RTI Legacy Magazine - 1 -December - 2022

6 EDITOR'S NOTES Staying true to your vision. FROM THE BOARD

In this Issue

24 SEM REGION Area report from SEm Chairman Nicholas Gomez. 26 ASPA REGION Area report from ASPA Chairman Saurabh Kedia 28 AMI REGION Area report from AmI Chairman Bram Rozestraten.

AREA REPORTS

20 CEE REGION

Area report from CEE Chairman Jule Gosschalk. 22 NEA REGION Area report from NEA Chairman Pierre mörck.

ROUND TABLE INTERNATIONAL

round-table.org @rtinternational @rtinternational @rtinternational

PUBLISHER

Jayant Agrawal president@round-table.org

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mikael Ejemar Vikström editor@round-table.org

CONTRIBUTORS

Jayant Agrawal

Marc Germeshausen

Graham Cornelissen

Jule Gosschalk

Pierre Mörck

Nicholas Gomez

Saurabh Kedia

Bram Rozestraten

Stephan Zipperlein

Daniele Cusi

David Joe Williams

Ruth Curry

Martina Santoro

Paul Hoeksema

Thomas Meneckemeyer

Ben Kin

Tom Albright

Sachin Shah Oscar Wahlström Abhishek Lodha

CONTACT pro@round-table.org editor@round-table.org

We Are Making a Difference

By MIKAEL EJEMAR VIKSTRÖM, RTI Magazine Editor, 2022-2023

IT’S TIME FOR this years first edition of Legacy. An edition packed with content by Tablers, for Tablers. A lot is happening around the tables out there - we are making a difference; for ourselves, each other, and the world around us.

In this edition we have heartwarming articles and stories. The successful Christmas Convoy is not only an example of what we can do side-by-side with our family organisations - but also an example of the change for good we are doing for people less fortunate than ourselves.

And for those of you who was not present at the World meeting in Copenhagen, Ruth Curry shares her story about how Round Table and Ladies’ Circle helped her and her family when they needed it the most.

The battle against the Silent Pandemic continues. We are taking care of ourselves and each other. We are trying to end the stigma that surrounds men’s mental Health issues and we can all do our part. Read more about the Tabler-4Tabler initiative starting on page 40.

We are also making a touchdown in Tallin and Cape Town. Are you ready to make history at the Half-Year meeting 2023 in Tallin? Walking the medieval streets and becoming a viking? Tallin won’t dissapoint in delivering first-class tabling experiences that will go down in history.

And neither will the upcoming World meeting 2023 in South Africa. I’m already looking forward to exploring wonderful nature, drinking wine in beautiful scenery, and meeting a penguin or two.

We are not only contributing to the world around us, we are also making a difference for ourselves and improving our life and our minds. Read all about what it is to be a gentleman on page 58. And find out if it is possible to write a self-help book inspired by our motto on page 82.

our RTI University manager Sachin Shah guides us in the task of designing an effective training programme - useful both in our everyday lives and tabling lives.

And there is a lot more to discover in this issue. Some of us are enjoying some time off work for the holidays. Take a moment and sit down with legacy and immerse yourself in the fantastic world that is Round Table. And get inspired and find out how you can make a difference.

MikaelEjemarVikström

Yours in International Tabling editor@round-table.org

THE OFFICIAL RTI MAGAZINE

From the Board 08

RTI PRESIDENT

A Year of Continuity, Sustainability And Stability

Mr JAYANT AGRAWAL, Round Table International President 2022-2023

DEAR BROTHERS, I am thrilled to introduce the first Legacy edition for the tabling year 2022-23. Legacy itself has been a strong brand of RTI communication since last year. my team and I are deeply committed to raising our own bars and standards to give quality editions.

We will have four editions of Legacy this year. We aim to continue providing articles that add value to our personal and tabling careers while maintaining high presentation standards. This helps us to uplift our brand across the wider society. We also urge the associations to send us quality articles to be included in the Legacy magazine. Targeting a participative approach from our members, we also aim to provide holistic lifestyle approach-based articles in the magazine.

We are facing challenging times that no doubt affect us all. As the saying goes, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. We are Round Table, and the exceptional capability to Adopt to changes, Adapt to any environment and find different ways to Improve despite the hurdles and obstacles make us unique and different. We have seen the amazing capability of the fraternity to accept the situation, and we strive for a better future in the last three years.

With the change of leadership in the Round Table International Board every year, we notice the feeling of uncertainty among the brothers. However, understanding that no successful initiative can give results without adequate time, 2022-23 has decided to strategise and plan to provide Continuity, Sustainability and Stability to the members. Some of the key focus areas will be:

1. “There is No RTI if there are no members.” The falling membership rate in the last three years puts us in an alarming situation. We aim to continue our successful growth initiatives and aim to collaborate with associations at the micro level to overturn the negative growth and reach a green zone for growth in members by the RTIWm 2023.

2. Tabler.World and the App will be one focus area for developing more userfriendly and behavioural modules. We are determined to have more member associations on board the platform.

3. our PR Team is a perfect example of continuity and stability. The plan will be a uniform branding approach and positioning ourselves well to the target audience. Further, we plan to strengthen our presence on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The PR team is also focused on sharing best practices with the associations.

4. The RTI University will continue with the Talk Shows and Training programs. We aim to have an online module for Secretary Training, and looking at the feedback, we will also target the same for the Treasurer role. Partnerships and collaborations with the external university are also being prioritised.

5. RT Cares, the foundation of Round Table International, is expected to be registered and operational this year. This will be an icebreaker in our global efforts of community service projects.

6. optimising our relationship with Round Table Family members for mutual benefits

The regular discussions with the convening team of HYm in Estonia in march and Wm in South Africa in September have excited us for the amazing life experiences the brothers are planning for us. Discussions with them have reassured us that we are an evolving organisation striving to do better after every RTI event to provide extra value to the participants.

As the famous saying goes, “We Cannot Become What We Want By Remaining What We are.” If we all believe in the power of unity and teamwork, we can conquer the world. After the setbacks and negativities due to the pandemic, the world needs positive vibes more than before, and we, as Round Table say, “WeCanWeWill.”

JayantAgrawal

Yours in International Tabling president@round-table.org

RTI VICE PRESIDENT

Is There a Holy Recipe For Growth?

Mr MARC GERMESHAUSEN, Round Table International Vice President 2022-2023

THE SETTING OF ROUND TABLE is unique in the service club world. Depending on your association’s wishes, we face an age limit of 40 or 45. Each of us knows that we have an expiry date within our wonderful movement.

We can live the joy of our organisation, cause an impact on a local or regional level and catch up with fellow brothers around the globe. But we also need to look into our organisation and see that we can keep it up at heights. Due to the age rule, we lose between 4,000 and 5,000 members every year. This implies that we must supplement these numbers with at least the same amount of new tablers to stay strong. So far, only one region within RTI can compensate for those losses and grow: ASPA, which is mainly related to RT India and RT Nepal.

Round Table has two sides: Expansion in new countries and inner sustainable growth.

EXPANSION IN NEW COUNTRIES

Last year we had the unique possibility to charter three new associations: RT Czech Republic, RT Albania and the RTI E-Club. We can see that all three were strong enough to be chartered and to establish Round Table on their level. We need solid clubs if we consider expanding into new countries and areas.

When it comes to expansion, we are considering three statuses from an association:

Inaugurated Member: After having six meetings over three months and having ten members who regularly attend the club’s activities, the mother association can decide on leading an inauguration meeting.

Associate Member: After being inaugurated, the club should have six meetings within six months (ideally, two meetings in a month to be done), and the club charter with at least 15 members can be initiated. Charter Approval must be taken from the RTI Vice President to ensure sustainability is vital here. Charter finalisation details should be floated 90 days before the charter. Associate members are part of Round Table International but do not have voting rights during official meetings, and members of those associations are not eligible to run for certain RTI offices.

Full Member: An Associate member may apply for Full membership if: It has chartered a National Association and; It has not less than three chartered Tables and; It has not less than fifty members.

Application for Full membership by an Associate member may not be made before the third RTI AGM after the one at which it was officially recognised as an Associate member. Alternatively, suppose an Associate member cannot apply for Full membership under the rules above. In that case, they may make an application anyway, but not before the fourth RTI AGM after the one at which it was officially recognised as an Associate member. Associate member must participate in all RTI meetings during this period. Full members shall appoint an RTI Councillor, who shall have voting rights.

Unfortunately, we already had the situation that we needed to shut down an inaugurated club with RT malaysia. Due to some structural issues, we needed to change the status of an associate member to inaugurated. We need to see the bigger picture regarding expansion. Those new clubs need particular support from their godmother association and the international community. And again: New clubs need to be strong in numbers so that we are not losing them very soon. All the steps are closely described in the expansion guideline of RTI, which is available on Tabler.World. There it is mandatory to have at least 15 members for this process.

GROWTH IN NEW AREAS WITH RTI E-CLUB

If we view potential members in a new country, but they do not fulfil the above criteria, those can join the RTI E-Club. Approved by the HYm 2020, RTI E-Clubs were given a formal go-ahead. Having it running was one of the goals shared for last year

Regular meetings were conducted, and once the RTI board was sure, we had the first AGM of RTI E-Club in August. It will have all the rights and obligations of an associate member of RTI under the CEE region. It will function independently, adhering to its own constitution. RTI E-Club will be one of the core initiatives that will also have the RTI board’s focus in the coming years. This will help us follow in places we never could get into and retain the lost members.

We are having now certain members all around the world in RTI E-Club. The demand for membership is high, and the seeds we spread some years ago are developing into beautiful flowers. The aim is not to keep members for long within the E-Club but to start the process within a new country.

SUSTAINABLE INNER GROWTH

Supporting and promoting the growth of the current association is one of the goals taken this year. We need to strengthen our associations and focus on how we can grow. For this, we have launched various initiatives at the RTI level: Global operation Head Hunter: Inspired by RT Norway and its successes, the RTI board launched the global operation head hunter. The initiative aims to create a database of potential prospects through members’ personal and professional contacts within and beyond their existing geographical boundaries.

We did receive some encouraging participation in the program. most of them are towards the CEE region. making it a long-term strategy, we have and will be promoting this as one of the key drivers for growth in the year to come. A unique pin was also launched for members who introduced 5 and 10 members to reward the high performers. We have also established a bottom-up feedback policy for the same. The GDPR policies are adhered to in the best possible ways as well.

Celebrating growth: Celebrating and welcoming each new member inducted in the movement irrespective of the location, we launched the initiative to send a video message from at least one of the RTI board members welcoming the Tabler. This initiative was appreciated by many associations. This last year we reached out to many new inductees across the fraternity through a video message. This did help in creating special bonds.

Each1 brings 1: Continuing the best practices from previous year, this initiative was continued whereby every member in the world invites a guest they consider a potential prospect to the meeting annually. This program was communicated well to the floor and is expected to be further promoted by associations in their clubs. If the initiative is followed diligently, we expect a growth of around 15% globally.

Grow each Table by One: A continuation of last year, associations were motivated and pushed to initiate strategies to grow each member Table by 1 compared to the last tabling year. Local branding, plans and issues are to be dealt with and moved ahead. If this initiative is to be followed diligently, we expect a growth of around 7% at the RTI level.

IS THERE A HOLY RECIPE FOR GROWTH?

If we are thinking of Round Table: What is it for you? For some of us, Round Table is service, charity and showing responsibility towards society. For some, it is fellowship and friendship. For some, it is meeting old friends for the first time and exploring the globe. Some of us are using it for business opportunities and networking. Round Table means to every Tabler worldwide something different. These topics might change during your time at Table, but it binds us together as one world. When talking about growth, we need to reflect on those various fields as every person, club, and association is working differently and focusing on other parts.

To make growth successful, we need to motivate tablers on a club level and an area level. Round Table International can provide some ideas, guidance and support. Still, we can only grow if we are all working together. Round Table is a bottoms-up organisation; without members, there is no Round Table International. Depending on your location, we cannot see a holy recipe for growth, what Round Table means directly for someone and how he sees him in our worldwide movement. As a club or association, we need to see the lack of members and start setting the first steps.

Together we can, and we will bring Round Table to greater heights!

