contact-rotary-488-ENG

N° 488 JAN/FEB

2026

Ignorance

is a menace to peace.

Paul Harris

Discover our travel offer

on the next pages.

ROTARY

INTERNATIONAL

CONVENTION

TAIPEI, TAIWAN | 13-17 JUNE 2026

Register today at convention.rotary.org.

12 JUNE - 17 JUNE 2026

17 JUNE - 1 JULY 2026

Annual convention Taipei

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Modern

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fellowship.

Taipei skyline

ee

Thailand

Penang

Straat van Malakka

Ipoh

Cameron

Highlands

Kuala

Lumpur

Andamanzee

Map

Thailand

Taman Negeri

Straat van Malakka

Indonesië

Penang

Ipoh

Cameron

Highlands

Zuid Chinese Zee

Kuala

Lumpur

Taman Negeri

Melakka

Zuid Chinese Zee

Singapore

Programme

12 - 17 June

Taipei

Departure from Brussels

Airport and arrival in Taipei,

where you will spend the

following days attending the

Rotary Convention.

18 - 20 June

Singapore

Discover modern Singapore:

colonial districts, Buddha Tooth

Relic Temple, National Orchid

Garden and the colorful Little

India. Visit Gardens by the Bay

with its Flower Dome, Cloud

Forest and OCBC Skyway.

21 June

Melaka

Drive from Singapore to Melaka.

Explore this UNESCO World

Heritage city with Jonker

Street, Dutch Square and Porta

de Santiago. Evening stroll

along the river.

22 - 23 June

Taman Negara

Boat transfer to the jungle

resort. Hike to Bukit Teresek,

boat trip to Lata Berkoh and

a guided night walk in the

rainforest. Visit the Lubuk

Tenor fish sanctuary and relax

by the river.

Melakka

Indonesië

1

Singapore

3

The tea plantations

of the Cameron Highlands.

Singapore: the lush

Gardens by the Bay.

Duration

20 days,

19 nights

Group size

Min. 12 participants

Package price in a

double room

€ 6785 p.p.*

Package price in a

single room

€ 8710 p.p*.

‘From futuristic skylines

and colonial charm to

rainforest trails and

island beaches: Malaysia

surprises you every day.’

Departure dates

12 June to 1 July

* Price valid until 2 March.

For bookings made after

this date, price increases

may apply.

Melaka: a UNESCO World Heritage

city where history meets vibrant

culture.

24 June

Cameron Highlands

Scenic drive through tea

plantations and hill landscapes.

Visit a tea factory and enjoy

a tasting at a local market.

Experience the refreshing

highland climate.

25 - 26 June

Travel via Ipoh and Kuala

Kangsar to Penang.

In George Town, discover

colonial architecture, street art

and local food culture. City tour

includes the Snake Temple, Fort

Cornwallis, Peranakan Museum

and Khoo Kongsi.

27 - 29 June

Kuala Lumpur

Panoramic city tour with

Petronas Towers, Royal Palace,

Merdeka Square and National

Monument. Visit the Batu Caves

and Petronas Skybridge. Food

tour through Chinatown and

Little India with local specialties

and a visit to Thean Hou Temple.

30 June - 1 July

Return

Free day in Kuala Lumpur

followed by transfer to the

airport for the return flight to

Brussels. Arrival in Belgium the

next morning.

Included

• International and domestic flights

• Accommodation in 4* and 5* hotels, including breakfast

• Airport transfers in Taipei

• Tour leader

• Local English-speaking guide/driver from Singapore

• Comfortable transport, meals and all visits

as per itinerary

• Gratuities and Rotary registration (value USD 575, for

registrations made before 02/03/2026)

• Documentation folder

Not included

• Personal expenses, insurance, and meals or

drinks not specified

• Digital arrival forms

• Any other items not mentioned

Rotary Club Fundraising:

Discover the fundraising opportunities with Hobo

Reizen. Contact Evi Torfs for support.

Register by 2 March

Click here or scan the QR code

for pre-registration

For enquiries, please contact

jana.bosmans@hoboreizen.be

4

EDITORIAL

Ignorance

is a menace to peace.

– Paul Harris

In a society in turmoil, where the notion of success is particularly

valued, the ability to exert influence is paramount.

Thus, Rotary ethics are structured around the ideal of service,

commonly known as the ‘Four-Way Test’.

This code of conduct, which we all know, allows us to

evaluate our thoughts and actions according to criteria of

authenticity, integrity, benevolence, and collective benefit.

Each of us becomes a quiet ‘hero’ by recognizing ourselves

in our motto, ‘Service Above Self’. We thus take on a heroic

role every day, one that compels us to act with courage and

integrity, often not seeking honors but out of duty or conviction,

to accomplish bold actions, at the cost of selflessness

and perseverance in the face of challenges and adversity,

driven by the desire to illuminate the visible universe where

thought cannot, and must not, submit to external threats in

order to combat the prevailing ignorance.

There can be no immoral politics to advance the world.

Therefore, it is essential to formulate a statement imbued

with a resolutely Rotary spirit to do justice to our presence

and influence. Each of our members deserves the utmost

respect and recognition for duty fulfilled. We are, as we

know, engaged in an ongoing and unfinished process, like

Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony, a revolutionary work that

uses expressive silences and extreme rhythms, thus exploring

new musical dimensions.

Let us embrace originality and innovation to create an

intensity and continuity of emotion to share and celebrate,

thus proudly upholding our ‘Service Above Self’ principle

in the enduring and profound

eloquence of our actions,

exploring new dimensions

of service. Thank you,

fellow Rotarians! Keep

your spirits high!

Paul Van den bossche

Publisher &

Editor-in-chief

COLOPHON

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Paul Van den bossche

paulvdb@cethial.com

EDITORS

Steven Vermeylen (NL)

steven@rotarybeluxservices.org

Denis Crepin (FR)

denis@rotarybeluxservices.org

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Evi Torfs

secretary@rotarybeluxservices.org

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Georges Van Nevel

Stéphane Dor

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BOARD

Chair:

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Vice-Chair:

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Treasurer:

PDG 2140 Peter Wolters, peter@alfaconsult.be

DG 2150 Alain Vanrillaer, vanrillaer.alain.17@gmail.com

Managing Director and Secretary:

Paul Van den bossche, paulvdb@cethial.com

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Subject to errors and omissions.

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©2026 ContactRotary/Rotary BeLux Services. Publisher:

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5

FOCUS

50 Years of the King

Baudouin Foundation

“With Rotary’s strong

local roots, together

we can achieve more.”

In 2026, the King Baudouin Foundation

(KBF) celebrates its fiftieth anniversary:

half a century of philanthropy, innovation

and social engagement. With CEO

Brieuc Van Damme, we look back at

how the Foundation has grown into a

leading European philanthropic institution

– and how Rotary could become

even more closely involved in its work.

©Frank Toussaint

The King Baudouin Foundation is an independent public-interest

foundation committed to building a more just and inclusive

society, in Belgium and beyond. It supports projects and

initiatives that address key societal challenges in areas such

as poverty reduction, health, education, democracy, climate

and culture. In addition to financial support, the Foundation

provides expertise, guidance and networking opportunities. It

also promotes philanthropy, manages a wide range of funds,

and contributes to public debate through research, publications

and forums. In this way, the King Baudouin Foundation acts as

a bridge between citizens and organisations that seek to work

together for positive social change.

The KBF will mark its 50th anniversary in 2026. “It was founded in

1976, at the initiative of the Tindemans government,” explains CEO

Brieuc Van Damme. “The idea was to offer a gift to King Baudouin,

who had then been on the throne for 25 years. I once had the opportunity

to consult the correspondence between the King and the

Prime Minister. King Baudouin contributed ideas that were remarkably

modern and even visionary. He insisted that the Foundation

should be able to operate independently, and not serve his personal

agenda. His main wish was to bring people together and align

philanthropic initiatives with societal priorities. He also laid the foundations

for a European dimension. Initially, we positioned ourselves

as a Belgian foundation in Europe; today, we see ourselves more as

a European foundation based in Belgium.”

AN ATYPICAL PHILANTHROPIC MODEL

The KBF works through project calls following a model that sets it

apart from traditional grantmakers. Van Damme describes it as an

“atypical philanthropic creature”:

“The Foundation has its own endowment, and the returns on that

capital are used to fund social projects, allowing it to operate independently

and sustainably. Since the 1990s, it has also functioned

as a hub for philanthropists: individuals, families or organisations

can set up their own fund within the Foundation, or use its existing

platform to realise their philanthropic ambitions efficiently, transparently

and in a spirit of trust.”

Project calls often originate from the wishes of a philanthropist.

Sometimes the goal is clearly defined; in other cases, the philanthropist

prefers to “consult the market” to identify the most impactful

initiatives. In such situations, the Foundation draws up a call for

proposals setting out objectives, selection criteria and practical

conditions. The call is widely disseminated so that relevant organisations

and projects can apply. Applications are then assessed by

the fund’s board, sometimes supported by technical experts or an

independent jury. This approach ensures that available resources

are deployed as strategically as possible, maximising social impact.

VENTURE PHILANTHROPY

Increasingly, the KBF also applies the principles of venture philanthropy,

inspired by venture capital. Under this approach, the

6

Foundation goes beyond financial support and takes on a coaching

and support role. This is particularly relevant for organisations

with strong social ideas but insufficient resources, structures or

expertise to scale their impact. The Foundation supports their

development and professionalisation, for example by advising on

strategic management, helping to set up CRM systems, strengthening

fundraising capacity or improving internal processes.

STRONG GROWTH AND INTERNATIONALISATION

In recent years, the KBF has experienced significant growth in

both budget and international reach. In 2017, around €50 million

was allocated to charitable causes; today, that figure exceeds

€200 million per year. This growth has been fuelled in part by the

COVID-19 crisis and increasing geopolitical and societal turbulence,

which have visibly strengthened the generosity of citizens

and philanthropists. At the same time, the Foundation has felt the

impact of the gradual phasing out of duo legacies, though this

has largely been offset by a steady inflow of standard legacies,

supported by demographic trends.

Alongside this budgetary growth, the Foundation has also become

far more international. With additional structures and a presence in

cities such as New York, Montreal and Paris, and through networks

such as Myriad, the KBF can support philanthropists worldwide.

This makes it increasingly attractive to international donors

seeking its expertise and infrastructure. A recent snapshot shows

that approximately 60% of funds are deployed in Belgium and

40% abroad, with a strong presence in France, for example, where

the Paris office supports projects on homelessness and heritage,

including the reconstruction of Notre-Dame.

CAPTAIN KIRK’S MINDSET

“To boldly go where no one else dares to go”: the famous mission

of Captain Kirk from Star Trek resonates with Brieuc Van Damme.

Since becoming CEO in 2022, he has fully embraced a strategy

focused on impact, efficiency and innovation. Internally, this has

meant restructuring, significant investment in IT and the creation

of new consultative bodies. Substantively, there has been

increased attention for projects related to democracy and citizen

participation.

Through this focus, the KBF aims to strengthen the democratic

fabric and actively involve citizens in social and political decision-making.

