In the rich tapestry of volunteerism, the Rotary Club stands out as a beacon of service, connecting individuals across the globe in a shared commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Founded in 1905 by Paul Harris, the Rotary Club boasts 1.4 million members across 200 countries, comprising professionals and business leaders who share a vision of service above self. The organisational structure includes districts, with District 9212 being made up of members from Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and South Sudan. At the forefront of this district’s impactful work stands Alex Nyaga, a distinguished member whose journey epitomises the transformative power of paying it forward.
Inspired by Legacy
Alex’s connection to Rotary runs deep; his own father was a Rotarian, setting an example of what service to others looks like. After graduating with a diploma in Hotel Management from Les Roches International in Switzerland and founding Parapet Cleaning Services in 1998, Alex was challenged by his father to establish a club chapter. At the time, Rotary Club was viewed as an elitist club due to the professional backgrounds of majority of its members, a perception that discouraged youth participation. Excited for the challenge, Alex teamed up with his friends to establish a new chapter which was chartered in 2001.
Establishing the Lang’ata Rotary Club not only strengthened Alex’s camaraderie with his friends but also allowed them to build something greater than themselves. Through club activities, the chapter became a space where youth could actively engage in meaningful community service, breaking the stereotype of Rotary as an exclusive club. The foundation of Alex’s dedication in those early days has led to the growth of the Lang’ata chapter; it currently ranks as one of the five largest chapters in Africa and is commended for its dedication to service.
One Love, One Heart
Since then, Alex’s commitment to Rotary has remained unwavering. His involvement within the Lang’ata Rotary Club culminated in his appointment as the governor of District 9212 between 2021 and 2022. During his tenure, the Rotary Club faced the challenges of the post-COVID era, yet he spearheaded transformative projects. One standout initiative was the “One Love, One Heart Surgeries,” a collaborative effort with Indian Rotary Clubs. The goal was to provide life-saving surgeries for 250 children from the district, showcasing Rotary’s commitment to healthcare. This initiative went beyond medical procedures; it extended the lease on life of so many children, leaving an indelible mark on the individuals and communities it touched.
Balancing Acts and Establishing a Dual Legacy
Beyond the intrinsic satisfaction of contributing to meaningful projects, being a Rotarian comes with additional benefits. The club serves as a tight-knit community of like-minded individuals, fostering friendships and networks that extend globally. Alex’s life as a successful entrepreneur, running one of the most successful cleaning services in Kenya, exemplifies how being a Rotarian can seamlessly complement one’s professional endeavours. Despite the demands of running an organization, Alex adeptly balances his business and Rotary commitments, showcasing the club’s adaptability to diverse schedules.
In celebrating Alex’s dedication to volunteerism, we recognize the profound impact individuals can have when they embrace the Rotary spirit. As a visionary founder and entrepreneur, Alex’s journey reflects the transformative power of service above self. We applaud his accomplishments within and beyond the Rotary Club, and his contributions to a world where the legacy of service endures for generations to come.
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