As part of Interact Week celebrations, our club organized an empowering and transformative training session led by Dr. Rtn. PHF. V. Vijayakumaran, a distinguished Rotarian and experienced community leader. His session served as a guiding light for Interactors eager to deepen their understanding of Rotary values, enhance leadership skills, and inspire positive change. This event not only provided invaluable training but also reinforced our commitment to Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.”

Objectives of the Training Session

The primary goal of this training session was to prepare young Interactors to lead with confidence and integrity in their service projects. The session aimed to foster three essential aspects among participants:

Leadership Development: To cultivate strong leadership qualities in young Interactors, empowering them to take on responsibilities within their communities.
Community Service Understanding: To deepen their understanding of community service, enabling them to design impactful projects that address local needs.
Rotary’s Ideals: To instill Rotary values and ethics, creating a foundation of “Service Above Self” that they can carry into their future endeavors.
Session Highlights

Dr. Vijayakumaran’s session was both interactive and reflective, creating a lively environment that engaged every participant. He shared personal stories from his years of service, emphasizing how leadership extends beyond titles—it is about taking action and making a difference. His words resonated deeply, particularly as he highlighted real-life instances where community initiatives significantly improved the lives of others. This approach allowed Interactors to see the tangible impact of their service efforts and understand the importance of each project they undertake.

Leadership Insights and Practical Skills

One of the session’s key focuses was on developing practical leadership skills. Dr. Vijayakumaran introduced concepts like effective communication, decision-making under pressure, and the importance of team collaboration. The Interactors participated in group activities, where they practiced these skills firsthand, simulating real-world challenges they might encounter in future projects. This hands-on approach proved beneficial, providing them with strategies to tackle common obstacles and create successful outcomes.

Fostering a Spirit of Community Service

The session also addressed the significance of community service, helping Interactors to view their roles as change-makers within society. Dr. Vijayakumaran emphasized empathy and understanding as critical components of service, encouraging participants to look beyond immediate problems and consider long-term solutions. By highlighting the purpose and rewards of community involvement, he inspired Interactors to create projects that have a lasting, positive impact on their communities.

Inspiring the Spirit of Rotary

To conclude the session, Dr. Vijayakumaran spoke about the values that define Rotary, particularly the ethos of “Service Above Self.” He shared the Rotary Four-Way Test, challenging Interactors to use it as a moral compass in all areas of their lives. His guidance instilled a sense of pride and belonging within the Rotary family, encouraging Interactors to embrace these principles in their personal growth journeys.

Outcomes and Impact

The training session proved to be an enlightening experience, motivating Interactors to set high standards for themselves and their service projects. With renewed energy and commitment, participants left with a clearer vision of how they can contribute to the Rotary mission and become effective leaders within their communities. The guidance and mentorship from Dr. Vijayakumaran laid a strong foundation for future projects, reinforcing the belief that each Interactor has the potential to drive meaningful change.