“We see that traditional democratic models are

under pressure, and that new forms of participation are needed to

reinforce trust, inclusion and legitimacy.” Concretely, the Foundation

supports innovative participatory practices such as citizens’

panels, commissions research on democratic renewal, publishes

practical guides and shares good practices both nationally and

internationally.

A stronger partnership with Rotary

For several years, Rotary has hosted a number of funds within

the KBF (including support for the Rotary Foundation), offering

donors tax advantages. But Van Damme also sees scope for

deeper cooperation: “Rotary can be a highly valuable partner, as a

service club with strong local roots. That proximity is crucial: many

valuable initiatives emerge close to the people, but struggle to find

their way to larger structures, which can sometimes feel distant

or abstract. Donors are also often willing to give more when they

can see the impact close to home. In a polarised society, the local

level is essential: dialogue is easier, and the social fabric is often

strongest there.”

The KBF has therefore created a number of local hubs to support

these connections.

The anniversary year promises to be a memorable one. “There will

be a series of postage stamps highlighting different forms of giving,

we will be guest of honour at BRAFA and present for the first

time at TEFAF. Few people know that we manage around 29,000

artworks, housed in various museums. In April, we will hold an

academic session at Autoworld. Above all, we will continue to do

everything we can to involve all stakeholders as closely as possible

in our work. The KBF is not merely a practical service provider;

it seeks to position itself as a pluralistic engine for wellbeing and

democracy.”

Steven Vermeylen

More info: www.kbs-frb.be

In a nutshell

• Which word best summarises your professional

vision?

Collaboration: bringing everyone along, without excluding

anyone – that is always my ambition.

• Which art movement do you feel most affinity with?

Purely aesthetically? Impressionism.

• What music do you most enjoy listening to?

My taste is very eclectic: from metal and techno to

Haydn.

• What is your favourite colour and what does it evoke

for you?

Dark green: I am a great lover of nature and my

great-grandfather was chairman of Cercle Brugge.

• Which famous person would you like to dine with,

and what would be on the menu?

Barack Obama, and I would choose grilled lobster.

7

FOCUS

Investing

in people,

and in society

Through its various funds, the King Baudouin Foundation supports a

wide range of projects that contribute to a better society in Belgium,

Europe and beyond. It finances initiatives in areas such as poverty

reduction, social justice, health, education, the environment and

cultural heritage, and launches numerous annual calls for proposals

to which organisations and citizens can respond.

The Foundation manages many thematic funds with specific objectives,

such as preserving and restoring artworks, financing medical

and social research, and supporting local infrastructure projects.

It also supports projects and programmes that give young people

opportunities to develop and participate fully in society. One example

is the Boost programme, which helps talented young people

from disadvantaged backgrounds access higher education and

the labour market. Other initiatives include Digital for Youth, which

supports vulnerable young people in developing digital skills, and

funds such as the GMD Fund, which finances music and participation

projects.

Internationally, the Foundation supports projects that combat

poverty and improve living conditions in African countries and

elsewhere. It also backs innovative social initiatives related to the

circular economy and mobility. Beyond funding, the KBF offers guidance,

coaching and networking opportunities to enhance project

impact. A small selection of supported projects:

Passerelle is an artistic youth organisation that uses contemporary

dance to inspire children and young people. Through a diverse

range of workshops and activities, it offers an intense artistic experience

to participants with or without dance experience. The KBF

supports this non-profit organisation through the West Flanders

Regional Fund.

© Robin Hooybergs

In a terraced house in the Marolles district of Brussels, homeless tuberculosis

patients can recover after leaving hospital and continue

their treatment. At “Den 12”, they find rest, dignity and a chance to

rebuild their lives. Many are transit migrants or people without legal

status.

The KBF is committed to the sustainable management of three

islands in the Semois valley: the islands of Bohan and Vanne Cunin

(municipality of Vresse-sur-Semois) and the island of Montclar in

Poupehan. These are protected Natura 2000 sites. Each summer,

six Roux Ardennais sheep are released onto the island of Bohan to

ensure natural land management. Their arrival is a festive event,

eagerly attended by local schoolchildren.

© Aurélie Vettese © Vrienden van het Huizeke

8

FOCUS

The Rotary Foundation, a valuable

tool that is sometimes overlooked...

and underfunded

We meet with the DRFCs (District Rotary Foundation

Chairs) of our two French-speaking districts in

BeLux, Philippe De Deurwaerder (Rc Dottignies-Val

d’Espierre) and Éric Thonnard (Rc Vallée du Geer

[Glons]). In a joint interview, they share their views

on the “charitable arm of RI,” how it works, its impact,

and its reputation within their respective districts.

You are both chairs of the Rotary Foundation Committee, one for

D 2150 (Philippe) and the other for D 2160 (Éric). How did your

interest in the Foundation develop?

E.T.: My first experience dates back to the early 2010s, when I

agreed to take charge of a global grant project in Senegal. This

involved setting up an agricultural cooperative – from buildings to

tools to training – for the benefit of a special education school. We

started from scratch and had to bring several clubs together around

our initiative, visit the site, seek advice from the embassy, meet

with the local population, understand their needs, and so on. It was

a long process, as the initiative, launched in 2011, only came to fruition

in 2016. But today, the cooperation is still going strong...

P.D.D.: I have been a Rotarian since 2003 and very quickly became

involved in my club’s flagship project, the Balade de Ronceval, which

allows us to redistribute some €25,000 each year. It was during a

district meeting that I learned about the existence and usefulness

of Foundation grants. Since then, our club has applied for a District

Grant every year... We stepped up our efforts in 2020, following the

terrible explosion in the port of Beirut, with the complete renovation

of the children’s ward of a damaged hospital, a project carried out

in cooperation with the Intercountry Committee (ICC) and supported

by a global grant. That’s when I really realized the international

reach of our movement.

Many clubs think that the grant application process is complex

and tedious... Is that correct?

E.T.: First of all, we are here to help and guide them. But frankly, for

district grants, the document to be completed is only a few pages

long and the information requested is not complicated (description

of the project, beneficiaries, budget, and funding, etc.). If your

project is well planned and documented, it’s easy to complete. I

admit that a global grant application is a little more complicated to

Philippe is on the left, Éric on the right…

9

FOCUS

put together, but only slightly. The information requested is similar.

There is simply a more specific section concerning the impact of

the project and, above all, its sustainability...

P.D.D.: Sustainability has indeed become an essential concept

in the eyes of the Foundation. The same applies to the project’s

alignment with at least one of RI’s strategic priorities. Furthermore,

we are operating on an international scale, which may discourage

some clubs: how can we ensure, for example, the strength of a

partnership with a foreign club that we don’t really know? For

a club that has always supported local associations, taking the

plunge and undertaking a “global” project – with all the challenges

that this can entail – is undoubtedly daunting... But I would like to

point out that, on Polaris, on the page dedicated to the Foundation,

D 2150 has posted many useful documents, particularly on

the subject of grants.

E.T.: In general, the support provided by the Foundation represents

a substantial amount, sometimes more than 50% of the budget. The

Foundation is therefore entitled to request a well-documented file

to ensure that the money is being used properly. And for the club,

such a boost fully justifies making a few small efforts: producing

supporting documents and writing reports. I always tell clubs: don’t

wait until the last minute to document your project on rotary.org,

do it as it progresses. You can build your file online, save it, and

complete it at your own pace.

Thanks to a district grant, Rc Brussels Cantersteen financed the

purchase of an electric cargo bike for the association Serve The City.

To apply for a grant, a club must be certified. How many are certified

in your district? How does this process work?

E.T.: In addition to a general seminar on the Foundation, held in

Belgium and the Grand Duchy, which aims to provide information

(on funding, the various funds, polio, etc.), D 2160 also organizes a

certification seminar specifically focused on grants and their management.

It takes place during the district assembly, and each club

must attend – through at least one member – before completing its

official certification application. Last year, some 45 clubs obtained

certification (out of approximately 70, editor’s note).

Rc Roeselare raised funds from nine clubs and thus collected

€ 80,554 for a global grant project related to the supply of drinking

water in Benin.

P.D.D.: In D 2150, it doesn’t work that way – which shows the richness

and diversity of Rotary (laughs). We only organize one seminar

dedicated to the Foundation, and the program can vary from year to

year. We are careful not to go into too much technical detail, but, as

in D 2160, club attendance is mandatory if they want to be certified

(last year, this was the case for 57 out of 72 clubs). One of the stated

objectives is also to encourage clubs to make donations. We are

currently in a bit of a slump, with only $62,000 to redistribute this

year. I receive many requests, but fewer pledges. However, the two

are linked: the less a district gives, the less it receives in return (as

the DDF is funded based on the district’s contribution three years

prior). That is why, in our organization, a club is only eligible for a

grant if it has donated in the last three years.

E.T.: That said, I hope clubs avoid the trap of “navel-gazing”, which

would be to donate solely for the purpose of getting money back

10

later. We are part of a mutual aid system,

the World Fund, whose primary

value is solidarity.

P.D.D.: Any member who decides to

make a personal donation provides a

series of details, including their club

RI has set an annual donation goal for

clubs of US$100 per member. Are you

meeting this goal?

E.T.: In D 2160, we recommend contributing

$100 per member to the Annual

ID, which allows the district treasurer

to record everything and display

the names of donors so that they are

recognized at the district level and on

rotary.org.

Fund and $35 to the PolioPlus Fund.

Last year, we didn’t quite reach our goal,

but the positive thing is that all clubs

in the district still contributed to both

funds (with the exception of four clubs

for PolioPlus). The average contribution

to the Annual Fund is approximately $87

per member. For the PolioPlus Fund,

With the support of HSF and a district grant,

Rc Bruxelles–Forêt de Soignes shipped three

containers of medical equipment to Africa.

How do you see the future?

P.D.D.: My dream is that the Rotary

Foundation, which is unknown to

the general public, will one day be

recognized as a public foundation and

that anyone will be able to contribute

to it in the same way as they would to

we significantly exceeded our goal, but that was partly due to a

bequest received during 2024-25. A little tip: we waited for the right

moment (when the dollar was relatively low) to make our payment

to The Rotary Foundation, which had the effect of slightly inflating

the amount received in Evanston.

the S.P.A. (animal protection) or the Red Cross. One of our best

arguments is that, unlike some other organizations, we redistribute

nearly 90% of what we collect, thanks to the volunteer work of

Rotarians and therefore very low administrative costs. This is one

of the great virtues of our Foundation.

P.D.D.: In D 2150, we are at around $70 per capita. $142,000 has

been paid into the Annual Fund. Donations to PolioPlus are steadily

increasing, which I am delighted about. Thanks to good communication,

particularly testimonials from Rotarians who have gone

abroad to vaccinate, we are managing to maintain the interest of

members and clubs in this cause, which, given its long duration,

could nevertheless wear some people down. That said, overall

results are still fairly low. As we have explained, this will have unfortunate

consequences in the future, since Evanston redistributes

47.5% of the amount paid by a district three years earlier to the

district’s specific fund.

E.T.: In addition to our support role, our work also involves tirelessly

visiting clubs to explain and re-explain the merits of the Foundation

and its undeniable positive impact, both near and far. Convincing

them to contribute according to their means is sometimes difficult,

as some clubs feel that this is an intrusion into their redistribution

policy.

What is the role of the King Baudouin Foundation (FRB) in fundraising?