Yours in International Tabling vicepresident@round-table.org

MarcGermeshaussen

BECOME PART OF THE RTI BOARD

THE RTI BOARD consists of 9 elected board members who are then helped by several board assistants. The team works together to achieve the goals set out for the respective year, and every individual contribution is highly valued. To define all of the board roles more clearly, we have updated the RTI Officers handbook to describe the role, set out the responsibilities, and define the expected time commitments per position. The process regarding the nine elected positions is set out in the RTI Rule book. The RTI Board nomination forms are available on Tabler.World or from the RTI Secretary. Several key roles need further to be filled, with those being of the RTI Board Assistants. Fancy yourself the next PRo, CSo, or any of the other listed positions? If so, reach out to the Vice President, marc Germeshausen, at vicepresident@round-table.org.

Leaving a Legacy

Mr GRAHAM CORNELISSEN, Round Table International Past President 2022-2023

FOR MANY OF US, joining Round Table was a dream come true. It’s a place where we can be surrounded by inspiring young men from all walks of life and where we get to be the best version of ourselves.

Starting your Tabling career at any age is exciting, as all new ventures are. Being surrounded by inspiring young men from all walks of life lets each of us be the best version of ourselves. From day one, we know how long we have left in our Tabling careers. It does not matter if they join at 20 or at 38. It does not matter if you Table to 40 or to 45. We all have a limited lifespan of how long we can be in this great brotherhood—and that’s okay!

As we get older, we see that life takes many things away from us: our youthfulness, energy levels, and flexibility… You name it—life has its way with us all eventually. We realise what is valuable and what is not too late, and we miss things dearly once lost. For all of us, Round Table is finite, and there will be a day when we are no longer members.

Many Tablers see this as bad; some have even described this as a death sentence! In fact, it’s quite the opposite: Knowing how long you have gives you an easy timeline to plan ahead—you know how much time you have left. You also know how long you have to use all the opportunities available while they’re still here! To get the most out of your Tabling career, consider these ideas:

Travel and see the world through Round Table one of the biggest regrets we often hear from Tablers leaving is that they waited too long to start travelling. This can be local to other clubs or areas or taking your Tabling to an international level. Except for the great friends you make and the exposure you get to different cultures, the greatest benefit to travelling is that you expand your own boundaries and limits. Travelling allows you to dream big and to truly see what Tabling is about.

Set yourself a goal and work towards it. This can be anything you want to achieve. The goal needs to be clear, defined and realistic. Break down the milestones for achieving this and then start working towards it. Never make excuses, and give it your all to achieve it. Jerry Rice famously said, ”Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can do what others can’t.” Hard work is the difference between achieving the goal or not. Giving your all, even when failing to reach your goal, is a win.

Do not be scared to fail. Tabling is not life and death and is a safe and supportive environment. Also, realise that you will fail many times, which is a sign that you are pushing yourself. The only way not to fail is to not set yourself lofty goals. Remember that failing is okay as long as you learn from it and never give up. Fail, learn, improve, succeed – The spirit of our Round Table motto lives in learning from failures and improving on them.

”The goal should never be to leave a Legacy or to win at Tabling. There is no winning in Tabling. Your goal should be to be the best version of yourself and help others become their best.”

HELPING OTHERS SUCCEED in their Tabling careers is one of our most important responsibilities before leaving Round Table. Through this coaching process, we pass on the knowledge of the past to future generations while also preparing ourselves to take a step back. This often forgotten but critical part of Tabling determines the future of our movement and largely determines your satisfaction when looking back on your Tabling career.

To live your best Tabling life, remember to relax, have fun, and enjoy every moment.

FOLLOWING THESE TIPS ALLOWS YOU to easily move on from a senior position or your Tabling career. Giving your all when you can do so will enable you to reflect on your achievements and be proud. And that is how you leave a Legacy.

GrahamCornelissen

Yours in International Tabling ipp@round-table.org

Regional Reports 18

Central & Eastern Europe Rising

By JULE GOSSCHALK, CEE Chairman 2022-2023

DEAR TABLERS, 4 weeks after the RTI Wm 2022, we had our CEETm (Central and Eastern European Tablers meeting) this year in Nottingham, UK. The CEETms are being held in alphabetical order, therefor after RTBI, the host for 2023-2024 will be RT Hungary.

First arrivals came in on Thursday, and there were day tours arranged. I flew in early on Friday morning with my wife Isabelle and some of the Dutch delegation, including their traditional ”Benjamin Travel” (the 14 youngest Tablers of the Netherlands, one of each district). This way, the Dutch make them enthusiastic at a young age and hope they take to (inter)national Tabling early on and grow from there.

on Friday, I joined one of the day tours. All activities were arranged within walking distance from the hotel, so very convenient. The main hotel was a bit expensive, but hotels are more expensive in the UK in general, and it was not mandatory to book the main hotel. Friday night’s welcome party was themed medieval - Robin Hood. many were dressed up, which gave a great atmosphere. Beer and food were included until midnight. my favourite was the roasted pig, which also perfectly matched the theme.

The meeting was held on Saturday at a beautiful (still functioning) council house. We started at 10am instead of 9am, which was much appreciated by all. Apart from the association reports, guest speakers were RTI VP marc Germeshausen speaking about his plans for RTI and the Secretary of LCI about their regions. RTI’s Past President, Jason Thomson, talked about the history of RTBI and RTI. Last but not least, mark meijer, RTNL VP and chairman of the Dutch expansion committee, about expansion - specifically internal growth, in which my personal expertise lies. I like to prioritise internal growth in our region this year. The meeting finished at 12:30, including a 30-minute break.

During the gala dinner later that evening, we had some entertainment upfront by a light show performer. Afterwards, the four CEE award winners were announced as follows:

Association of the Year: RT Germany Club of the Year: RT 20 Botosani Romania Tabler of the Year: Karlkristian Dischinger Service project of the Year: RT 62 Geel Belgium

I want to give a special nod to max Pouille for winning the ”last man standing” cup. Lastly, a big thank you to RTBI and the convening team for being great hosts. We, therefore, handed the certificate of appreciation to the chairman of the CEE TM convening team Ray Carr. After all that, the night just went on and on.

CEE TRAVELS

Two weeks after the CEETm I travelled to visit RT Germany as an invite of IRo Jorg von Ludowig to the ”Unanstandiger Abend”, an event organised by his club 84 Hamburg-St. Pauli. CEE CSo Gottfried Lumpi joined me on this travel, and we also were joined by RTI Past President Sebastian Walter.

It’s nice to visit a ”smaller” event (still 100 Tablers attending). There is more time to connect and discuss items more deeply. RT84 Hamburg-St. Pauli is a special club with a special location. A recommended experience for all Tablers once (or twice). Afterwards, Gottfried visited me in the Netherlands, and we had more time to discuss RTI E-Club.

The weekend after, I travelled with my wife to Austria for the (re-)charter of RT13 Graz Umgebung. We were welcomed there by RT Austria President Lukas Pritz, the rest of his board, and of course, our own RTI VP marc Germeshausen. Even though it was an 11-hour drive (so 22 hours in 3 days), we had a blast and would not have wanted to miss it. The newly installed Tablers of RT13 are superb guys, and I’m sure we will see them internationally too. They also managed a great charter weekend and program. The HIGHlight for me was flying by myself for the first time!

The weeks following this were in the setting of Half Year meetings for me. Firstly the Dutch HYm and the week following visiting the Belgium HYm. one of the items mainly discussed is internal growth and how we can facilitate this on an (inter)national level. And you can really see all associations are also focussing on this regard, especially after the last couple of years, which hugely impacted our membership numbers. Therefore I am very proud of the effort put in by the CEE associations and the way back up that seems to have been found.

Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish

By PIERRE MÖRCK, NEA Chairman 2022-2023

AT THE END OF OCTOBER, we had the excellent opportunity to visit the most northern club in the RTI world for the NEARTm. Hammerfest invited us with open arms and truly lived up to We can, We Will. Their fellowship and eagerness to help make the event very special and a memory for life.

During the meeting, we selected our incoming NEA Chairman. A big congratulation to both Antti Kantola RT Suomi and NEA Region, who will have a great Tabler as chairman. A big salute to Daníel Sigurður Eðvaldsson RT Iceland, who also ran for NEA Chairman. Thank you for your willingness and readiness to give and engage with RTI. Without Tablers who are willing to step up, we would not exist.

Also, big congratulations to the NEAR award winners: Tabler of the Year: Kim-André Richter Club of the year: RT104 Iisalmi Association of the year: RT Norway

Continuing on the 3-year plan for NEA Region, the priorities include: Increasing members and Associations. Promoting fellowships and travel within the region Sharing of knowledge Branding of the highest quality

Round Table is only as strong as its members and Tablers, and these ambitions are the work and focus for everyone. NEA is the region in RTI that enjoys Tabling the most. I hope we can show that in different venues and plattforms to be attractive to current members and potential Tablers. The decline of membership in our association is a big challenge and a challenge we must face together. We are stronger together and have a lot to learn from each other. NEAR have lots of best practices, ideas, inspiration and ambitions among our associations and the tablers that can light sparks. Dare to reach out for help and new ways.

Communication is key, and we have WhatsApp, messenger, Zoom and the best of them all: travelling and meeting up in person. After the long shutdown, we can finally Table for real again.

The work on expansion continues. The discussions with mexico have continued but have had some struggles after COVID-19. The great news is that we have been contacted by Argentina and looking at the possibility of expanding South on the American side. This is just in the embryo state, but still very exciting. more to come about this.

Regarding travels, soon, it is time for the RTI HYm in Tallinn. Hope to see as many Tablers as possible in this beautiful city. I am sure that RT Estonia will create and deliver a super event. As always, RTI events are a melting pot of Tablers from around the world who want to meet, greet, adopt, adapt and improve.

A big thanks and salute to all of you, Tablers, for making Round Table what it is. Your time and energy give us and the next generations the opportunity to be a part of something fantastic, which is Round Table.

Stay Hungry — Stay Foolish.

Yours in International Tabling

PierreMörck

neachairman@round-table.org

Supporting Those Who Need It Most

By NICHOLAS GOMEZ, SEM Chairman 2022-2023

BROTHERS, I am writing to tell you about my region’s Service Project for this year, Decrochons la Lune pour Gaspard. What is Decrochons la Lune pour Gaspard? (decrochonslalune.fr )

It is a last-wish charity for terminally ill children in France. Its mission is to support children with long term illnesses and their families by improving their quality of life and well-being, communicating and raising awareness about the illnesses, and giving them last wishes.

It was started by Nicolas and marie, whose 4-year-old son Gaspard was diagnosed with a very aggressive and invasive form of brain cancer. Gaspard passed away on the 21st of December 2021, surrounded by his loving parents and siblings. Gaspard showed immense courage and incredible strength throughout, and his parents vowed to help families in similar situations.

Since then, they have been able to help and improve the lives of children in France. They have bought a remotely directed robot which allows the children to participate in sports, events and school from their hospital beds. They obtained a “Joelette” (a hiking wheelchair), which enables children to go off-road and experience beaches, hiking, and other parts of nature that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to enjoy. They have set up a rugby tournament with Stade Rochelais to raise funds and awareness for the charity. They also provide last wishes for the child and make their dreams come true.

WHAT IS THE SEM DOING TO RAISE MONEY?

At our SEm meeting in Gibraltar in June 2022, we agreed to raise money by selling unique swimming shorts bearing the SEm logo. These stylish shorts are made from recycled materials, and Samir Bassoni (IRo Italy) is in charge of their production.

The shorts are sold for around €26 and the profits go directly to this charity.

There are several places where you can get a pair of these shorts:

RTI Shop, where our Shopkeeper, George marin, has them on sale.

RT France shop, where the French Shopkeeper, olivier Thauvenin, has them on sale.

RT Switzerland shop where the Swiss Shopkeeper, Philippe Beck, has them on sale.

Please keep the following in mind – the larger the order, the cheaper the production cost and, therefore, the more money that goes to this charity. So speak to your brothers in Table and place an order.

Let’s make a difference in the lives of children and their families!

