By Jennifer Scott, Chair of the 2024 International Convention Committee
As the chair of the committee helping plan the 2024 Rotary International Convention in Singapore, I get asked a fair number of questions about this year’s annual event. I felt it was only natural to share with you why I am tremendously excited about Singapore, and why I believe it will be an event you won’t want to miss.
Singapore is a country that never ceases to surprise! It is both a city and a country. And would you believe, it is made up of 65 islands! It is an incredible fusion of cultures, food, architecture, and passions. Singapore, known as the garden city, is one of the greenest cities in the world. It is energetic, beautiful, and always changing.
Your Rotary Convention adventure will start at Changi Airport, known as the World’s Best Airport with its magnificent rain vortex waterfall. If you arrive early, you will have time to take a stroll through the beautiful Gardens by the Bay. Once you have settled in, enjoy a refreshing Singapore Sling, served at the iconic Raffles Hotel. Savour a dozen satays with delicious peanut sauce, (you can’t stop at just one). And do try Singapore’s famous Chicken rice, Singapore noodles, or chilli crab. For dessert, you won’t be able to resist Singapore’s favorite Ice cream sandwich. If you stay a little longer you can relax and enjoy the hiking trails, parks and recreational areas, the night zoo, or go shopping.
The convention general sessions will be held at the Singapore National Stadium, which has the biggest retractable dome in the world. The House of Friendship and all the breakout sessions will take place at the famous Marina Bay Sands.
Why join us in Singapore? Because we will be sharing the hope that you and your clubs have built during the past year. Rotary conventions are the best opportunity to catch up with Rotary friends you have made in the past or to make new ones. It’s the perfect place to meet current or future project partners. It’s an opportunity to recharge your Rotary batteries.
This year, Rotary International President R. Gordon R. McInally has asked Rotary members to Create Hope in the World. The convention will give you the opportunity to share that hope. You will go back to your districts and clubs energized and even more prepared to continue to share hope with the world.
Jonas Salk, who together with Albert Sabin, was a pioneer for a polio-free world, summed it up with his quote:
“Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.”
We look forward to seeing all of you at the Rotary International Convention in Singapore! Register by 15 December to receive the early discount. Read more about Singapore in Rotary magazine.
https://blog.rotary.org/2023/09/07/singapore-a-land-of-surprises/