E.T.: It should be noted that tax deductibility only applies to

donations from individuals, not from clubs. Rotarians who make a

donation to the King Baudouin Foundation indicate in their communication

which fund they wish to allocate it to. They then benefit

from a tax deduction. The King Baudouin Foundation deducts 2% of

the amount for its administrative work. I think this is an extraordinary

tool for encouraging Rotarians to get involved on an individual

level as well. The counterpart in the Grand Duchy is ALOR (Association

Luxembourgeoise des Œuvres du Rotary), which operates on

the same principle.

E.T.: It is a wonderful tool, but one that is sometimes misunderstood

or even ignored. I would like to see it recognized for its

true value. In my opinion, there are still too many clubs that view

philanthropy exclusively on a local level.

P.D.D.: There is still a parochial mindset, indeed. And yet, participating

in a global grant is a great adventure that can only enrich

the life and experience of the club. Unfortunately, when a project

of this scale is developed, it is often actively supported by only

two or three key players and not by the club as a whole.

Denis Crepin

More facts and figures: www.rotary.org/en/annual-report-2025

In 2024-25, the Foundation allocated:

GRANT TYPE NUMBER TOTAL

Global 1.423 US$88 millions

District 468 US$28,9 millions

Disaster relief 74 US$1,9 million

Programs of scale 1 US$2 millions

11

AMAZING ROTARY

Upgrade, a Rotary initiative

to promote entrepreneurship

About twelve years ago, the Rotary club of Attert-

Sûre and Semois considered what actions it could

take to promote local economic development. This

led to the idea of creating a competition for businesses

in the region to promote and support them in their

growth phase.

From the outset, three main areas of focus were defined. Firstly, the

target companies would be neither startups nor ‘champions’. Secondly,

the competition would have a cross-border dimension and be

open to businesses from both parts of Luxembourg (the province in

Belgium and the Grand Duchy). Thirdly, partners would be mobilized:

institutional players, entities active in promoting innovation

and entrepreneurship, media, businesses, and sponsors.

Since the first edition in 2014, it is clear that these objectives have

been achieved. Today, Upgrade is organized by three clubs: Rc

Attert-Sûre et Semois, Bastogne, and Neufchâteau. The project can

also count on the support of Rc Luxembourg-Vallées and Rc Arlon

as ambassador clubs (they do not participate in the organization

but make their address books available to the winners and nominees),

as well as around twenty partners.

NETWORKING AS A LEVER FOR DEVELOPMENT

The Upgrade operation takes the form of a competition open to

all entrepreneurs operating in the province of Luxembourg or the

Grand Duchy. It is organized every two years and aims to highlight

three SMEs, three projects with promising development potential in

the cross-border region. In addition, the initiative identifies an exemplary

entrepreneur within these three SMEs – one who best embodies

Rotary values – who will be elected “Upgrade Winner.” They

will then be put in touch with a Rotary member who will provide regular,

personal follow-up on their case for one year, while giving them

access to an extensive network of contacts formed by the project’s

partners, particularly the Rotary clubs in the region. The keyword

for Upgrade is therefore networking as a lever for development.

JUST ANOTHER COMPETITION?

This initiative is unique in the region. It covers a critical period in the

life of an entrepreneur, namely the development phase between the

launch of the business (startup) and maturity (champion). “Firstly,

there are already many initiatives to help young entrepreneurs get

started,” says Jean-Pol Michel, chair of the Upgrade interclub committee

and the driving force behind the project. «Secondly, there

are also many competitions that recognize those who have succeeded

in their professional projects. But between these two rather

celebrated statuses, there are those for whom sweat, loneliness,

doubts, and sometimes tears are part of everyday life... Those who

are convinced they have something decisive in their hands, those

who have taken the plunge and may already have won over an initial

group of enthusiasts, but who need or dream of moving up a gear...

and who often risk a lot in the adventure.»

What do these entrepreneurs need to get through this critical

period? Certainly, advice, financing, and a host of other things they

can find on the market or through institutions. But they also need to

be heard, recognized, trusted, and supported – in short, they need

a boost to get through this difficult time. Jean-Pol Michel explains:

“Many entrepreneurs say: ‘As long as you’re a startup, you’re pampered

by various organizations. But as soon as orders start pouring

in, you feel alone when making important decisions.’ That’s why

Rotary has been able to mobilize so many stakeholders who have

recognized the value of our initiative, which fills a real gap.”

Bertrand Marot (left), 2023 laureate with his company Belodge,

which creates modular living and working spaces

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING?

The three SMEs nominated by the jury will be offered:

• recognition and promotion in local media, as well as at a gala ceremony

bringing together partners at the Arlon Provincial Palace

(which is always packed for the occasion)

12

• a network of contacts and additional support, notably through

several Rotary clubs in the region

• financial assistance to promote their business project.

In addition, the winner chosen from among the nominees will be

offered:

• the opportunity to introduce themselves to Rotary clubs, allowing

them to build new contacts

• regular mentoring for one year from a Rotary member.

To participate, entrepreneurs simply need to complete a questionnaire

available on the website www.upgrade-rotary.be. This questionnaire

will allow the organizing committee to primarily assess the

entrepreneur’s motivation, the quality of their development project,

and the potential benefits for them and their project of the visibility

and network that Upgrade can provide. As a side note, the initiative’s

website was donated by the 2016 winner, Caroline Bernier, an

e-marketing specialist.

Each year, the organizing Rotary clubs invite a new, renowned

president. The jury is completed by six Rotarians from the organizing

clubs. “Over time, and in line with the recommendations of

Rotary International, we have increasingly focused on promoting an

entrepreneurial spirit that prioritizes socioeconomic progress and

ethics, as well as sustainability. These values are explicitly stated in

our selection criteria,” explains Jean-Pol Michel.

“Among the various partners who support the initiative, it is important

to highlight the contribution of the sponsors, who share our

values and our interest in regional development. They help provide

the necessary visibility for the initiative and thus contribute to its

success. Upgrade is particularly fortunate to count the Province

of Luxembourg and its Governor as institutional sponsors.” And

let’s not forget the press (print and online), which provides media

coverage of the competition and thus, indirectly, excellent publicity

for Rotary.

STUDENTS TOO

“Since 2021, we have partnered with Henallux (Haute École Namur-Liège-Luxembourg),”

adds Jean-Pol Michel. “Once a year, we

organize an evening for students, during which winning and nominated

companies from previous years come to present themselves.

Discussion tables are set up so that students and companies can

network and have enriching exchanges in a friendly atmosphere.”

“Another new feature, this one brand new (2025): scouting. Before

this, the competition relied exclusively on unsolicited applications

from companies that had learned about it through articles and

advertisements in the media. Now, we have a team of about thirty

people (Rotarians and non-Rotarians) specifically dedicated to finding

young companies whose impressive track record justifies their

application. Once identified, they are invited to participate in the

competition. This will further strengthen our network.”

Matthieu Brachetti, 2023 nominee with Virtual Rangers and his

project using virtual reality to alleviate children’s pain during medical

treatment

A LOOK BACK AT THE 2025 EDITION

On November 6, the Provincial Palace of Arlon hosted the awards

ceremony for the Upgrade 2025 competition, bringing together

more than one hundred prominent figures from ‘both Luxembourg’:

entrepreneurs, regional political figures, Rotarians, and others (see

eContact Weekly of December 20). The Upgrade 2025 prize was

awarded to EKI asbl, a social enterprise active in inclusive catering.

It employs five people and offers simple, healthy, homemade

dishes, often sourced from local producers or through food waste

recovery. The establishment strives to make its meals accessible to

everyone, especially the elderly and people with reduced mobility.

ROTARY FOCUS

“The selected projects must reflect Rotary values of professional

integrity and a commitment to service in the public interest. Another

distinctive feature of our initiative is that we are far from exclusively

considering high-tech activities with very high financial potential…

We welcome innovative projects of all kinds that serve the public

interest, including socially oriented activities that benefit humanity.

The potential for job creation is also a key factor. We are convinced

that the economic sphere is also a matter for civil society. That is

why we believe it is urgent to act together for a more humane economy.”

These are the concluding words of Jean-Pol Michel.

Finally, it’s worth noting that the two incoming governors of District

2160 have expressed interest in this initiative, which provides combined

support for vocational service and local economy. The idea

would be to replicate the project elsewhere in the district, not exactly

as it is, but rather to draw inspiration from it while taking into

account the specific socioeconomic characteristics of the region

where it will be implemented.

Denis Crepin

Info: www.upgrade-rotary.be or jeanpolmichel5@gmail.com

13

AMAZING ROTARY

Architecture

as a Lifeline:

UNICHIR and ASF Build

a Future for Healthcare

In mid-2023, a brand-new centre for surgery and obstetrics

opened its doors in Beni, in the troubled east

of Congo. The facility is operated by UNICHIR, the

humanitarian initiative launched by Belgian surgeon

Dr. Réginald Moreels. For the design and construction

oversight, UNICHIR partnered with Architects

Without Borders (ASF), a volunteer organisation

specialised in socially engaged architecture. Both

organisations were presented on 2 December during

a fundraising dinner hosted by Rc Hasselt-Juniperus.

Contact Rotary spoke with the key players.

Architects Without Borders provides professional architectural

support to communities with little or no access to such expertise.

Working with local partners across the globe, ASF designs

and realises projects using sustainable and preferably local

materials. Their volunteers contribute pro bono to a wide range

of structures: from schools and health centres to safe housing

and public infrastructure. But ASF’s mission extends far beyond

construction. The team advises, plans, and works to strengthen

local know-how. The organisation also offers young architects

the opportunity to gain valuable international experience in a

socially meaningful context.

UNICHIR aims to provide high-quality surgical and obstetric care to

the nearly two million people living in the conflict-affected region

around Beni. By establishing a modern medical centre, the organisation

wanted to ensure durable, quality care that is firmly rooted

in the community. A key part of UNICHIR’s vision is the training of

Congolese doctors and nurses, enabling gradual local ownership of

the healthcare system. A solidarity-based financing model keeps

care accessible for patients with limited means. Close collaboration

with existing health services ensures efficient referral of non-surgical

cases. Thus UNICHIR moves beyond emergency relief and

actively contributes to a resilient and locally anchored healthcare

structure.

The collaboration between the two organisations began in 2014.

“I heard a radio report about the Belgian–Dutch chapter of Architects

Without Borders,” Dr. Moreels recalls. “I had just visited my

son Dimitri in Beni when a Congolese doctor told me there wasn’t

a single surgeon available in the region. Since then, I’ve completed

43 medical missions. The idea of building a dedicated centre soon

emerged – not a conventional hospital, but a pilot project focused

on surgery, obstetrics, and training opportunities for young Congolese

clinicians.”

LEARNING CURVE

“The design process was a learning curve for us,” says ASF chairman

Hendrik Bloem. “Technically, the possibilities were limited, so

simplicity became essential. Cultural insights also shaped our decisions.

We initially planned a cafeteria, only to discover that it was

unnecessary – patients and their families traditionally cook their

own meals. So instead, we designed a public kitchen.”

Logistics proved equally challenging. Most construction materials

had to be imported from Rwanda, Uganda, or even farther afield.

