16 minute read
SEM REGION
ON I REG ASPA
ASSOCIATIONS RT Australia RT Bangladesh RT Hong Kong RT India RT Malaysia RT Nepal RT New Zealand RT Philippines RT Singapore RT Sri Lanka ASIA, SOUTH PACIFIC REGION
THE GROWING NUMBERS IN ASPA
By AVIRAL JAIN, ASPA Chairman 2021-2022
"Change is inevitable. Growth is optional." – John Maxwell
FOR THE LAST TWO YEARS, we all have really stood up to the motto of "Adopt, Adapt, Improve". Everyone accepted the global changes and adapted to the new normal. In these dire times, we saw growth in the numbers of the Asia Pacific Region.
Round Table Sri Lanka had been working on the charter of a new table in Jaffna for 5 years. The 7-hour travel from Colombo to Jaffna did not make this initiative easy. Due to the persistence and dedication of the Tablers from RTSL, especially Colombo Round Table 1, we were blessed to have a new table added. In the short window, when the travel restrictions were lifted, the charter was planned in the traditional Sri Lankan way, with fun and fellowship. It was heartening to see a healthy contingent from RT India travelling for the historic charter and adding to the enthusiasm of the newly inducted members.
Growth initiatives in RT Nepal never took a back seat. The concept of a common prospects meeting was successfully conducted in Kathmandu to ensure that everyone understands the essence of tabling before they are offered membership from the various tables in the city. We saw the charter of 2 new Tables in Nepal. The total inductions in the year crossed the dream figure of 100, which was in line with the targets set by the National Board.
RT India went all out in this tabling year regarding new inductions. The continued flagship fellowship and learning events kept the interest in tabling growing. New member inductions crossed the magic number of 1000, and the extension champions left no stone unturned to ensure stable and sustainable growth. This year was exceptional as we saw the spreading footprint of Round Table as new tabling centres were added to the map of Round Table India. 18 new Tables were chartered, including 10 in new tabling cities.
RT Bangladesh also shone as the host for the ASPA Meet 2022. The Association went out of its way to organize the meeting and host everyone amid the various covid and visa-related issues. The energy of the Tablers from RT 2 and the experience and wisdom of Tablers from RT 1 made it a memorable, fun-filled, intimate event. The highlight included ladies from Ladies Circle, the LC Bangladesh charter, and the ASPA AGM. This indeed demonstrated the side-by-side spirit, which has been an essential part of the year's planning for ASPA and APAC.
Overall, the ASPA region added over 1250 Tablers and over 21 tables. Growth is never by chance - It results from forces working together in the right direction. Perseverance and commitment made this great feat possible, and we all are confident of seeing this continued growth in the years to come.
Yours in table
Aviral Jain
aspachairman@round-table.org
ON I REG I AM
ASSOCIATIONS RT Arabian Gulf RT Botswana RT Cameroon RT Eastern Africa RT Madagascar RT Malawi RT Mauritius RT Nigeria RT Senegal RT Seychelles RT Southern Africa RT Zambia RT Zimbabwe ROUND TABLE AFRICA, MIDDLE EAST & INDIAN OCEAN REGION
A STRONG PILLAR OF AMI
BY DARREL BENOIT, AMI Chairman 2021-2022
AMI HAS EMBRACED the diversity initiative as we believe it can help our movement attract the best talents and drive the best innovative results. For each Tabler to bring their best self forward, a sense of belonging must first be established. Connecting to an organization that allows you to feel you can be yourself results in greater engagement and creativity.
The AMI Region is one of the most diverse regions in Round Table World. It groups individuals from the main African continent, some of the Indian Ocean islands and some countries of the Arabian-Gulf region. The different geographical areas also show the range of individuals AMI is proudly comprised of.
Each time the region meets as a group, there’s always this learning process as the different Associations making up AMI have different ways of doing it. Mindful that diversity is not a one-size-fits-all approach, sharing best practices and being open to new things are top on the agenda. The ongoing internal consultation is very healthy and is always encouraged. The outcomes are simply rewarding.
AMI’s focus on diversity is to create and promote conditions where every person in the region can contribute in their unique, meaningful way and feel safe and secure doing that. Our Associations are individually diverse, with people from different backgrounds, namely social, cultural, professional and religious beliefs. The things we do when putting our heads together despite having different preferences are fantastic.
The AMI region needs to continue to grow, so the diversity initiative needs to be lived as much as possible. This year’s RTI theme of ‘Stronger Together’ fits very well with promoting and living the diversity initiative. No one has a monopoly on ideas; when we gather our different thoughts, we can make real, impactful changes in all our communities. We are stronger when we take everyone on board and give everyone an equal opportunity to make a difference.
The recent AMI AGM in Mauritius was a testimony of AMI living the diversity initiative and not only making noise about it. We had present at the event different Associations/clubs with people of different races and ethnic backgrounds. Yet, the fellowship, camaraderie, sharing and bonding that occurred at the event were great. It was such a good feeling living the diverse spirit that some people barely slept to maximize the time spent together.
