Episode 3 - Belonging
[Podcast Intro Music]
Host:
Hi, Alex! Welcome to Reimagine Belonging. I'm really happy to have you here today. Instead of introducing you myself, I'd love for you to introduce yourself.
Alex:
Of course. I'm Alex Lapina, the current President of the Rotary Club of Activate Victoria and the Aide to the District Governor of District 9800 — who I secretly call my dad. I'm also a physiotherapy student by trade.
Host:
Amazing — so many hats! Your energy is incredible. Thank you for joining us again.
Today, we have a special conversation with you as a young person and a Rotarian. It feels like you grew up in Rotary. I’d love to hear more about your journey and the stories you have to share.
Let’s start with this: can you share how your Rotary journey began and what motivated you to join?
Alex:
That's a great question.
Officially, I joined Rotary in 2020 when I turned 18. But I like to tell people my journey started much earlier — in 2005, when my dad joined the Rotary Club of Central Melbourne Sunrise.
Some of my fondest childhood memories involve Rotary — gatherings at people's homes, riding on Roger Thornton’s shoulders through Launceston... Rotary always felt like an extension of my family.
When I turned 18, joining officially felt like a natural step — a way to spend more time with the people who already felt like family.
Host:
I love that — and totally agree.
I remember seeing you around in 2018 when I first joined Rotary.
We’ve had so many conversations about belonging, and that leads me to my next question: what does "belonging" mean to you, and how has Rotary helped you find or create it?
Alex:
I think belonging, for me, ties back to that "family of Rotary" feeling.
When you’re around like-minded people — sharing ideas, supporting each other, having fun — a real sense of belonging naturally forms.
Even when we have different perspectives, it creates a dynamic and synergy that's exciting. It’s that energy, the community spirit, that makes Rotary feel like home.
Host:
That's such a wonderful point — it's like a food setup, right? Different tastes, different roles, but together something delicious and beautiful is created.
I love that you touched on that!
We’ve talked about diversity and inclusion at the district level a lot. Here's a question many members often ask: how do we better engage young people in Rotary?
And what inspired you to work with youth and become such a young president?
Alex:
That’s a great question.
First, I want to give a shoutout to my friends at Rotaract District 9815. Their passion and energy are absolutely unmatched.
They helped shift my mindset: instead of seeing youth and adults as separate groups, I started seeing us as one big group of friends working together, having fun, and doing good.
When you combine passion with friendship, you create an unstoppable force. That’s what inspired me — and what I hope to continue building here.
Host:
Speaking of that, do you want to share more about the initiatives you’re working on?
Alex:
Sure!
We’re in the process of chartering a new Rotaract Club — the Rotaract Club of Music Makers.
It’s a group of musicians who want to share their passion with the world, build their skills, perform, and volunteer — all at the same time.
Another major influence for me was attending RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). I went through RYLA during a tough time in my life, and it was transformational.
RYLA teaches leadership in such a raw and authentic way — embracing not just your strengths but your imperfections too. It helped me realize that leadership is about being human.
Host:
Absolutely. I always wonder why we don’t have more spots for young people at RYLA — it’s such a powerful experience.
You touched on vulnerability and the idea that we don't need to be perfect to create amazing things. That’s a beautiful message.
Now, how do you personally "reimagine belonging" — in your club, community, and globally through Rotary?
Alex:
I believe belonging shouldn’t be something forced.
It’s not about designing a culture where people are told they belong — it's about fostering an environment where people feel they belong naturally.
Belonging is different for everyone, and just because one culture doesn’t fit, doesn’t mean another won’t. Being open-minded is key.
Host:
That’s so beautiful. Thank you.
I love how you also mentioned the idea of thematic clubs. I really hope you’ll keep building more of them — it's such a powerful way to amplify belonging.
You’ve shared so many great ideas already, but I have another question: if you could give one message to young people considering Rotary, what would it be?
Alex:
I'd say: Do it while scared.
Even if you feel intimidated, join anyway.
When you become a Rotarian, you’re joining a family of 1.4 million people around the world who are ready to support you.
They don’t want to see you fail — they’ll lift you up when you feel low. And that’s a pretty amazing thing.
Host:
That was fantastic — and very inspiring.
Here’s a fun last question: what’s one word you would use to describe your Rotary journey so far, and why?
Alex:
Fun.
There have been challenges, ups, and downs — that’s leadership. But through it all, it’s been fun.
If it’s not fun, what’s the point? I’m so lucky to be on this journey with people who feel like family.
Host:
I love that.
It’s wonderful to see you not only having fun but leading so beautifully. I’m sure we’ll see you at even higher levels of leadership in Rotary — and in life.
Thank you so much, Alex, for joining us today. I really enjoyed this conversation — and if it were up to me, I’d keep chatting with you forever!
Thank you again for making the time.
Alex:
Thank you, Rana. It’s always a privilege to chat with you. Thanks for having me.
[Podcast Outro Music]