Tools were scarce, and machinery virtually non-existent. “To pour

14

the concrete roof slab, we gathered almost all the wheelbarrows

in Beni,” Bloem laughs. “Teams worked day and night to complete

it manually in a single stretch. Luckily, we had a highly committed

contractor and an exceptional Congolese workforce.”

ASF secretary Eric Selis emphasises the collaborative approach:

“We never tackle such a project alone. Engineers Without Borders

conducts the technical studies and monitors the construction site,

and we also involve medical teams from AZ Sint-Jan in Bruges and

other experts. As architects, we don’t presume to know all the functional

requirements of a hospital.”

“Dignity through beauty” became a guiding principle for the project.

“We believe a pleasant, human environment contributes to healing,”

Selis explains. The result is an open, welcoming design, with nods

to traditional Congolese architecture and abundant green spaces.

At the opening, the first mangoes from the site were already ripe.

Environmental considerations were central to the design: natural

ventilation, a double-roof structure, and a modular layout with

separate pavilions – an approach that also allowed flexibility in light

of fluctuating donation-based funding. Despite the challenges, the

first construction phase was completed in just a year and a half.

GROWING ROOM FOR A GROWING NEED

Final buildings on the current site are nearing completion. Adjacent

to the centre lies a one-hectare plot reserved for future expansion.

Needs are pressing: more beds, dental and ENT services, and

above all, oncology. “A cancer diagnosis in Congo is often a death

sentence,” Dr. Moreels notes. “There is no prevention, patients

arrive far too late, and surgery is usually the only available treatment.

The country has just one radiotherapy centre, and the cost is

prohibitive.”

Security in Beni has improved, he adds. The Ugandan army is

present, officially as partners of the Congolese forces fighting the

ADF rebel movement. “In reality, it’s a form of ‘soft occupation,’ very

different from the harsher M23 rule farther south. Honestly, I feel as

safe in Beni as I do in Brussels.”

In 2027, ASF will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Hasselt

Charter, the foundation of its international umbrella network. ASF

now counts 25 national branches and operates worldwide. But its

activities extend beyond construction: in Madagascar, for instance,

the organisation helped establish the country’s first professional

architecture programme, in collaboration with UHasselt. “We’re

working to increase public awareness and are open to new partnerships,”

says Selis. “Rotary, with its global reach, could play a

meaningful role.” Rc Hasselt-Juniperus has already taken the lead,

supporting ASF with a € 5,000 donation.

Steven Vermeylen

In a Nutshell… with Dr. Moreels

• Which word best captures the essence of

your career?

Respect. Every human being deserves it, even

someone on death row. For me, it’s a natural

reflex.

• Which art form do you enjoy most?

Impressionist painting. After all, what is life

but a succession of impressions?

• What kind of music do you prefer?

I usually tune in to JOE 60’s & 70’s for the music

of my younger years. Or to Klara Continuo

when I want to unwind.

• Which dish do you miss most when you’re

abroad?

I’m crazy about whipped cream—it’s almost an

addiction. But I don’t have to miss it, because

I always take a few cans with me (laughs).

Info: www.architectenzondergrenzen.org/en & www.unichir.africa

15

AMAZING ROTARY

Treating video game addiction

«My parents annoy me and my friends are useless!

Nothing’s going right at school, the teachers are driving

me crazy with all their stuff that I’m not interested

in. So I go to my room and go back to my favorite

game. At least there, the friends I play with aren’t

annoying...»

to participate in workshops using different media, including digital

media, sometimes involving carefully chosen video games to give

them the opportunity to relearn how to verbally express their feelings

and emotions. They also share group discussion time to continue

putting their feelings into words. They also take part in individual

and family interviews. Parents are involved in the process.

IN CONFLICT

This is, broadly speaking, what happens to young teenagers who

are often in conflict with their classmates, who sometimes bully

them, with their parents, who have sometimes lost all connection

with them, and with school, which is no longer able to interest them.

BIRTH OF A “VIDEO GAME CLINIC”

Dr. Rudy Guillaume, a child psychiatrist at the Vincent Van Gogh

Hospital - Charleroi University Hospital, did not want to leave it at

that. These teenagers, who often drop out of school, should not be

abandoned. With tenacity, he sought to convince the hospital authorities

to create a department dedicated to those who have taken

refuge in addictive video game behavior.

ROTARY’S ROLE

It was not without difficulty, but the Addiction Prevention Committee

of D 2150 was able to offer Dr. Guillaume a solid helping

hand in setting up his project. A District Grant of €10,600 enabled

the purchase of computers, video games, and consoles through

which a dialogue can be established with these young people who,

ultimately, are thirsty for real human contact that brings them back

to real life.

The hospital followed suit. Dr. Rudy Guillaume now has premises

adapted to the needs of this new service. Thus the video game

and virtual reality therapy center was born. A team of six people –

alongside Dr. Guillaume and coordinator Anne Pochet – includes

psychologists (individual and family), occupational therapists, and

educators.

This clinical approach is a concrete and innovative response to a

condition recognized since 2019 by the WHO, which also consists of

compulsive use of smartphones, social media, etc. This is a rapidly

growing reason for seeking consultation, which, as we have seen,

can be accompanied by social isolation and relationship integration

disorders, as well as anxiety and depression.

AN UNDENIABLE IMPACT

By the end of November, some 80 young people had already

benefited from this experience. Initially, the participants were

mainly boys, but now there are just as many girls. The results are

often positive, with some returning to school. Others, who are more

vulnerable, are referred to a school support service, which complements

the work of Dr. Guillaume and his team. Still others find workstudy

programs that suit them better than traditional education.

ASSESSMENT VISIT

On November 20, 2025, a delegation from the Addiction Prevention

Committee visited the therapy center with great interest: André Renaux

(Rc Charleroi Sud-Est) and André Lorsignol (Rc Fleurus-Aéropole)

received an excellent welcome from Dr. Guillaume and his

colleague Audrey Naccarella. The two Andrés can also attest to

the fact that Rotary’s moral and financial support has been truly

effective. They conclude: “Long live Rotary, which aims to do good

in the world!” This wonderful initiative to benefit young people in the

region is clearly part of this approach.

LEARNING TO EXPRESS ONESELF AGAIN

A three-month program welcomes “patients” in a relaxed atmosphere.

It all starts with breakfast, during which bonds are formed.

The young people who have dropped out of school are then invited

16

AMAZING ROTARY

Télévie 2026:

everyone gets

ready!

Like last year, clubs in our districts are invited to get

involved in Télévie, a major charity event organized

by RTL-TVI to raise funds for cancer research.

Other clubs have already planned activities for 2026. We cannot

mention them all, but we can highlight Rc Herstal, which is organizing

a special after-work event, Rc Bruxelles-Tercoigne, which

is offering a movie preview, and Rc La Louvière, whose flagship

event will be held in March in collaboration with the S.P.A. (animal

protection).

In addition, the new Frameries Bosquetia club invites you to a

concert with the La Bouverie Music Academy on April 19, while

Rc Mons Bruyères-Jurbise is organizing a “Tribute to Morricone”

concert on April 11 at the Collégiale Sainte-Waudru in Mons.

An interclub dedicated to the cause, made up of around ten clubs

from D 2150 and D 2160, has been created. Its purpose is to collaborate

with clubs from both districts to raise money for the cause,

but also to promote Rotary through radio and online advertising.

Today, this interclub is one of the four major sponsors of Télévie.

Belgian Rotary clubs continue to be creative and organize activities

to benefit the campaign, thereby ensuring a certain level of visibility

for our organization. An example of a telling story ? Rc Mouscron...

LOBSTER WINNER

The ‘Hurlus’ proved once again that generosity and conviviality go

hand in hand. Last June, the second edition of Lobster Day, organized

by the Mouscron club, brought together nearly 330 guests,

compared to 220 the previous year. The result: €10,000 was raised

for Télévie, a record amount. Club members commented: “This

success reflects the spirit of Rotary and Mouscron: friendly and

focused on others.” They will certainly be among the top 10 most

active clubs for Télévie 2026.

IN SWITZERLAND TOO

Other events are planned, notably in Flémalle, Jemeppe-sur-

Meuse, Verviers, Fléron, Huy Rondia, Attert-Sure et Semois,

Neufchâteau and Schengen-Mondorf (in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg,

which is joining the Belgian clubs for the 2026 edition).

Finally, even a Swiss club (Rc Yverdon-les-Bains) has agreed to

support Télévie!

CLOSING EVENING IN LIÈGE

Let’s finish this overview with the flagship initiative ‘Steps for

Life’, which aims to encourage members and families to organize

sponsored walks, for example 2,000 steps for €10. This collective

challenge aims to accumulate ten million steps, which could raise

a total of €50,000. It’s a simple and symbolic way to contribute to

staying healthy while creating bonds around Télévie. On the day of

the closing ceremony (April 18 at Liège Expo), a walk of this type

will be organized in the Cité Ardente with all Rotarians, families,

and friends who wish to participate.

More recently, Rc Seneffe held a stand at the local Christmas market,

where it sold “cougnoles,” galettes, and other Ruffus (sparkling

wine) for the benefit of Télévie. Rc La Louvière offered galettes and

other treats for the benefit of the fight against cancer during its

Christmas concert in early December.

17

INTERVIEW

Lorenzo Gatto:

“A musician should be allowed

to show vulnerability.”

© Jelmer De Haas

The Belgian violinist Lorenzo Gatto, second prize

winner of the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 2009,

is known for his ability to captivate an audience from

the very first note. Shunning codes and conventions,

he continues to challenge himself artistically - as

he illustrated a few months ago at FUSION. “I attach

more importance to passion than to obligations.”

You have been active as a violinist from a young age. When did

you know: this is my calling?

Compared to many colleagues, that realization came fairly late. In

our family, all the children had to play a musical instrument at my father’s

insistence. He believed it was good for our development and

for instilling discipline and regularity. So I went to the conservatory,

but I also spent a lot of time on school, scouts, friends…

At eighteen, I wasn’t sure which direction I wanted to take and

enrolled in a law degree at university. During that period, I also

took part in the Queen Elisabeth Competition for the first time, but

I didn’t make it past the first round. That made me realize that an

extra effort was needed. I left for Vienna and worked hard there for

four years to achieve a better result the next time. Successfully -

and then everything gathered momentum.

I realize how fortunate I am to have been able to turn one of my passions

into my profession. But I have never been monomaniacally focused

on music. I also love outdoor sports and have a pilot’s license.

If things had gone differently, I might have become an airline pilot…

Who have been your greatest musical influences?

That’s a difficult question, because it changes from one period to

another. In Vienna, my teacher Boris Kuschnir undoubtedly had a

decisive influence. He truly instilled in me a work ethic and gave me

a “toolbox” for functioning as a professional artist. Paradoxically,

that solid technical foundation later enabled me to gain a great deal

of artistic freedom. He was strict, but also generous with his time

and energy.

Outside the classical music world, I have also been influenced by

artists such as Pink Floyd. Their innovative musical style, with extensive

soundscapes and long, atmospheric compositions instead

of traditional song structures, is likewise a source of inspiration -

certainly for my own work as a composer.

How do you deal with the tension between staying true to the

score and searching for your own voice as a performer?

