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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250610
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250611
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250604T205232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250614T134651Z
UID:270-1749513600-1749599999@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Fellowship Talk: ALS Genome Research & Mapping
DESCRIPTION:Presented by Prof. Reuben Cauchi \nRotary Club La Valette recently hosted an insightful Fellowship Talk on ALS Genome Research & Mapping\, presented by Prof. Reuben J. Cauchi and introduced by Mr. Wilfred Kenely. The event highlighted groundbreaking research from the University of Malta and underscored the Rotary Club’s commitment to supporting scientific advancements in neurogenetics. \nIncoming President Prof. Clare Vassallo opened the session\, emphasizing how this talk aligns with the Club’s 2025-26 District Funded Project. Through this initiative\, Rotary Club La Valette is supporting the University of Malta\, in collaboration with the Research\, Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT)\, to advance research on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)—a debilitating neurodegenerative disease. This project focuses explicitly on the Maltese population\, where ALS is found to have a higher incidence rate compared to the European average. \nMr. Wilfred Kenely\, Chief Executive of RIDT\, elaborated on the organization’s mission to enhance investment in high-calibre research and development across all faculties and departments at the University of Malta\, while also fostering the commercial application of scientific discoveries on a national level. \nFollowing this\, Prof. Ruben J. Cauchi\, Professor of Neurogenetics at the Faculty of Medicine & Surgery and Principal Investigator at the Centre for Molecular Medicine & Biobanking\, delivered a compelling presentation on groundbreaking ALS research conducted by University of Malta scientists. He shared how researchers have identified a potential new drug target for ALS\, which could pave the way for novel treatments addressing a broad spectrum of patients suffering from this condition. \nALS progressively affects the nerves controlling muscle movement\, leading to difficulties with mobility\, speech\, eating\, and\, ultimately\, breathing. A recent study conducted by University of Malta researchers revealed that genetic factors prevalent among the Maltese significantly elevate the risk of developing ALS. \nOne notable discovery presented during the talk involved the SCFD1 gene. Researchers switched off this gene in fruit flies—widely used in ALS research due to their genetic similarities with humans—and observed that the flies exhibited ALS-like symptoms\, such as reduced mobility and weakened nerve-muscle connections. This breakthrough offers promising avenues for further investigations into targeted treatments. \nThe Fellowship Talk was well-attended by Rotarians and guests\, who expressed great interest in the discussion and the potential impact of the findings. Through events like these\, Rotary Club La Valette continues to foster community engagement with scientific research while championing meaningful contributions to public health initiatives. \n  \nWilfred Kenely\, Chief Executive\, RIDT\, introducing the talk\n  \nProfs. Ruben Cauchi\, delivering his presentation on research on the ALS Genome\n  \nRotarians and friends paying close attention to the interesting presentation
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/fellowship-talk-als-genome-research-and-mapping-presented-by-professor-reuben-cauchi/
LOCATION:Royal Malta Yacht Club\, Ta' Xbiex Seafront\, Ta' Xbiex\, XBX 1028\, Malta
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AALS-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250605
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250606
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250606T225755Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250606T225755Z
UID:294-1749081600-1749167999@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Strengthening Rotary: New Member Training Event
DESCRIPTION:Rotary Club La Valette\, Malta\, recently welcomed its newest members with a dynamic and insightful training session led by esteemed Training Facilitator David Dingli. The event\, designed to introduce new Rotarians to the foundational principles and operations of Rotary International\, provided an invaluable opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding of their roles and responsibilities within the organisation. \nDuring the session\, participants received an in-depth briefing on the structure of Rotary International and Rotary Foundation\, learning about its global reach\, mission\, and the impact it has on communities worldwide. They were also introduced to District 2110\, which our Club proudly forms part of\, gaining insight into the District’s initiatives\, leadership framework\, and the collaborative efforts that drive meaningful change in our region. \nA key highlight of the training was the discussion surrounding the projects in which our Club is actively involved. From community outreach programs to global service initiatives\, new members were immersed