Past District Governor Patrice Robinson with Natasha, pictured on the left.
Rotary Club of Wynnum and Manly’s joint president Jo-Anne O’Connor sat down with 26-year-old Natasha Hoppner, the club’s youngest member, to find out how her membership benefits the community, and contributes to her personal growth.
What motivated you to join Rotary?
I was searching to create greater connections with my local community and to meet people who understood the place where I grew up, and would welcome and work with me to give back to that place.
For a person of your age why did Rotary appeal to you?
A lot of my youth I spent thinking ‘big’: big issues, big plans, and big ideas; and then I went on to meet people from the city, the country and across the world. With every step I got further away from the place where I grew up, and from the established infrastructure that I knew could empower me to actually make a difference. Rotary has been the way to close this distance because it has allowed me to become part of a local community group offering me many opportunities, a range of exciting and challenging club programs and projects and all within a strong support network.
How would you describe Rotary and what your club does?
It’s the place to grow your personal, professional and philanthropic self, with the support and mentorship of like-minded people. You get as much as you give, and get to give what you can to help empower others. Rotarians are a dedicated group from all walks of life, committed to making a difference in local, national and international communities. Our club has an outstanding record of achievement and is constantly looking to expand our activities by adding new community projects.
There is something for everyone when you become involved in our community programs. From installing the Santas that sit atop Wynnum Manly businesses at Christmas time, assisting to deliver Meals on Wheels, working on local youth programs, making sanitary kits with our Days for Girls team for distribution with medical equipment and school supplies to Pacific Island nations. I have found that Rotary really does offer friendship, help and support to many communities.
Has the past 12 months been a good experience for you?
It’s been excellent. I feel as though I’ve learnt so much, achieved even more and made some great friends. It’s been really grounding and heartening in such a socially tumultuous time! Our regular club activity is our weekly dinner meetings, where we hear from interesting guest speakers and enjoy each other’s company! We really do have fun while getting work done!
Would you recommend joining to other people – young or old?
I would recommend that everyone consider joining Rotary. I believe that the benefits are numerous and far reaching; and it is absolutely worth doing some research or chatting to a Rotarian to be sure that the club aligns to your interests and goals!
Do you want to make a positive contribution but don’t know where to start?
Belonging to a global network that believes in “Service Above Self” could empower you to be a better friend, better professional and a better member of your community.
To learn more about the Rotary Club of Wynnum and Manly please contact our Membership Director, Jo Soothill on 0400 844 471.
