by: Joe Sorenson | President – The Rotary Club of Gwinnett County
The 2025 Rotary International Convention in Calgary was more than just a welcome break from Georgia’s summer heat—it was a chance to reset my perspective as a Rotarian.
I joined Rotary during the height of COVID protocols, and until this trip, my Rotary experience had been focused almost exclusively on my club’s local efforts. My view was hyperlocal, centered on how our club could sustain its impact within our own community. But when the opportunity arose to attend the International Convention—and visit the Canadian Rockies—as I began my term as club president, I couldn’t pass it up.
Calgary did not disappoint. The city was vibrant and welcoming, buzzing with more than 15,000 Rotarians proudly wearing the gearwheel logo and donning traditional clothing from every corner of the globe. Just hours after landing, my wife, Andrea, and I were already immersed in the experience, standing in line at the BMO Centre with thousands of travel-weary but cheerful fellow Rotarians.
That evening, we found ourselves in awe at the Saddledome arena, where the opening plenary pulsed with energy. Dynamic speakers shared inspiring stories of service around the world. Academy Award-winning actress Geena Davis spoke about the ongoing fight for gender equality. Other presenters addressed pressing global issues—from climate change and interfaith harmony to Rotary’s areas of focus and the relentless push to eradicate polio.
Each day was packed with breakout sessions filled with practical insights and shared best practices. But for me, the true heart of the convention was the House of Friendship.
To call it an “exhibit hall” doesn’t do it justice. The House of Friendship was a vibrant marketplace of ideas, filled with Rotarians showcasing innovative programs and unique club focuses—from beekeeping and skiing to RVing, craft beer, and even brandy. Each booth felt like a passport stamp to a different corner of Rotary, and every conversation reaffirmed a powerful truth: while our clubs may be thousands of miles apart, we are all part of one global movement—united for good.
In the evenings, we took time to enjoy the city and connect with fellow Rotarians. District 6910 kicked things off with a welcome dinner at a downtown Calgary restaurant. It was comforting to see familiar faces so far from home and be greeted warmly by Past District Governor Bobby Hildreth and current District Governor Jessica Fleetwood. Andrea and I spent the rest of our evenings exploring Calgary or attending Rotary-sponsored events, like a lively rodeo demonstration.
When the conference ended, we headed straight to Banff. Pictures don’t do Banff’s beauty justice. But what made Banff extra special- Rotarians were everywhere. They were in the city. They were at Lake Louise, Lake Moraine, the Columbia Icefields, Jasper- everywhere. And just like at the conference, just like back at home in Georgia, and District 6910, Rotarians from everywhere greeted us like long lost friends, struck up conversations, and spread a little more peace in Canada.
As the trip came to a close, I left Canada not only inspired but reconnected to the broader mission of Rotary. I returned home with a deeper understanding of what it means to be a Rotarian—not just in my hometown, but in a global community committed to service above self.