RT Bangladesh Charters the Third Table in Dhaka

By SAURABH KEDIA, ASPA Chairman 2022-2023

ROUND TABLE BANGLADESH is the youngest active member in the ASPA region and they have been at the forefront of community services since the inception. I was the extension convener for RT Nepal when we started the ground work to start tabling in Bangladesh and I’m very proud to see the movement going from strength to strength.

RT Bangladesh have some trade mark community services projects including assisting the local police with signage, providing blankets for the needy during winter, conducting food banks, awareness campaigns on road safety. Dhaka RT 1 being the first club on RT Bangladesh spear headed most of the community services projects then ably assisted by the Dhaka metro RT 2.

Inauguration Ceremony Dhaka Jewel Round Table, 3rd Table in RT Bangladesh took place on 20th November and members of the RTI Board joined the event in zoom to provide their well wishes. This in deed is a proud movement for the sponsor table Dhaka metro RT 2 as well as the whole RT Bangladesh fraternity.

While RT Bangladesh was known for carrying on great efforts with their community services projects, they thrive at organizing fellowship events as well. They were the proud hosts of the RTI Asia Pacific meeting (ASPA Meeting) in June this year which was well represented by tablers, families and members of the side by side associations. Further being in line with the Round Table International’s theme in 2021/22 which was Stronger Together, Ladies Circle Bangladesh became a strong part in the RT movement in the country. I’m hopeful that RT Bangladesh will become a Full member of RTI very soon and keep reaching to greater heights.

I’m hopeful that RT Bangladesh will become a Full member of RTI very soon and keep reaching to greater heights.

The Cornerstones of Tabling

By BRAM ROZESTRATEN, AMI Chairman 2022-2023

TABLING WORLDWIDE, in general, is quite similar. We do our fellowships, raise money and goods for projects and raise brand awareness wherever we go. In the AmI region, we also work on these cornerstones. In this article, I want to highlight three Associations that have made great efforts this year regarding these values.

FELLOWSHIP IN PARADISE

Round Table mauritius hosted the AGm weekend for AmI in may 2022. We all had an absolute blast in an amazing hotel on this beautiful island. During this weekend, Round Table Seychelles, Round Table madagascar, Round Table mauritius and Round Table Reunion signed an moU to create a bond between these islands in the Indian ocean. In November, mauritius travelled with a delegation of 35 Tablers to the French island La Reunion to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Round Table France 291. The Tablers of this club had planned a great weekend with a business meeting and loads of activities, including paintball and a Gala dinner inviting 41 Club and Ladies Circle. A “Movember” painting was auctioned off during the dinner for 2.200 euros. All benefits went to the Movember cause. These gents have been excellent hosts, and we take our hats off to you. If you are making travel plans, put these islands on your list: a must-travel.

PROJECTS: ARRESTED FOR CHARITY

Round Table Harare 23, part of Round Table Zimbabwe, hosted its annual “Jail and Bail” fundraiser on December 2nd, 2022. our Round Table International Community Service Officer, Daniele Cusi, and myself were invited to be “thrown in Jail” and raise money through donations to “pay for our bail”. This is one of the many examples of what type of FUNdraiser you could do in your community to raise money to support your projects. In this case, Daniele and I were raising funds for their legacy project in Harare called “Rainbow Children’s Village”. The Tablers there have renovated their clubhouse into a facility for children under 12 years post-chemotherapy. The kids can rest in a safe and child-friendly environment, including meals to regain strength before making their way home. A truly amazing cause where our Tablers saw the big gap between treatment and post-care, and they managed to fill it with this noble legacy project.

GROWTH IN THE WARM HEART OF AFRICA

Round Table malawi has been pushing hard to increase numbers. membership has always been a big discussion point. In malawi, the 3 clubs have increased the number of Tablers in the Associations from 34 to 41, which is an impressive 22% growth in just one year. How did Round Table Malawi pull this off? By going out of their “comfort zone”: In the South, they have been going to high schools to promote the Round Table brand, giving inspiring talks about brotherhood and the charity we do in the communities. The 2 Tables in the Central Region of malawi have promoted our brand during numerous fundraisers and conversations with supporters.

In conclusion, next time you have a meeting, invite someone from your friend group, work or even from some birthday party you attended, and you will see this potential new brother grow within your Table.

AS YOU CAN SEE, many ways of practising these cornerstones of Tabling exist. I hope I have been able to inspire you to incorporate those within your own Table. If you have any questions regarding ways of improvement, reach out to any of the Associations, a brother is just a phone call away.

Yours in table

BramRozestraten

amichairman@round-table.org

Editorial & Stories 30

By Mr STEPHAN ZIPPERLEIN, Round Table Germany

FILLED BY THE JOY of the children in Romania, Bulgaria, moldova, Poland and Ukraine. Filled by the great gifts & donations that make the convoy possible. Filled by the selfless efforts of the many drivers, helpers, and supporters. This was made possible for the 22nd time by children from all over Germany. They donated more than 132,606 Christmas gifts for children in Bulgaria, moldova, Poland, Romania as well as Ukraine.

33 TRUCKS, 5 BUSES AND 7 ESCORT VEHICLES set off for the target areas on Saturday morning together with a total of 228 volunteers. After two years of restrictions due to the pandemic, they got to drive and distribute the lovingly packed gifts from children and families from all over Germany personally. With the support of numerous friends from Ladies’ Circle, Round Table, old Tablers and the Agora Club Tangent, no less than 132,606 packages were packed, collected, sorted, packed and loaded for the world’s largest side-by-side project.

THE FOCUS OF THE CHRISTMAS PARCEL CONVOY is that the presents come from the heart, and they do. ”We are always thrilled to see every single child unwrapping their Christmas parcel with shining eyes,” says Steffi Hahl, convoy leader and managing director. Each package the team was able to hand over brought not only toys, candy, and surprises, but also many many moments of happiness. And it is not just a small Christmas gift that is delivered, it is so much more! It is hope that the convoy bring! A sign for the local children that we see their need, that they are not forgotten and that we are there for them now and in the future.

BEHIND THE SCENES, the Convoy team, almost 40 helpers, were actively at work long before the official start of the convoy in Hanau, almost 9 months all in all, and their voluntary efforts ensured that everything ran smoothly as usual.

Many ”repeat offenders” but also numerous new faces met in early December for the official farewell of the convoy. In addition to all the joy of seeing old and new friends (again), in addition to all the positive impatience that it is finally starting and the anticipation of giving needy children in Eastern Europe a nice Christmas, there were also worrying thoughts. Since February 24, 2022, there has been a war in the middle of Europe, and this has also had an impact on the convoy. Not only in Ukraine itself, but also in the neighboring countries Bulgaria, moldova, and Romania the consequences of the war are felt directly. Thus, many refugees from the war zone have found a temporary home in these countries - often equipped only with what they could carry on the run.

IT WAS THEREFORE all the more important to be on site again this year and to ensure that children’s eyes shone brightly. For the first time, a truck is also driving to refugee homes in Poland. Every minute of time invested on site in the Circle, at the table, in the collection points, in the central warehouse, behind the wheel and during distribution is time well spent. It helps to make the world of many children a little bit happier and gives them a moment of joy, of security and lets them know in their often perspective-less everyday life that they are not forgotten. of course, this also applies to Ukraine, which will not be directly visited this year. A part of the parcels for Ukraine has already been driven to Lviv and Kirovograd via the network of the “Raisin Initiative” Tuesday before the official convoy start. Another delivery to odessa in Ukraine was carried by the moldova team and the two trucks will be switched over before the Ukrainian border.

2022 IS A SPECIAL CONVOY, under special circumstances, but for that very reason also particularly important. This was also directly felt at the farewell in Hanau - fewer words of greeting, more emotions, and

short moments with those who carry the convoy and make it possible: the helpers.

AS ALWAYS, AFTER THE CONVOY is before the convoy! Spurred on by countless shining children’s eyes, happy faces, joyful moments during this difficult time and experiences and adventures on site that none of the helpers would want to miss, the minds behind the Christmas parcel convoy will soon get back to work to ensure that the WPK 2023 will once again be a success. We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all those who have helped and will help, to all those who have donated, to all those who have contributed and supported their network - we can be proud of what we have achieved as a community - sideby-side - and, as every year, on a completely voluntary basis! And if you want to be more intensively involved in the coming year: The WPK always needs reinforcement, get in touch.

The whole Konvoi-Team wishes you a merry Christmas.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Watch the latest RTI Table Talk focusing on the Christmas Convoys from Germany, Austria and Denmark.

Watch here

We are always thrilled to see every single child unwrapping their Christmas parcel with shining eyes.

STEFFI HAHL Convoy Leader & Managing Director

TABLER 4 TABLER PROJECT

Fighting the Silent Pandemic

By Mr DANIELE CUSI, Round Table International C.S.O 2022-2023

Do you know what is described as the “Silent Pandemic”? With Silent Pandemic, we are talking about Men’s Mental Health issues.

THE TABLER-4-TABLER PROJECT was born to help men understand mental Health Problems and to prevent male suicide. Before talking about how you can help your brothers out there, let’s talk about some notions you may not know about men’s mental Health.

BOTH MEN AND WOMEN experience mental health issues. Even if women are more likely to think of suicide, men die twice as often from it. only one in three men would take medication if depressed, and only one in four would consider seeking professional help. Treating mental illness and preventing male suicide is complex, but it becomes much easier when spotted early.

ACCORDING TO THE World Health organization, there are about 800.000 confirmed cases of suicide per year. This means that more people die every year due to suicide than HIV, malaria or Breast Cancer.

But how can you help your Brothers? First, pay attention to all the signs to be aware of:

Changes in mood

Anger issues, irritability and aggressiveness

Change in appetite

Feeling Restless and the shift in sleeping habits

High consumption of alcohol and inappropriate use of drugs

Emotional low

Experience of pains and aches without a probable cause

Thinking about suicide

Ask people how they are doing, and don’t be afraid to tell them how you really feel. Learn to manage stress levels, limit alcohol and other stimulants, and exercise regularly. If someone reaches out to you, be prepared to listen and support them.

LONG BEFORE A SUICIDE OCCURS, other psychological stressors are in place. Suicide is usually preceded by depression and other psychological challenges over a prolonged period. It is medically proven that the sooner one starts mental health treatment, the more successful it will be. Finding help involves the people closest to you and the people you trust.

WE CAN AND WE WILL make a difference following the Tabler4Tabler project, helping our brothers all around the world.

A PERSONAL REFLECTION

The Power of Tabler-4-Tabler

By Mr PIERRE MÖRCK, NEA Chairman 2022-2023

DEAR BROTHERS, Pierre mörck, RT Sweden and NEA Chairman here. Proud member of Round Table since 2011. During these years, the organization has given me so much: experiences, personal development, friends, laughs, travels, and so much more. From the beginning, I wanted to explore as much as possible to avoid looking back in anger and” what would have been”. Among other things, I eagerly signed up for travel lotteries and had the fortune to win. A tip: take advantage of the possibilities that arise. We have lotteries and support in other ways for those who choose.

BUT THE CHOICE TO ENGAGE has also resulted in some struggles. I have had the opportunity to be both the National President of Round Table Sweden and

Chairman of the NEA Region. This means lots of joy and responsibility, but also the fact that I have been away from home and family. I have left my kids in tears and been sitting on trains crying. Usually, the days before are the roughest, and several times I have found myself not wanting to go. Feeling guilty, feeling weak, feeling sad and broken. This came from when I lost my father when I was young. my biggest fear in life is my biggest inspiration: my kids will not remember who their father was, as I don’t. When I leave home, somewhere in the back of my mind, this affects me.

THE POINT IN ALL OF THIS is that it is okay. It is okay to be weak. It is okay to cry and be sad. It is okay to feel vulnerable, and it is okay to let others know. Don’t swallow and show a brave face because it is the” manly” way to go. We men can be fragile, brave, and strong

enough to show that. Dare to show your happy, strong, sad and weak emotions. Don’t forget that you are among friends and dare to reach out and talk; to family, to friends or to a brother. Tabler4Tabler is a beautiful thing, and we are there for each other. We can laugh together, and we can cry together.

SOMEWHERE IN MY MIND, I know I am leaving home and my family for another family. And when I meet brothers and sisters, the sadness is exchanged for a feeling of belonging and home in another way. Fellowship and friendship keep on enriching my life.

