotaractors’ status as full Rotary members (since the 2019 Council on Legislation change)
- Create opportunities for Rotaractors to showcase their professional expertise to Rotary clubs
2. Shared Leadership Opportunities
- Appoint Rotaractors to district committees and board positions
- Invite Rotaractors to facilitate Rotary meetings and training sessions
- Include Rotaractors in strategic planning for clubs and districts
- Implement co-leadership models for major initiatives, serving as equal partners
3. Two-Way Mentorship
- Create structured mentorship programs with clear objectives and regular check-ins
- Focus mentorship on specific skills rather than general guidance
- Organise skill-sharing workshops where both groups teach each other their strengths
- Document and share success stories from reverse mentorship experiences
4. Collaborative Project Planning
- Use collaborative planning tools that give everyone equal input
- Establish project teams with balanced representation
- Share budgetary information transparently with all team members
5. Joint Meetings and Social Events
- Schedule meetings at times accessible to working professionals
- Host informal networking events in diverse venues that appeal to multiple generations
- Organise service projects that include social components
- Create shared traditions that become meaningful to both groups
6. Clear Communication Channels
- Establish multiple communication platforms (both traditional and digital)
- Create shared digital workspaces for project collaboration
- Hold regular joint leadership meetings to address concerns from both groups
- Develop feedback mechanisms that ensure all voices are heard
7. Equal Recognition
- Feature Rotaractors and Rotarians equally in club and district communications
- Ensure both groups have access to the same recognition opportunities
- Nominate Rotaractors for Rotary awards and vice versa
- Highlight collaborative successes in both internal and external communications
Written by
Rajiv Mathews George
Past President 2023/24