in the impactful work being carried out locally and internationally. They had the opportunity to explore the significance of these projects\, the challenges they faced\, and the strategies employed to ensure their successful execution. \nThe training concluded with a lively Q&A session\, during which new members engaged in thoughtful discussions\, posed insightful questions\, and shared their perspectives on Rotary’s work. Facilitator David Dingli expertly guided the conversation\, providing clarifications\, valuable insights\, and practical advice to help new members integrate seamlessly into the Club’s activities. \nThe event not only served as an educational experience but also as a platform for fellowship and engagement\, reinforcing the spirit of camaraderie that defines the Rotary organisation. As these new members embark on their journey with the Club\, they do so equipped with the knowledge\, inspiration\, and dedication needed to contribute meaningfully to Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self. \nWe look forward to seeing these Rotarians thrive in their roles and work alongside fellow members to create lasting\, positive change in our communities and beyond. \n  \nNew members listening attentively\nExplaining Rotary’s District and Global Grants
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/strengthening-rotary-new-member-training-event/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Training-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250603
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250604
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250613T213553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T214030Z
UID:300-1748908800-1748995199@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Handover
DESCRIPTION:Handover night is the highlight of the year for every Rotary Club. This year’s has been extra special for us! \nWhen Paul Harris\, along with a group of four friends\, founded Rotary International early in the 20th century\, the cogwheel was chosen as a symbol because the organisation was to keep turning year after year\, its members handing over the responsibility of their task to the next Rotarian for continuity. \nSo why has this year’s handover from President Godfrey Swain to President Clare Vassallo been so special? \nFirstly\, because we transition from one hardworking President to another who promises to bring enthusiasm and fun to her task. \nBesides\, it was a special handover night because never before had so many new members been ‘pinned’ with the Rotary International pin to join the Rotary Club of La Valette Malta and\, hence\, become part of the international family of Rotarians during the handover night. This is proof of the hard work put in by many members in encouraging new people to take up this commitment of service above self. Yesterday evening\, in the presence of a large number of club members\, President Godfrey Pinned seven new members: \nRtn. Julius Nehorai\, Rtn. Madeleine Gera\, Rtn. Petra Caruana Dingli\, Rtn.Christine Dalli\, Rtn Bilgi Gökalp Gülen\, Rtn. Giuseppe Inserra\, Rtn Laura Maciulskaite \nThis special occasion was once again held in the beautiful gardens of the Marsa Sports Ground\, where the Club received excellent service and enjoyed a delicious meal. The event ran smoothly\, as organised by Rtn.Sandra La Rosa\, who had everything in hand. \nA surprise was the Paul Harris Awards presented to several Rotarians who gave excellent service in the last two Rotarian years\, under President Anne Marie Bianchi (RY 2023-24) and President Godfrey Swain (RY 2024-25) \nThese are: Rotarians Bryan Sullivan\, Patricia Salomone\, Helga Ellul\, David Dingli\, Edward Fenech\, AnneMarie Bianchi and Sandra la Rosa\, seen standing with President Godfrey Swain in the middle. \nAwards were also presented to three worthy organisations that support people in need in our society and with which we have continued collaboration: Food Bank Lifeline\, Sebh and St. Michael’s Hospice \nVisiting Rotarian Patrick Hamilton\, a world-renowned musician from the Rotary Club of Bruges\, exchanged his club’s banner with Godfrey Swain while inviting the Rotary Club of La Valette\, Malta\, to visit his club in Belgium. \nOutgoing President Godfrey provided a brief overview of the work accomplished by the club during his presidency. He was proud to say\, “District 2110 Sicily-Malta has much admiration for our club\, and we have been told we are the Best!” He further stated that this year’s project supporting Opera Nova\, established by Soprano Gillian Zammit to train and support young\, talented Opera singers\, has taken off beautifully\, and we will continue to help whenever possible. \nIncoming President Clare Vassallo outlined the main points of the Club Project for the year 2024-25\, which will provide funding for research at the University of Malta on ALS\, an autoimmune disease with similarities in Malta and Sicily. She also announced a planned visit to Parisot\, France\, which is the birthplace of Grandmaster Jean De Valette. This seems particularly fitting\, as our club bears the name of our capital city\, Valletta\, which Grand Master Valette built. \nA beautiful early summer evening with a splendid sunset saw the closure of an excellent Rotary year and the opening of a new one\, which promises to be great. Thank you\, President Godfrey and Board members and welcome to President Clare and her new Board. \n  \nPresident Godfrey Swain passes the collar to the New President\, Clare Vassallo.\n  \nThe new members being ‘pinned’\n  \nThe recipients of the Paul Harris awards