BUT WE CAN’T TAKE IT FOR GRANTED. I am grateful to everyone willing to give something extra to Round Table. Because I know you are all going away from something: family, friends, work, leisure or business.

We are doing this so that the next generation will have the same opportunity that you and I have and have had. Let’s take the torch of Round Table that we were given from the past generation of tablers, and leave it burning even brighter! The future of Round Table is in our hands!

LET’S PASS ON THE TORCH with a message that it is okay to be strong, happy, jolly and inspired. But it is also okay to be weak, vulnerable, small and sad. We are there for each other either way. We need organizations like Round Table now more than ever!

Stay hungry – stay foolish

HONOURING BY HELPING OTHERS

Celebrating Round Table Day

By Mr DANIELE CUSI, Round Table International C.S.O 2022-2023

As we know, Round Table day is the 14th of March. Do you know why we celebrate Round Table day on that day? Then is the 14th of March famous for something else?

OUR FOUNDER Erminio William Louis marchesi, at Suckling House in Norwich on the 14th of March 1927, formed the “Round Table”. That’s why the 14th of March is Round Table Day!

Let’s go deeper into our amazing association: why did mr marchesi name it Round Table? He took inspiration from a speech of The Prince of Wales: “The young business and professional men of this country must get together round the table, ADoPT methods that have proved so sound in the past, ADAPT them to the changing needs of the times and wherever possible, ImPRoVE them.”

The same speech inspired our motto of: “Adopt, Adapt, Improve”.

Reading that, you would start thinking that we have nothing to do with the Arthurian Legend, so the next question would be: where does our emblem come from?

MARCHESI CHOSE OUR SYMBOL, adapting the table that hangs in the Great Hall in Winchester. (Because it is considered to be the Round Table of the mythical court of King Arthur, the table has been revered by generations of tourists for centuries as the mysterious table of the once and Future King Arthur. Around the table the names of the 24 knights are written around the edge.)

Now that we know better about our association, you should know that the 14th of march is famous all over the world for a few more things: it’s Pi - Day and on the 14th of march Albert Einstein was born.

one of the people that literally changed the 20th Century was born the same as the Round Table. I don’t believe in destiny, but I think that as Tablers, we can make a difference in our future!

As last year, we want to dedicate the month of march to creating awareness on the global blood shortage. Every 2 seconds, one person around the world needs blood.

ONE OF THE LATEST research by the WHO says that 119 out of 195 countries don’t have enough blood in their banks to meet hospital needs. many countries also don’t have proper blood screenings: 20 countries worldwide don’t have 100% screening for HIV, 24 don’t have 100% screening for Hepatitis B, 37 for Hepatitis C, and 24 do not screen for Syphilis. Suppose you also consider that around the world, annually. In that case, over 100 million units of blood are donated. Still, 42% of that is collected by high-income countries representing only 16% of the world’s population.

That’s why we should celebrate the 14th of march in a Tabler’s way!

Let’s go together with your family and friends donating blood to celebrate Round Table Day!

TABLING THROUGH GAMING

An Update From Round Table Verdansk

By Mr DAVID JOE WILLIAMS, Round Table Great Britain & Ireland

OCTOBER THIS YEAR, Studio Infinity Ward and publisher Activision released the latest game in the call of duty franchise. modern warfare II is a reboot of the original Modern Warfare 2, released in 2009 with the same beloved characters from the original with a new story. The campaign Takes you all over the world, from the mexico and US border To the streets of Amsterdam. The campaign also tries to recreate the iconic missions from past games.

WITH THE RELEASE OF modern Warfare also came the Release of Warzone 2. Like the last Warzone, it’s a free-to-play experience, so you don’t need to buy modern Warfare 2 to play it. However, I would recommend it as it gives you some advantages.

Warzone 2 is on a new map called Al mazrah with new gameplay mechanics to spice up the battle royale experience, like teaming up with someone in the Gulag, and the circles split into 3. The most popular new feature is proximity chat, so players can now communicate better what’s leading to some hilarious moments. You can also invite people you meet in-game to join your squad.

Warzone 2 has a new game mode called DmZ, an extraction-style mode based on Escape From Tarkov, a viral PC game. In DmZ. players have the freedom to complete missions in Al mazrah, or engage with enemy operators and AI. The AI is a lot easier to deal with than actual people. You can also search for loot, with the ultimate goal of surviving until exfiltration.

GAMESPOT GIVES THE GAME an 8/10 praising the new map and new changes for mixing up the warzone gameplay. I asked members of Verdansk Round Table what they thought, and they said this. “ok, I gave DmZ another run, and I have to admit I love it.” “It’s pissed off the bunny-hopping slide-cancelling movement champions.” “I mean, they have got something’s right. I would say the glitches are worse. DmZ is my favourite game mode at the moment.” “DmZ is brilliant. Crashes are happening too often. Unlocking the attachments is a chore, but the game has improved generally.

Would be great to have more vehicles, though.”

I WOULD RECOMMEND people give Warzone 2 a try, especially since it’s free, so if you don’t like it, you won’t be out of pocket. Activision is keeping. The original Warzone servers are online, so you can return to that. I recommend Buying modern Warfare 2, as it’s good for a Call of Duty game. However, I don’t think it lives up to the standards of the original modern warfare. It has a good campaign with a good story and very impressive graphics. The multiplayer Is also good, and you can get many hours of enjoyment and raging at the monitor when someone No scopes you from across the map.

MEMBERS OF VERDANSK ROUND TABLE are looking forward to the future of Warzone. We can’t wait to welcome you into our games, so if you get this game, make sure you Join Verdansk Round Table.

STORIES OF CHANGE

My Journey With the Round Table Family

By Mrs RUTH CURRY

My name is Ruth Curry, and I am originally from Zimbabwe. My journey with the Round Table Family started 52 years ago.

BOTH MY PARENTS were dedicated and active Round Table Family members, Dad holding several Chairmanship roles back in the 1970s whilst in Maputo, Cape Town and Johannesburg. my mum was a dedicated Circler known as a ’leg’, the fond term for ladies. Without them, Table wouldn’t have been able to operate, so the ladies were the legs holding up their Table.

my sister Jane and I were taken to all the ARTCA and ARSTA events as children. We made lifelong friends, had the best Table holidays and travelled extensively around Southern Africa with our ’Table Family’.

I JOINED LADIES CIRCLE in 1993; however, there was a small matter I had to be married to a Tabler before I could do so. my husband Wayne was an active Tabler, so as soon as Wayne and I returned from our honeymoon, I was inducted into marondera Ladies Circle. my circling career covered 25 years, but we will come to my Circling journey through my story.

WAYNE AND I HAD the opportunity to move to mutare, on the mozambique border, and we very soon settled into a great life and amazing friends. most importantly, we were part of the Mutare No 4 Table. Life was good; we had a little growing family and three fabulous children. We were actively involved in our community. We had a thriving business and managed to buy our own land. All our dreams were coming true; we had to work hard, don’t get me wrong, but it was ours.THEN

THE FARM INVASIONS started in earnest. In 1999 the first farm sanctions were given with compulsory acquisition of the farms with no compensation, and by 2002 we felt the impact of this. We went from a thriving business supporting our local community to realising we were about to lose everything we knew, loved and owned.

Wayne was taken away with an AK47 to his head on three occasions. We thankfully had the most incredible lawyer I phoned at all sorts of crazy hours of the morning. Somehow he found Wayne and brought him home. However, each time Wayne came home, he was battered and bruised. He didn’t fight back because those that didn’t come back. The toughest part was explaining to the children as they witnessed much of what went on.

WE EVENTUALLY RECEIVED notification that our journey was coming to an end and we faced now walking away from everything. We walked out with three children and three suitcases, having lost everything, financially, physically, emotionally and mentally.

THIS IS WHERE THE ROUND TABLE FAMILY came to the rescue. We were looked after, supported, accommodated and held together by our Table. With our Table’s support, we were taken to the British Embassy in Harare (about a three-hour drive) to apply for British Passports. Wayne’s Dad was born in Wales, and my Dad was born in manchester, so we had the right to a British Passport to at least an out of what looked like a desperate position. We arrived at the embassy first thing in the morning and explained our position. The embassy couldn’t have been more accommodating. We were told to go and grab a meal and come back around lunchtime. We returned, and two passports were waiting for us on our arrival. I cannot tell you how relieved I was we had travel documents, but one issue was that we didn’t have any for the children as they were not entitled to a British passports.

WE RETURNED TO MUTARE, where an emergency meeting was held as we had no financial means to buy tickets to the UK at this stage. After some deliberation, our amazing Table agreed to pay for our flights. We had our final goodbyes with friends we knew we may never see again. Friends that stood by us when we needed it the most, friends that gave unconditionally with no ties or expectations and ten days later, we were on a plane to London. The children didn’t have the necessary paperwork, so they entered as refugees. We attended the Home Office the day after we arrived. The children

were issued permanent leave to remain. Five years later, we were able to apply for British Citizenship.

I didn’t know at the time that Wayne had been given £300 by one of the Tablers as a start when we got to the UK. I don’t know where this foreign currency came from, but at the time, it was near impossible to get any forex. This ensured we could put a roof over our heads when we arrived, and Wayne managed to secure work within 48 hours of landing. Thank goodness for his Engineering background.

WE STARTED OUR LIVES in the UK in Dagenham, Essex, as this is where Wayne had found work, and we needed to be close enough to walk to work without having any transport. This was a big reality check for me. Coming from a third-world country, I had no support network and no friends. I did not really understand how the first-world country worked, having never left Africa. our neighbours were not accommodating to these ’foreigners’ from Africa, and we were ignored. It was an incredibly lonely time. I struggled with the basics, like

We were looked after, supported, accommodated and held together by our Table.

where I could buy Jik. It works out in the UK, it is called bleach. I needed it for the children’s nappies, but I hadn’t found out about disposable nappies. I eventually made friends with an incredible lady Claire who took me in and showed me the ropes of living in the UK. But something was still missing ….

WE LASTED 18 MONTHS in Dagenham, and I was desperately unhappy. We had gone from this huge home, loads of land, to a two up, two down house. No garden and no space for the children. The neighbourhood we were in was a little rough, and I struggled not being street-wise at the time, having never been exposed to this. I had my bag snatched several times, someone in a white van tried to steal our son, and we found hypodermic needles in the park, and it clearly wasn’t the right place for us. I still cannot understand why I didn’t think to look up Ladies Circle or Round Table. I can only assume it was that I was absolutely broken at this point.

Wayne then managed to secure a job in Lincolnshire to provide a more secure place for the family in an environment we knew and understood and moved to a beautiful countryside town called Sleaford.

I FOUND A JOB at the local accountancy firm to work around the children’s school hours and worked for a lovely guy called Keith. one day Keith came in wearing a tie with the Round Table Rondel. I was gobsmacked! Soon the 100 questions started - Are you in Table? Where is your Table? Do you have a Circle? The next night, Wayne went to their business meeting, and the following week, I went to the Circle Social, picked up by Dawn and Rachel. WOW …. Suddenly, 15 new friends; it was like we had known each other for years, I was amazed I had moved continents and started a new life, but Circle was EXACTLY the same. Friendship was strong, and local community support as part of their core. We soon settled into our Round Table Family life, and our lives started settling again. I felt like I belonged; I felt like I had been saved.

WAYNE THEN SECURED a great role in Staffordshire, and we relocated. This time I didn’t hang around, and

I made contact with Ladies Circle in Lichfield, which was our local area. Wayne and I joined the Lichfield Round Table Family, and again, instant friendship and unbelievable support from my Circle Chair Viv (now a lifelong friend). She helped me find a great school for the children, register with doctors and vets and found a good hairdresser (you know these things are essential to a lady, and only a Circler could sort everything out like this in a nanosecond). This is where my Circle career took off. I later became the Lichfield Chair and then went on to represent Ladies Circle GB&I as the National Executive Officer 2011 – 2012, National President 2013 – 2014 and LCI Secretary 2014 – 2016. None of this would have happened without the support of the Lichfield Round Table Family. They were my greatest Cheerleaders. Why did I do this? I needed to give back a tiny part of what the Round Table Family had given our family. Without Round Table, I dread to think what would have happened to us. We would have become homeless and needy. I will forever be grateful for what Round Table did for us as a family.

