One of Rotary’s largest gatherings in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, the Rotary Fusion Summit, was held this year in Belgium’s capital with 1,600 participants. Under the theme “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges,” the summit aimed to strengthen international collaboration, showcase innovative projects, and bring together diverse cultures within the Rotary community.
Prior to the main summit, from September 23–25, the GELS, GNLS, and PLS programs were completed for future Rotary leaders. These sessions provided incoming district governors with leadership and governance training. From Turkey, GDG Yeşim Yöney and Zone 21B Corporate Communications Coordinator GDG Altan Arslan participated in Zone 21 training sessions. Additionally, participants from Districts 2420, 2430, and 2440 completed their programs and received certificates.
Over four days, key topics such as global health, peace, digital transformation, human rights, and international relations dominated the discussions. The “Polio Plus Talks” sessions highlighted the partnership between Rotary and the World Health Organization, while the “Rotary and International Organisations” panel focused on collaboration strategies with global institutions.
The summit featured distinguished speakers from around the world. Baroness Dr. Françoise Meunier addressed Rotary values and civil society impact, while Enabel CEO Jean Van Wetter shared insights on international development. Nicolas Crochet and Roger H. Hartmann presented examples on microfinance and sustainability, and Dr. Theopista Ntale Sekitto discussed the role of women in financial inclusion.
In health and vaccination sessions, Prof. Dr. Pierre Van Damme, Prof. Peter Piot, Dr. Tunji Funsho, Jamila Louahed, and EMA Director Emer Cooke presented the latest developments on Polio+ and immunization. Dr. Jamal Ahmed from WHO examined expertise, technology, and trust in the “Polio Plus Talks” session, while Prof. Heidi J. Larson analyzed public trust in vaccines from a social science perspective.
Peace and international collaboration were also central themes. Dr. Andreas Strub from the European Union emphasized the importance of trust and dialogue in peacebuilding. Rotary International General Secretary John Hewko and Greenpeace CTO Priscilla Chomba-Kinywa discussed Rotary’s cooperation with international organizations. Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin and Tibu Africa founder Mohamed Amine Zariat shared strong messages on youth engagement and peace initiatives.
The cultural and social program added vibrancy to the summit. Under the “Fusion Off” banner, Vlad Popovici, Alexandre Helson, and Jeremy Le Van delivered presentations on business and social entrepreneurship. A gala dinner at Belgium’s National Automobile Museum Autoworld on September 27 and a special concert at Flagey provided memorable experiences for attendees.
The Intercountry Committees (ICCs) played an active role throughout the summit. The ICC Summit on September 25 and the ICC dinner on September 26 helped strengthen international friendships. ICCs also showcased their projects and partnership opportunities at the “House of Friendship.”
Civil society organizations had a prominent presence, particularly ShelterBox and the WASH Action Group, highlighting their disaster relief and humanitarian initiatives. Two consecutive luncheons were held for Major Donors, recognizing new contributors with pins and plaques, and offering photo opportunities with RI President Francesco Arezzo.
On September 27, 2025, the awards ceremony for the Power of Goodness Video Contest took place, attended by RI President-elect Yinka Babalola and Zone 21 Director Daniel Tanase. Prizes were awarded to the top three videos, and a special award was presented posthumously to Zone 21B Corporate Communications Assistant Coordinator Vesna Baur.
Zone 21 had a strong representation at the Fusion Summit. Rotary members from all over the Zone left the summit with new friendships, renewed connections, and valuable insights for their clubs and communities.
You may reach to the full recordings & pictures from https://www.facebook.com/zone21rotaryinstitute
