If Rotary were a product, it would not come with flashy packaging or instant results. Instead, it would offer something rarer—character, leadership, and purpose refined over time. This was the message that resonated when Atty. Reginald Alberto B. Nolido spoke not as a salesman, but as a long-time user of the Rotary experience. “Never turn down an opportunity to lead,” he said—words that functioned less as a slogan and more as a product guarantee.
During a recent dialogue with Rotaractors and Rotarians, DG Nolido—founder of the Nolido Law Office and former president of the Rotary Club of Makati—unpacked why Rotary and Rotaract remain relevant in a crowded marketplace of causes. Framed through leadership, membership, service, and partnership, the discussion circled a practical question: Why should people buy into Rotary—and stay invested?
For DG Nolido, Rotary’s strongest feature is leadership development rooted in volunteerism. “Rotary is significantly focused on the development of leadership skills,” he said. “Rotaractors should imbibe the spirit of volunteerism of Rotarians and take on leadership roles.” Unlike short-term engagements, Rotary offers long-term value—the kind that shapes decision-makers and community builders. Its competitive edge lies not in speed, but in depth.
Sustainability, however, depends on membership. DG Nolido urged clubs to think strategically. “Think of your club as a product that you are selling,” he explained. “New customers are potential members. Repeat customers are your existing members.” Relevance, he stressed, is key. Clubs must continually ask what makes their product meaningful and how it responds to members’ needs. Listening—through feedback or satisfaction surveys—keeps the experience engaging and worth renewing.
Credibility, DG Nolido added, rests on those who represent the brand. Inspiration comes from consistency. “I inspire Rotaractors by being, myself, an action taker,” he said. “Nothing drives disillusion more than inconsistency.” In Rotary, leaders themselves are the proof of value. When actions match ideals, trust grows—and trust sustains commitment.
At its core, Rotary is value-driven, not profit-oriented. DG Nolido cited principles that define its foundation: “To give and not to count the cost… to labor and not to ask for rewards.” These values distinguish Rotary from other organizations competing for young people’s time—they are not extras, but the product itself.
DG Nolido also challenged how Rotary and Rotaract view one another. “Rotarians should not see Rotaractors as beneficiaries, but as partners in service,” he said. He cautioned against treating Rotaractors as mere support staff. “You are not hired service. You are Rotaractors with an important voice that needs to be heard.” True partnership allows the product to scale and evolve.
To expand reach, DG Nolido encouraged Rotaractors to build independent networks, collaborate beyond Rotary, and engage internationally. Even giving to The Rotary Foundation and End Polio, he framed as belief-based investment. “If you believe in the cause, giving is not even an issue,” he said.
As the discussion closed, DG Nolido delivered what felt like the product’s final tagline: “Enjoy Rotaract. Know your value. Do not be afraid to lead and even surpass your mother club. The only one keeping you back is you.”
In a world full of options, Rotary does not promise convenience—but it delivers growth, purpose, and impact. For those willing to buy in, it is not just an organization. It is a lifelong investment.