IN CLOSING, PLEASE MAKE an effort to tell someone about Round Table. Be proud of being a Tabler because you never know that one little conversation could lead to your next best Tabler joining. This Tabler could be someone that really needs Round Table more than you will ever appreciate. You can make a difference, you are ordinary community members doing extraordinary things, but most of all, you are Stronger Together. Your friendship and support of your local community could help people like our family. You can provide the emotional, physical and mental support network that could be a life-changing experience.

From me to you, thank you for all your do, thank you for all you are and more importantly, thank you for all you have given us as a family; we will be forever grateful.

Yours in Continued Friendship

RuthCurry

We soon settled into our Round Table Family life, and our lives started settling again.

I felt like I belonged; I felt like I had been saved.

Supporting Sisterhood

LADIES CIRCLE INTERNATIONAL has celebrated LCI Day on February 11th since LCI President Birgitta opsahl introduced it in 1995. The goal was to promote international Circling or host a public day for the International Service Project (ISP) or write about international Circling in your local newspaper. LCI doesn’t know how much impact it has had in the past, but in recent years it has ”mostly” been promoted with a few posts on social media saying happy LCI day.

over the past couple of years, LCI decided for the ISP that they want to do something big that they could all do together and raise a lot of attention to their ISP or the cause they’re working for. This year to expand this, LCI would like to have a whole month dedicated to our ISP, and it will be January - nicely renamed this year for social media Joodnuary.

This year LCI Day is not about raising money for the ISP. They thought they would celebrate themselves and express one of the pillars of this year. It will be a day when LCI will celebrate sisterhood.

LCI thought of creating a special pin for LCIDAY and the sisterhood, which will go on sale like the other pins. The proceeds will go to a fund called Circler for Circler and will be used to help members in need. Details will be clarified during the coming weeks. As Tablers, we always see how important it is to listen, call and be there for other tablers. Let’s support our ladies!

HOW CAN WE SUPPORT LCI?

Ladies Circle believes that they can be a change and make a difference, not only to make the world a better place but also to help those ladies who may be struggling. So please join Ladies Circle International and encourage the ladies in your countries to participate and share photos where you celebrate sisterhood all year round, especially on February 11th.

We can, and we will support our Ladies – let’s celebrate sisterhood!

MARTINA SANTARO, LCI President 2023

MARC GERMESHAUSEN, RTI Vice President 2023

LADIES’ CIRCLE

We Can, We Will

By MARTINA SANTORO, President Ladies’ Circle International 2022-2023

OUR MOTTO FOR THIS YEAR is, as you know, WeCanWeWill, and this does not remain within our association. I think that every family member must seize the moment and work on the fact that if one wants she can make a difference.

THE ITALIAN MENTALITY has always made me ask myself the question ... Why not?

of course, it is a rhetorical question, but it has always been the engine of my curiosity and the desire to grow. It was also the first question I asked myself and what I set as a goal when I joined my home club in September 2013.

In my opinion, it is one of the questions we should ask ourselves. This is to overcome our limits, begin to dream, and plan to carry on our dream. That is also the dream of our association, to grow and improve, to be able to do good in this world.

THIS YEAR MANY PEOPLE have repeated to me to believe in myself. I have also taken this as to believe in others, the sisters and the brother who is in all parts of the word in our family. We do believe in ourselves and collaborate because together, we can do anything. ”Carpe diem,” said orazio: seize the moment, or rather, the day.

These sayings invite us not to postpone decisions and get busy soon because now is the right time, and tomorrow may no longer be. It would help if you moved with actions and intentions and worked to achieve a goal. Results are obtained only by doing and acting. Still, every motivation or idea must be followed by an action for an event to occur.

ALL THESE INCITEMENTS are intended to remember that it is important to operate today, not to postpone to tomorrow, because postponing makes an intent static, preventing the idea from turning into action.

If we have a motivation and an intention, let us not let this desire go unheeded.

That’s why we can all grow by recognising the different family organisations and working together to promote each other. Grow in numbers and grow in perceptions. I encourage you to contact your family

members in your country to see if there is anything you can do together this year!

WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE, but we are an incredible team united. We must remember that our mottos (Friendship & Service and adopt adapt, improve) are strong but not ends in themselves should inspire us and push us to work harder and cooperate.

In addition to service, there is also our union. This is the beauty of our associations.

Wherever we are, we have sisters and brothers. And the last two years have shown how important it is. It is difficult to find good friends, and in Italy, there is a saying, ”who finds a friend finds a treasure”. Every new friend who gives us a part of himself enriches and improves us. How many friends do we have around the world thanks to our associations? We should celebrate this good fortune of ours more often.

Also, one of my dreams is to see how larger or more stable countries can give a real hand to the countries most in difficulty and support each other even at the level of member with member.

DURING ALL MY YEARS on the national and international boards, I have seen that what we have in Ladies’ Circle and in Round Table is so strong. We create a friendship that goes beyond just having fun with each other. We are there when the other one needs us. We’ve got each other’s backs.

A good example is when last year, one of our board members was ill when she was travelling. our online meeting started, and we saw that she was alone, not well at all and crying. Then the spirit of LC/RT is directly visible. Within 15 minutes, Arti and Jayant made a plan to help her.

These situations warm my heart and make me proud to belong.

When we stand together, we are so much stronger.

We have sisters, and brothers, all around the world. We might all be different, but we are not alone. Because when we join hands, we make a difference.

I want us all to be aware of this gift and to celebrate this.

Because WE CAN, WE WILL….

I have seen that what we have in Ladies’ Circle and in Round Table is so strong. We create a friendship that goes beyond just having fun with each other.

The Quintessential Guide to Being a Gentleman

By Mr PAUL HOEKSEMA, Round Table Southern Africa

From North to South, East to West, we pride ourselves on being the greatest young men’s organisation. It goes without saying, being a young man should be synonymous with being a gentleman.

What does it mean to be a gentleman? Does it mean wearing a top hat, white gloves & a tailored suit, or does it simply mean being polite and courteous? Being a Tabler, it’s safe to say that we all strive to be the perfect full-time and all-round gentlemen - but can we improve? Yes, we certainly can, always.

Without further ado, here are a couple of ”Ten Top Table Tips” to ensure that chivalry & gentleman-like behaviour flourishes in our Table, personal & business lives.

1KEEP AN OPEN MIND

We’ve all been in a situation where we want to be heard regardless of what someone else wants to say - there will be times when you unknowingly reject any other input. A gentleman will always have an open mind by listening to understand and not respond. often multiple input makes for a unified outcome and sound practices. Being someone that listens will make you more likeable and, in turn, more approachable.

2PROTECT THE INTEGRITY OF YOURSELF & THOSE AROUND YOU.

Another fundamental characteristic of a true gentleman is to always ”bank” conversations with the utmost discretion. Gossiping and ultimately spreading rumours always dies with an unwilling ear. The fastest way to make your circle of friends smaller is to be labelled as a ”gossipmonger.”

3DEVELOP YOUR OWN STYLE

of course, a well-tailored suit and tie never go out of fashion. But, looking like a gentleman does not mean walking around, sporting to feature on Legacy’s cover 24/7. Developing your style and carrying this with confidence is key. Remember to practice good hygiene and to be comfortable in your skin.

4A GENTLEMAN KEEPS HIS WORD.

It’s been said a thousand times - respecting other people’s time and doing what you said you would, builds a positive reputation. When you offer to help someone with something, no matter how small, help them. When you promise to finish by a certain date, meet your deadline. Remember, you are never what you say you are unless you do it.

5KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CONFIDENCE & ARROGANCE

A confident man will always command admiration and respect; an arrogant one, not so much. Being a gentleman means knowing when to step up with confident humility, when to tone down, and when to apologise. If you are always out to be the centre of attention at the cost of overshading others, it’s time to re-think your inter-person approach. In addition, being polite, asking questions, and taking an interest in others will compliment your likeably confident persona.

6ALWAYS PUT THE LADIES, CHILDREN & ELDERLY FIRST

Chivalry starts with being aware of women, children and the elderly in your surroundings. A gentleman will always put the above demographic first, whether at the airport, when heading to the cinema, at work or at home. From a friendly greeting, heartfelt compliments, helping with luggage, or opening a door, chivalry and kindness start with you.

7STAND UP FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN

Unless you’re looking to topple a government with ill-fated intentions, there will be a voice inside you that wants to speak out and stand up for everything good. A gentleman will stand up for his beliefs without inflicting harm on others. If you see or hear something that could adversely hurt someone unable to defend themselves, speak out and act. of course, we’re not saying to dress in a red suit and mask to clear the streets of criminals, we are saying to stand up for what you believe in within context.

A GENTLEMAN ADOPTS SOUND PRACTICES

At the core of every Tabler is a rich set of values and heritage passed on from generation to generation. A gentleman adopts these values and sound practices to serve him not only as a member but as a young professional and family man. Years of experience gifted to the active members can only yield good results.

A

10GENTLEMAN

CONSTANTLY IMPROVES

From learning a new skill, taking on an executive Table role, and changing career paths, to learning how to dress better, a gentleman will always be looking at ways to improve himself, his environment, and even others. In a Table setting, our likeminded young gentlemen’s goals should include looking at ways to improve our beloved organisation term in and term out as well as themselves - the quest of persistent improvement yields constant success.

A GENTLEMAN ADAPTS TO CHANGING TIMES & SURROUNDINGS

Being stagnant in a fast-paced world might mean death to the goals you are yet to achieve. A gentleman adapts. Taking the previously mentioned sound practices and adjusting them constantly to adapt to the times and surroundings will always serve you well. Remember to think outside the box, be creative, listen, and affect what you have learned to resonate with your values. .

Now that you’ve adapted these ”tips”, adopt them adapt them & improve yourself and others.

Table on, Table gentlemen!

Tabler.world is the tool for you

We Want You

Tabling is a never-ending story for life. Club 41 is where you continue your friendships and build new ones. Club 41 has the past Tablers, Round Table culture and Round Table connections.

AS PAST PRESIDENT OF RT International, I see the wonderful synergy between RT and 41. We are the continuation of Round Table. There are more similarities than differences between the two. Age is a difference, but age becomes just a number as you get to 41 and beyond. How you maintain yourself physically and mentally is what it is all about. The mindset is the most important. Another difference might be the pace of things. 41 is more laid back, but we also do stuff.

SOME MEMBERS ARE even more active in 41 since they now have the time and money to do more. our activities are just as interesting now as they were before. many clubs focus on social activities, but every club decides on their balance between fun, fellowship, personal development and community service. A good recipe is to be an active 41er, socialize with positive members of both RT and 41, keep going to 41 club meetings to learn new things, have fun and take care of your body.

ANYONE LEAVING ROUND TABLE can join 41 International! We have 30 countries with National Associations and an e-club for the rest. We are trying to find “ambassadors” for all countries without a National Association, so we can build up clubs worldwide. Please contact us if you are leaving RT soon and have not found a new 41 home club.

Any past Tabler not part of 41 International is a “lost boy”. We want all Tablers to keep tabling in 41 and enjoy the fruits of their tabling years!

TomAlbrigtsen

DESIGNING AND DELIVERING AN EFFECTIVE TRAINING PROGRAMME

”Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.”

JOHN F. KENNEDY

By Mr SASHIN SHAH, Round Table International University Manager 2022-2023

ONE OF THE VIRTUES of being a leader is the opportunity to take leadership positions. We get a chance to lead equals in our business or job. our teams report to us and follow what we ask them to do. In Round Table, we get an opportunity to lead equals, Equals who would suggest ideas that you may not like, Equals who would question you on your decisions and Strategy, Equals who would help you develop Patience and Perseverance.

This Unique Leadership opportunity needs a skill set that can be learned through experience or training. Training helps us learn from experienced individuals who help us with skillsets that help us tackle situations from day one. This helps reduce the time taken to adapt to the leadership position.

Personal Development is another boon that Tabling gives us. RTI and Associations organise many training programmes by professionals and experienced Tablers where our friends shape us as better individuals. Such training has enhanced individuals’ capabilities personally as a family man and as a businessman or professional.

