Attaining Bronze Level in the Membership Society
Meet Hashim Reza Taqvi, a dedicated Rotarian whose journey in the Rotary world began on February 12, 2014, when he joined the Rotary Club of Mississauga City Centre. From the very start, Hashim found inspiration and guidance from his mentors, Tabassum Iqbal and Ali Jawad Rana, who played a crucial role in shaping him into the committed Rotarian he is today.
Under the mentorship of Iqbal and Rana, Hashim was encouraged to actively participate in District 7080 events and training sessions. Embracing their advice, he attended various functions, gaining valuable insights into the Rotary community. In 2015, Hashim experienced the joy of sponsoring his friend Tariq A Shah, marking a significant milestone in his Rotary journey.
However, not everyone embraced Hashim's rapid progress in Rotary, leading him to make a bold decision. He decided to part ways with the Rotary Club of Mississauga City Centre and went on to charter his club, the "Rotary Club of Mississauga South." In 2017, he sponsored an impressive 16 members, followed by two more in 2018, showcasing his commitment to expanding the Rotary family.
The onset of the pandemic brought challenges, but Hashim's club persevered. Eventually, they merged back into the RCM City Centre, albeit with a reduced membership of 11. Undeterred by setbacks, Hashim and his fellow Rotarians embarked on a strategic move to join forces with a larger club for sustainability.
After careful consideration and research, the Rotary Club of Mississauga emerged as the ideal choice. Recognizing Hashim's leadership potential, they offered him the position of President-Elect. This new role brought with it a fresh set of responsibilities, aligning perfectly with Hashim's dedication to the Rotary cause.
In the midst of these transformative changes, Hashim received a letter of encouragement from none other than Jennifer Jones, the President of Rotary International. She lauded Hashim's progress, stating that he was on the cusp of achieving the remarkable feat of sponsoring 25 members. Such an accomplishment would earn his club and district a coveted spot in the esteemed "Membership Society" of Rotary International.
As Hashim continued his commendable work, Rotary International President Gordon R. McInally took notice, sending three letters of acknowledgment for his continuous efforts in sponsoring new members. The year 2023 proved to be a milestone, as Hashim successfully sponsored six new members, surpassing his goal, and achieving the status of bronze-level recognition in the Membership Society.
As Hashim looks back on his journey, he sees not just the tangible achievements but also the shadows cast by these mentors, creating a chiaroscuro of Rotary camaraderie. The saga of Hashim Reza Taqvi's Rotary sojourn is not merely about goals achieved but a testament to the profound impact that the unheralded mentors—Lynn Lewis, Helga Noyes, and Jalima Simancas—have on the mosaic of a Rotarian's soul.
With his name, his club, and his district now proudly listed at the bronze level, Hashim's sights are set on the next objective: reaching the silver level by sponsoring five more memberships. Undoubtedly, his unwavering dedication and achievements make Hashim Reza Taqvi a shining example within the Rotary community, embodying the spirit of service and fellowship.