Having first joined Rotary in Dominica, Neil was drawn by the opportunity to build meaningful connections with business leaders while giving back to a community that had welcomed him. When his journey brought him to Trinidad and Tobago, Rotary once again felt like home- and RCCPOS was a natural fit.

 

Introduced to the club through a close Bajan friend who connected him with PDG Lara, Neil’s first encounter with RCCPOS was a simple lunch meeting. Yet what stood out was anything but ordinary. The warmth, camaraderie, and sense of belonging reminded him of a family gathering, an atmosphere that has continued to define his love for the club ever since. “RCCPOS is a family,” he often says, and it is the members and the impactful work in East Port of Spain that keep his passion for Rotary strong.

 

Neil’s Rotary leadership journey began swiftly and confidently. His first board role was President-Elect and Fundraising Chair, where he played a key role in sustaining the club’s financial strength. During this period, CHOKAFEST served as the backbone of fundraising efforts, supported by innovative initiatives such as movie premiere ticket sales and popular lunch ticket drives. These efforts ensured that service projects could continue to thrive.

 

Serving as President of RCCPOS twice, Neil led during some of the club’s most challenging and transformative moments. He recalls the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic vividly, when in-person meetings gave way to virtual gatherings, and adaptability became essential. Through it all, he helped steer the club with calm resolve, ensuring that fellowship, service, and connection never faltered, even when members were physically apart.

 

Beyond Rotary, Neil is a seasoned Commercial Banker with nearly 20 years at Scotiabank. His academic foundation is equally impressive, holding an MBA from York University in Toronto and a BSc in Computer Science from the University of the West Indies. Few may know that before banking, Neil worked in IT- or that he is proudly Bajan, a Methodist, and a devoted uncle to five nieces and nephews (three boys and two girls), roles he cherishes deeply.

Today, as Chairman of The Rotary Foundation, PP Neil is focused on deepening members’ understanding of Rotary’s global impact. He emphasises that the Foundation is the heartbeat of Rotary’s worldwide work- transforming contributions into meaningful grants that return to clubs and communities.

 

 

He encourages every Rotarian to give annually, reminding members that even a manageable contribution- US$100 per year or TT$50 per month- makes a significant difference. Through the Foundation, Rotarians also gain the opportunity to honour others with Paul Harris Fellow recognition, celebrating service and generosity both within and beyond the club.

 

Looking ahead, Neil and his team are planning a grand Foundation presentation in March 2026, aimed at both current and prospective members. The goal is simple yet powerful: to showcase Rotary Foundation projects worldwide and inspire a renewed commitment to giving and global service.

 

PP Neil’s advice to new Rotarians is grounded and purposeful: always remember why you joined Rotary. The guiding principle is Service Above Self, using your professional skills, networks, and resources to uplift those less fortunate. Service, he believes, is not accidental; it is intentional, collaborative, and deeply rewarding.

 

His personal philosophy is captured in the quote he lives by:
“Life’s journey is the reward.”