For 45 years, the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain has been a pillar of service, unity, and positive change in our community and beyond.
 
Since its founding in 1979, the Club has championed countless projects focused on education, health, youth development, and community upliftment- all driven by the unwavering commitment of its members.
 
As we continue to mark this milestone anniversary, each Rotarian reflects on what makes this Club truly special to them- from the enduring friendships formed, to the shared purpose of making a lasting difference. Their voices capture the heart of Rotary: service above self, strengthened by fellowship and a passion for impact.
 
See below Part Two in this Series of Rotarians stating what they love about RCCPOS:
 
Sylvanna Aguilera- Director, Membership
I’m a member because I want to be of service and from what I understood about Rotary and their fellowship after retirement, I thought it would be something interesting and worthwhile for me to a part of, and that’s the honest truth.
 
 
Toni-Ré Britton- Director, Youth Service 
To me, RCCPOS is the best club because of the incredible work it has consistently done over the past 44 years. Initiatives like Model United Nations (MUN), support for the All-in-One School and the Each One Teach One School, as well as the Astra Da Costa Medical Fund, have had a truly life-changing impact on our communities. RCCPOS is also a beautiful melting pot, bringing together people of different races, backgrounds, and experiences, all working towards a common goal: making our country a better place. And perhaps most importantly, the club’s commitment to youth empowerment stands out. RCCPOS proudly sponsors a Rotaract Club, three Interact Clubs, and now one EarlyAct Club. That level of support to young leaders speaks volumes. It’s a space where purpose meets passion and that’s something really special.
 


 
Colin Chan- Past President and Paul Harris Fellow

This club is more than just a place to which I belon- it's my club. That sense of ownership drives me to give my best, because I want to see it thrive. We’re united by a shared purpose: Service Above Self. The members are incredible people from diverse professional backgrounds, all bringing something unique to the table, and most importantly, all working together for the success of the club.

My journey began with personal inspiration, my father was a member, and through him, I saw the powerful impact of Rotary. I saw an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to charitable work, and at the same time, to grow personally and professionally. The willingness of members to share knowledge and mentor others has made it an invaluable learning experience.

What keeps me going is the challenge and fulfillment of seeing projects through from idea to impact especially when they benefit children and those most in need. Along the way, I’ve made true friendships, and I’ve experienced the kind of fellowship that only comes when people unite for a greater cause.

 

Tommy Chanona- Paul Harris Fellow

I was a Charter member of the Lions Club of Santa Cruz for approximately 15 years and when I moved into West Moorings, Lions was no longer appropriate for the area I lived and I saw Rotary as the next step, being a business man and wanting to be still committed to the work I used to do as a Lion. That's why I became a Rotarian, it was a network opportunity for business and (a way for) like-minded individuals to do something for people less privileged than we found ourselves to be. RCCPOS is a great Club. I've met other Rotarians at other Clubs and I have fellowshipped with them and I quite enjoyed their company. I don't really compare which Club is better than others, but I compared which Rotarians I liked being in their company as opposed to others. I think the majority of Rotarians are good people to be around and they are like-minded so they're in Rotary for similar reasons. And so I don't think there is a "best" Club but I believe we have good Clubs in Trinidad. What I love about RCCPOS? I think the fellowship is great; we don't meet as often as we used to but I enjoy the company immensely, I enjoy the camaraderie, I enjoy the team work- when we have events like Choka Fest, whatever it is we do, the picong, the 'ole talk, we enjoy each other's company...It's different now but in the old days it was really good. 

 

Nychal Clarke- Member

Rotary is a symbol of hope, and RCCPOS is an extension of that hope. Bringing together persons from all different walks of life, this Club encourages and fosters the ideal of service. Just as a lighthouse serves as a navigational aid, so too does RCCPOS serve as a beacon to all those our light touches. 

 

Curtis Dass- Past President and Paul Harris Fellow

Rotary encompasses my philosophy of life. Service to man is service to God. 

 

Kimberly De Souza- Director, Public Image

Being a member of the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain and serving as its Public Image Chair is an incredibly fulfilling experience that aligns perfectly with my passion for service, community, and storytelling. I love being part of a vibrant network of individuals who are driven not just by goodwill, but by meaningful action with people who genuinely want to make a difference. As Public Image Chair, I have the privilege of sharing the powerful impact of our projects and initiatives, helping to amplify voices, inspire involvement, and build deeper connections between Rotary and the wider community. It's a role that allows me to blend creativity with purpose, and every story I tell is a reminder of the positive change we can achieve together.

 

Alicia Fisher - President Elect and Fundraising Chair

What I love most about being a member of the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain is the unique blend of strong fellowship, meaningful service, and a shared commitment to creating lasting impact in our community. Through Rotary, I’ve built deep connections with like-minded individuals who are passionate about service above self. Together, we design and execute high-impact projects that address real needs and create tangible change. There’s a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from knowing our collective efforts are making a difference not just in the moment, but for generations to come.