That question goes to the very heart of artistry. I am increasingly

convinced that both aspects go hand in hand. You cannot be an

innovator without sufficient technical grounding. In classical music,

things can sometimes be rather rigid, with a “cult of perfection” prevailing.

Some musicians are “soldiers” of their instrument: technically

they are at a very high level, they play expressively and perform

well on stage. But they don’t necessarily move me.

You have to dare a little, seek out risk, and allow yourself to show

vulnerability. We sometimes forget that composers in the past were

also performers themselves. The strict division between composer

18

and musician did not exist then. I look at the score and above all

try to understand what the composer wanted to express, and then

interpret that in my own way.

You have collaborated with many famous musicians. Which collaboration

has stayed with you the most, and why?

I immediately think of two legendary pianists with whom I had the

privilege to collaborate: Martha Argerich and Maria João Pires. They

are authentic musicians who seek out unique moments and are not

afraid to show their vulnerability. They have tremendous charisma

and continue to approach music with a fresh perspective. I noticed

that, despite their long careers, they remained deeply passionate

about music. That enthusiasm is contagious - for the audience, but

also for the musicians sharing the stage with them.

Closer to home, I often and gladly work with Julien Libeer. We live

close to each other and are good friends. Musically, we complement

each other perfectly. I am a dreamer; Julien keeps his feet more

firmly on the ground. That creates a beautiful balance.

well. I look for something more than technical perfection; I look for

interpretations that move me.

You play a Stradivarius from 1698. What added value do the

instruments of this legendary violin maker offer?

Ah, that’s the million-dollar question! (laughs) They are certainly

violins of exceptional quality, which over the centuries have usually

also been played exceptionally well. They carry that history with

them. That said, there are also very fine modern instruments, which

I am playing more and more. You can produce more volume with

them, but they tend to be more black-and-white, whereas an older

instrument allows for greater nuance. Part of the “magic” is probably

attributable to psychological factors. In blind tests, modern

instruments often come out on top.

Looking back on your career so far - which word fits best?

I would choose aérien: I like to go where the wind takes me; I am not

really anchored to one place or one genre. And I love flying…

How do you prepare for a concert? Do you have certain rituals or

habits?

No – the most important thing is simply to feel like playing. That

creates the mental space needed for beautiful interpretations. Thorough

preparation brings peace of mind, but I can get into the right

mindset in different ways: by sleeping well, taking a walk, having

an interesting conversation… Sometimes the run-up to a concert

is hectic. Then I try to meditate for a moment. It comes down to

setting aside all daily concerns and devoting yourself entirely to the

music.

With your group Karavan, you aim to break traditional conventions

in the classical music world. How and why?

In response to the pandemic, I took a sabbatical period, which I

spent largely on a sailing boat – in South Africa, my wife’s home

country. There I decided to broaden my field of work and give myself

the chance to truly do my own thing. The classical music world

can often be competitive and dogmatic, whereas music should be

something deeply personal.

I wanted to create my own music without being intimidated by all

the great geniuses of music history. So I gathered a number of

musicians around me in a loose collective to work together on new

pieces. A bit like the bands of the 1960s and ’70s, a period when

creativity flourished. It is not a fixed orchestra, but rather a troupe

de musiciens, like in a circus. We draw inspiration from musical traditions

from all corners of the world. Everything flows from the spontaneity

of the moment and the interaction between the musicians.

In 2024, you were a member of the jury of the Queen Elisabeth

Competition. How did you experience that?

I had previously judged the preliminary rounds, but this time the

entire competition. It was a very interesting experience to see some

200 of the best young violinists pass in review. The level was certainly

high. Selecting the very best remains a daunting task. There

are no “objective” criteria - almost everyone plays spectacularly

Gatto (left) performing with Karavan

Do you have a favourite colour? And can you associate colours

with music?

Let’s say: purple and green. The first is somewhat fairy-like, the second

refers to nature. Moreover, they go beautifully together - they are

also the colours of Wimbledon. Music is also full of colours; it can be

very tactile. Music appeals more to sensations than to the intellect.

Which art form do you prefer after music? Which talent would you

still like to have?

I have great admiration for good film directors. Sometimes the idea

of writing a screenplay myself is tempting, but I doubt whether I am

capable of it. I would probably choose a biographically inspired film.

In fact, every life story is fascinating. A human life is never banal.

If you could dine with a historical composer, who would you

choose?

Certainly not a great name like Beethoven or Mozart – I would be

afraid of being disappointed by their personalities. Perhaps rather

a contemporary composer like Arvo Pärt? His works are serene,

spiritual, peaceful… I think that would be a warm and meaningful

encounter.

Steven Vermeylen

All info: www.lorenzogattoviolin.com

19

MUSIC

The Magic of

Chamber Music

Arte Amanti

lets young talent

shine alongside

international

stars

Over nearly two decades, the Arte Amanti Festival

has grown from a series of small-scale concerts into

a fully fledged international music festival. Founder

Reinilde Leyers offers both young talents and established

musicians a stage, creating opportunities for

remarkable musical encounters.

The festival aims to encourage exceptionally gifted young performers

by giving them opportunities to appear on stage. That is why

each concert opens with a prelude performed by a young musician

– a kind of “opening act,” as is customary at pop or rock concerts.

These performances provide an important learning experience

and give young people the chance to gain stage experience in a

professional setting. They are followed by a chamber music concert

featuring internationally renowned artists. In this way, audiences

enjoy a varied programme with a guarantee of quality…

Why did you launch this formula eighteen years ago?

I’ve always had a special fondness for chamber music. My two children

were highly accomplished young musicians; both have since

become professional performers. I noticed how difficult it is for

young musicians to find a stage and gain performance experience –

especially outside the major cities, where opportunities were almost

non-existent. That gave me the idea to let them play an “opening

act” of around twenty minutes. They may choose the repertoire

freely, for instance a piece they’re preparing for a competition. This

is followed by a concert with established musicians. Often, the

young talents go on to other small-scale performances, such as

events in a library or at a book launch.

You organise concerts outside the familiar concert circuit.

Why is that?

Indeed, we operate across the entire country, often in places where

there is little to no classical music on offer. We deliberately keep

things very accessible. We frequently collaborate with local authorities

or associations such as service clubs. We provide promotional

material and, for a fixed fee, they handle the practical organisation.

Our next festival season runs from February to May, with performances

already scheduled in Rotselaar, Merelbeke, Laarne and

Jette, among others.

20

Do you have a favourite venue?

Belgium has countless beautiful churches that are perfectly suited

to chamber music concerts. One particularly special location is

the Oratory of the Ursuline Institute in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, also

known for its Art Nouveau Winter Garden. We have performed there

several times already, and in 2026 we’ll return with a concert by the

renowned Fibonacci Quartet from London.

You have persuaded many major names to take part. How do you

manage that?

I am thoroughly “battle-hardened” in the music world. For more

than thirty years I worked as a (solo) violinist in the orchestra of

Opera Ballet Vlaanderen, the largest cultural institution in Flanders.

I collaborated with numerous conductors and soloists, which was

an excellent training ground for building contacts. In my current

role as Head of Artistic Affairs & Programming at PhilZuid (in

Maastricht and Eindhoven), I am also in daily contact with musicians.

I love following the Queen Elisabeth Competition, especially

the semi-finals, which are more interesting for chamber music than

the grand orchestral final. I look primarily for musicians who radiate

authenticity, intelligence and panache. Coincidence or not, the

musicians I pick often end up ranking among the finalists. Increasingly,

artists recommend their friends to come and perform at Arte

Amanti as well.

Who has performed at the festival so far?

A whole range of musicians: from piano legend Jean-Claude

Vanden Eynden to the Huang sisters. We booked Nikola Meeuwsen

— who won this year’s Elisabeth Competition — even before he entered

the contest. We are also very pleased with the commitment of

Hawijch Elders, who made a deep impression at the 2023 Paganini

Competition in Italy. I also maintain warm ties with Mischa Maisky

— considered by many to be the greatest living cellist. Last year his

children Maximilian, Lily and Sascha took part in the festival.

Is it not intimidating for young people to be paired with such big

names?

I always try to put them at ease and urge them above all to enjoy their

performance. The young talents learn an incredible amount from the

artists. Before the concert, they sit together backstage or in the sacristy

of a small church. That’s where we try to break the ice and build

a sense of camaraderie. The young musicians are often asked to turn

pages for the great pianists during the concert. It’s a unique experience

from which they learn a great deal: they become immersed in

the performer’s sense of timing, breathing, and phrasing.

Do you have an ultimate dream for Arte Amanti?

A European tour would be wonderful! Performing at the Rudolfinum

in Prague, in a few German castles, in some Italian churches… And

ideally with our own chamber orchestra, which usually opens the

festival season. Such a tour would not only be a crowning achievement

for the festival but also an opportunity to share the unique

Arte Amanti atmosphere with all of Europe.

Steven Vermeylen

ROTARY BENEFIT

When purchasing two tickets, Rotarians receive a 50%

discount on the second ticket with the discount code

ROTARYARTE. In addition, you can attend a pre-concert

introduction by a musicologist, and after the concert you

are welcome to a reception and meet & greet with the

musicians. See www.arte-amanti.be for the full program.

Tickets : Arte Amanti: BE85 7370 2653 5506 with mention

of the location + Rotary + number of tickets.

21

SCIENCE

Turing’s Pitfall

Why Artificial

Intelligence Feels

Human – and

Why It Isn’t

Artificial intelligence is sweeping through our world

at astonishing speed. From chatbots that write

essays to algorithms that predict disease, AI seems

to be everywhere. But do these machines actually

understand what they are saying, or are they merely

echoing patterns they have absorbed? To answer

that question, we need to look at how systems like

ChatGPT really work, why they feel so convincing,

and where their limits lie.

Imagine you couldn’t find a babysitter and had no choice but to

take your daughter to work. Let’s call her Sara. You have a packed

schedule and spend the entire day in meeting rooms. Sara sits

quietly at a table in the corner, exactly as you instructed. All day

long you talk with consultants, marketing teams, and lawyers.

That evening at home, Sara plays with her brother. Suddenly, she

announces: “The marketing strategy needs to be revised!” or “We

must assess the legal risks!” She uses the words flawlessly – but

she doesn’t really know what they mean. This is, essentially, how a

language model like ChatGPT works. It can phrase sentences beautifully,

reason coherently, and sound persuasive. But it does not

understand. It reconstructs and imitates language without awareness

or insight. And yet the world is captivated by this eloquent

digital Sara.

FROM CURIOSITY TO EVERYDAY TOOL

Two years ago, hardly anyone had heard of ChatGPT. Today, it is

used by everyone – from ten-year-olds doing homework to grandparents

planning their holidays. The barrier is low: open a browser,

ask a question, receive an answer – fast, fluent, and often astonishingly

good. What began as an academic experiment has quietly

become a daily habit. To understand the magnitude of this shift,

however, we need to rewind.

LEARNING MACHINES

Long before generative AI – systems that create text, images,

or music – there was machine learning. The clue is in the name:

computers that learn by discovering patterns in data, improving

themselves without being explicitly programmed.

