Rotary Unites for Good: A Vision for 2025–26 from Calgary
At the 2025 Rotary International Convention in Calgary, Canada, President-elect Francesco Arezzo inspired a global audience with his call to action: “Unite for Good.” Delivered in front of more than 14,000 Rotarians from across the world, the atmosphere in the Calgary Stampede venue was electric. The stadium was filled with pride, hope, and unity as Rotary charted its course into the future.
Amid vibrant cultural showcases, powerful stories of impact, and cross-border fellowship, Arezzo’s message resonated deeply. His speech wasn’t just ceremonial and marked a strategic shift for the organisation: simplifying the traditional annual “theme” into a single, enduring message aligned with Rotary’s long-term Action Plan. Our very own Kalma McLellan and John Dodd both Past District Governors travelled all the way to Canada to attended the convention. They had a fantastic time and are still buzzing with excitement. They are sharing their impressions and learning from the event.
A New Era of Unity and Purpose
Gone are the days of annually changing themes and logos. Instead, President Arezzo has introduced a clear, consistent message that aligns with Rotary’s long-term Action Plan and global vision:
“Unite for Good” is more than a motto. It is a commitment—to each other, to service, and to the shared values that make Rotary a global force for good.”
— Francesco Arezzo
Francesco’s message resonated powerfully as he spoke from the main stage in Calgary, surrounded by vibrant cultural showcases, heartfelt stories of impact, and a truly international audience.
Key Priorities from President Arezzo
1. Unity as Rotary’s Superpower
In a world increasingly divided, Rotary stands as a model of collaboration and connection. “Unite for Good” encourages members to bridge divides across cultural, generational, and geographical lines by embracing meaningful service.
“I am truly inspired to be part of an organisation with global reach.”
— Kalma McLellan
2. Service That Connects Communities
Rotary clubs are encouraged to focus on collaborative projects that create lasting change in priority areas such as:
Polio eradication
Peace and conflict resolution
Clean water and sanitation
Education and literacy
Maternal and child health
Disease prevention and health access
3. Welcoming the Next Generation
Arezzo passionately called for greater engagement across all levels of Rotary: from Interact to Rotaract to cause-based clubs. By fostering flexibility, mentorship, and inclusiveness, Rotary can grow stronger and more resilient for the future.
4. Strategic Continuity
Rather than change for the sake of change, Francesco Arezzo supports building on past successes and aligning club activities with Rotary’s four Action Plan priorities:
Increase impact
Expand reach
Enhance participant engagement
Improve adaptability
Ryde Rotary is already on this path of this transformation and our strategic plan is already being executed. Just looking at our new webpage and social media pages the change is tangible.
5. Stronger Global Partnerships
Rotary’s strength lies not only in its people, but in its partnerships. President Arezzo highlighted the importance of continuing collaborations with organisations such as the Gates Foundation, WHO, and UNICEF, while also forming new alliances to scale our impact.
The Spirit of Calgary
The Calgary Convention radiated everything Rotary represents: global friendship, shared purpose, and joy in service. Delegates in cowboy hats and cultural dress exchanged stories, ideas, and hugs. Project showcases inspired new ideas, and the plenary sessions sparked a renewed sense of purpose. John thoroughly enjoyed watching the Calgary Stampede and is still in awe how one horse rider could swap across three horses without dismounting. For Kalma the wonderful hospitality of the Rotarians of Calgary really stood out and she was truly impressed how they could put on such an amazing spread for such a huge crowd.
“What an amazing experience at the International Convention in Calgary. I just made 15,000 new friends.”
— John Dodd
President Arezzo’s address, was delivered with sincerity and humility and drew multiple standing ovations. His decades of Rotary service, combined with his professional background as an orthodontist and leader in Rotary Italy, brought both credibility and warmth to his message. Find out more about him in this interview from the convention.
Looking Ahead
“Unite for Good” is not just a theme for 2025/26. It’s a call to action that invites all of us to build bridges, strengthen communities, and serve with heart.
Whether you're a long-standing Rotarian or a new member, this is the time to embrace Rotary’s global mission and create impact that lasts.
Let’s unite and let’s do good, together.