Empowering Rotaractors for a New Year of Service, Leadership, and Unity
Every great marathon begins with a single step, but success is achieved through perseverance, commitment, and the support of those who journey alongside us. As the Rotaract Club of Makati welcomed a new Rotary Year, members and volunteers gathered for RAC Academy: Crossing the Finish Line Together, a General Assembly designed to inspire, equip, and unite Rotaractors for the year ahead.
Despite the heavy and continuous rainfall, the RAC Academy held on August 08, 2026, at the MRCFI Building, Makati City, successfully gathered 25 members and volunteers who braved the weather to participate in the event. Their presence reflected their commitment to learning, service, and leadership development within the Rotaract community.
The event opened with an inspiring message from President Christopher Ferrareza of the Rotary Club of Makati, who shared insights on leadership, service, and community engagement. Emphasizing that true leadership is rooted in serving others rather than holding a title, he remarked, “Leadership is about service, not the position.” He also reminded participants that leadership often finds those who are willing to step up, saying, “You will not choose the leadership position. The leadership position will choose you. Just always choose to show up.”
Following the marathon-inspired theme, the program featured a series of learning sessions that guided members through different aspects of the Rotaract journey.
The 5KM: RAC Makati and Beyond session, led by PDRR Catherine Gonzales, introduced participants to the history of RAC Makati, its guiding principles, and the deeper purpose of being part of the Rotaract movement. She emphasized the transformative power of service, sharing that while volunteers often join with the intention of helping others, they are often the ones who experience the greatest growth and change. As she noted, “In volunteering, you want to help, but little did you know, you are the one being transformed.”
In 10KM: Areas of Focus and Avenues of Service, PP Mark Gil Cato discussed and differentiated Rotary’s Areas of Focus and the Avenues of Service that shape the club’s projects and community initiatives, helping members better understand where they can make meaningful contributions.
Adding energy and excitement to the program was the 21KM: Mini-Marathon Activity, facilitated by PP Prame Rose Cato. Through engaging and interactive activities, participants strengthened teamwork, communication, and camaraderie while enjoying a fun learning experience.
The final session, 42KM: Acquisition Process, was presented by IPDRR Nico Dela Cruz, who shared the volunteer journey within RAC Makati and outlined the stages of growth, engagement, and leadership opportunities available to members.
The academy brought together both returning and new members in an atmosphere of learning, collaboration, and fellowship. Through meaningful discussions and shared experiences, participants gained a clearer understanding of the club’s vision, goals, and priorities for the year ahead.
More than an orientation, RAC Academy served as a foundation for future service projects and leadership development. It reinforced the idea that meaningful achievements are not reached through individual effort alone, but through teamwork, dedication, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
As the new Rotary Year begins, RAC Makati moves forward with renewed energy, strengthened connections, and a united vision. Because in Rotaract, just like in a marathon, the greatest victories are achieved when we cross the finish line together.
