Hon. Iziaq Salako, Honourable Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare in Nigeria, Graces Rotary District Conference 2025: A Resounding Success Under the Theme “Going Green, Going Global”

The highly anticipated Rotary District Conference, held under the inspiring theme “Going Green, Going Global,” concluded on a high note at GLive in Guildford on the 3rd and 4th of October 2025. The two-day event was a vibrant celebration of Rotary’s service, culture, and international fellowship, significantly elevated by the presence of distinguished guests, including the Hon. Dr. Iziaq Salako, Honourable Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare in Nigeria.

The conference successfully fused the joy of cultural exchange with the serious purpose of Rotary’s humanitarian mission, providing Rotarians with renewed inspiration, valuable knowledge, and strengthened connections to empower their vital work in communities worldwide.

Day One: A Global Celebration of Culture and Foundation

The conference commenced on Friday with an energetic and culturally rich opening plenary session. After registrations, District Governor Olatunji Olaleye formally opened the event, setting a dynamic and optimistic tone for the days ahead. The session, masterfully hosted by MC Babatunde Falode, was a true global festival.

Attendees were treated to a spectacular array of international performances, including captivating Ecuadorian and Colombian dances by Warmis with Chloe & Freddie, the powerful vocals of Spanish teen Lucia Jaramillo, a graceful Indian classical dance by Sushma Awtani, and the vibrant rhythms of the Tinkus Puros Bolivian Dance Group. The session was further graced by the presence of the Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Howard Smith, and a keynote address from the Gambian High Commissioner to the UK, Her Excellency Dr. Fatou Bensouda.

The evening continued with Plenary Session Two, which blended musical entertainment from flautist Mark Underwood and pianist Carol Anne Wells with core Rotary business. Insightful presentations on The Rotary Foundation by Cheryl Law and on “Benefiting from Global Grants” by Jane Walker MBE highlighted the powerful engine behind Rotary’s international projects. The day concluded with engaging and lively events including a Rotary Fashion Show, a Bollywood Dance Workshop by Honey Kalaria, a performance by Rap and Hip Hop artist Tweng Tweng, and an American Auction, all fostering a spirit of fun and fellowship.

Day Two: Insight, Inspiration, and Impact

Saturday, under the stewardship of MC Annemarie van Bochove Allen, focused on impactful projects, future strategies, and personal inspiration. The day began with registrations and a showcase of Rotary work in the Belletby Studio.

Plenary Session One featured a formal re-opening and community singing before delving into substantive talks. A key highlight was the address from Dr. Iziaq Salako, Honourable Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare in Nigeria, who brought a crucial perspective on global health and welfare. Delegates also learned about pioneering environmental initiatives like the River Eden Project and Aviation Sustainability from Jonathan Counsell. The important “Rotary Cut out Cancer” campaign was presented, and an address from a Rotary International Representative provided a global perspective. The session also highlighted the inspiring stories of Global Scholars.

After lunch and networking, Plenary Session Two opened with an address from District Governor Olatunji Olaleye. The heart of Rotary was on full display during the Club Presentations, where clubs such as Banstead & Sutton Nonsuch, Caterham, and Kingston upon Thames shared their successful community projects like “Banstead Wildlife Field,” “Bags of Hope,” and “Adult Achievement Awards.”

A stimulating Q&A session with the District Governor, Continuity Team, and RI Representative allowed for open dialogue. The conference then looked to the future with a talk on Corporate Social Responsibility by Philip Wilbourn and a preview of Conference 2026 from District Governor Elect Mike Thorn. The event culminated with a captivating personal story, “My Life at Paramount Film Studios,” by Mike O’Sullivan, before final closing remarks and thanks from District Governor Olaleye.

A Blueprint for the Future

The 2025 District Conference was a triumphant event that successfully demonstrated how Rotary is embracing both environmental stewardship and worldwide collaboration. By uniting high-level diplomatic and governmental figures with grassroots project leaders and cultural performers, the event created a powerful synergy. It truly lived up to its name, proving that by “Going Green” and “Going Global,” Rotary continues to create lasting change in the world.