A President's Lesson in Shared Leadership

My experience as the Rotary Club president of RC Metro San Pedro was a study in contradictions. I was a leader, but I led from thousands of miles away. Apt for the literal definition of the theme, The Magic of Rotary.

My year was defined by the limitations of virtual connections, no matter how hard I tried to bridge the distance with technology. I kept in touch with my team, but I couldn't be there for the moments that truly matter. I missed the camaraderie of a fun run, the feeling of serving my community on a medical mission, and the personal handshake at an induction ceremony. These are the moments that forge real bonds and build a strong local network—the very things I was tasked with nurturing.

It wasn't that I was an absent leader; I was just a leader in a different context. I was a "People of Action" in Uganda, actively participating in clubs there, exchanging banners, and fostering a global fellowship. Yet, in my club in the Philippines, I was a virtual presence, a voice on a screen. This duality was a unique and challenging position to navigate.

(My sister reading my acceptance speech last August 2024)

At first, I regretted my absence, wondering if I could have done more. But then I realized the Gold distinction our club received wasn't a personal award for me. It was a testament to the incredible strength and dedication of my team. Our past presidents were the true heroes, stepping up to take on the burden of my absence. They taught me that true leadership isn't about one person at the helm; it's about a collective of committed individuals who inspire and support one another.

My story became a lesson in redefining success. It showed me that the highest possible honor doesn't always measure success, but by the resilience of the team and the fulfillment of our mission. The Gold award is a powerful symbol of our club's success—a success I was able to enable by trusting and empowering others.

~dee end~