Catching Up with Three Alumni from RCUI
On a crisp, sunny afternoon in early February, four friends—three alumni and one current member of Rotary Club Utrecht International (RCUI)—gathered for a delightful lunch filled with warm ginger tea, laughter, and engaging conversation. Hailing from different corners of the globe, the group brought a rich diversity of experiences and perspectives to their reunion.
The purpose of their gathering was to reflect on their time with RCUI, share lessons learned, and discuss the impact of their involvement.
Initially, the three alumni had some preconceived notions about Rotary, often picturing it as an organization dominated by older men. However, one alum had a friend who shared a different perspective that piqued her interest and led her to explore Rotary more deeply—ultimately changing her view.
What aspects of being a member of RCUI did you find most enjoyable?
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“The vibrant and diverse group of people I connected with stood out the most. Many of those connections turned into lasting friendships. I also found it incredibly rewarding to contribute to community service initiatives through our active Community Service Committee.”
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“I joined RCUI to meet like-minded people, expand my professional network, and engage with those who were passionate about learning from each other. What made the experience truly enjoyable was the energy and camaraderie of the members. RCUI became a space where I could unwind after work, form meaningful connections, and collaborate on impactful projects.”
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“For me, the sense of purpose stood out. RCUI’s diverse group of members came together with a shared commitment to making a positive impact. This unique blend of perspectives fostered personal growth and created a strong sense of community.”
How has being a member of RCUI contributed to your professional development?
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“The diverse network at RCUI provided opportunities to exchange knowledge with experts across various fields. During our brief membership, we presented, participated in events, and applied our expertise in a dynamic environment.”
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“RCUI offered opportunities to explore topics beyond my usual scope, such as the ‘End Plastic Soup’ project, which broadened my understanding of critical environmental issues.”
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“Participating in projects like the club’s initiative in Kenya deepened my appreciation for Rotary’s impactful work and its role in fostering connections and collaboration.”
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“I valued hands-on service activities like the ‘Night of the Refugee’ walk and NL Doet. These initiatives allowed us to serve others and gain new perspectives, leading to personal growth and a broader outlook.”
Would you consider rejoining Rotary in the future?
When asked if they would rejoin Rotary, the alumni shared that the decision would depend on life circumstances, such as family and work commitments. While social gatherings and the opportunity to engage with new ideas are missed, the values and impact of their experiences remain.
One thing is certain: the sense of community within Rotary ensures that they are always welcome to return whenever the time feels right.
-Anouk