The RTI University Training programmes

THE RTI UNIVERSITY is committed to nurturing Tablers and family members with effective training programmes( Online and Offline) by renowned trainers. Such programmes are being conducted in many associations, and the associations have reaped benefits. Type of suggestive training programmes in Round Table :

Contact Meet: Engaging with prospects of a new proposed table

A young Man’s Guide: A layman’s guide to Tabling, giving a new Tabler an understanding of Round Table.

Training an incoming Chairman / Secretary /Treasurer of a Table / Area / Association.

Training of Incoming Area Board members

Training of Incoming National Board members

Leadership Conclave: Training Joe Tabler to groom or inspire him for a Leadership Position.

Train the Trainer: Training Tablers to become Professional Trainers.

Type of Suggestive training Programmes for Personal Development Leadership Public Speaking Effective Communication Team Building Couples Module

Designing a Training Programme

THE FIRST THING in Designing a training programme is understanding ”WHY”. We need to understand the objective of the training and what is the goal we need to achieve after this training. This process is called a needs assessment. A needs assessment can be done by the following steps

Identifying the goal of the training. We need to be focused on our subject, for example, leadership, public speaking, a couples module etc.

Understanding the age, expectations, and understanding level of the participants. To understand what the participants would like to learn in the training.

Plan some activities that will engage the participants and keep their attention intact. Tablers generally enjoy training pieces with many fun activities that have learning from it.

Try to float a questionnaire or have some online games to get a reasonable mindshare of the participants before the training. This helps us understand their current level of understanding and expectations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The training participants must be able to perform the task much better than earlier. For example, after a public speaking class, the participant should have moved at least two notches up in fighting the stage fear. Try to use some of the proven methods to teach Learning objectives.

Designing The Training Content And Materials

THIS IS LIKE MAKING A MENU for dinner and writing the recipe for the dishes. While we design the training material, we need to take care of the following : Focus on the primary needs of the participants

Learning as you do – helps a lot in understanding the concept. We have simulated situations like roleplays etc.

The training should be as interactive as possible

There should be a massive opportunity for feedback to correct on the go. Break the training into smaller parts so that it is easier to understand.

The chronology of the thought process needs to be maintained so the flow is intact.

Blend your training with formats like presentations, games, excel, group presentations etc.

Use icebreakers at regular intervals.

DEVELOPING THE TRAINING MATERIALS

There are various options for training materials. We must decide the best blend based on the number of hours, age group and mindshare of the participants. For example, if it is a younger crowd, the training needs more fun games and interactions. Few are examples of suitable training materials

Flip Charts, Posters, and Standees that are pre-designed with the training needs.

Powerpoint presentations can be made, But caution to limit presentations to shorter intervals.

Preplanned case studies can be done where the team is broken into groups, and each group presents their findings.

The Training And Evaluation

THE TRAINING SHOULD INFORM the participants in advance as they must have a proper mindset when attending the training. They would have planned to ensure no disturbance in their daily life. Define the rules that are mutually agreed like turning phones silent, defined break times etc.

A unique and fun-filled introduction breaks the ice between the participants. It is observed that they form a better bond and enjoy the training as a team.

The participants must attend the training programme from start to end as disturbances will bring a significant dip in the learning curve.

Ensure the participants are active during the training. In case you find them not attentive, take a break or make them play some games.

Role Play and case studies bring a lot of energy to training programmes. Small groups can be done even in online training via break-out rooms.

EVALUATION

Communication is when the Listener has understood what we want to say. Evaluation is a constant process during a training programme. We take stock of how much the participant has understood so we can fine-tune future sessions. This will help us avoid the unfavourable surprise at the end of the session.

A Final Evaluation can be done at the end of training through activities and roleplays that give confidence to the Trainer and the participant that the training was practical.

Feedback must be taken at the end to ascertain their satisfaction with the training on various parameters.

In the end, we must be able to answer the said questions

Did the Participants like the Training?

Did the Participants learn from the training?

Post Training- are the participants performing better?

Was the Goal Reached?

If you feel a concept is not understood, you can modify the content and steer back to the concept with a new idea. Always remember- Training is learning together and dynamic

In Conclusion

TRAINING IN ROUND TABLE IS FUN, both for the Trainer and the participant. It can do wonders in our tabling Journey and, above all, in our personal and professional Lives. The RTI University is one such initiative of the RTI Board that has just one Goal – To enhance the Personal Development of Tablers and make them better Leaders. So never miss an opportunity to attend an RTI Training or help facilitate one. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me for any needs in facilitation or designing training programmes for your own Association.

CHECK-IN TUESDAYS

BEING A VITAL TOPIC, we believe mental health should not be allocated to a single month or day. Creating awareness & addressing this topic should be done on a very regular basis.

To help us achieve this, & to create a ”culture of empathy” Round Table International & your loved ones, needs your help!

Introducing ”Check-in Tuesdays” a multi-platform weekly or bi-weekly social media campaign.

The concept: From Individual, Club to International level, encourage your members to dedicate a Tuesday social media post to mental Health subjects, facts, shared stories & to prompt their audience to checkin with their fellow RT Family, family, friends, & colleagues. Using primary hashtags: #CheckInTuesday & #WeCanWeWill

Starting the 18th of october 2022, we would like to have a unified voice & take Mental Health issues head on. Your actions will not only lighten a hard day, but it might even save a life.

Next Tuesday, ”check-in” & Table on. Here’s to better & global mental health!

#WeCanWeWill

Outgoing Address

By Mr GRAHAM CORNELISSEN, Round Table International Past President 2022-2023

YESTERDAY, WE SAW THE INCREDIBLE work done by Round Tablers from all over the world. Earlier tonight, a recap video played, showing a small glimpse of the impact that we have had on each other and on the world. one year ago, I said that the world needs Round Table, and all of you have proven this to be very true.

IT HAS BEEN AN INCREDIBLE HONOUR and privilege for me to have been allowed to serve as your President this last year. I am astounded by the level of trust and the love I have received from all over.

To our councillors, presidents, boards and associations – a massive thanks for all your hard work and dedication. Having worked with a great many of you, I am always in awe of your time spent, the dedication showed and the guidance and leadership that you provide to your members.

A special thanks go out to all of our partners and families, as without your support, none of this could be possible. Thank you for allowing us the freedom to Table and to do what we must.

SPEAKING OF PARTNERS, I want to thank all of our side-by-side partners who were with us during the year. All of the support that we, as Round Table, received from the RT Family is incredible, and we have seen that side-by-side is stronger than ever before. Thanks to all of our side-by-side partners who have travelled to be here with us tonight. Thank you for your support, and thank you for always being there for us.

In particular, I would like to thank 3 ladies from LCI with who I have grown very close too. Femke – you have helped me learn and grow, and you have always been there when I needed someone to talk to. Thank you for your friendship and for all your love. Anna – We started our journey together, and I could not have asked for a better partner than I found in you. You pushed me always to be better and to give more, and I thank you for helping me become a better leader. martina – madame Presidente – Thank you for all our little chats, your views, insights and all the fun we have had. I know LCI is in the best hands with you at the top

I WANT TO THANK the members of RTSA - You guys are close to my heart, and I am always and forever a very proud tabler from Southern Africa. Thank you for all your support and acceptance given to me, and thank you for being here tonight. Next year, it is our turn to host the world, and I know that we will be amazing. In particular, thank you, Gerhard, for the hours-long chats we have had over the last years and to Louis for all the trust you are putting in me.

Thanks to my board – you guys are the true superstars, and without your incredible dedication and hard work, none of this would have been possible. I

salute every one of you and cannot begin to describe the debt that I owe to each one of you. Thank you for joining me on this wild ride this year, and thank you for all that you have done for me.

TO MY DEAR FRIEND marc – we met 4 years ago in Sri Lanka where we were the minute secretaries for that meeting. We immediately became good friends, and this has just grown more and more ever since. Yesterday, I had the privilege to announce you as the next Vice President of RTI, and nothing could have made me happier than to do that.

Jayant – We have had some incredible times together and shared amazing moments. From properly getting to know you in Varanasi and Delhi to all the times we have seen each other since. We have become good friends over the last 3 years, and I look forward to visiting Nepal soon. Handing over this chain of office tonight is very easy as I know the person who will be wearing this. We are incredibly lucky to have you as our next President, and I was incredibly lucky to have had you as my right hand this year.

To my brother Claud, thank you for all the love and support – being with me from day 1 and helping me to become a better Tabler. Thanks for calling me on all my BS and for letting me know when I need to take a step back. I know all the sacrifices you have had to make in your Tabling life because I am where I am, and I am incredibly grateful to you – more than you will ever know.

Thank Yvette – Words cannot describe the debt of gratitude that I owe you. You are my rock, and you are my north star. There was no way that I could have lasted one day in this role without your help and support by my side. I am not deserving of the love, patience and understanding that you have given me for so many years. Stepping back tonight will allow us to spend more time together, and I look forward to that more than you know.

AND THEN LASTLY – Thanks to every single Joe Tabler out there – The ones who stand in the rain, paint a school, feed the poor, or reach our a hand of friendship. I thank all the Joe Tablers that are here to give back, to travel, to experience life and to share moments with friends. You are the real stars, and without you, none of us would have reason to be here. Tonight, we celebrate your achievements.

I now invite my Vice President to come share the stage with me as Vice President for one last time.

With the changing of years, a new theme will come, but we will always be StrongerTogether.

BUILDING A STRONG BRAND

The RTI Brand Disclaimer

By The PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM, Round Table International 2022-2023

THE PURPOSE OF the Round Table International Brand is to have a ”one visual voice” approach that encompasses our values and to establish a cohesive look and feel for our organisation. A strong brand establishes a professional persona, bolsters our support and recruitment efforts, and entrenches our public standing as a leading young men’s organisation. To deviate from the official brand guideline (available on request) increases the likelihood of our brand being misconstrued and increases the chances of the organisation being viewed in disrepute.

All ”trade names”, logos and icons are proprietary to Round Table International. Use of any of the above-mentioned will need written (digital or otherwise) approval from the Round Table International Public Relations Team and/or Branding manager/Committee. This includes distinctive words, phrases, symbols, slogans, and other devices used to identify and distinguish the RTI Brand.

PRINTED & DIGITAL MEDIA:

All printed & digital media visible at official events, from meetings and gala to social gatherings, will need prior approval, regardless of use. This includes but is not limited to: meeting packs, banners, pop-up banners, photo walls, flags, videos, slides, presentations and any other assets visible both to delegates and the public.

ROUND TABLE INTERNATIONAL MERCHANDISE:

The Round Table International Shop Keeper is licenced by the RTI Board as the sole merchant of all official RTI merchandise. Any use of the RTI brand elements on any form of merchandise for sale, fundraising or personal use is prohibited without the written consent of the official Round Table International Shop Keeper. Approval of said merchandise is subject to the sole discretion of the RTI Shopkeeper. merchandise includes but is not limited to fellowship coins, banners, shirts, shorts, jackets and other items that share the RTI logo and/or brand elements.

For any queries, please contact the Public Relations Team: pro@round-table.org For merchandise-related queries, please contact: contentmanager@round-table. org

Your cooperation in the above regard is highly appreciated,

QUESTIONS?

For any queries, please contact the Public Relations Team: pro@round-table.org

For merchandise-related queries, please contact: contentmanager@round-table.org

GOOGLE ADWORDS

Using the Free Tools Avalaible

By Mr BEN KIN, Round Table International IT Manager 2022-2023

EVERYBODY HAS COME ACROSS GOOGLE in one way or another. most of you know how Google became big and how good they are in internet advertisement. You see this advertisement on many web pages when surfing the web. Everywhere you visit on the web, there are boxes with ads. When you search for something in these boxes multiple times, commercials will be shown on products you have explored before. Like me, many think this is only for the companies that spend a lot of money on these commercials. There is a way to get also advertisements on Google for your own non-profit organisations. It does not cost you anything but time.

For a couple of years, Google has been promoting the use of Google AdWords. With the slogan, get $10.00-dollar free AdWords a month on google for your nonprofit organisation. In 2014 google changed the name AdWords to Google Ads. The promotion exists even today. Next to this, Google provides many free services to non-profit organisations, so why not use it when it is there to get for free.

