Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Cosmopolitan Celebrates 9th Anniversary
The Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Cosmopolitan, a vibrant and service-driven club within District 9141, marked its 9th anniversary with an evening of joy, reflection, and renewed commitment to humanitarian service. The celebration was held in Port Harcourt, bringing together Rotarians, families, friends, and well-wishers in an atmosphere filled with music, dance, and the true spirit of Rotary.
The event showcased not only the club’s milestones since its chartering but also its vision for the future. The evening’s program was rich with highlights, blending moments of nostalgia, appreciation, and fundraising for impact-driven projects.
In her anniversary address, the current President, RP Iwo Edward-Pepple, expressed gratitude to members past and present who had nurtured the club into a strong and dynamic family of service. She acknowledged the collective contributions of the club’s leaders, members, and partners who had upheld the ideals of Rotary International while making a tangible difference in communities across Rivers State and beyond.
Over the past nine years, the club has implemented several community projects, ranging from health outreach programs, literacy initiatives, maternal and child health interventions, and vocational skills development, to humanitarian donations for underserved populations. “Our journey has been marked by service, fellowship, and transformation. Tonight, we not only celebrate, but we recommit ourselves to doing even more,” RP Edward-Pepple emphasized.
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the symbolic cake cutting ceremony. The elegantly designed anniversary cake, adorned with the number “9”, was jointly cut by the President and past leaders of the club, to the cheer of members and guests. This act underscored unity, continuity, and shared responsibility for advancing Rotary’s mission.
The cutting was followed by rounds of applause, photo sessions, and hearty toasts, as members and guests joined in singing the Rotary anthem and celebrating the joy of service in friendship.
The anniversary was also marked by vibrant music and dance, creating an atmosphere of fellowship and camaraderie. Members and their guests filled the dance floor, celebrating not only the anniversary but the strong bonds of friendship that distinguish the Cosmopolitan family.
Cultural performances and modern tunes kept the audience entertained throughout the night, reminding everyone that service, while serious, is also a joyful calling.
A particularly touching highlight of the evening was the thoughtful gesture by RP Iwo Edward-Pepple, who presented personalized art portraits to each of the club’s past presidents. This act of recognition and appreciation moved many in attendance, as it honored the sacrifices, leadership, and dedication of those who had steered the club through various stages of growth.
One by one, past presidents were invited to the stage to receive their framed portraits amidst applause, smiles, and expressions of gratitude. The gesture not only celebrated their legacy but also reinforced the Rotary ethos of acknowledging service above self.
As the night drew to a close, the celebratory mood remained palpable. The anniversary was not just a marker of years gone by but a reaffirmation of the club’s mission to serve humanity with passion, creativity, and excellence.
In his closing remarks, RP Edward-Pepple reiterated his commitment to leading the club towards greater achievements, building on the strong foundation laid by his predecessors. He called on members to remain united, dedicated, and innovative in addressing the pressing needs of society.
The 9th anniversary of Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Cosmopolitan was therefore more than a social gathering—it was a celebration of impact, leadership, and vision for the future. From the cake cutting to the heartfelt appreciation of past presidents, and the fundraising for noble projects, the event embodied Rotary’s timeless motto: “Service Above Self.”
As the club marches towards its 10th year, members and supporters alike are inspired to keep the wheel of service turning, ensuring that communities continue to feel the positive touch of Rotary.