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/handover/
LOCATION:Marsa Sports Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Handover-4.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250527
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250528
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250606T223517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250606T224053Z
UID:278-1748304000-1748390399@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Fundraising Cocktail Party In Aid Of Sebh
DESCRIPTION:President Godfrey Swain and his wife\, Maryanne\, hosted members and friends at a fundraising cocktail party at their home in Lija on 27th May 2025. \nThe weather was kind\, and the evening ran smoothly\, with guests enjoying themselves throughout\, entertained by four outstanding artists from our Opera Nova project. The performance was directed by Soprano Gillian Zammit\, who kindly organised this event for our club in recognition of our support in the first year of this project\, which has already achieved considerable success and is set to move into its second year. \nMr Nicholai Grech also joined us from Mirachem Online Wine Shop\, our main sponsor for the evening\, who supplied excellent products in a very kind gesture towards the fundraising goal. A big thank you also goes to Farsons\, who provided the Prosecco\, water and soft drinks in another very kind gesture. \nA special mention to Ms Yvonne Mallia\, Director at Fondazzjoni Sebh and Kerry Hermitage\, the Family Services Senior Manager\, who touched our hearts with their impassioned speeches about the harsh reality of a darker side of life and the plight in which many victims of domestic violence find themselves. This gave our evening a special meaning and reflected the ethos of our club\, which is to support children and people in need from all walks of life. \nAfter deducting expenses\, we managed to raise EUR 2\,500 to support our EUR 10\,000 contribution to Sebh—a big thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to our event with generous donations. \nSpecial thanks to Godfrey and Maryanne\, who opened up their home for this marvellous event; to Sandra and David\, who organised the catering and managed the finances\, respectively; to Gillian Zammit and her Opera Nova team for providing quality entertainment; and to our generous sponsors. \n  \nKerry Hermitage and Yvonne Mallia from SEBH\, with President Godfrey Swain\n  \nThe four young singers\, pianist together with Club President Godfrey Swain and Soprano Gillian Zammit from Opera Nova\n  \nRotarians and friends at the SEBH fundraising event\n  \nCheers to having fun with Rotarian friends and guests
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/fundraising-cocktail-party-in-aid-of-sebh/
LOCATION:President Godfrey Swain’s home\, Lija\, Malta
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Fundraiser-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250516
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250519
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250714T143807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T143807Z
UID:345-1747353600-1747612799@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Rotary District 2110 Assembly 2025–2026
DESCRIPTION:Uniting Sicily and Malta to Do Good \nFrom 16–18 May 2025\, the Rotary District 2110 Assembly was held at the Four Points Sheraton in Catania\, Aci Castello\, marking a pivotal moment in preparing for the 2025–2026 Rotary year. Delegates from Malta’s Rotary Club La Valette — Brian Sullivan\, Clare Vassallo\, and Alessandro Liberto — proudly represented Malta in this dynamic international gathering. \nThe Assembly opened with anthems of Italy\, Malta\, the European Union\, and Rotary\, setting the tone for a weekend defined by unity and purpose. District Governor Elect (DGE) Sergio Malizia welcomed hundreds of Rotarians to a packed conference hall and unveiled the year’s inspiring theme: “Uniti per fare il bene” (United to Do Good). \nOpening remarks by leaders\, including Rosanna Aiello (President\, RC Aci Castello)\, outgoing Governor Giuseppe Pitari\, DGN Lina Ricciardello\, and DGD Casimiro Castronovo\, warmly highlighted the collaborative nature of the district. The international reach of District 2110 — bridging Sicily and Malta — was proudly acknowledged. \nOne of the Assembly’s most inspiring voices was that of Francesco Arezzo\, PRID and President of the Rotary Foundation Italy\, and Rotary International President for 2025–2026. Arezzo shared the remarkable early success of the Fondazione Rotary Italia\, which has already raised over $2.8 million\, with 25 major gifts positioning Italy among the top global contributors. Alongside Stefano Clementoni and PRID Alberto Cecchini\, he urged clubs to deliver impactful\, measurable projects and to embrace generosity as a cultural pillar of Rotary service. \nMalta’s Rotary Club La Valette was spotlighted during a presentation by