Rotary Year 2026-2027: A Year of opportunities and development. Opening Speech by Yael Tågerud, Hand-over June 24, 2026
Dear fellow Rotarians, Interactors, honored guests, partners, and friends,
It is both a privilege and a responsibility to step into the shoes of a Governor for District 2405 at the beginning of the Rotary Year 2026–2027. I want to thank my club, Kalmar Rotary Club and the District’s Nominating Committee for having suggested me for this task.
As we gather today, we are reminded that Rotary is far more than an organization. It is a global family united by a shared commitment to service, integrity, fellowship, and leadership.
Across communities, countries, and cultures, Rotarians in our District will hopefully continue to demonstrate that when people come together with a purpose greater than themselves, extraordinary things can happen.
The start of a new Rotary year offers us an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, celebrate our successes, and most importantly, look ahead with renewed energy and determination.
Every project we undertake, every volunteering hour we contribute, and every life we touch strengthens our communities and reinforces Rotary's enduring mission of Service Above Self.
This year, I encourage each of us to embrace three important commitments.
First, let us strengthen our impact. Whether through community service, youth development, environmental initiatives, health programs, or humanitarian efforts, we have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
Second, let us strengthen our connections. Rotary thrives on relationships. By supporting one another, collaborating with different partner organizations, welcoming new members, and fostering inclusivity, we build clubs that are vibrant, resilient, and prepared for the future. Every member brings unique talents, perspectives, and experiences that enrich our Rotary family.
Third, let us strengthen our vision. Our communities and our world are facing many challenges. Rotary's ability to innovate, collaborate, and lead will be essential as we seek new ways to serve and inspire. Let us remain open to fresh ideas while staying grounded in the values that have guided Rotary for more than 120 years.
As we begin this new year together, I ask each of our clubs to consider a simple question: What difference will we make through Rotary this year? As we begin this new year together, I ask each of our members to consider a simple question: What difference will you make through Rotary this year?
I hope that the Rotary Year 2026–2027 will be a year of growth, service, and achievement. Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities, ideas into action, and aspirations into results.
Together, we can create a better world, one service at a time.
With our motto “Service Above Self”, with our image of “People of Action”, with our RI President’s message “Unite for Good” and our incoming RI President’s message: “Create Lasting Impact” - Let's make Rotary Year 2026-2027 a year full of meaningful, interesting and fun experiences!
Thank you for your commitment to Rotary's ideals. I look forward to serving alongside each of you as we continue our journey of making a positive and lasting impact in our communities and around the world.
Let us move forward with enthusiasm, purpose, and hope.
Let us make Rotary Year 2026-2027 a year to remember!
Before I pass on the microphone to somebody else, I would like to prove to you that Rotary is a family. Please stand up: Elisabeth Zander (my Rotary “mother”), Kerstin Andersson (my Rotary “sister”), Helena Meldré, Anneli Andersson and Birgitta Linåker (my Rotary “daughters”). Even though they are not Rotary members, my physical family is a great support to me, demonstrating enormous patience when I am busy with Rotary issues and giving me energy to do the work. Sven, Paula and Helen: Thank you!
The rest of you, all of you, are my Rotary “cousins” in spirit.
Thank you, and I wish everyone a successful and inspiring Rotary Year.
The District Governor's Chain Handover (Youtube, 5 min)