There is some time investment needed at the start, but you will see that your projects or websites will get in a short time a lot more attention and a lot more interest. There are many success stories of non-profit organisations that got their campaigns boosted with Google Ads.

If you want to apply for this, it is actually very simple. Go to the website google.com/nonprofits - There, you can read everything about what Google offers. It offers you a wide range of Google applications: google workspace, Google Ad Grants, YouTube non-profit Programs, Google Maps and Google Analytics. You can sign up for everything, but this article will stay focused on Google Ads.

There is an excellent tutorial on how to set up everything. Still, you can get help on everything in google Ads or other Google Products.

We, as RTI, also use Google Ads and can always help boost the campaign from an RTI level. As your Round Table International IT manager, I am always more than happy to help with any questions.

GET STARTED .

Scan the QR code for the Tutorial to get started or click here

BORN TO BE A MAN

Is it possible to

a self-help

By Mr OSCAR WAHLSTRÖM, Round Table Sweden

write

book inspired by adopt adapt improve? Of course, and I want you to be part of it!

WHY BORN TO BE A MAN?

Your life and your time in Round Table is important, no doubt you have a valuable role to fulfill; but also an opportunity to create the most amazing journey of your life. This book is a gift to our future generations to come.

The purpose of this book is (1) to explain how youths can mature into men; (2) how to sustain a relationship; (3) why it’s important being a father and be there for your kids; (4) how to finding your highest purpose and transform it into a gift to society; (5) to understand why you always have to start with your individual self before you try to change the surroundings.

As time went by, I became more touched with my inner self and my individuality was growing, it just felt good.

My Story

MY JOURNEY STARTED after I had my gambling addiction at 24, I was weekly with my therapist and also had a desire of getting my feelings out. Some days it was breast pains, a strong feeling of throwing up and panic attacks. I thought like many other people that the pain would never go away. A couple of years later, I was feeling better and decided to never do things that hurt myself again.

I always had an interest in reading and wanted to get back to who I was before. I started reading tons of self-help books, tried different types of meditation and experimenting at the same time with my mind. As time went by, I became more touched with my inner self and my individuality was growing, it just felt good.

After a time, I grew tired of reading self-help books. It came to a time when everyone talked about the same things over and over again. I begin searching for something new and fresh. That’s when I started reading Jung: “man and his symbols” but also Nietzsche: “Good and Evil” and Joseph Campbell “The Hero with a thousand faces” - which also has been a great inspiration for Born to be a man’s structure. I fell in love, longed for psychology, mythology and religion, it became my new Pathos.

From my time as a roleplayer leader of “Dragons & Demons’’ I always knew how a strong story could charm the messenger in a beautiful way. A vision was growing inside of my mind about a non-fiction book where every chapter was starting with a story with a strong metaphorical meaning. A non-fiction book of what society needs right now, strong men with their own values and virtues but most of all a direction.

Both the individual and the collective are necessary for a society to fully thrive, but it’s important that we fulfill our individual highest needs first before we try to change our surroundings. most of the time if we try to change the collective we often carry our own self-interests and try to fulfill them at the same time, I believe this is where corruption thrives.

I’m gonna tell you a secret. I have a clear vision of where I’m currently heading but it terrifies me. Doing this pre-marketing through social media and exposing myself is not something I usually do even in private. It is not about money, it is about experience and to overcome my deepest fear but also share my knowledge with the world.

I hope you will join me!

How the Book Is Organized

I’ve created the first structure of Born to be a Man and now I’m searching for a community where I can share my thoughts, but also my journey, somewhere where like-minded people live. It is of utmost importance that you not only hear about thoughts and daily updates, but also be part of the journey.

ADOPT

Adopt means: choose to take up, follow, or use. It could be a habit, a process or an approach. It’s about trying new things, getting experience and conquering our inner fears. An adventurer is an adopter, someone who sees his life as something which needs to be explored.

The Adventurer is the first role in Born to be a Man - Through chapter 1-5.

ADAPT

Adapt means: make (something) suitable for a new use or purpose; modify. It’s when you have explored which habits, processes and approaches which you would like to have in your life. A hero is an adapter, he adapts the right things that suits him best, someone who pushes through when times are hard and finds his highest purpose in life.

The Hero is the second role in Born to be a man - Through chapter 6-11.

IMPROVE Improve means: develop or increase in mental capacity by education or experience. It’s when you have found your highest purpose in life and recreated it as a gift which you give back to your community. A mentor is an improver, someone who is wise enough to keep educating himself and young men who want to make a similar journey as himself.

The Mentor is the third role in Born to be a man - Through chapter 12-16.

How the Book Is Structured

I’ve laid the foundation of Born to be a man with meticulous analysis, thoughtful use of context and images, also chapters and narrative to realize this book. Each of my 16 images have been carefully selected together with a fiction based story to build up the right atmosphere for every chapter. These chapter introductions are there to spread a message just as stories we tell around a campfire.

DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES

Not everyone is brave enough to follow their dreams, standing on the pier and seeing another ship leaving. Dreams become dreams until you die, no one will miss your whining.

GET YOUR FOOT IN THE BOAT

When you are brave enough to embrace your dream, hearing the waves strike against the hull and the wind that caresses the face. Now it is not a dream anymore, it’s finally the adventure you’ve been longing for.

PREPARE FOR THE WORST HOPE FOR THE BEST

People can choose to be prepared, learning from other people who have done similar journeys. Teaching you about navigation, how to read a map and how to control the boat when you are in the middle of a storm. Wise to take that advice from an older generation with knowledge and experience, if not, your foolishness will sink your ego to the bottom of the deepest oceans.

THE INNER STORM OF DARKNESS

After a few weeks you will notice that your dream is not as idyllic as you thought it would be. You encounter and survive a few storms, that’s when a shadow will appear and show you sides you never thought existed.

BATTLE WITH THE SEA DEMON

one night you are woken up by lightning striking the boat, hurrying up on the deck and you are met with a wave of over twenty meters that swallows you completely.

You wake up to someone pulling you up, coughing up seawater all over yourself, his red eyes staring into you.

MONSTER, GUIDES AND DREAMS

Having miraculously escaped the jaws of the demon, you are stranded on an island with horrible sounds coming from the jungle. A strange man approaches you with a big mask, he seems friendly and he teaches you how to survive. It seems like you are bothered by strange dreams.

ENCOUNTER WITH THE SHIPWRECKED WOMAN (SCENARIO 1)

After a year you feel strong and decide to leave the island. You have built yourself a steady boat and set sail towards a new adventurer. Not far away from the island you save a young woman on a floating barrel. She is the most beautiful woman you have ever seen and you both fall in love with each other.

ENCOUNTER WITH THE MERMAID (SCENARIO 2)

After a year you feel strong and decide to leave the island. You have built yourself a steady boat and set sail towards a new adventurer. Not far away from the island you see a beautiful woman stranded on a rock and it sounds like she is singing for you. You steer the boat towards the woman and you hear a loud noise, you notice your boat is stuck and see the woman in her eyes. She is laughing uncontrollably and dives down in the sea.

YOUR HEART’S COMPASS

You encounter a thick fog stretched across the sea, your real compass is spinning around and you need to follow your heart. A tough task from someone who has never done it before. You dig deep down your own unconscious and find guidance in a father figure that helps you out of the fog. When the fog has settled, you look back and see mountainous rocks pointing up out of the sea and you think about blessings from the man within.

THE FIRMAMENT

one night the sea is calm, not a wind or a sound and you can see stars all over the firmament. You are looking down at the sea and it reflects the firmament like a mirror. You perceive the world as beautiful, the empty void between the firmament and the sea is an image of god, indescribable.

CORE OF LIFE

When you finally reach your last destination of your vision and grasp your reward. You realize that not only have you reached ”The Fountain of Youth” you have also grown as an individual. You look back and see who you have become and hopefully you won’t settle.

DOOMED TO SAIL FOREVER

You have the opportunity after you find your innermost desire to return back to your town and teach other people about your journey. But there is nothing that attracts you, you want more. That’s why you sail past your home island with another greater vision for yourself. When the young generation needed you the most, you just sailed by.

THE WRATH OF POSEIDON

When you are unavailable to accept that your journey will take time, that you need all the knowledge you can get to obtain your ”Fountain of Youth”. You will sometimes manage to grab your reward with the price of destroying yourself and everything you touch all around you. The very gods will chase you to the end of the world.

AT YOUR WITS’ END

After a long journey you lost track of where you were, the food and water had run out, you really thought this was the end. The day turns to vague images, you hallucinate until you feel someone pull you back to consciousness. You have been saved and they are taking you back to civilization.

CONQUEROR OF SEA AND LAND

After your adventurer you have been a master of both the sea and the land. Something that was a challenge for you is now a piece of cake, you wanderer between like there’s never been a line between them. You also help young men fulfill themselves and do the same journey as you did.

BLESSING OF DREAMS

When you are old, you look back on the man you used to be with a smile and dreaming back to your adventure. You are truly blessed that you did get on your dream and fulfill your deepest need. Your contribution to society has been with the greater good for the collective,

Are You Willing To Share a Story

If you are reading this and are interested in sharing your own thoughts or sharing your own story in different topics, I’m willing to listen and even write it in the book. Take this opportunity to be part of something bigger, as a result of your courage I will even share a ”Thank you note” with your name on it in the book. Thank you!

Travel & Explore 94

Are You Ready To Make History In Tallin?

After organizing World meeting and NEA Regional meeting, Round Table Estonia welcomes you to the next Half Year Meeting.

Have you wondered how an association with 0.03 tablers per square kilometre can handle it? Join us to find out!

We will make history! Together!

WHY ESTONIA?

Did You Know

Estonia has a coastline broken up into 1,521 islands and slightly larger than Denmark.

In June, the height of summer, it can snow in Estonia. That occurred most recently in 2014

The Rohuküla-Heltermaa ice road, which spans a frozen section of the Baltic Sea for 26.5 kilometres (16 miles), is the longest in Europe.

In 1917, women in Estonia were granted the right to vote

The most of supermodels per capita are from Estonia.

With approximately 16% of the population claiming that religion has any significance in their lives, Estonia is one of the least religious nations in the world. In addition, 69% of respondents think that trees have a soul.

With 50% of its land covered in forests, Estonia is one of the greenest nations in Europe.

The first Christmas tree was ever placed in public in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, in 1441.

Estonian is one of the most challenging languages for an English native to learn

Since the 13th century, the nation has been continuously invaded from the outside. Throughout the majority of its history, Estonians have been under foreign rule (Danish, German, Polish, Swedish, Russian and Soviet).

one of the European cities with the best preserved medieval areas is Tallinn.

The cuisine of Estonia is a fusion of Scandinavian, German, and Russian flavours.

According to a global list of total opera performances per million population, Estonia is now ranked sixth.

Estonia’s oldest continuously running medical facility and the oldest town council pharmacy in Europe are both located in Tallinn.

SUBNAUTICAL EXPERIENCE

Experience the infamous Pärnu Fish Days. Experience one of the most anticipated events of Round Table Estonia! It combines winter games, exceptional seafood, and great themed parties. You will not sleep that night!

Be Prepared For an Amazing Pre-Tour

Round Table Estonia invites you to an exciting pre-tour to discover the south and west of Estonia. Take part in the infamous Fish Days, visit the biggest Estonian island in the Baltic Sea and the beautiful seaside resort town Haapsalu.

VISIT SAAREMAA

The second biggest island after Greenland! The island is known for its beaches, spas, and traditional villages. You have an excellent possibility of becoming a Viking! Apart from the actionpacked days, you will also stay in a spa to relax and rest.

THE FAIRYTALE CITY

You will visit Haapsalu, a seaside resort town. In addition to the castle and cathedral built in the thirteenth century as the seat of the Bishopric of Ösel-Wiek, you will meet the Round Table local club. This will be a great party with the local Table and a great day to see the beautiful coastal town. By the way, the local club has been awarded in recent years with all types of honourable awards in Round Table Estonia.