Francesco Saccà\, Chair of the Governor’s Project Commission. Titled “Insieme con gioia nel Rotary”\, the initiative celebrates local excellence through a ten-stage\, cross-territory tour aimed at combining community engagement with fundraising. Representing Malta on the commission\, Alessandro Liberto will coordinate events scheduled for May 2026. \nIn addition to strategy and service planning\, the Assembly offered moments of cultural enrichment and fellowship. Attendees enjoyed “Notte di Donna”\, a mesmerising concert featuring Paola Caldarella (saxophone) and Cristina Gianino (piano)\, and a gala dinner at the scenic Grand Hotel Baia Verde — a setting as memorable as the friendships formed there. \nDGE Malizia laid out his three core focus areas: membership\, Rotary Foundation engagement\, and youth development. His program also introduces monthly Rotary breakfasts to encourage casual\, non-institutional connections among club members — a simple tradition with lasting impact. \nThree headline fundraising events will mark the music-driven spirit of the year: \n\nNoa in concert (2 August\, Teatro di Verdura\, Palermo)\nSei Ottavi a cappella (23 November\, Teatro Golden)\nHJO Jazz Orchestra (11 December\, Teatro Massimo Bellini\, Catania)\n\nA moving addition to the program is the Pet Therapy Project\, spearheaded by Angela and Sergio Malizia\, in memory of two beloved dogs\, Kiwi and Simba. Funds raised through solidarity postcards will support child- and elder-focused care associations across eastern and western Sicily. \nFinally\, PDG Attilio Bruno underscored the importance of nurturing membership with heart and vision\, encouraging clubs to prioritise meaningful relationships and create welcoming\, dynamic communities. \nThe 2025–2026 Rotary year is poised to be one of energy\, innovation\, and human connection\, grounded in Rotary’s enduring values and animated by the shared purpose to do good. \n  \nRotary Club La Valette Delegates (left to right): Rtn.Alessandro Liberto\, Rtn.Profs. Clare Vassallo and Rtn.Bryan Sullivan\n  \nSergio Malizia delivering his address\n  \nRtn.Profs. Clare Vassallo with Delegates at the Assembly\n  \nAll dressed up for the Gala dinner
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/rotary-district-2110-assembly-2025-2026/
LOCATION:Four Points Sheraton Hotel\, Catania\, Aci Castello\, Italy
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/assemblea3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250512
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250513
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250531T072006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250531T072202Z
UID:254-1747008000-1747094399@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Maltese Rotary clubs visit the beehives in Safi
DESCRIPTION:In an orange grove protected from the winds by high rubble walls\, one finds a number of beehives which are tended by Jorge.  Two of these are dedicated to ‘Rotary International’ and to ‘PDG Gaetano De Bernardis’ because Rotary la Valette Malta and Rotary Malta have signed up as custodians of the Foundation for the preservation of the Maltese Honey bee. \nThis project is a consequence of the Maltese Rotary Clubs belonging to District 2110 Sicily-Malta.  Three years ago\, in PDG De Bernardis’ year\, the ‘SOS Api’ (SOS Bees) project was launched.  The Maltese clubs\, while participating to some of the activities launched in Sicily\, have opted to be involved in the protection of the Maltese Honey bee which is in danger off extinction. \nWe are honoured that recently\, through the efforts of the Foundation\, this insect has been declared the National Insect of Malta and we have committed to continue supporting this worthy organization.  In fact\, our visit to the beehives had the scope of us learning more about beekeeping.  This was very well explained to us by Jorge\, whose enthusiasm and dedication shone through his talk. \nWe learnt that the Maltese Honey Bee is small\, mostly black and has particularly powerful aerodynamic wings to help it navigate Malta’s windy climate.  Bees tend to choose a particular flower\, ex. Orange blossom\, and tend to continue pollinating those particular blooms.  There are three seasons roughly divided into Spring when Mille Fleurs honey is produced because of the variety of flowers around\, in Summer it is the garigue vegetation that feeds the insects whilst in Autumn the eucalyptus and Carob tree receive the pollinators’ visits. \nAn ancient beehive room\, in the garden still guards the old pottery hives.  This room is badly in need of repair.  Jorge hopes that this will be done so that he may revive the ancient system of bee husbandry\, reusing the Maltese ‘fuhhar’ pots. \nFor more info visit: https://maltesehoneybee.org/
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/maltese-rotary-clubs-visit-the-beehives-in-safi/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Beehive-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250506
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250507
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250615T082849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250615T082849Z
UID:313-1746489600-1746575999@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Peacebuilding: Prospects and Challenges in the Age of Trump