The term artificial intelligence itself dates back more than seventy

years. In the 1950s, scientists dreamed of building machines

that could think like humans. Among them was Alan Turing, who

proposed the famous Turing Test. His idea was deceptively simple:

if you cannot distinguish a computer’s response from a human’s, the

machine can be called “intelligent.”

It was an imitation game – not unlike Sara repeating adult language.

For decades, however, AI remained largely theoretical. Computing

power was limited, progress slow. Between 1966 and 1996, the field

even endured an “AI winter,” marked by dashed expectations and

few practical applications. That changed in 1997, when IBM’s Deep

Blue defeated world chess champion Garry Kasparov. AI suddenly

moved from science fiction into reality.

Alan Turing in

1937 at Princeton

University

22

With the Obsidentify app, you can identify insects with one click

The real acceleration came with graphics processing units (GPUs)

originally developed for gaming. These chips can perform millions

of calculations simultaneously, enabling complex neural networks.

Nvidia, a leading GPU manufacturer, saw its market value soar as

a result.

But power brings consequences.

WHEN INTELLIGENCE BECOMES FRICTION

Machine learning also governs our digital habits. Consider the

infinite scroll on social media. Behind every swipe, an algorithm

decides whether you stay engaged. Each interaction becomes a

data point, refining predictions about what holds your attention. The

result? Addiction, polarization, shrinking attention spans. Technology

designed to connect us can just as easily divide us. The benefits

of AI increasingly collide with its darker side.

THE NEW ELECTRICITY

Today, machine learning is often described as “the new electricity,” a

phrase coined by AI pioneer Andrew Ng. Like electricity once did, it

is permeating every sector – healthcare, agriculture, finance, entertainment.

Why is it so transformative?

Because learning is what made humans exceptional in the first

place. As Yuval Noah Harari explains in Sapiens, animals can cooperate,

but only in fixed patterns. Humans, by contrast, accumulate

knowledge across generations. We learn from our parents, teachers,

and colleagues – and pass that knowledge on. Step by step,

humanity climbs higher.

Machine learning introduces a new kind of learner: a system that

can learn directly from data. A machine that detects patterns,

draws connections, and makes predictions. That, by any measure,

is revolutionary.

HOW MACHINES LEARN

Take ObsIdentify, an app that identifies insects from photos. How

does it know the difference between a bee and an Asian hornet? By

being shown thousands of labelled images: bee or not a bee. Over

time, the model learns which features matter.

To recognize Asian hornets specifically, the system must be trained

on countless look-alike insects, each tagged “yes” or “no.” After

enough examples, it becomes remarkably accurate.

This approach now underpins countless applications:

• medical imaging, such as MRI interpretation

• automated quality control in manufacturing

• predictive maintenance for wind turbines

• fraud detection in finance

TAMING THE LION

AI is like a lion: magnificent, powerful – and dangerous if allowed to

roam freely. Regulation is not optional; it is essential. We cage other

powerful technologies with rules and safeguards. Electricity, nuclear

energy – both are heavily regulated, and for good reason.

AI deserves the same care.

That said, apocalyptic fears of machines taking over the world are

misplaced. Today’s AI systems are narrow specialists. They analyze

images, recommend videos, summarize conversations. They don’t

think – they execute.

BIAS AND THE NEED FOR A WARNING LABEL

Still, risks remain. AI models are only as good as the data they

are trained on. When that data is biased, the system becomes

biased too.

In 2018, research showed that commercial facial-recognition software

performed far better on men than women, and better on lightskinned

faces than dark-skinned ones. Dark-skinned women were

misidentified up to 40% more often. When such systems are used

by law enforcement, the consequences can be severe.

Similar biases exist elsewhere. Medical trials still rely too heavily

on young male subjects, leading to poorer outcomes for women.

The solution lies in transparency and quality control. AI systems

should come with a clear “package insert” outlining their limitations.

Diverse datasets produce more reliable models – whether for faces,

voices, or hornets.

THE GENERATIVE AI BREAKTHROUGH

Then, in 2022, ChatGPT arrived. For the first time, a model didn’t

just process language – it mastered how language works. It could

write with nuance, humor, and emotional tone. The key innovation

was the attention mechanism, which determines which words mat-

23

SCIENCE

ter most in context. This allows models to remember details across

long conversations – if Sara is introduced as a girl, the system won’t

later refer to her as “he.” The result: fluid, natural dialogue.

Businesses quickly embraced the technology. Customer service no

longer requires navigating endless phone menus. Instead of “Press 1

for billing,” users can simply type: “I have a problem with my account.”

The technology adapts to humans – not the other way around.

Yet one pitfall persists: hallucinations. AI can confidently present

false information. It sounds authoritative – but it’s wrong. The fix

is straightforward: connect models to reliable sources and internal

knowledge. The technology is ready. The responsibility is ours.

AI AS COMPANION, NOT REPLACEMENT

The real danger lies in mistaking imitation for understanding – what

we might call Turing’s pitfall. Just because something sounds human

does not mean it is. AI can generate designs, but true innovation

– creating something genuinely new, like the iconic Tripp Trapp

children’s chair – emerges from human insight, empathy, and imagination.

AI should not compete with us, but collaborate with us.

The newest models do more than flatter; they challenge. They

question assumptions, expose weak spots, and suggest alternative

perspectives. Used well, AI sharpens our thinking instead of

dulling it.

Still, the shadow remains. Fake news spreads faster and more

convincingly than ever. As truth grows harder to pin down, critical

literacy becomes a vital skill.

AI combines two profoundly human traits: learning and storytelling.

That combination unlocks extraordinary potential – from personalized

cancer treatments to sustainable energy systems.

But power demands wisdom. We must regulate AI carefully, keep

humans firmly in the loop, and never surrender the steering wheel.

AI belongs in the passenger seat – a brilliant co-pilot that accelerates

our work and broadens our perspective, without ever replacing

our compass.

Eva Robbrecht (Rc Gent-Noord) earned a PhD in astrophysics at KU

Leuven. She was affiliated as a researcher with the Royal Observatory

and held academic positions at KU Leuven (KULAK) and Ghent

University (UGent). She worked for six years as a data scientist for

the National Social Security Office (RSZ). As an innovation specialist,

she taught courses on artificial intelligence, including for UNIZO

and IMEC.

With “hallucinations,” AI provides convincing-sounding but incorrect or fabricated information

24

A VAN TO SAVE LIVES

Hospital Without Borders Launches

Its Fundraising Campaign

For more than 30 years, the

non-profit organization Hospital

Without Borders (HWB) has

been collecting second-hand

medical equipment in Belgium

and Luxembourg, refurbishing it

and sending it to healthcare

centers that are in urgent need.

Every month, dozens of hospitals,

medical practices, companies and

private individuals contact HWB to

donate hospital beds, wheelchairs,

ultrasound machines and other

medical equipments that are still in

perfectly good working condition.

An essential vehicle… now

reaching the end of its life

After more than 364,000

kilometers on the road and years

of intensive use, HWB’s van is

gradually reaching the end of its

service life. Breakdowns and

repairs are becoming more

frequent, and each period of

immobilization disrupts the entire

collection chain.

For a small non-profit like HWB,

replacing this vehicle

represents a major financial

cost.

A fundraising campaign to

finance its replacement

To ensure the continuity of our

missions, we are therefore

launching a major fundraising

campaign to finance the purchase

of a new van.

Every contribution, even a modest

one, brings us closer to this goal

and helps ensure that our work

can continue. Private donations

are, of course, tax-deductible from

€40.

Rotarians: long-standing

partners

Belgian Rotary Clubs have always

supported Hospital Without

Borders, whether through financial

donations, equipment contributions

or the organization of solidarity

initiatives. Once again, the

involvement of Rotarians would be

a key lever in helping the

association continue its work in

support of global health.

By making a donation, even a small

one, you help us get back on the

road.

At the heart of this logistical

work lies an essential tool: the

association’s van. It enables our

team to collect and transport the

equipment destined for our

humanitarian projects.

Our goal is clear: to acquire a

reliable vehicle, adapted to weekly

collections and enabling us to

optimize the sorting and shipment

of humanitarian medical

equipment.

Target amount: €30,000

You can make a quick and easy

donation via the platform set up

specifically for this campaign:

In Memory of Etienne Rosman

A founding member of Hospital Without Borders, Etienne was also a dear

friend to many of us. His passing leaves a deep and lasting void within HWB.

CONTACT

INFORMATIONS

secretariat@hsf.be

+32 (0)81.51.11.11

With these few words, we wish to honor a man who dedicated his life to

helping and caring for others. We will remember him as a man of great

generosity, calm and warmth, with a subtle sense of humor and a strong,

distinctive character.

His commitment, his presence, and his friendship will remain with us and

continue to inspire us.

Etienne, Thank you

25

MY ROTARY

The Club President:

Leadership

Through Service

The president of a Rotary club plays a central and

connecting role within the club. As the figurehead

and primary point of contact, he or she represents

the club both internally and externally. This role

requires leadership, organizational insight, and a

strong commitment to Rotary’s core values: service,

integrity, fellowship, and community engagement.

A successful presidency begins several months before the official

start of the term. During this preparatory phase, the president-elect

works closely with the current board and incoming officers. Together,

they reflect on the club’s membership: its composition, level of

engagement, and any needs that may exist. Attention is also given

to the club’s key areas of action and programs, both locally and

internationally. Support for The Rotary Foundation is an important

focus, as is encouraging members to participate in district trainings

and educational opportunities to strengthen their knowledge and

commitment.

There are several essential tasks in this phase. The future president

appoints the board and ensures a balanced distribution of responsibilities.

The president-elect and new board members then attend

key training events such as the PELS (President-Elect Learning

Seminar) and the District Training Assembly/Vibrant Day. These

sessions provide valuable insights into Rotary’s policies, structure,

and expectations at both club and district level.

Beyond the meetings, the president plays a key coordinating role.

He or she oversees the work of committees, monitors ongoing projects,

and offers support where needed. The president also inspires

members through vision, enthusiasm, and exemplary conduct.

Encouraging involvement in service projects and strengthening the

bonds of fellowship within the club are essential aspects of this role.

In addition, the president-elect reviews the club’s bylaws and internal

regulations together with the board. Where necessary, these

are updated in line with the club’s goals and the guidelines of Rotary

International. Based on this framework, concrete objectives are

entered into Rotary Club Central via rotary.org. These goals serve

as the compass for the coming club year. A realistic and transparent

budget is then drawn up, based on the planned activities and

projects, in close cooperation with the treasurer.

During the term of office, the president is responsible for leading

club and board meetings. He or she prepares a clear agenda,

ensures constructive progress of discussions, and encourages

active participation from all members. The president fosters an

open and respectful meeting culture, where ideas, dialogue, and

decision-making can flourish.

Finally, the president represents the club externally, including at district

events, interclub meetings, and public occasions. In this capacity,

he or she maintains relationships with other clubs, the district,

and community partners. At the same time, the president remains

attentive to the club’s internal culture and safeguards a warm and

inclusive atmosphere.

In short, the presidency requires thorough preparation, strong

leadership, and deep commitment. In return, it offers a unique opportunity

to work with others to create a positive and lasting impact

– both within the club and in society at large.

