The Westin Nova Scotian & Pier 21
Rotarians from across the Atlantic and beyond gathered in Halifax this spring for the North Atlantic Rotary Conference 2025, an event pulsing with energy, inspiration, and meaningful connections. With the theme The Magic of Rotary, the weekend celebrated not only the accomplishments of our clubs and members but also the boundless potential that lies in our collective impact.
Friday, May 30: A Magical Welcome
The conference kicked off with a warm Atlantic welcome as attendees began arriving at the historic Westin Nova Scotian. The day was filled with excitement, particularly for incoming presidents, secretaries, and area governors attending pre-conference training.
As the evening arrived, Rotarians were invited to experience Halifax Hospitality through Dine-Around Halifax and Home Hosting, where local Rotarians opened their homes and hearts for an evening of fellowship, storytelling, and shared meals. This authentic introduction to the city set the tone for a weekend of connection.
Saturday, May 31: Inspiration, Innovation, and Inclusion
The day began with a buzz as the Friendship Village opened, showcasing vibrant displays of "One Magical Projects" from across District 7815 and other wonderful organizations and businesses from the Halifax area. Rotarians explored each other’s service initiatives while bidding in the silent auction and enjoying breakfast among friends.
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Opening Ceremonies
Led by Emcee Miriam MacLeod, the morning opened with a truly powerful welcome by Matthew Connolly, and a spirited Parade of Flags featuring our Rotary Youth Exchange students—a beautiful reminder of our global fellowship. District Governor Don Sword gave a warm welcome followed by remarks from sponsor Jenn Parker (Nova Scotia Power) and RI Representative PDG Mary Shackleton.
Morning Inspiration
A highlight of the morning was Patrick Longano’s session, The Club You’ve Been Waiting For Is the One You Can Create—a visionary blueprint for how flexible club models are redefining Rotary.
Keynote speaker Ramesh Ferris, polio survivor and District Governor Elect of District 5370, moved many to tears with his story of perseverance and Rotary’s role in global polio eradication.
Meanwhile, Rotary Partners were treated to a special luncheon at The Bicycle Thief, followed by a tour at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21—a profound reminder of Canada’s story and Rotary’s role in welcoming newcomers.
Afternoon: People of Action Summit
The afternoon came alive with six simultaneous breakout sessions, each empowering Rotarians to deepen their impact:
- The Rotary Foundation – giving with purpose and understanding grant potential
- Service Projects – from vision to execution, with global and local lenses
- Public Image – practical tools to amplify Rotary’s voice
- Youth Programs – celebrating Youth Exchange, Interact, HIP, and RYLA
- Rotaract – reigniting the next generation of Rotary leadership
- DEIA – a thoughtful session on Rotary’s evolving culture
Peacebuilding and Ceremony
The final session of the day, led by Rotary Peace Fellow Dr. Susan Hartley, encouraged Rotarians to infuse peace into every project, from local to global.
Due to weather, the Rotary Peace Pole unveiling—originally scheduled for Saturday evening—was rescheduled to Sunday morning.
Saturday Evening: The Gala – A Celebration of Rotary Magic
As evening fell, the Westin transformed for the North Atlantic Rotary Gala, where attendees, dressed in cocktail and semi-formal attire, gathered to celebrate a year of service. With heartfelt remarks, awards for The Rotary Club of the Year - New Minas Sunrise and Rotarian of the Year, Holly Thompson, District Data Management Chair and member of New Minas Sunrise.
We also and a sneak peek at District Conference 2026, the night captured the joy and pride of belonging to Rotary.
Dinner was followed by dancing and live music from local favourite Toy Shed, closing the evening on a high note.
Sunday, June 1: Reflection, Remembrance, and Renewal
Held at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Sunday offered a time for reflection and renewal.
In Memoriam
The In Memoriam ceremony honoured Rotarians who had passed this year. Club representatives placed white roses on stage, later moved to surround the newly unveiled Peace Pole—a quiet and poignant moment of tribute and unity.
Storytelling and Youth Exchange
A conversation with Taghrid Hadhad of Peace by Chocolate emphasized how Rotary and kindness can shape community narratives. This was followed by Alida Campbell’s uplifting presentation on Rotary Youth Exchange, The Life Changing Magic of RYE—a fitting finale to a weekend celebrating possibility.
Peace Pole Unveiling
Unveiling Rescheduled due to Saturday’s rain, the Rotary Peace Pole was unveiled Sunday following the ceremonies. Now installed on the Halifax Boardwalk near Bishops Landing, the Peace Pole stands as a symbol of our district’s commitment to fostering peace and understanding.
The Magic Continues
The 2025 North Atlantic Rotary Conference was more than an event—it was a celebration of our People of Action. It reminded us that the magic of Rotary is not found in slogans or ceremonies, but in each of us—when we choose to serve, to connect, and to build a better world.
See you next year at District Conference 2026—MAY 29-31 in SHEDIAC!