DESCRIPTION:On 6 May 2025\, Rotary Club La Valette had the honour of hosting Professor Richard E. Rubenstein\, a globally recognised authority in peace and conflict resolution\, for a compelling talk titled “Peacebuilding: Prospects and Challenges in the Age of Trump.” \nProfessor Rubenstein\, Senior Fellow at the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University\, has spent decades challenging conventional views on conflict. Rather than treating conflict as a communication breakdown\, his work explores its deeper roots—moral\, societal\, historical\, and political. His scholarship\, which bridges law\, theology\, political theory\, and history\, has had a profound impact on generations of peacebuilders and academics. \nThe event brought together Rotarians from La Valette and Malta\, Rotaracters\, guests\, and former students\, all eager to engage with Professor Rubenstein’s insights. Although he humbly requested no formalities\, the evening was a fitting tribute to his enduring contributions to peace studies and his long-standing connection with Malta’s academic and civic communities—most notably through his close friendship with Professor Joe Inguanez. \nProfessor Rubenstein opened his remarks by extending greetings from the Carter School\, the oldest and largest conflict studies program in the United States. He highlighted his current visit to Malta to teach in the University of Malta’s joint Master’s program in Conflict Resolution and Mediterranean Security. This 15-year collaboration remains as relevant as ever. \nHe then spoke about a growing alliance between the Carter School and Rotary International. This collaboration is shaping practical peacebuilding efforts in regions such as Cyprus\, Sri Lanka\, Baltimore\, and the Russian borderlands. It also includes educational initiatives for Rotarians\, conferences\, and community engagement activities. These partnerships aim to devise sustainable and practical approaches to resolving intergroup conflict—methods grounded in both academic research and real-world experience. \nProfessor Rubenstein emphasised the growing importance of civil society in global peace efforts\, especially as traditional government-led “soft power” diplomacy has waned. The Trump era\, he noted\, has seen a shift toward power-based negotiation strategies\, which has reduced support for programs that address the root causes of conflict. In this context\, Rotary’s global network and ethos of service are more crucial than ever. \nHe warmly invited Rotarians in Malta to become more involved—both in supporting the local academic program in Conflict Resolution and Mediterranean Security and in joining international peace initiatives. His call to action underlined the vital role Rotary can play in nurturing the next generation of peacebuilders. \nThe evening closed with a deep appreciation for Professor Rubenstein—not only for his academic leadership and mentorship but also for his passionate advocacy of peace\, justice\, and collaboration across borders. \n  \nProfs Rubenstein delivering his talk\n  \nProfs Rubenstein flanked by Rtn.Gaby Doublesin and President Godfrey Swain
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/peacebuilding-prospects-and-challenges-in-the-age-of-trump/
LOCATION:Marsa Sports Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Rubenstein-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250412
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250413
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250531T072257Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250531T072522Z
UID:255-1744416000-1744502399@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Rotary Club la Valetta supports the Opera Nova Project
DESCRIPTION:The Opera Nova Project is the mastermind of Soprano Gillian Zammit and Ms Denise Mulholland\, who conceived and launched a first of its kind in Malta vocal programme providing a holistic\, high level musical education for classical voice students.  This is an opportunity for local and international singers\, who have already gone through the initial stages of training\, to receive a higher level of musical education in Malta allowing local talent the opportunity to develop their talents without the need to move overseas and dealing with costly travel and residential accommodation. \nIn true Rotarian spirit which encourages support for education and training\, Rotary Club la Valette has made it this Rotarian year’s project to support Opera Nova Project with a donation of Eur 10\,000.00. \nGodfrey Swain said\, ‘It was an eye-opening experience to attend an opera masterclass\, to witness the depth of talent in the Maltese musical scene and realise how much hard work goes into every note sung\, how much effort in pronunciation and stress on musical awareness these young people must master when presenting themselves in public in a professional context. We are proud to be supporting this amazing project in its very first year’ concluded Rotarian Swain before thanking Mr. Paul McNamara for coming over to Malta to work with local talent\, complementing Gillian Zammit and Denise Mulholland for their fantastic work and wishing the young performing artists every success for their future musical careers. 
