top of page

My Rotaract journey: learning I could speak in public



by Taiwo ‘Orbs’ Okunlola, Rotaract Club of Surulere South, Lagos, Nigeria


Igrew up in a community where young children were not supposed to speak. That was something reserved for elders. If I forgot these community rules, I could sometimes expect a knock on the head or a hard twist of my ear from a disciplinarian. As a result, I had a reluctance to speak out – almost a trauma around speaking – that followed me into university and lecture halls.


The effect was so pronounced that I would honestly have preferred the ground to open up and swallow me then to have had to speak in public.


But as I grew into a young man, I gradually developed a desire to contribute. I realized my growing need to speak publicly stemmed from more than just curiosity, but from a desire to make a positive impact in my community. I became interested in student government, which allowed me to develop my personal and leadership skills.


Then I discovered Rotaract. Since joining my Rotaract club, I have had many opportunities to contribute what I call the “Four T’s” – treasure, time, thinking, and talent – to various community service projects. I have served at different leadership levels in my club, providing me with ample opportunities to speak up and contribute in public discussions. As club president, I helped organize a digital conference attended by over 270 youth and young adults who learned about public speaking, copywriting, project management, and branding from six experts. I also launched a fundraising drive for donations to an orphanage, and co-organized a drive to provide feminine hygiene projects for young women.


Through Rotaract, I have worked with creative minds all over the world, and I have grown to see how even the smallest actions can make a big difference. I have learned that money is not the only currency that is important, and that building valuable friendships is worth more than riches.


Whether I am volunteering at a local shelter or raising funds for a global cause, being in Rotaract allows me to be part of a larger movement dedicated to making the world a better place.


I am so passionate about Rotaract that I love to share my story to encourage other people to find what I have found. Let’s continue to work together to create a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Learn how you can get involved in Rotaract.


What is your Rotaract journey? share with us to inspire other

4 views0 comments

Yorumlar


THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR 2025 DISTRICT CONFERENCE

We invite you to support our district conference and take advantage of an incredible opportunity to grow your business and build valuable connections. By becoming a sponsor or placing your advertisement here, you can effectively showcase your brand to a larger audience and make a meaningful impression. This is just an opportunity to promote your business, but also a chance to engage with the community and connect with potential clients and partners. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity—get involved and make a lasting impact today!

bottom of page