Rotary District 7080 held its District Changeover and Awards Celebration on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Mississauga Grand Banquet & Event Centre, 35 Brunel Road, Mississauga, Ontario. It was a memorable evening of fellowship, celebration, recognition, and renewed commitment to Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self.
The event brought together Rotarians, district leaders, club presidents, members, families, and friends of Rotary from across District 7080 to celebrate the close of a successful Rotary year and the beginning of a new chapter of leadership. It was not only a ceremonial gathering, but also a meaningful moment of reflection on the impact made by clubs and members throughout the 2025–2026 Rotary year.
A major highlight of the evening was the official leadership transition from outgoing District Governor Susanne Zbinden to incoming District Governor Uche Okugo. DG Susanne Zbinden was honoured and celebrated for her dedicated service, leadership, commitment, and guidance throughout the Rotary year. Her year of leadership reflected the values of Rotary through service, connection, collaboration, and support for clubs across the district.
The evening also marked the formal welcome of DG Uche Okugo as he assumes leadership of Rotary District 7080 for the new Rotary year. His installation represented a renewed call to service, stronger partnerships, deeper engagement, and continued community impact across Southwestern Ontario.
The celebration included the presentation of District Awards, Paul Harris Fellow recognitions, and Service Awards to deserving Rotarians, clubs, and leaders who demonstrated outstanding commitment to Rotary ideals. These awards recognized individuals and clubs whose service, generosity, leadership, and dedication have made meaningful contributions to their communities and to the broader mission of Rotary.
The Paul Harris Fellow Awards were especially significant, as they reflected the spirit of giving, humanitarian service, and commitment to The Rotary Foundation. The service awards also highlighted the hard work, sacrifice, and consistent efforts of Rotarians who continue to give their time, talent, and resources to make a difference locally and globally.
Throughout the evening, there was a strong atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. From the fellowship and shared meal to the formal presentations and award recognitions, the event reminded everyone of the power of Rotary when people come together with a shared purpose. It was an opportunity to honour the past year, celebrate the accomplishments of clubs and members, and look forward with hope and excitement to the new Rotary year.
Rotary District 7080 continues to represent the strength of community service, leadership, friendship, and collaboration. With more than 45 clubs and over 1,400 members across Southwestern Ontario, the district remains committed to creating lasting change through service projects, leadership development, youth engagement, community partnerships, and international humanitarian efforts.
Congratulations to outgoing District Governor Susanne Zbinden for a remarkable year of leadership and service.
Congratulations also to District Governor Uche Okugo as he begins this new journey of leadership.
May the new Rotary year be filled with unity, growth, meaningful service, and greater impact across District 7080 and beyond.
The District Changeover and Awards Celebration was truly a beautiful reminder that Rotary is more than an organization; it is a family of people committed to serving others, building stronger communities, and creating hope through action.