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/rotary-club-la-valetta-supports-the-opera-nova-project/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Opera-Nova-1-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Rome:20250408T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Rome:20250408T193000
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250714T144428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T144428Z
UID:348-1744135200-1744140600@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Rotary Club La Valette Invited by Rotary Estoi Palace to Speak on 4-Way Test as a Tool to Bridge Divides in a Polarised World
DESCRIPTION:Invited by outgoing President Vitor Rosao of Rotary Club Estoi Palace International\, Portugal\, Rotarian Maria-Gabriele Doublesin delivered a Zoom talk titled “Bridging Divides in a Polarised World”. This engagement followed her speaker role at the 2025 Rotary International Presidential Peace Conference in Istanbul\, and it deepened an ongoing conversation about how Rotary can act as a global force for peace\, ethics\, and dialogue. \nThe event brought together Portuguese Rotarians and international guests from Rotary Estoi Palace\, attendees from the Rotary Club of Malta\, and one member from the Rotary Club of La Valette\, Malta. It was a powerful reminder that despite differences in language\, culture\, and national context\, Rotary remains united by shared values. At the heart of my talk was a central question: Can the Rotary 4-Way Test be used as a practical tool to bridge divisions in today’s polarised world? \nTo explore this\, the session began with an interactive Polarisation Spectrum Exercise\, prompting participants to consider how much they believe the public understands polarisation and its impact. This simple exercise laid the foundation for deeper reflection on how societal narratives are formed\, challenged\, or reinforced. \nThe talk then unpacked the psychological and cultural roots of polarisation\, referring to: \nSocial Identity Theory\, which explains the “us vs. them” dynamic of in-groups and out-groups; \nConfirmation bias and motivated reasoning\, which filter information through personal belief systems\, as well as insights from evolutionary psychology\, shed light on our instinctive tribal behaviours and fear responses. \nToday\, these ancient instincts are amplified by digital media\, economic stress\, and declining trust in neutral institutions—creating echo chambers and furthering social fragmentation. Yet\, Rotary’s 4-Way Test\, developed as an ethical guide during the Great Depression\, remains an enduringly relevant tool in countering these forces. \n  \nEach element of the 4-Way Test was examined how it can serve as a peacebuilding tool: \n\nIs it the truth?\n\nIn a climate dominated by misinformation and media bias\, this principle challenges us to examine how we interpret facts and whether we truly listen across cultural and ideological lines. \n\nIs it fair to all concerned?\n\nPolarisation often marginalises voices. This question promotes inclusivity and equitable understanding across age\, race\, culture\, and belief systems. \n\nWill it build goodwill and better friendships?\n\nAt a time when outrage is monetised and division sells\, the idea of building goodwill reminds us that peace begins with empathy and human connection. \n\nWill it be beneficial to all concerned?\n\nThis final test challenges us to go beyond self-interest or group loyalty\, asking us to consider our broader impact on the community\, society\, and humanity. \n  \nIn the context of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus\, this approach strongly supports Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention while also touching on Education\, Community Development\, and Social Inclusion. It is especially critical when addressing intergenerational and cultural divides\, where younger digital-native generations and older tradition-rooted groups may perceive change very differently. \nMaria-Gabriele Doublesin states: “This event was more than just a speaking engagement—it was a profound affirmation of Rotary’s global ethos. It demonstrated the power of ethical reflection and intercultural engagement across national borders. By being invited to speak in Portugal\, shortly after addressing peacebuilders in Istanbul\, I was reminded that the 4-Way Test is not merely a slogan—it is a practical compass for navigating division.” \nWe live in an age where fear\, identity politics\, and cultural misunderstanding can easily fracture communities. But as Rotarians\, we are called to do the difficult work: to listen when it’s uncomfortable\, to reflect when it’s easier to react and to lead with ethics when the world encourages partisanship. \nEvents like this reinforce that Rotary is not just a network; it is a movement. In that movement\, the 4-Way Test stands as a quiet\, powerful tool to foster dialogue\, rebuild trust\, and promote peace in our shared world. \n  \nBanner exchange between Gabi Doublesin\, Rotary Club La Valette and Rotary Estoi Palace President Dr Vitor Rosao
