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A Rotary International Convention is unlike anything you’ve experienced. Where else can you enjoy Grammy-winning singers and Nobel laureates on the same stage? At the 26-30 June convention in Barcelona, Spain, you’ll find yet another impressive lineup, along with opportunities to connect with fellow people of action from around the globe.

Vinay Gandhi Billapati, a first-time attendee this year in Taipei, says: “The friendships you build, the ideas you discover, and the inspiration you gain will remain with you for a lifetime.” What made his experience unforgettable:

Members from Taiwan participate in the flag ceremony during the opening general session

Image credit: Monika Lozinska

  • A big welcome. From the moment we landed, we experienced exceptional hospitality. Volunteers welcomed us warmly and guided us. Their warmth and willingness to help left a lasting impression.
  • Inspiration. The breakout sessions, general sessions, the House of Friendship, the Rotary Peace Park, and Rotary Action Group exhibits were beyond anything I had imagined. Every corner offered opportunities to learn, connect, and be inspired.
  • Rotary VIPs. I fulfilled my dream of taking a photo with 2024-25 Rotary President Stephanie Urchick.
  • Connection. The opening ceremony with its Parade of Flags reflected Rotary’s global spirit. Every Rotary member greeted one another with warmth. Rotary was the common language that united us.
  • A new perspective. The convention was one of the most rewarding experiences of my Rotary journey. It strengthened my belief that Rotary is more than an organization — it is a global family united by service and friendship. I am already looking forward to my next convention.

This story originally appeared in the September 2026 issue of Rotary magazine.

Registration opens in September. Sign up for email updates and special promotional rates.

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