Creating Lasting Impact: Rotary Club of Portsmouth Ushers in New Leadership

Kalisha Aaron installed as President as the club celebrates a successful year, recognizes outstanding service, and unveils its vision for the 2026–2027 Rotary year.

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth officially ushered in a new chapter of leadership during its Investiture Service held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, marking the transition from outgoing President Marianne Wijnands to incoming President Kalisha Aaron for the 2026–2027 Rotary year.

The ceremony brought together Rotarians, family members, friends, and community partners to celebrate the club's achievements over the past year and reaffirm its commitment to service and community impact.

Outgoing President Marianne Wijnands reflected on a successful Rotary year, highlighting several impactful initiatives undertaken by the club, including the visit of Medical Ministry International to Dominica, the ongoing installation of playgrounds at primary schools, the budding partnership with the Rotary Club of Grand Cayman, and projects undertaken by the EarlyAct Club of Savanne Paille Primary School, among many other noteworthy accomplishments.

The event featured an inspiring and thought-provoking address by guest speaker Ms. Caesarina M. Paul, who challenged members to focus on creating meaningful and sustainable change. Using the analogy of the Chinese Bamboo tree, Ms. Paul encouraged members to patiently build strong foundations within their communities and concluded with a powerful charge: "Don't just have a good year. Build something this club's next generation will be grateful you started."

In her inaugural address, President Aaron also emphasized the importance of membership growth and retention, encouraging every Rotarian to become actively involved in committee work and to foster a culture of belonging, fellowship, and service.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity to recognize outstanding service within the club. Special recognition was presented to Sari Rolle, Anne Winn, and Sammy Wyke for their years of dedicated service and significant contributions to the Rotary Club of Portsmouth. Outgoing President Marianne Wijnands was also honored for her exemplary leadership and commitment throughout the 2025–2026 Rotary year, during which the club achieved Platinum Status in recognition of its outstanding accomplishments.

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth remains committed to the Rotary motto, Service Above Self, and looks forward to another year of impactful projects and initiatives that improve lives and strengthen communities throughout Dominica. As the club embarks on this new Rotary year, President Aaron challenged members to embrace the theme Create Lasting Impact by serving with passion, growing together, and continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

2026–2027 Executive Committee

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth Executive Committee for the 2026–2027 Rotary year are as follows:

● President: Kalisha Aaron

● Vice President & President-Elect: Kyle Edwards

● Immediate Past President: Marianne Wijnands

● Secretary: Husa Seaman

● Treasurer: Trish Edwards

● Club Membership Chair: Craig Sands

● Club Foundation Chair: Matilda Carty

● Club Public Image Chair: Kalisha Aaron

Together, the Executive Committee will lead the club in advancing its mission of Service Above Self while working collaboratively to Create Lasting Impact throughout the communities it serves.

About the Rotary Club of Portsmouth

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth is a service organization dedicated to addressing community needs through projects focused on education, health, environmental sustainability, youth development, and humanitarian service. The club is part of Rotary International District 7030 and is committed to creating positive and lasting change through service and fellowship.