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/rotary-club-la-valette-invited-by-rotary-estoi-palace-to-speak-on-4-way-test-as-a-tool-to-bridge-divides-in-a-polarised-world/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rotarylavalette.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ESTOI-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Rome:20250221T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Rome:20250222T150000
DTSTAMP:20260429T182125
CREATED:20250615T090117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250615T090117Z
UID:318-1740146400-1740236400@rotarylavalette.org
SUMMARY:Rotary Club La Valette Represents Malta at the 2025 Rotary Presidential Peace Conference
DESCRIPTION:Rotary Club La Valette is proud to announce that Maria-Gabriele Doublesin\, serving as the Club’s Delegate\, took part as a Panel Speaker at the 2025 Rotary Presidential Peace Conference\, held in Istanbul under the leadership of Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick. \nWith the theme “Building Peace in a Polarised World\,” the conference brought together Rotarians\, peacebuilders\, civic leaders\, and scholars from around the globe to discuss pathways to sustainable peace amid cultural divisions\, media disruption\, and global change. \nRotary Leadership in Peacebuilding \nDoublesin’s participation reflects both her commitment to Rotary and her extensive background in peace education and intercultural engagement. \nHer experience includes: \n\nGeneral Coordinator of the Executive Committee at the Peace Centre\, Eindhoven University of Technology\nCollaboration with UNESCO’s “Peace through Education” programme (1997) led by Federico Mayor in partnership with the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education \nHer ongoing work as an intercultural consultant and educator\, focusing on diversity\, social cohesion\, and inclusive communication strategies\n\nA Lens for Listening: Addressing Polarisation Through Dialogue \nSpeaking on the panel Peace in a Polarised World\, Doublesin posed a thought-provoking question: \n“When we listen to diverse stories\, do we truly hear them—or see them through our cultural lens?” \nShe emphasised that personal histories\, societal norms\, and media narratives often shape genuine listening. To foster genuine understanding\, individuals must first acknowledge the cultural filters that shape their perceptions. \nUsing Malta as a case study\, she reflected on how its multicultural history and strategic location have shaped national identity—particularly through British and Italian influences\, wartime experiences\, EU membership\, and recent migration shifts. \nUnderstanding Ethnocentricity and Polarisation \nA central theme of Doublesin’s speech was ethnocentricity\, the unconscious tendency to interpret other cultures through the framework of one’s own. While this strengthens identity\, it can also hinder meaningful dialogue if left unexamined. \nShe outlined key challenges in overcoming polarisation: \n\nCultural Identity and Change – Concerns over heritage preservation and integration frequently emerge in media discourse\, shaping public perspectives.\nGenerational and Technological Gaps – Digital globalisation has altered how younger generations interact with culture\, sometimes leading to misunderstandings across age groups.\nInterpersonal Connection – True dialogue requires reflection on how personal and collective histories influence biases and perceptions.\n\nStrategies for Peacebuilding \nDoublesin offered actionable solutions for fostering sustainable peace: \n\nIntercultural Dialogue – Establishing inclusive spaces for diverse perspectives within schools\, workplaces\, and community forums\nReflexivity & Interpathy – Encouraging cross-cultural empathy by acknowledging different worldviews and building deeper intellectual and emotional connections\nMedia Literacy & Education – Addressing stereotypes and misinformation through structured learning in civic institutions\n\nRotary Club La Valette: Strengthening Malta’s Role in Peace Efforts \nWhile Rotary Club La Valette has traditionally not focused on Peace and Conflict Prevention\, Doublesin’s involvement in the Istanbul conference marked a significant milestone for Malta’s visibility within Rotary’s global peace dialogue. \nHer presence exemplifies how individual leadership and professional expertise can complement Rotary’s seven areas of focus\, even when not embedded in a club’s core programme. \nPresident Stephanie Urchick commended all speakers\, stating:\n“Peacebuilding today requires not only goodwill\, but the skill to understand\, the courage to engage\, and the heart to include.” \nDoublesin’s contribution reflects these principles—helping Rotary strengthen its mission of Service Above Self and its dedication to peace\, dialogue\, and cultural understanding worldwide. \n  \nRCLV Delegate (second from left) speaks at 2025 RI Presidental Peace Conference Istanbul\n  \nDelegates attending the Breakout Room Session\n  \nMaria-Gabriele Doublesin delivering her talk during the breakout session\n  \nMaria-Gabriele Doublesin (seated) with American Rotarians
URL:https://rotarylavalette.org/event/rotary-club-la-valette-represents-malta-at-the-2025-rotary-presidential-peace-conference/
LOCATION:Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center\, Istanbul\, Turkey
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