Diversity will always be a strong pillar in our strategies moving forward in our effort to strengthen AMI at all levels. We shall not leave anyone behind or ignore valuable qualities. Our region needs all its children to enable the most incredible men’s organization to continue to ‘adopt’ ‘adapt’ and ‘improve’ to this fast developing world.
Yours in table
Darrel Benoit
amichairman@round-table.org
EDITORIAL & STORIES
26 TABLER 4 TABLER
By ROUND TABLE INTERNATIONAL
32 BE PROUD OF YOURSELF
By Mr PAUL HOEKSEMA
36 ROUND PLAYBLE
By Mr MIKAEL HEDMAN
38 GETTING BEHIND THE WHEEL
By Mr DAVID JOE WILLIAMS
42 LADIES' CIRCLE
By Mrs MIE VIVIAN RASMUSSEN
44 BEING A GOOD CSO
By Mr PAUL DIPPENAAR
48 REVERED SHOULD BE THY BEARD
By Mr PAUL HOEKSEMA
54 41 INTERNATIONAL
By Mr TOM ALBRIGTSEN
56 RTI E-CLUB
By Mr GOTTFRIED LUMPI
58 A NEW DIMENSION TO TRAINING
By Mr SACHIN SHAH
60 PAIRING WINE WITH FOOD
By Mr WILLEM BONNEUX
68 LEADING STRONGER TOGETHER
By OLIVER and PILLE PETS
TABLER
TABLER 4 TABLER
By ROUNT TABLE INTERNATIONAL BOARD 2021 - 2022
DEAR BROTHERS
In August 2022, the RTI Board will focus on Men’s Mental Health and suicide prevention. Tabler 4 Tabler is loosely defined as the help Tablers offer one another. We will also focus on the broader community, which includes friends and family.
We have compiled some background information on Men’s Mental Health and Male Suicide as an appendix to this document. Read this to gain a better understanding of this “silent pandemic”.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
as a member:
Communicate clearly with your family and friends, especially in tough times. Ask people how they are doing, and don’t be afraid to tell people how you are really doing. It is also important to realise that it is not considered weak to request help or to talk about issues with your friends & family
Do a self-assessment during August and take swift and decisive action should you be in a higher risk category. Multiple tools are available for this assessment, and one that can be used is at this link: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/
Learn to manage stress levels by taking up yoga or meditation, limiting alcohol and other stimulants, and getting regular exercise. Joining a support group has proved to be very effective in this instance.
Be on the lookout for a behaviour change in friends or family. Look for possible triggers - like someone going through a breakup, someone who lost his job, or a relative.
If someone reaches out to you, be prepared to listen and support them.
as a table:
Have a point on the agenda to ask how members are doing. Have a proper and full conversation where members are encouraged to fully express themselves in a safe environment where no judgement is present.
Engage with members who show warning signs or have withdrawn from the Table. Take the time to listen to their feelings and assist them if they are having a tough time.
Consider purchasing the T4T pin from the RTI shop for members committed to assisting others and themselves in their mental health journey.
as an assoCiation:
Spread the word to your members about the planned project being run in August. Encourage your members and Tables to participate in it.
Creating awareness and shedding light on men’s mental health is a powerful tool. Raise awareness of the importance of Men’s Mental Health matters by running campaigns to assist members in their daily lives.
Consider putting formal support structures in place or having experts available should members require professional help.
Get a guest lecturer at an event or significant meeting to share insights regarding mental health and how members can live better lives.
Join Us in:
Join the RTI University talk show on Men’s mental health on the 6th of August 2022 at 2 PM Luxembourg time.
We will discuss this issue at the upcoming RTI World Meeting and ask Associations to share what they are doing to assist members. This will be a platform to share the best practices from across the globe
We are creating a unique pin for Tabler 4 Tabler, available in silver or gold in the RTI Shop. Wearing this pin is a conversation starter and a commitment to help others and accept help when you need it. Funds raised will be allocated to a dedicated T4T fund to help Tablers in need.
as tablers, we are responsible for prioritising our mental health and those around us, our families and our friends. Join us, and let us act together to make a real difference.
APPENDIX - TABLER 4 TABLER
A BRIEF BACKGROUND ON MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH
MENTAL HEALTH IS DETERMINED by our emotional, psychological and social well-being, which defines our perception, behaviour, and how we react to certain stimuli, good or bad. A bad reaction to these stimuli may be fatal and should be handled carefully.
Both men and women experience mental health issues. However, some distinct differences were notable in the reaction between the sexes. Although women are more likely to think of suicide, men die twice as often from it.