 

Tony Jardine- Honorary Member, Past Assistant Governor, Past President and Paul Harris Fellow

 I was encouraged to join a men’s group to help form a new Club, of which I became the Charter President of the Rotary Club of Arima in 1978. I was transferred from Arima to POS and visited all the clubs in the area. At the RCCPOS meeting, I had lunch with Joe Pires and Oscar Francois and was warmly welcomed. Over the years, I realised that this was the best decision I ever made. I saw this club grow tremendously and, in my view, become the best in the district. RCCPOS provided great fellowship and meaningful service projects that inspired me to become more involved in Rotary on a broader scale. I became hooked on Rotary, and at one point, I had a 100% attendance record. I served as president of RCCPOS in 1992-1993 and attended numerous district and international conferences. I was assistant governor three times and served as a special representative from RI in the formation of the Maraval Club. My growth in Rotary started with my joining RCCPOS. Recently, I attended an event where the Huntsville club erected a Peace Pole.

 

Anthony John-Baptiste- Past President, Paul Harris Fellow and Director, Model United Nations (MUN)

Rotary is a fantastic service organisation, that offers unparalleled satisfaction and opportunity to join with passionate, talented, service-minded and generous people to take action through service above self and to make a positive difference in people's lives in our communities locally and globally. And I am honoured to be a Rotarian.

 

 

Lennox Lewis- Honorary Member, Past President and Paul Harris Fellow

I enjoy being a part of the Rotary, as a compassionate worldwide community adhering to values beyond ordinary standards.

 

Terry O'Neil Lewis- Honorary Member and Paul Harris Fellow

The Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain stands out as the ideal club for young and upcoming professionals, not just because of its convenient meeting time that welcomes a diverse group of members, but because of the deep sense of camaraderie and purpose that defines it. As someone who’s always been people-oriented, with a career rooted in community engagement, joining Rotary felt like a natural extension of who I am. I chose Rotary over other service organizations because of its strong business ethos, global reach, and commitment to sustainable, impactful projects. What truly makes RCCPOS special, though, is the support and fellowship among its members- something I felt deeply during a personal health challenge, even as I prepared to take on the role of President. This Club represents everything I value: connection, service, and the drive to make a lasting difference together.

 

Nicole Matouk- Past President and Paul Harris Fellow 

"Service above self" drives my engagement with Rotary. Drawing on the Rotary's broad based resources and support, Rotarians are able to make life changing contributions to our communities. Along the way, we meet like-minded people who become valued friends. 

 

Tania Medley- Director, Astra Da Costa Fund and Club Learning Facilitator 

I joined Rotary because the fellowship reminded me of my first Club in the British Virgin Islands, and because of the accomplishments of the present and past members. I love being a member because the Club has become my second home. "All for one...". 

 

Maurice Moniquette- Past President and Paul Harris Fellow

"Service above Self" is an ideal that is easier to proclaim than to pursue. Membership in the RCCOS provides the positive environment and collective energy that enables us to fulfil that purpose. The warm and genuine fellowship makes the journey invigorating and enjoyable. 

 

Maria O'Brien- Member

I wouldn’t say there’s a “best” Rotary Club, but I do believe the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain is leading by example. From bold, youth-focused initiatives to climate action projects that push boundaries, we’ve shown that when we commit to something as a Club, we make it happen and that makes us stand out as leaders in our district.

I initially joined to better understand Rotary and its global impact, inspired by incredible mentors I met during my time in Model UN, like Lara and Leslie, whose example showed me what service and leadership truly look like.

What I love most about being a member of RCCPOS is the opportunity to contribute meaningfully in my own way to be part of a dynamic, passionate team where I’ve found not only a space to serve, but also real friendships and allies who continue to support and uplift me throughout my journey.

 

Francis O'Neal- Paul Harris Fellow

I believe we were put one earth not just to see about ourselves but also to see about others. Rotary gives me the opportunity to do this. 

 

Hans Schilders- Member

I love it that I got a chance to become an E-member of RCCPOS because I knew it is one of the best Clubs in the district, and I really wanted to learn more about it’s star-project Model United Nations.

 

Neil Selman- Past President, Paul Harris Fellow and Director, Foundation

 

Cheryl Sue Wing- Director, Club Administration

My main reason for becoming a member of RCCPOS, is because I wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself - an organisation than creates real change, locally and globally. From my very first meeting, I felt the passion and purpose that drives our members. Being a member allows me to serve with impact. 

 

Leslie Welch- Past President, Paul Harris Fellow, RCCPOS Hall-of-Famer

I thoroughly enjoy the sense of family, fellowship and fun, and caring that pervades the work we do at the Rotary Club of Central Port of Spain, but the REAL joy and satisfaction come from seeing the difference we make in the lives of those less fortunate than ourselves. It's a blessing to be in a position to help others. 

 

Stephen Wilson- Member

I like the practical display of Diversity Equality and Inclusion. 

Happy 45th Anniversary, RCCPOS!