Youth-led Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central expands reach with community, regional initiatives

The Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central is expanding its footprint as a youth-led organisation focused on community service and sustainable development, with initiatives reaching more than 150 beneficiaries across Guyana, its president said.

Harrinarine Balram, speaking in a recent interview, said the club’s work is guided by its alignment with Rotary International and an integrated model that combines community outreach, professional development and international collaboration.

“At the heart of what we do is impact that is both immediate and sustainable,” Balram said, pointing to flagship programmes “Touch of Care” and “Pivot to Period Equity,” which provide essential supplies while promoting health awareness and education.

The club has also used regional platforms to strengthen ties across the Caribbean, including activities during World Rotaract Week and the “LEAD Across the Waves” initiative, which brought together young leaders to exchange ideas and build leadership capacity.

“These moments of collaboration build the kind of regional unity and leadership capacity that Rotaract stands for,” Balram said, adding that the recent commissioning of a new Interact Club marked a step forward in youth engagement at the secondary school level.

Beyond community outreach, the organisation is investing in skills development through programmes such as “Mind Your Business” and its participation in “Project Elevate,” a U.S. Youth Ambassadors-supported initiative aimed at equipping young people with financial literacy, conflict resolution and leadership skills.

“Our focus is on practical tools that translate into long-term growth for our members and the communities we serve,” Balram said.

He credited the club’s Finance Committee with ensuring the sustainability of its programmes through fundraising efforts, including a recent snack box initiative that generated funds for care packages and outreach activities.

“Through this effort, we were able to support underserved communities in a consistent and meaningful way,” he said.

Balram said continued support from members and sponsors would be critical to maintaining the club’s momentum.

“Our work would not be possible without the unwavering dedication of our members and the generous support of our sponsors,” he added (Press release)