Virtual Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) was an opportunity to connect and to know about the 7 Rotary Districts of five countries – Columbia, Mexico, Peru, Canada and India, through Rotarians with respect to their history, tradition, food, attire, colourful performances and key community projects. It was an online fellowship event, hosted by Rotary District 3080 – Rotary Chandigarh Midtown. 201 Rotarians attended this unique event, the first of its kind for all the participating districts.
The meeting started with National Anthems of all five countries. The event was conducted meticulously by the Master of Ceremonies AG Rtn. Dr. Rita Kalra from their picturesque terrace garden of their house, from where they were virtually connected to all seven Rotary districts in five countries. It was a memorable virtual event to enjoy the cultural diversity, build goodwill, strengthen international friendship, foster peace and global health.
As a token of remembrance and gratitude a virtual certificate of appreciation was presented to each of the participants. The distinguished dignitaries present were: Past RI President Rajendra K. Saboo, DG Ramesh Bajaj DGE 3080, DG Patriceo flores D-4130, DGE Rtn. Ajay Madan, IPDG Rtn. Jitender Dhingra, PDG Rtn. T.K. Ruby. All District RFE Chairs Rtn. Dr. Sanjay Kalra, Rtn. Isabel Rodrigues, Rtn. Francisco Zarate, President Rtn. Nova Escobedo, PP Rtn. Mariano Rivera, PP Rtn. Maritza Londono, President Rtn. Alex Maxim, PP Rtn. Eva Quijano and PP Joanne McAuley presented amazing saga about their countries and Rotary Districts.
The contribution of DRFE chairs Rtn Dr Sanjay Kalra and PP Isabel Rodrigues, the very spirit and soul of virtual RFE 2020-21 was tremendous as they have not only set aside all the challenges in their way but also made it memorable. it was all possible with their seamless coordination and meticulous management.
The performances by PP RTPS Tulsi, Secretary Shuchi Thakur, Master Chef Kulwinder Singh, R’Ann Indu Anand, Rtn. Ritu Bhatia and Dr. Sanjay Kalra with vibrant display of talent in the form of songs, dances and culinary delights added immense colour to the event which lasted for more than two hours in reverse time zones.
