The Sticker Story: Branding the World, One Phone at a Time

An interview with Rtn. S Mahaveer Bothra, District Governor of Rotary International District 3233

Q: Governor Bothra ji, you’ve been nicknamed “The Sticker Man.” How did you earn this peculiar title?

A: (Laughs) Well, it’s not because I have an unhealthy obsession with office supplies, I assure you! I’ve been on a mission to stick Rotary logos on every mobile phone I can get my hands on. It’s like I’m a superhero, but instead of fighting crime, I’m fighting blank phone backs!

Q: That’s quite an unusual mission. What inspired this sticky situation?

A: I realized that our phones are like another limb these days – we can’t live without them. So, I thought, why not use this prime real estate to showcase the Rotary brand? It’s better than having your phone covered in pizza grease or cat hair, right?

Q: Fair point! But why is branding phones with Rotary logos so important to you?

A: Look, people love wearing brand names that do nothing for society. But Rotary? We’re changing the world for the better! I figured, if people can walk around as living billboards for overpriced coffee, why not for an organization that’s actually making a difference? Plus, it’s a great conversation starter at parties. “Nice phone, want a sticker?”

Q: Has anyone ever reacted negatively to your sticker crusade?

A: Oh, sure! Some people look at me like I’ve suggested we all start wearing our underwear on the outside. Even fellow Rotarians have said, “Governor, isn’t this beneath you?” But I just smile and say, “Nothing is beneath me when it comes to spreading the good word of Rotary.”

Q: Have you had any particularly memorable experiences with your sticker campaign?

A: Absolutely! There was this one time at an airport – a friend called to thank me because the sticker helped him recover his lost phone. The announcement was like, “We found a phone with a Rotary sticker.” It was like the sticker was shouting, “I’m here! Come find me!” That’s when I knew I was onto something big. Well, small in size, but big in impact!

Q: You even took your sticker mission international. How did that go?

A: Oh, it was a blast! Picture this: there I was at the Governors Elect Training in Orlando, ambushing unsuspecting Rotarians with stickers as they entered the breakfast hall. Some thanked me, some gave me looks that said, “Is this guy for real?” But by the end of three days, I had them all calling me “The Sticker Man.” It was like a superhero origin story, but with more adhesive.

Q: Did you face any challenges during your international sticker spree?

A: Well, there was a moment when I thought, “Am I going to get tackled by security for accosting people with stickers?” But then I remembered — Rotarians are too polite for that. The biggest challenge was resisting the urge to stick them on people’s foreheads when they weren’t looking.

Q: How many stickers have you distributed so far?

A: We’ve crossed 65,000 and we’re aiming for 100,000 soon. It’s like we’re building a Rotary army, one sticky soldier at a time!

Q: That’s impressive! Do you charge for these stickers?

A: Charge? (Laughs) When people ask about the cost, I just smile and say, “It’s just a small gesture compared to what Rotary is doing for the world.” It’s my way of saying, “It’s free, but if you feel guilty, go do some good in the world to make up for it!”

Q: You seem to carry these stickers everywhere. Any interesting encounters?

A: Oh, you bet! I’ve stickered everyone from state ministers to million-dollar clients. It’s my secret weapon in meetings. They’re expecting a handshake, but surprise! They get a sticker instead. It’s a great ice-breaker and often leads to discussions about Rotary’s work. Sometimes it even results in CSR funds or project approvals. Who knew a tiny sticker could have such a big impact?

Q: What’s your vision for this sticker movement?

A: I see it growing into something much bigger. Every mobile phone is prime real estate for the idea of service. If we can put a Rotary emblem on each one, it’s like planting seeds of service in people’s minds. One sticker at a time, we’re creating a better world. It’s like we’re painting the world Rotary blue — but with stickers!

Q: Any final words for our readers?

A: Yes! Join the sticky revolution! Grab some stickers and start spreading the Rotary love. Remember, a sticker a day keeps indifference away. Together, we can make the world a better place — one phone back at a time!

And there you have it, folks – the tale of the Rotary Sticker Man. Next time you see a Rotary sticker on a phone, remember: it’s not just a sticker, it’s a tiny billboard for a better world. And who knows? The next phone to get stickered might be yours!