As we lead our clubs and our district during the 2026-2027 Rotary year, we must not forget that what truly makes a difference in Rotary is not the size of the work accomplished, but the extent to which it leaves a lasting impact. True impact can only emerge through continuity, ownership and a shared commitment to working together. Every impact, however small it may seem, created by our clubs within their own communities will, when combined with the collective strength of our district, create lasting change in the lives of thousands of people.

The presidential message announced by Rotary International President Olayinka Hakeem Babalola, emphasizing the motto “Create Lasting Impact,” reminds us that Rotary is a global movement that creates meaningful and sustainable change in people's lives. To achieve this, our responsibility is to implement projects that produce results that will be felt in society for many years to come.

Lasting impact becomes truly lasting only when it is created together. Therefore, during this year, I hope every Rotarian will see themselves not merely as a member, but as an active part of change. We must build a culture in which every member of every club can contribute, where ideas are valued and efforts are recognized. Because a sense of belonging is not created simply by attending Rotary meetings. Belonging grows stronger when people take responsibility, create together and see their own contribution in the success achieved.

If a Rotarian can say, “This project is my achievement too”…
If a young person can say, “They trusted me”…
If a club can say, “We achieved this together”…
Then we will have built not only projects, but also a strong Rotary culture.

Our goal this year is not to carry out more projects, but to create greater impact.
Not to hold more meetings, but to mobilize more people.
Not to organize more events, but to change more lives.
And most importantly, to create an environment in which every member feels valued, needed and a true sense of belonging in Rotary.

Because strong clubs are built on strong members.
And strong members are people who are trusted, whose ideas are valued and who take an active role in service.

In this new year, which we believe will bring entirely new opportunities, our shared goal, with all Rotarians acting in a spirit of teamwork, thinking and creating together, will be to lead projects that make a difference in our communities through the power to inspire, the courage to serve and the determination to create change, in line with Rotary's vision and the needs of our district. While prioritizing the wishes and goals of our members and clubs, we will also make projects addressing important needs of our district part of our priority strategic goals. Throughout the coming year, we will share our ideas and develop projects by drawing strength and inspiration from one another.

We will work to make this a year in which our clubs draw strength from one another, share their experiences, our members take pride in their clubs, new members experience the excitement of Rotary, and younger generations help shape the future together. Together, we will be bolder, more visible and reach more people.

Every step we take through the power of transformation, participation and sharing will become much more meaningful, increase our ability to serve our district and our country, and make Rotary better known and more effective. As we begin this new year and take steps toward a stronger and more hopeful future together, we will continue to bring the motto “Create Lasting Impact” to life in every project, every collaboration and every meaningful touch. Because we know that lasting impact finds its true meaning only when it is created and embraced together.

I wish for this new year to be a successful one, in which we create together, strengthen our social impact through the more vibrant and effective projects carried out by our clubs, encourage participation, multiply ideas and make every member a part of this journey.

With my regards and warm wishes,

Orhan Uludağ
2026-2027 District Governor