GET TO KNOW THE SCHEDULE

All the Events

DAY 1

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1 ST

09:00 Registration open 19:00 Welcome Party

DAY 2

THURSDAY, MARCH 2 ND 10:00 Councilors’ meeting 11:00 Tours 19:00 Theme Party

DAY 3

FRIDAY, MARCH 3 RD 10:00 Half-Year meeting 11:00 Tours 19:00 Nations Night* *All Cutlery Provided)

DAY 4

SATURDAY, MARCH 4 TH 10:00 Regional meetings 11:00 Tours 19:00 Dinner Party

DAY 5

SUNDAY, MARCH 5 TH

12:00 Check out & Goodbyes*

*We made History together.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Tips and Tricks When Travelling to Estonia

Private space is important for Estonians. If you talk to a stranger, keep a safe distance (110 centimeters is preferred) Don’t show anger. There are not many reasons to lose your temper. We appreciate smiles more than other emotions.

We are tech-savvy and try to solve everything over the internet. So, taking your phone with you makes your life easier.

Tap water in Estonia is generally considered safe to drink, especially in the cities like Tallinn. Although bottled water is readily available, we recommend bringing along a reusable water bottle. This will help to protect the environment.

Food hygiene standards in Estonia are generally very high, so travellers are unlikely to fall ill during their trip.

Tipping in Estonia operates on a very casual basis, so you are unlikely to cause offence by not tipping enough.

march can be colder (-5 C). There’s no cold weather, just improper clothing, we say.

A Spotlight On Cape Town

By Mr GRAHAM CORNELISSEN, RTI World Meeting Convenor 2023

RTI WORLD MEETING 2023

TABLE(R) MOUNTAIN

There is no doubt that it is worthwhile to climb this famous landmark. The more fit may prefer to hike, but it’s okay if you use the cable car. The vistas are breathtaking (though be warned that cloud cover – known locally as the tablecloth – can swoop in very suddenly and obscure the panorama completely). While you’re up there, you can take a quick circular walking path and take some spectacular pictures.

A Diverse Location

THE WESTERN CAPE is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings and diverse range of flora and animals. You can choose between hiking in the mountains or the shore, thanks to the geography of South Africa. This region was once referred to by Sir Francis Drake as ”the finest Cape in all the circumference of the world,” and that statement is still accurate today.

To put it bluntly, Cape Town is one of the most recognizable cities on earth. Why wouldn’t it be? The mother City is one of the world’s great capital cities thanks to its exhilarating fusion of African, European, and Malay influences. It is also surrounded by a wellknown mountain, which adds an extra touch of picturesqueness. Cape Town is praised and revered for its natural beauty, diverse cultures, and rich history. Its reputation as one of the world’s premier gastronomic destinations only increases its allure.

The Cape Winelands are among the most stunning places on earth. 99% of South Africa’s wine routes can be found in the Western Cape, which stretches from the coast to the Little Karoo plains. The four primary geographic areas are the Breede River Valley, Little Karoo, Coastal, and olifants River.

Considering this, we’ve put up a list of activities highlighting many facets of our great city. You must do these things in Cape Town, especially if you are considering a trip to South Africa:

EXPLORE THE V&A WATERFRONT

Cape Town’s bustling, dramatic working harbor is a destination in and of itself, with scores of intriguing attractions that draw both locals and visitors. Children (and adults) will enjoy the Cape Wheel, which offers thrilling rides and breathtaking views from a height of 40 meters. The Watershed provides a wide variety of stalls to browse. The V&A Food Market features culinary delights from various cuisines, including Cape Malay, Mexican, Asian, and Italian, as well as ice cream and other sweets.

ROBBEN ISLAND

NELSON MANDELA and countless other political prisoners served most of his 27-year sentence there. Currently, it is a UNESCo World Heritage site. The Robben Island Prison Museum is a significant historical location, despite its tragic nature. Visitors are welcome on pre-arranged tours, around 7 kilometres from Cape Town’s coast. Former prisoners lead some excursions, providing firsthand accounts of what it was like to fight apartheid.

NEIGHBOURGOODS MARKET

A TREMENDOUSLY POPULAR and achingly chic Saturday food market in the Biscuit mill neighbourhood of Woodstock, which is now home to numerous independent enterprises. Although gentrification is at its height, the quality of the goods sold cannot be discounted. At Neighbourgoods, the vast diversity of influences on South African food is on display. Through fresh juices, coffee, and craft beer, you can expect to nibble your way through everything from biltong to Black Forest gâteau.

BOULDERS BEACH

THE CAPE PENINSULA’S COASTLINE is sandy with rocky outcrops and rough waves. It’s not the best for swimming or resting, but it’s great for coastal walks. The colony of wild African penguins is a major attraction. They squawk at each other, waddle, swim, and have an odd stench. And there are hundreds of them here, and you can get very close to them in their natural habitat.

KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS

A 1,300-ACRE BOTANICAL GARDEN winds through the lush southern suburbs of Cape Town as it slopes down from Table mountain. The Tree Canopy Walkway, commonly known as ”the Boomslang” or the tree snake, offers a raised location ideal for selfies and birdwatching. The protea garden, which honours South Africa’s national flower, should not be missed. There aren’t many places to relax and enjoy the sunshine— certainly none as lush. If you want to attend a trail run, a craft fair, or the Summer Sunset concert series, check the events calendar before you go.

KELP FOREST ADVENTURE WITH SEALS

THE GREAT AFRICAN Seaforest, only visible off the coast of Cape Town, is a sea of gigantic, swaying bamboo kelp home to a wide variety of species, both large and small (including cow sharks, cat sharks, gully sharks – and octopuses). Take a guided scuba diving adventure at Pyramid Rock and Partridge Point in False Bay to fully immerse yourself in this environment. This location is perfect for beginning divers, with a maximum depth of 12 meters and excellent visibility. The excursion can also be done while snorkelling, where curious, amusing seals interact with divers on the surface. After that, have a hot shower and lunch.

DISCOVER CAPE POINT

CAPE POINT NATURE RESERVE is a fantastic day-trip destination for locals and tourists, offering a wide variety of things to do and see. At the tourist centre, learn about the region’s rich history. At Buffels Bay, meander down the beach and cool yourself in the tidal pools (where you might encounter some wildlife, such as buck or ostriches). To visit the lighthouse, take the Flying Dutchman funicular to Cape Point, or go up the challenging stairs to picturesque Diaz Beach.

VISIT THE TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM

MORE THAN 8000 AQUATIC ANIMALS of all sizes, colours, and forms call this top-notch aquarium home, including clownfish (hello, Nemo!). A captivating kelp forest, schools of shimmering fish swimming together, gliding turtles, and even sharks can be seen inside a 10-meter glass tunnel. It’s an exhilarating glimpse into life off our coasts. Additionally, there are more unusual fish, such as jellies, octopuses, seahorses, pufferfish, and moray eels. The well-known penguin exhibit is popular every time. Kids may get up close to anemones and starfish at the Touch Pool, and the beautiful underwater wonderland is constantly changing. Children’s puppet shows with a marine theme and arts and crafts are available.

GO WINE TASTING IN THE CAPE WINELANDS

WITH ORIGINS IN THE 1700S, Cape Town’s Winelands are perhaps the oldest in the southern hemisphere. The shady Constantia, a swath of forests and winding mountain roads, is a short drive from the city centre and home to some of the oldest wineries. You can unwind in this historic Cape Dutch manor house while enjoying outstanding vintages and nibbling delicacies from top chefs.

You may also travel a little further from the city to the stunning towns of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, located in the bottle-green valleys of the Cape Winelands and home to an astounding 200+ wine farms.

Why Not Visit South Africa During the World Meeting?

Pay us a visit in September 2023. All of the items above will be a part of your amazing South African Experience.

For more information, visit our Facebook page or our website.

TRAVELLING TABLER

Tabling Is Travelling

By Mr ABHISHEK LODHA, Round Table India

GETTING INDUCTED in 2008, it wasn’t till 2016 that I started seeing Tabling from a different perception. In 2016 I made my first international trip via the Indo-Dutch cycle expedition in Holland. The trip opened doors to a new world for me with heart-touching experiences and unforgettable memories. Next year I made a 20-day South African trip for ARTSA, where I was home hosted in 8 different cities with an overwhelming experience. After that, my hunger grew, and I kept looking for more and more of these opportunities. To my surprise, there was a tank load of it everywhere. AGm, half-yearly meets, numbered meets, pretours, tie-ups, travel bingos and whatnot. In 2018 I tried to be Adventurous and took a 100 % pure Tabling trip to 7 countries for 28 days. And in this journey, I made, earned and treasured uncountable Precious friends from across the globe.

NOW THAT I HAVE TRAVELLED over 13 countries for Tabling and have enjoyed home hosting and pampering, I have realised that most countries look the same from the outside. Still, you can only understand a vast cultural difference when you live with the local brothers and spend time with their families. And trust me, being hosted by people you have never met or

even heard before and they let their house and kitchen open for you and letting you crash in and mix with all family members is not a thing we can practically think of in today’s time. Every country has unique ways of expressing its love to guests and their gratitude to their brothers. Witnessing this, my perception changed towards society and my horizon expanded with the cultural exchanges over time. I have now been invited to various meetings and events to share my experience and my travelling practice, but earning the Pink Buddy Travel Award did make me truly emotional.

ROUND TABLE IS ONE PLATFORM where you upgrade yourself in mental, emotional civil and social sectors of life. No matter how renowned an entrepreneur you are, you learn to take orders and to work in a team. No matter how influential or dominant your environment is, you learn to give orders and execute tasks in a disciplined way. overall it’s free personal grooming which no book or course can teach you.

THIS FABULOUS ASSOCIATION is spread across 60 countries and is still expanding. I see one association that is blind to borders, race or culture. Its open arms welcome anyone and everyone with a warm hug and pre-incepted trust. So, be proud of your Rondel

because you represent a giver of hope and faith in those who have lost the path of living. Charity isn’t just giving material items; love and hope sometimes count most. I am a Tabler not only because I want to socialise but I love seeing happiness in others who are less fortunate. I love what Table stands for, and I want people to know that giving is more exhilarating than receiving.

INVESTING 15 YEARS IN TABLING, I now have a special corner for it in my heart. Let’s all cherish this movement and be proud of who we are and what we do under the shade of its enormous power. Let’s flash this Rondel, and feel proud to promote this to our brothers who miss this opportunity. Travel as much as u can, and exchange love all over. You’ll never know how your life has changed for good, as Tabling gives you unlimited opportunities to make friends instantly. Round Table also sets a platform where you can practice and reciprocate your Human and social responsibilities. It gives you a mode to reach out and help your fellow citizens with whatever they need and to get a chance to become responsible human beings. There is a very old and continuously rehearsed phrase, “TABLING mAKES

YoU mEET oLD FRIENDS FoR THE FIRST TImE”, that goes well every time and everywhere.

You’ll never know how your life has changed for good, as Tabling gives you unlimited opportunities to make friends instantly.

GET A TASTE OF ESTONIA

Meat Goulash

By LADIES’ CIRCLE ESTONIA, from the LCI Recipe Book

Every autumn my RT old tabler husband goes hunting and brings lots of game meat home. So I need to prepare dinner from it. This recipe is the easiest and the one what always work. Very good is that you can use whatever meat you like. For example elk, deer or beef.

DIRECTIONS

Preparation 20 min

Cooking 4 h

INGREDIENTS

1000 g meat

5 Garlic Cloves

2 onions

6 Carrots oil for frying

Sea Salt

Black Pepper

1-1,5 l Water

5 tablespoons Tomato Paste

10 Spice Grain

350 ml Whipped Cream

Fry the pieces of meat in a hot pan for a few minutes, add onions, carrots and garlic in large pieces to the pan, season with salt, pepper and tomato paste and fry for a few more minutes.

Pour all into a stew pot and cover with the lid.

Pour in the water, add the pepper and put in the oven to simmer.

First 2 h in a 130 degree oven, then 2 h in a 150 degree oven.

When the meat seems soft and cooked enough, mix in the cream and let it heat up (in the oven or on the stove). Serve with rice, potatoes or mashed potatoes.

Spicy cucumber salad or steamed beet salad with horseradish are best sides.