Haresh Ramchandani: The Man, the Rotarian!

Saturday July 9 2016, the day that Rotary International President John Germ installed Haresh Ramchandani as the 24th Governor of Rotary District 7020, was a historic day. It was the first time that a Rotary International President ever visited the shores of Jamaica; it was also the first time that any District 7020 Governor was installed by a Rotary International President.

District Governor Haresh Ramchandi and First Lady Vindu Ramchandani (left) share the lens with Rotary International President John Germ and First Lady Judy Germ

Dressed in his sleek All Star red converse,  and his classic grey suit, all eyes were on Haresh as he made his way towards the platform. His smile curved into excitement, his eyes twinkled with pride. Wondering why? He was about to be etched in history.

Haresh, reaching the platform, stood poised as his family and friends watched in delight as he became the District Governor DG of Rotary District 7020. After the vows were recited, RI President John Germ, declared: Haresh Ramchandani the Governor of District 7020.

The room erupted with unrestrained applause as the man, the Rotarian, DG Haresh became the leader of a new family, Rotary District 7020.

District Governor Haresh Ramchandani at the recently held Installation Banquet of the District Governors of Zones 33 and 34 at the Rose Hall in Montego, Bay Jamaica

Now, along with being a family man, DG Haresh Ramchandani has a passion for giving back, and so has spent over 19 years of his life as a Rotarian. With one year of District Governorship ahead of him, the DG spoke with RCP Review on what he hopes to achieve, what inspires him, and why being a Rotarian is one of the best ways to ‘Be the Change” you wish to see in the world.

District Governor Haresh Ramchandani getting his hands dirty

RCP Review: What are you looking forward to in this new District Governor phase of your life?

DG Haresh: Being able to motivate, inspire, and help Rotarians do even more good in the world. Help them to use the power, and resources of Rotary to create a better experience for the club members and the community.

RCP Review: Is there a principle that guides your life and everyday choices?

DG Haresh: Be the change you wish to see in the world. Accept people as they are. And simply Do good, Be good.

RCP Review: What is inspiring Haresh Ramchandani right now?

DG Haresh: That so many of our Rotarians are enthusiastic and excited. I feel their passion and it fuels and inspires me.

RCP Review: How would you describe yourself as a Rotarian?

DG Haresh: Genuine, passionate, caring, and loving.

RCP Review: Tell us about the demands and joys of being a Rotarian?

DG Haresh: I balance my time and life. Family, business, then Rotary. In that order. But with good time management one can dedicate your efforts and energy to all the things that matter to you.

RCP Review: What is your major focus for District 7020 right now?

DG Haresh: To strengthen clubs. Bringing back value to Rotarians and to Rotary Membership.

RCP Review: Looking back on your years as a Rotarian, what are you most proud of?

DG Haresh: That I have been able to help clubs apply for, and be successful in getting Grants for projects that have saved, changed, and helped lives.

RCP Review: What is your favourite part of the Four-Way-Test and why?

DG Haresh: The preamble “Of the things we think, say, or do”. The four way test works because of all four. I wouldn’t separate it and choose one over the other. The preamble sets the stage that it is all about what we think, say, or do.

RCP Review: What word would you like to leave with the RCP family, and other members of District 7020?

DG Haresh: Love . Just simply decide to Love your club, your members, your community, your neighbours, your family, and your friends. If love is at the forefront, it conquers all.

So there you have it, ladies and gentlemen, District Governor 2016-2017 Haresh Ramchandani in a nutshell. *Cheers*