When Bristol Breakfast Rotary Club asked me if I would consider being their President, I did not feel worthy of this most responsible role. It had been only 9 short months of my joining them with the intention to make a difference to those in need by using my skills and resources, and this invitation came as something of a surprise.

A club with a history of long standing members, many of whom have known each other for decades, all united in their quest to make a difference in their city and further afield, so familiar with Rotary that they have forgotten more than I will ever know, I wondered if my acceptance of the role was too much of a risk and beyond my capabilities.

In the time since I accepted this task and the gravity of its responsibility, I have learned so much about the power of Rotary. The members of this incredible club have welcomed me with open arms and without judgement. They have taught me so much and given me a path to integrate into the wonderful City of Bristol that I love so much and that I have come to call my home. For that I am grateful and so it is my turn to pay it forward.

This club makes it’s mark to improve the lives of so many people. From enabling children in the most poverty stricken areas in South Bristol to eat breakfast and encouraging them to believe they can have a successful future though our mentoring initiatives, to investing in electric cooking projects in Nepal, which ensures effective nutrition and prevents life changing injuries. Our reach spreads far and wide.

The message of Rotary International for 2025/26 is ‘Unite For Good’. To me, at this point in time, there is no greater example to illustrate this than how this Club has allowed me to unite with them to help them with the amazing work that they have done long before me, and to help them continue this ambition for many years to come.

As President of Bristol Breakfast Rotary Club, I look forward to sharing our journey over the coming year, telling the stories of the impact that we make for so many and inspiring the minds of the Rotarians of the future.

With best regards,

Elaine Milne

President