I am honored to assume the role of the 69th President of the Yamagata West Rotary Club.
More than 20 years have passed since I joined in 2003, and only now do I feel I am beginning to understand the spirit and philosophy of Rotary. I accept the weight of this responsibility with deep resolve and intend to carry out my duties with sincerity and dedication.
In the following year, our club will celebrate its 70th anniversary, a significant milestone. Following the example set during our 60th anniversary, we aim to further strengthen our unity through commemorative events and projects, and pass on a firm legacy to the next generation.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has finally begun to subside, the international situation remains unstable. Three years have passed since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and conflicts are increasing in many parts of the world. I also feel deep concern over the world’s indifference toward the genocide occurring in Gaza.
In this era, where our values are constantly being questioned, I believe the role of Rotary is more important than ever. We must continue to ask ourselves: What can we do? What truly benefits our community and the world?
As physicist Torahiko Terada once said, “Because we doubt, we learn; and because we learn, we doubt.” In that spirit, let us remain free from fixed ideas, keep learning what is right and appropriate, and take thoughtful action.
This year’s message from the RI President is: “UNITE FOR GOOD.” Membership growth is emphasized as the first step toward achieving that vision.
Our Rotary District 2800 has adopted the theme: “Let’s Do Good — In Our Communities, In the World, For the Future.”
Our club’s guiding principle this year is: “Let us unite our club’s strengths to do good for our community and the world.”
We will begin by reaffirming the value of our history and traditions, and by rediscovering the worth of local resources. Our club’s greatest assets are the proud members who number over 100, and the unique culture we have developed together over the past 70 years.
Among our regional treasures is the world-renowned “Zao Ice Monsters.” Due to climate change, their continued existence is now in jeopardy. To help preserve this natural heritage, we plan to leverage our members’ expertise and networks to take concrete action.
We will also promote the Rotary values of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and work to make a more positive impact in our community.
Operational efficiency will be another focus. As prices continue to rise, we will, as in the previous year, avoid increasing membership dues. Instead, we will reduce printed materials and fax usage, and renew our website to centralize information and streamline operations. This will ensure that all members can easily and quickly access the information they need, and enhance both transparency and efficiency in our club’s management.
Yamagata West Rotary Club has grown through long-standing tradition and dignity. While the core principles of Rotary are timeless, we must adapt to the changes of our time. Rotary is not merely a service group nor simply ax fellowship organization. Nor is it something that can be fulfilled solely through vocational service or individual activity.
We must align ourselves with the core values of Rotary International, and strive to embody the modern Rotary ideal.
This year, we will invite lecturers with a deep understanding of Rotary to our meetings, and I will also share my own thoughts on Rotary. These opportunities will serve to deepen our shared knowledge and mutual understanding.
Generational change is a challenge for every organization. With the wisdom and experience of our senior members, and the fresh perspectives and energy of newer members, we will aim for sustainable club management.
We will ensure that all members feel welcome at meetings, and we will build a balanced club that thrives on cooperation across generations.
We are not a group seeking radical reform. However, in a time of rapid change, we must always ask ourselves what is appropriate for today, and act accordingly. Let us not cling to past customs, but seek the best path for today’s society, and truly live out Rotary’s ideals.
Let us carry forward the accomplishments built by our past presidents and take a new step together this year. I sincerely ask for your understanding and cooperation.