Traditionally, men are raised to be the strong ones in society. Over time, this pressure mounts, and societal expectations push men to believe they should be the breadwinners in the family. Men are expected to show masculinity, strength, and control. In many societies, men are not eligible to seek help from others or speak up about problems as it would be seen as a sign of weakness. According to a survey by Mental Health America, men are far less likely than women to seek treatment for issues such as depression due to social norms. The survey also revealed that only one in three men would take medication if they felt depressed, and only one in four would consider seeking professional help.
Warning signs to be aware of:
Changes in mood, energy levels, or personality
Anger issues, irritability, and aggressiveness
Change in appetite
Feeling restless and the shift in sleeping habits
High consumption of alcohol and the inappropriate use of drugs Emotional low (Sad, Hopeless, Numb)
Experience pains and aches without a probable cause
Thinking about suicide
The symptoms mentioned above are well illustrated by the Movember Campaign in the following video. Spot the Signs - Movember - YouTube.
Treating mental illness and preventing male suicide is a very complex issue but is much easier when spotted early. The symptoms mentioned above are usually easy to spot if we focus on them. It is also crucial to self-reflect every once in a while, should you experience some of these symptoms yourself.
According to the World Health Organization, there are about 800 000 confirmed cases of suicide per year. That is roughly one person every forty seconds. More people die every year due to suicide than HIV, Malaria, or even Breast Cancer. Dr Funke Baffour from the British Psychological Society described Male Suicide as a “silent pandemic” due to the lack of public awareness.
Long before a suicide occurs, other psychological stressors are in place. Suicide is preceded mainly by depression and other psychological challenges over a prolonged period. Although we as men are most reluctant to seek help, it is essential to realise that seeking help is vital to your recovery. It is medically proven that the sooner one starts mental health treatment, the more successful it will be. Seeking, finding, and accepting help is typically a team effort that relies on family, friends, and self-reflection to identify and acknowledge the fact that there might be an issue. Finding help involves yet again the people closest to you and the people you trust. But also involves medical professionals. Apart from seeking medical attention, one can also try lifestyle changes. For these, once again, the people closest would play an immense role. These lifestyle changes include getting enough sleep and getting regular exercise. The long-term benefit of exercise on Mental Health has been proven over and over. Eating a well-balanced meal and maintaining a healthy diet help support a healthy mental condition. Limiting the use of alcohol and drugs has also proven to be beneficial and keep your stress levels through regular yoga or meditation sessions.
be proUd of YoUrself
abigail tarttelin
By Mr PAUL HOEKSEMA RT 32, Southern Africa
AS A TABLER, THERE'S nothing ordinary about you. You have chosen a path only a select few get to experience. A path of service to your fellow man and a path of real purpose. With an unconditional willingness to serve others through friendship, we sometimes tend to lose ourselves on top of a busy work schedule, family and friends. If you were to hit the pause button, look back, refl ect, and if you were to ask yourself one question - "are you proud of yourself?" Will the answer be yes? It should be…every single time.
If not, it's time to change your mindset. Of course, that's easier said than done. Regardless, we should always strive for self-improvement. Being proud of yourself might be perceived as conceited but should not deter you from positive pride if your intent is self-development. There is no rulebook when it comes to defi ning how you should be proud of yourself, but there can always be guidelines:
DEFINE SUCCESS
What does success mean to you? Is it helping others, family, fi nancial freedom, your dream job, donning the Regional Chairman's Jewel, or a balance of all of these? Your measure of success should be as big or as small as you decide. Aligning your goals for self-acknowledgement should align with your view of success. Inevitably, with success comes failure. Just as we defi ne our successes, remember that you can't always win.
ACKNOWLEDGE YOURSELF
Whether you lost 5kgs or ran your fi rst marathon, take some time to give yourself a tap on the back. Even the smallest of your achievements should be selfacknowledged. Of course, Round Table gives you ample opportunities to experience "feel good" moments you need to acknowledge. Whether it be helping out your local soup kitchen or high-fi ving your mates when you score your team's winning goal, as above, remember to celebrate even the smallest of successes.
ACKNOWLEDGE OTHERS
Our unique platform offers its Members cohesive efforts in spreading compassion. Working together to lend someone a helping hand or participating in charitable causes positively affects your self-esteem. Acknowledging and being proud of your colleagues, friends and family when they achieve feats big or small ultimately adds to your positive growth.
EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUENESS WITH PASSION
You might be an avid golfer, unequalled problem solver, or a brilliant artist. If someone positively labels you, embrace it. Your talents and unique skills might seem mundane, but others might even envy them. In and outside of Table, your sense of self-worth will be boosted if you passionately utilise your talents and skills.
BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
If you ever doubt your capabilities, look back at how far you have come. What might have seemed impossible three years back, you now take on in strides. Believe in yourself; without even realising it, you are the epitome of our motto - you've adopted sound ideas and practices in your life, adapted them to best serve you, and improved yourself to grow with steady progress.
Mr Marchesi would have been proud, so be proud of yourself!
