The Vision Behind Golden Sparrow
Interview with PDG ISAK Nazar: Interviewer: Rtn. Sashikumar, Editor – Voice of the District
Q: PDG Nazar, Golden Sparrow has become the talk of the district. What inspired this unique initiative focused on women in Rotary?
PDG Nazar: It all started with a simple yet powerful thought – women are not just participants in Rotary, they are powerful change-makers. Golden Sparrow is our way of acknowledging that truth and giving it the space it deserves. As District Counsellor, my role is to identify spaces that need attention and activation – and women’s engagement in Rotary was one such vibrant, yet under-tapped, domain. When I discussed this with our Governor Rtn. Mahaveer Bothra, he immediately saw the potential and gave his full support. His vision for an inclusive, diverse and vibrant district resonated deeply with me.
Q: You’ve launched several pioneering initiatives in RID 3233 – from Rotary NextGen to Kalankarai Vilakku. How does Golden Sparrow fit into this ecosystem?
PDG Nazar: Each initiative I’ve supported or conceptualized serves one core mission: making Rotary more engaging, inclusive, and future-ready. With Rotary NextGen, we brought young blood into Rotary. Kalankarai Vilakku re-ignited the spark in our past presidents. The Green Rotarians orientation gave a warm, informed welcome to our newest members. Golden Sparrow, in that sense, completes the circle – by empowering the women of Rotary. This event is not just a celebration, but a commitment to significantly increase women’s participation in our district. And I’m proud to share that we are chartering a new all-women’s club, Rotary Club of Golden Sparrow, with more than 150 members – a world record in the making.
Q: Tell us about how this event came to life.
PDG Nazar: The spark for Golden Sparrow came from our District First Lady Rtn. Jayashree Bothra, whose passion for empowering women is truly contagious. The idea took flight on the way back from Mahabalipuram during a conversation with Dr. Sujatha Srinivasan and her husband, PDG R. Srinivasan. When I proposed formalizing the idea, Sujatha readily accepted to lead it as the Event Chair. Jayashree took on the role of Event Mentor and was instrumental in shaping the vision and motivating the team. Along with Co-Chair Rtn. Anees Begam, Secretary, Lalitha Sriram, Treasurer, Rtn. Mohini Sriram, and a powerhouse team of women Rotarians they created something truly magical. What makes me proud is that it was organized almost entirely by women – with minimal male support. That’s the kind of self-driven force we need more of in Rotary.
Q: What’s next for RID 3233?
PDG Nazar: The journey has just begun. Under Governor Mahaveer Bothra’s visionary leadership, we will continue to create platforms where every Rotarian – young or experienced, male or female – feels they have a voice and a role. Golden Sparrow is a shining example of what happens when we believe in each other’s potential and give it wings.
Q: What made you confident this would be a success?
PDG Nazar: Honestly, the energy I felt from the women we approached was electric. They were waiting for such a platform. With leaders like Jayashree, Sujatha, Anees, and others taking charge, I knew this was going to be a landmark event.
Q: How do you see the new all-women’s club contributing to the district?
PDG Nazar: It’s going to bring fresh energy, new leadership styles, and more inclusive thinking. These members will not only participate – they will lead, inspire, and shape the future of our district.
Q: You’ve focused on different segments of the Rotary family. Why that strategy?
PDG Nazar: Because every segment has unique strengths. Youth bring enthusiasm. Past presidents offer experience. Green Rotarians need orientation. Women bring community spirit and innovation. If we engage them all, we build a district that’s rich, diverse, and dynamic.
Q: You also pioneered the Annettes Club a decade ago. How do you feel seeing it now flourish at the district level?
PDG Nazar: It’s truly heartening. When we introduced Annette’s Clubs in 2014-15, the goal was simple: keep our children meaningfully involved in the Rotary spirit. Now, ten years later, to see the formation of the District Annettes Council and the election of a District Annettes Representative (DAR) is deeply fulfilling. These young leaders, guided by committed Rotarians, are organizing events like the Annettes Carnival and service projects like feeding the poor. It shows that the Rotary values are taking root early.
Q: What message would you give to those nurturing the Annettes now?
PDG Nazar: Encourage them, trust them, and let them lead. When we empower children with purpose, we’re not just building future Rotarians – we’re shaping responsible citizens. The success of the District Annettes Council is a testament to what sustained mentorship and faith in young minds can achieve.
Q: What has this journey taught you personally?
PDG Nazar: That leadership is not about doing everything – it’s about identifying people’s potential and giving them a platform. The women of Golden Sparrow have taught me that time and again through their passion and commitment.
Q: Any message to Rotarians who want to do something new?
PDG Nazar: Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Start with your idea. Discuss it. Rally support. And remember, when you believe in the impact it can create, the district will believe in you.
Q: In one line, what does Golden Sparrow mean to you?
PDG Nazar: It’s a celebration of possibility – when vision, leadership, and purpose come together to create something unforgettable.
Q: Any final thoughts?
PDG Nazar: My heartfelt thanks to every woman who said yes to Golden Sparrow, and to every Rotarian who encouraged them. Let this be the beginning of many such inclusive and inspiring milestones for RID 3233.
