Proud To Serve Alongside You
“As I look back on my term as President of the Rotary Club of Shanghai, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and a deep sense of accomplishment. The past year has been a remarkable journey, marked by unforgettable moments, inspiring collaborations, and impactful community service.
One of the greatest honors during my presidency was welcoming Rotary International President-Elect Mario to our club. His visit was not only a testament to our club’s standing within the global Rotary community but also a personal highlight that reaffirmed the power of connection and our shared commitment to service above self.
Our weekly club meetings became a true highlight, thanks to an impressive lineup of guest speakers. From thought leaders to entrepreneurs, from artists to philanthropists, each speaker brought fresh perspectives that enlightened us, challenged us, and often entertained us. These sessions were a source of learning and camaraderie, strengthening our bonds as friends and Rotarians.
Our commitment to service found expression in numerous meaningful projects. Through Shanghai Sunrise and Stepping Stones, we provided educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth, empowering them to pursue brighter futures. Our Will Farm project promoted sustainable community growth, and the Snowland initiative extended support to young artists in Gansu, exemplifying Rotary’s ideal of “service above self.”
I am also especially proud of achieving the milestone of more than 200 bell rings, a testament to the energy and dedication of our members. This accomplishment enabled us to significantly support our current and future projects, ensuring the sustainability and reach of our club’s impact.
We were quick to respond to urgent needs beyond our borders. In Lebanon, our relief fund addressed the devastating impact of an economic collapse that has crippled key sectors and infrastructure, compounded by ongoing political unrest and instability that has further weakened governance and crisis management. In Myanmar, we provided emergency support following the earthquake, standing in solidarity with those rebuilding their lives amidst hardship.
Among my very deepest and most personal experiences were the opportunities to visit underprivileged families together with Youdao, delivering New Year’s gifts to bring warmth and hope into their homes. These visits offered powerful reminders of the direct impact we can have on individual lives and the importance of compassion and community. Seeing the smiles of those families—children and parents alike—reinforced for me the true meaning of Rotary service.
Looking back, I am deeply moved by the passion and commitment of every club member. Our achievements are a testament to our unity, our energy, and our unwavering belief in the power of collective action. As my presidency comes to an end, I am confident that our club will continue to thrive, embrace new challenges, and make an even greater impact, both in Shanghai and around the world. I thank everyone who helped me succeed, not limited but especially my board. Particularly, I couldn’t have done this job without the support of Secretary Rohit, IPP Tiziana, Director Samson, and Speaker Committee Chair Jeff.
Special gratitude goes to Thomas and Kevin for their fantastic performance at the handover night ❤️
Thank you for allowing me to serve alongside you. It has truly been an honor.”
Christian M. Göttker
RCS President 2024-25
