THE XV CONGRESS OF DISTRICT 2202 HELD IN CASTELLDEFELS

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Manuel Ruiz

Castelldefels was the scene of an extraordinary event on May 19 and 20, 2023: the XV Congress of Rotary International District 2202. Under the theme "Imagine Rotary" and led by passionate District Governor Ingrid Steinhoff, this gathering brought together Rotarians from across the district for a gathering filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and dedication to the Rotary cause.

The congress was held in the modern facilities of the Hotel Rey Don Jaime in Castelldefels. This hotel, with its welcoming atmosphere and excellent amenities, was the perfect setting to receive more than 200 participants from different clubs in the district. From early Friday afternoon, Rotarians began to arrive, filling the place with enthusiasm and energy.

Group photo of the participants in the Congress

DG Ingrid Steinhoff chaired the event, filling the room with her contagious energy and enthusiasm. Focusing on the importance of imagination and innovation within Rotary, her keynote address left everyone in attendance reflecting on the power of vision and the desire to make a difference in their communities. Also taking part were the representative of the RI President, Julio Silva Santistevan, the speaker Nacho Dean, the first person in history to walk around the world and unite the 5 continents by swimming, and those responsible for the District Environment Committee, who They spoke about the projects of the District clubs focused on caring for nature, sustainability and the circular economy, as well as a tour in images of the "Beach Cleaning" day that was held a few days ago, on different coasts. of our District (both the Mediterranean sea and the Cantabrian sea).

After the inaugural session, attendees enjoyed an unforgettable evening at the friendship dinner, held at the charming Hotel Playafels. The relaxed and happy atmosphere allowed Rotarians to make deeper connections and share experiences in a more relaxed setting.

The second day of the congress was full of activities at the Hotel Rey Don Jaime. Keynote addresses covered a broad summary of the work of the different District committees, from membership, leadership training, communication, contributions to the Rotary Foundation and projects with district and global grants, the empowerment of girls, youth programs, rotaract, interact, RYLA, CAMPS, Rotary Youth Exchange, and leadership in the digital age by starting Polaris, etc. thus knowing the work done throughout this intense Rotary year. We also had the intervention of Past RIVP Yinka Babalola, from Nigeria, who spoke to us about the "Future of Rotary."

The award and recognition ceremony for the most outstanding Rotarians in the district was a moment of joy and celebration, demonstrating the impact Rotary can have on society.

The closing dinner, held at the Hotel Rey Don Jaime itself, was the crowning glory of the congress. The XV Congress of the District 2202 of Rotary International in Castelldefels said goodbye leaving a deep mark on the minds and hearts of the attendees. Inspired by the theme "Imagine Rotary" and the passionate leadership of Ingrid Steinhoff, Rotarians returned to their clubs filled with innovative ideas and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to make their dreams come true and transform the world through Rotary.

PHOTOS: Manel Moreu (RC Sant Cugat)