This initiative will highlight the incredible people who make our district so special, sharing their stories and celebrating their impact.
We couldn't think of a better person to kick off this series than our very own Maëlle Toews from the Rotary Club of Edmonton Urban Spirits. As our District Public Image Chair, Maëlle's innovative spirit and dedication are instrumental in shaping how we share Rotary's story. Her passion for storytelling is a perfect example of how our members create a lasting impact both within our district and beyond.
We invite you to be inspired by her journey and the amazing work she is doing.
Watch Maëlle's Story
Read Her Story
Hi I'm Maëlle Toews, and I'm part of the Rotary club of Edmonton Urban Spirits.
1. Was there a particular moment, person, or event that drew you to Rotary?
Back when I was in junior high, my dad joined the Rotary Club of Langres (France) to network with other professionals in the area. Through him, I learned about the various projects that Rotary and his Club do: a France-wide cart token drive against cancer (“Jetons le Cancer”), their twin club in Germany… and the youth exchange program.
2. Share your "Rotary moment"—a meaningful experience or impact that stands out.
My Youth Exchange will forever be my “Rotary moment”. It truly is “a life in a year” experience. It shaped the woman I am today. It changed the way I see the world. It created my global understanding. Overall, it made me know then that I would eventually become a Rotarian and give back.
And because I can’t share just one, now, as a Rotarian, I love “elbow grease” projects - when we're able to give back personally! My club's mandate is youth at risk and we partner with the awacis waciston (pronounced uh-wahh-sis wuh-chi-ston) school in Edmonton, which is mostly indigenous and less fortunate kids and families. We host a spaghetti dinner twice a year to increase attendance at their parent-teacher conference, and as a result we serve 300+ meals every time!
3. What advice would you give someone considering joining Rotary?
When joining Rotary, you join a worldwide network, with local and global fellowship. Locally, you build a network of like-minded people through your club and district. Globally, you never know when you'll run into someone associated with Rotary in some way. There's been so many times I've related to “strangers” because we had this Rotary connection. A Rotex in the airport elevator for my own exchange. One of the first French Rotex as my flight neighbor. One of the MBA admin team members at orientation. And more.
Put “Service above Self” and join millions of fellow People of Action.
Do you know a member with a compelling story to share?
We want to hear about them! Please consider nominating them for a future spotlight.