More information and tools can be found at:

https://my.rotary.org/en/knowledge-and-resources/resources-and-reference/resources-by-role/president

26

ROTARY GLOBAL

Let action define us

At last month’s International Assembly, President-elect Yinka

Babalola called on members to live out our presidential message

for the 2026-27 Rotary year: Create Lasting Impact. This

February, as we observe Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention

Month, we have an opportunity to channel Yinka’s call to action

into real change.

Peace is not simply the absence of war. A life free from conflict

but marked by hunger, instability, or the inability to care for

one’s family is not true peace. Peace requires liberty, opportunity,

and respect for human dignity. Yet fear often blocks

that path. Fear of change, of cultural loss, of people we don’t

understand.

Fear isn’t defeated through avoidance or aggression. Knowledge

is the first step toward peace. Rotary embraces this idea.

Our Rotary Peace Centers and their peace fellows demonstrate

how knowledge builds trust and helps communities find solutions

to conflict.

In Colombia, decades of conflict have left deep wounds. The

2025 Rotary Foundation Programs of Scale awardee, Pathways

to Peace and Prosperity, partners with the United Nations

World Food Programme to expand opportunity, improve conflict

resolution, and connect people with social services. Its goal

is to break cycles of violence, poverty, and food insecurity so

peace can take root.

In Maharashtra, India, People of Action honoree Swati Herkal

built peace through prosperity. Her project confronted farmers’

declining soil health, rising debt, and illness caused by chemical

fertilizers. She and her Rotary partners launched a regenerative

agriculture program that revitalized the land, lowered costs, and

restored stability. More than 1,100 farmers now participate and

over 50 villages have adopted the model.

Rotary also advances peace by restoring dignity. In Chad,

Rotary Peace Fellow Domino Frank discovered that more than

1,500 women who fought in a rebellion had been erased from

reintegration programs. His advocacy led to Chad’s first Rotary

Foundation global grant and the creation of Corridors of Peace.

More than 100 women completed literacy and vocational training

and formed a cooperative to support their families.

From Colombia to India to Chad, the lesson is clear: Peace is

not a dream. It is the result of sustained action with a focus

on true, lasting impact. To replicate these successes, Rotary

clubs can take three steps: Learn from peace fellows and other

peace experts in our organization, apply a peacebuilding lens

to community assessments, and prioritize impact over

ceremony.

In a world filled with fear, Rotary cannot be

satisfied with half-measures and empty

words. If we are truly people of action, then

action must define us.

Francesco Arezzo

RI-President

Building peace at scale

February is a perfect time to reflect on The Rotary Foundation’s

mission to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace.

Whether improving health, supporting education, or alleviating

poverty, peace is at the heart of everything Rotary does.

Rotary Peace Centers bring our ideals into the world by training

the next generation of peacebuilders. Since 2002, more than

1,800 Rotary Peace Fellows have become catalysts for peace in

over 140 countries. I am often asked whether our peace fellows

continue working for peace after their studies. The answer is a

resounding yes. Many serve in United Nations agencies, governments,

NGOs, and groups they’ve founded themselves.

Recently, I met with the recipients of our latest Programs of

Scale award, Pathways to Peace and Prosperity in Colombia.

This $3 million partnership with the World Food Programme is

establishing four peace hubs that will train 1,000 people in conflict

resolution and support 700 entrepreneurs in communities

touched by conflict.

During the meeting, I thought I recognized one participant as

Brigitta von Messling, a German peace fellow I worked closely

with in Berlin 13 years ago. But so much time had passed I

wasn’t sure. When I asked Gladys Maldonado, a leader of the

Colombia initiative, she confirmed it was Brigitta:

Brigitta is based in my city, Cúcuta, and is an active member

of my Rotary club. She does wonderful work with the United

Nations as an observer of the 2016 peace agreement Colombia

signed with rebels. She even travels to remote locations in

the Catatumbo region, an area of northern Colombia that has

experienced violence by armed groups.

She has my utmost admiration. I had the good fortune of meeting

her three years ago. She’s incredibly intelligent, with a gift

for recognizing the strengths of others.

Brigitta is invaluable to my country, my city, and my Rotary

club. She connected me with the World Food Programme so

we could build the Programs of Scale project, which has filled

my city and country with hope.

What Gladys said about Brigitta echoes so many

stories we hear about Rotary Peace Fellows

worldwide: They are invaluable. They remind

us that peace is built one person at a time.

Holger Knaack

Foundation trustee chair

27

URBAN ADVENTURES

Liège: a melting pot of history,

culture, and character

Liège lives up to its nickname, the Ardent City. Warm,

vibrant, and proud of its identity, it offers visitors a

unique blend of heritage, gastronomy, and lifestyle.

Strolling through Liège means allowing yourself to be

surprised at every turn.

Liège is not a city to be visited distractedly. It is to be experienced,

felt and listened to. As soon as they arrive, visitors are captivated

by its unique energy, a blend of spontaneous friendliness, local

pride and bubbling creativity.

The historic center is the ideal starting point and is best explored on

foot. On Place Saint-Lambert, a vast esplanade where a monumental

cathedral once stood, you can still sense the layers of the

past. Right next door, the Palace of the Prince-Bishops imposes its

majestic silhouette. Its solemn facade, elegant arcades, and inner

courtyard are reminders of the time when Liège was a veritable

small state, ruled by powerful and ambitious princes.

CONTEMPLATION... AND REVELRY

Venturing into the pedestrian streets, you reach Saint Paul’s Cathedral,

whose Gothic cloister is one of the city’s architectural gems.

The Treasury, rich in gold and silverware and reliquaries, bears

witness to the artistic refinement of the region. A few steps further

on, the atmosphere changes: the Carré, the party district par excellence,

reveals another side of Liège, that of a warm nightlife, where

the terraces overflow with laughter and lively conversation.

ENDLESS STAIRCASE

But to understand Liège, you have to take to the heights. The

ascent of the Montagne de Bueren (see photo) is a rite of passage.

The 374 steep, regular steps lead to a breathtaking panorama of

the city’s tightly packed rooftops and the meandering Meuse River.

At the top, the calm of the ancient ramparts contrasts with the

hustle and bustle below. Here you will discover the Coteaux de

la Citadelle, a maze of gardens, stairways, and alleys, a veritable

green lung suspended above the city center. In October, during

the Nocturne des Coteaux, thousands of candles transform these

slopes into a magical spectacle.

CALATRAVA’S WORK

The Meuse River structures the city and gives it its breath of life.

A stroll along the quays allows you to admire the Fragnée Bridge,

adorned with golden angels (like the Alexandre III Bridge in Paris),

or the spectacular futuristic silhouette of the Guillemins Station, all

curves and clad in white. With its light arches and changing light, it

has become a symbol of contemporary Liège, looking towards the

future.

OXBLOOD COLOR

Culture lovers are not left out. The Grand Curtius, a vast museum

complex housed in a flamboyant red and beautifully restored building,

offers a rich journey from archaeology to decorative arts. The

Museum of Walloon Life, nestled in a former convent, recounts the

traditions, customs, and crafts of yesteryear with tenderness and

humor. As for the Boverie Museum, located in a green park on the

banks of the Meuse River, it combines ancient art and contemporary

exhibitions in a luminous setting.

SWEET AND SAVORY

And then there’s the food. In the Ardent City, this is no minor detail:

it is part of the identity. The caramelized and generous Liège waffle

can be enjoyed at any time of day. The boulet à la liégeoise (with its

famous sweet and sour ‘rabbit sauce’), served with crispy fries, is

a must in local brasseries. And for total immersion, nothing beats a

visit to the Batte market, the oldest and largest market in Belgium,

which brings the quays to life every Sunday morning: a joyful chaos

where the scents of spices mingle with the cries of merchants, cosmopolitan

products and conversations in Walloon (although these

are becoming rare).

With its heritage, friendliness, atmosphere, and creative energy,

Liège offers an authentic experience that often leaves a lasting

impression on those who venture there.

28

AGENDA

DEADLINES

This agenda provides an overview of the most important activities listed in

Polaris’ online calendar, as of the 15th of the previous month, and set to public

mode (also check the district and multidistrict visibility).

Would you like to highlight an activity from your club? Then ask us about our

preferential advertising rates.

Info: rotarycontact@rotarybeluxservices.org

NEXT ISSUE

DATE : 01.04

PERIOD : 01.04 – 31.05

DEADLINE : 15.03

ROTARY AT A GLANCE

WORLDWIDE

Rotarians : 1.151.491 Clubs : 36.389

Rotaractors : 142.591 Clubs : 9.323

BELUX

Rotarians : 9.830 Clubs: 290

Rotaractors : 561 Clubs: 44

BANK ACCOUNTS

D 2150

District: BE86 0018 5183 2050

Fondation: BE84 0019 5928 9559

Polio: BE49 0019 5929 0771

Jeunesse: BE85 3632 0205 7306

D 2160

(BEL): BE84 0018 6824 5359

(LUX): LU18 0030 5474 8046 0000

Fondation - Fonds annuel: BE 97 0018 8663 5549

Fondation - Polio: BE75 0018 8663 5751

DATE HOUR CLUB ACTIVITY PLACE

08.02 12h Sept Fontaines Raclette à volonté. Info: raclette.rc7f@gmail.com Salle communale, Wauterbos 3,

Rhode-Saint-Genèse

09.02 12u15 Dendermonde Ken Van Weyenberg (Candriam), ‘Robotica en automatisatie’

09.02 19u Gent Luitenant-kolonel Geert Loier, ‘Veiligheid in een

veranderende wereld’

Kasteel van Lebbeke

Kasteel Coninxdonck

11.02 19u30 Damme Rik Van Cauwelaert, ‘België tot 2030’ De Kleine Rietgans

12.02 12h15 Luxembourg-

Horizon

Robert Schauss, ‘L’économie de la défense au

Luxembourg’

Park Hotel Alvisse, route d’Echternach

120, L-1453 Luxembourg

12.02 18u30 Brugge-Orscamp Filmavond met Eric Van Looy De Valkaart

12.02 19u15 Gent-Noord Prof. Gorik Ooms (Tropisch Instituut), ‘Polio uitroeien

vereist wereldwijde solidariteit’

Hotel de Lourdes

12.02 19u30 Harelbeke Viering 25-jarig bestaan Het Klokhof

29

AGENDA


14.02 19u30 Laarne-Lochristi Valentijnsevent Bar d’Amour Cultuurzaal Uyttenhove

15.02 15h Wavre Théâtre: ‘Le Père Noël est une ordure’ (+ à 18h) Centre culturel de Rixensart.

Info: 0493 47 97 25

17.02 19u30 Sint-Niklaas Jazzconcert De Casino, kaarten via

rotary.jazz@telenet.be

17.02 21u E-club Belgium 1

Passport

19.02 19u Antwerpen

Wilrijk-Terbeke

Martin Persson & Kurt Wertelaers, ‘Missing People

Saving Lives’

Paul Van Tigchelt, ‘Achter de schermen van Justitie’

Online

De Jachthoorn

19.02 19u30 Gent-Zuid Sylvia Van Peteghem, ‘De renovatie van de Gentse

Boekentoren’

‘t Groenhof

21.02 19h Flémalle Souper choucroute. Info: rcflemalle@gmail.com Salle Émile Honnay,

av. Théodule Gonda 7, Flémalle

23.02 12u15 Dendermonde Dr. Luc De Wolf, ‘Hoe draaien we de biologische

klok terug?’

