OUT of 17 countries and 47 Rotaract Clubs, the Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central was crowned “Large Club of the Quarter” for the First Quarter (July–September) of the Rotary Year 2025–2026.
Club President Harrynarine Balram noted that each committee project was recognised across the Rotaract districts as being among the most outstanding initiatives.
He said while grateful for these achievements, the club acknowledges that “true impact is not defined by applause, but by the lives touched,” and that this recognition simply reflects the collective effort of members and supporters.
Balram told the Guyana Chronicle that the club entered the second quarter of the Rotary year with renewed energy and purpose, launching its year-long initiative, “Touch of Care.” This hygiene care package distribution initiative was held at the Prabhu Sharan Orphanage on November 16, 2025.
He explained that the orphanage, which serves as a safe haven for children who have experienced abuse, received a generous six-month supply of essential hygiene products.
Balram stated that this impactful project was made possible through the support of GUYOIL, MARAD, Massy Stores, K&S Distribution, Advanced Hygiene Solutions, Fortune Investment, United Construction and Logistics, along with donations from club members and friends.
He also spoke about the club’s fund-raising initiative, “Rotaract Rhythm!” which was held on November 21, 2025, at Fresh Café. Organised by the Finance Committee, the exciting and energetic karaoke night brought together members and supporters for an evening of music, fellowship, and fun, unveiling some of the hidden talents within the club.
Proceeds from this event supported the execution of service projects for the quarter, corresponding with the committee’s theme, “Mission & Millions.” The event was supported by Fresh Café, Guyana Breweries, The Law Offices of Braithwaite & Primo, Trini Gyal Doubles, Exclusive Eggball, and 96.1 Voice FM, he said.
Balram pointed out that next up was “MentorLink 2.0,” hosted virtually on November 29, 2025 by the club’s Professional Development Committee.
This initiative focused on capacity building through practical sessions on strategic planning which was led by Martina McDonald-Johnson and intercultural sensitivity, presented by Dwijendra Rooplall of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC).
The initiative reinforced the club’s commitment to leadership development and professional growth, the club’s president said.
Balram reported that in recognition of International Men’s Day, the International Service Committee hosted “HIMpact” or Healing in Men through Purpose, Awareness, Care & Transformation, on December 6, 2025.
Addressing the often-overlooked topic of men’s mental health, the webinar featured impactful contributions from Dr Seon Fredericks, MD, and Reverend Diego Alphonso. The session provided a safe and informative space for dialogue, reflection, and empowerment.
This publication was told that as the festive season approached, the Community Service Committee, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central and the Interact Clubs of The Bishop’s High School and Queen’s College, hosted “Gift of Grace” on December 13, 2025, at Uncle Eddie’s Home.
Balram added that the afternoon was filled with a Guyanese version of a nativity skit, joyful carolling, poetry, care- package distribution, shared meals, and warm fellowship.
“While the club has traditionally centred Christmas outreach on children, this initiative placed special focus on senior citizens, in supporting the message that they are valued, remembered, and cherished,” he said.
Balram explained that professional development continued with the launch of the “Upgrade You” initiative, encouraging members to complete Rotary’s free online courses, including Conducting Community Assessments, Fund-raising Basics, and Leading Effective Committees.
This year-long programme aimed to strengthen club leadership and operational excellence across all quarters of the Rotary year.
The senior rotary official pointed out that fellowship remained important as the club hosted “The Great Christmas Mix-Up,” a festive Christmas social that brought together the Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central, the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central, and Interact Clubs from Queen’s College and The Bishop’s High School.
Adding a regional touch, the club welcomed a member from its twin club, the Rotaract Club of Providenciales (District 7020), celebrating the “One Caribbean” initiative.
He said the evening featured shared dining, cookie decorating, internal mixers, poolside relaxation, Christmas treats, exclusive RCGC merchandise tokens, and Certificates of Appreciation in recognition of outstanding service.
Balram related that membership growth also remained a priority as the club hosted its first membership drive for the Rotary Year at the Christmas Village on Main Street on December 27 and 28, 2025. Members engaged members of the public, shared flyers, distributed merchandise, captured memorable moments and connected with individuals interested in community service.
The drive proved fruitful, expanding awareness and strengthening outreach.
To close the quarter, the club concluded its “Code Blue Fridays” initiative on December 26, 2025.
For the first two quarters of the Rotary Year, members were encouraged to wear blue in support of environmental sustainability.
To mark the finale, members planted seeds as a symbolic gesture of environmental sustainability.