Kasteel van Lebbeke

23.02 19u Gent Minister van Justitie Annelies Verlinden Kasteel Coninxdonck

25.02 19u Antwerpen-Oost Koen Renders, ‘Pegode vzw’ ‘t Withof


Horizon

‘Il était une fois asbl: lecture pour enfants des

quartiers’



27.02 19h30 Dudelange Soirée couscous avec animation surprise Re’serstuff, Grand Rue 32,

L-3394 Roeser

05.03 19u Antwerpen

Wilrijk-Terbeke

Fabienne Claeys, toponderneemster

De Jachthoorn

05.03 19h Diekirch-Ettelbruck Dîner de bienfaisance sous le signe de l’Espagne +

musique et tombola

05.03 19u Gent-Zuid Recital met Valère Burnon en Orchestre Royal de

Chambre de Wallonie

05.03 19u30 Kortrijk Facetime 2026 : Michiel Vos, Peter De Keyzer en

Christophe Deborsu

EHTL, rue Joseph Merten 19,

L-9257 Diekirch

De Bijloke

Kortrijk XPO

05.03 20h Louvain-la-Neuve

e.a.

Projection du film ‘Out of Africa’ au profit de HSF Ciné Centre, av. de Mérode 91,

Rixensart. Info: Alain Brisy

06.03 20h Bruxelles-Est Récital de Julien Laferrière, 1er prix concours Reine

Élisabeth 2017 (violoncelle)

07.03 19h Sept Fontaines Soirée de la femme: dîner, conférence, stands, tombola

& soirée dansante

Église Protestante, place du Musée 2

(Coudenberg), Bruxelles. Info: Pierre

Goffin

Golf Club de Sept Fontaines, chée

d’Alsemberg 1021, Braine-l’Alleud

08.03 8h30 Binche-Leptines Bar à champagne au carnaval Grand Place, Estinnes au Mont

10.03 19u30 Brugge 17de filmgala ‘Jo Röpcke’ : Hamnet Kinepolis Brugge

11.03 17u30 Brugge ‘t Vrije Bloedgeefactie Stationsplein

12.03 19u30 Lanaken-Maasland Knack-journalist Kristof Clerix La Butte aux Bois

12.03 20u Borgloon-Haspengouw

17.03 21u E-club Belgium 1

Passport

18.03 19u30 Waasmunster-

Durmeland


Horizon

Carnavalsvergadering met groepen uit Borgloon en

Tongeren

Julien De Wit, ‘Next Gen Youth Barometer’

Christophe Busch, directeur Hannah Arendt-instituut

François Neu, ‘The future of photovoltaics’

Salons Norfolk

Online

De Lekkerbek



19.03 19h30 Wavre & Genval Repas + Christian Laporte, ‘La Wallifornie, cette

Wallonie qui gagne’

Hôtel Ibis Styles, bd de Lauzelle 61,

Louvain-la-Neuve

30


20.03 19u Antwerp.

International

Rotary Darts Tournament

Zaal Lux

20-22.03 Gent-Zuid BADAFF – Belgian Art and Design Fair Het Arsenaal

21.03 18u RAC Turnhout-

Arendonk

Gala Lumina

Alta Ripa, Oud-Turnhout

21.03 18u Overijse-Zoniën Bert Kruismans, ‘Komt een komiek bij de dokter’ CC Den Blank

21.03 18u Landen Casino Dinner & Dance Hof ten Steen

21.03 19h30 Liège ‘Belgian Pink Floyd Tribute’ avec projections

immersives

Casino de Chaudfontaine. Info:

Alexandre Roland

21.03 20h Lessines Spectacle: Attitude chante Johnny Hallyday Salle Georges Roland,

rue Hennepin 12, Ath

22.03 11u Hasselt Social Meal – Social Deal Oude Gevangenis


Horizon

Sasha Baillie, Maréchale de la Cour



26.03 18u30 Tielt Startavond Rotary & Toekomst, Wetenschap &

Techniek

26.03 19u15 Gent-Noord Valérie Picard (digital marketeer), ‘Strategie met

impact’

28.03 19h30 Verviers-Vesdre Théâtre: ‘Chat et souris’ pour le Télévie.

Info: viatoum@gmail.com

VTI Tielt

Hotel de Lourdes

Hôtel Ibis Styles, bd de Lauzelle 61,

Louvain-la-Neuve

29.03 8h30 Binche-Leptines Bar à champagne au carnaval Place de Peissant

04.04 20h Binche-Leptines Spectacle: ‘Des complexes et vous’ Théâtre communal de Binche

09.04 19u Lanaken-Maasland Rudi Vranckx De Faar, Dilsen-Stokkem

11.04 18h Herstal Spectacle ‘Cœur d’en rire’ Motorium Saroléa, Herstal

17.04 18h Amay-Villersle-Temple

Finale interscolaire des tournois d’éloquence

Athénée royale de Chênée,

rue Bourdon 32

17.04 19h Wavre ‘Changeons le vin en eau’ (vente de vins), avec Éric

Mazuy

Ferme Luc Regout, rue Sainte-Wivine 4,

Sart-Risbart

18.04 10h Arlon Salon des vins d’été Institut Cardijn Lorraine Arlon, rue de

Neufchâteau 69

18.04 19h45 Tournai Spectacle: ‘Les 4 sans voix’ (avec e.a. Fabian Le

Castel)

Maison de la culture de Tournai

23.04 19u Gent-Noord Frank Cools zingt Aznavour Theaterzaal Dienstencentrum Ledeberg

26.04 10u30 Beveren-Waas Aperitiefconcert met Anna Zassimova De Casino

ESPOIR EN TÊTE

Movie preview: Compostelle on Thursday, March 19.

You are invited to attend this preview screening organized in support of fundamental research on

neurodegenerative diseases. For each ticket sold at €16, the Rotarians keep at least €8 (after deduction

of various costs such as venue rental, film rights, etc.), which is then donated in full to research.

This initiative began in France in 2005 and has since expanded to Luxembourg and Belgium.

Info: https://heh-eet.be

31

SHOT ON SITE

During the third edition of the Art to Cherish fair organized

by Rc Beveren, the municipality purchased

the artwork Under the Wings of the Swallowtail

by Marijke Meersman. The piece has since been

installed on the Kunstenhuis in Zwijndrecht. A fine

encouragement for the importance of art, culture,

and local creativity in the region.

We welcome a new member to our Rotary family:

Rc Les Écaussinnes (D 2150). The club received

its charter on 24 January. A few weeks earlier, it

had already organized its first solidarity action: a

fundraising meal in support of the Saint Vincent de

Paul Society.

On 22 November, Rc Mons celebrated its 90th

anniversary with a musical evening. Students from

the Royal Conservatory of Mons performed a varied

programme featuring works by Piazzolla, Barrios,

Bach, De Narváez, Mertz, Vachez and Bartók. The

club has long maintained a special bond with the

conservatory.

A brand-new bench has recently been installed in

the playground of De Kaproenen primary school in

Kaprijke. To finance it, the pupils collected 1,000

pieces of old ICT equipment for recycling. This generated

some funds, but not enough. Fortunately, Rc

Maldegem stepped in, enabling the purchase of the

bench (made from recycled materials).

32

SHOT ON SITE

This photo, taken in May, was republished on 5 January

in the online edition of L’Avenir (Namur region),

as it illustrated one of the five most-read articles of

2025 — excellent visibility for Rotary.

On 18 May, the first edition of Canamurois took place

on the River Sambre: a race featuring 5,000 plastic

ducks, organized by Rc Namur Val Mosan and Rc

Namur-Confluent. Several thousand spectators

attended, and around €20,000 was raised for local

associations.

For once, a photo taken not in Belgium but far

abroad: in Orlando, Florida, where the International

Assembly is held every January. During this prestigious

event, all incoming district governors gather for

five days of intensive training. The photo shows DGE

2150 Christophe Cossyns with Rotary International

Vice President and fellow Belgian Alain Van de Poel.

Some 650 Santa Clauses walked through the centre

of Sint-Niklaas on 20 December during the Wase

Santawalk organized by Rc Sint-Niklaas. This year

marked the twelfth edition of the event. Led by a

brass band, the group covered a four-kilometre

route through the city centre. The proceeds, €5,000,

were donated to Het Majin Huis, a support centre for

people living with cancer.

During the end-of-year period, members of Rc Turnhout

rolled up their sleeves at chocolatier Verleye,

packing 1,000 boxes of artisanal pralines sold in support

of TEJO Kempen. This new initiative immediately

raised €13,750 and will certainly be repeated.

33

SHOT ON SITE

On 6 January, a fine initiative brought together the

Rotaract clubs of Verviers and the Pays de Herve for

a meeting with the District 2160 Governor, Alain Lesage.

Rotaract clubs are unfortunately less numerous

in French-speaking Belgium, but they are holding up

better in the province of Liège – a development we

can only applaud.

Pupils at De Windroos primary school in Machelen

can now borrow board games and puzzles from the

games library next to the school. This is no luxury

in a municipality where many children grow up in

vulnerable circumstances. Thanks to the support of

Rc Zaventem, the school was able to transform a

former bank branch into a games library, followed by

a large collection campaign for second-hand games.

Rc Zottegem handed over two light trucks to the volunteer organization Lichtpunt/Sociale Kruidenier in Zottegem.

These vehicles will significantly support the organization’s operations and logistics. The festive handover took place in

the presence of a special guest of honour: Saint Nicholas and his helpers attended to symbolically present the keys.

34

Colorful talent

to be celebrated!

A big bravo and a heartfelt thank you to all the little hands that

picked up their finest pencils and markers to take part in our

great colouring contest, launched in the previous issue of Contact

Rotary (family edition). We are proud to publish the artworks

of all the winners here. Each young Picasso in the making will

receive an End Polio Now teddy bear as a reward, perfect for lots

of cuddles!

Alix Dedecker (7)

Benoit Callewier (6)

Lisa Haxhnikaj (6)

35

Lucca Sofia Zwanckaert

Ollivier Persoons (6)

Paul Bourlet-Dessales (5)

Rachel Bonte (4)

36

This year the RI Convention takes place in Taipei. Where will Rotary gather for the

2027 convention?

In which year did a woman first become governor of a BeLux district?

In which province is the new Belgian Rotary club Les Écaussinnes located?

In which year did Lorenzo Gatto (see interview in this issue) become second laureate

of the Queen Elisabeth Competition?

In which Walloon city will the closing event of Télévie 2026 be held?

What is the name of the aid organization of Dr. Réginald Moreels that is active

in Congo?

At which art fair was the King Baudouin Foundation recently guest of honour?

ANSWERS

• Dubai.

• In 2009–10: Babette Van Look (Rc Antwerpen-Amerloo,

D 2170).

• Hainaut.

• In 2009.

• In Liège.

• Unichir.

• BRAFA.

In our next issue:

Æ

Æ

FOCUS: how women are making their mark on Rotary

Interview with Yinka Babalola, incoming RI President

Æ Urban Adventures: Taipei, host city of the RI Convention 2026

Æ

Æ

An exceptional Global Grant for reforestation in Africa

70 years of RC Tongeren

37

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