When Julie J. Kariisa replaced Rhemie Kiggundu as president of the Rotary Club of Kampala Kibuli, the outgoing leadership described her as a dedicated and multitasking leader who will serve and push the club to greater heights.
"Thank you for giving me this chance to lead you, I will serve you wholeheartedly while working together," she said at the time.
And it appears that Ms Kariisa just couldn't wait, the Rotary turning out to be her second love and - flowers to Mr Kin Kariisa, the chief executive of Next Media Group - this Rotary one rivals the marital side to things.
Ms Kariisa's installation in early July is what Mr Nasser Nkonde, a bulletin officer, describes as "a magical year of Rotary".
Straight from the glitzy installation ceremony, Ms Kariisa walked straight to work, to deliver on the promises she made, stating off with a crucial meet-and-greet session between the outgoing and incoming board members.
During this productive meeting, members received their appointment letters, including proper job descriptions and terms of reference, setting a clear path for their roles and responsibilities.
"We had the distinct pleasure of hosting Ms Nancy Lynda Kalembe, a former presidential aspirant, who enlightened us on how maternal and child health impact growth in our communities," Ms Kariisa, writing in the maiden issue of the Rotary Kampala Kibuli magazine, Kibuli Voice, says.
"Her visit was enlightening and inspiring, leaving us with valuable insights and renewed motivation."
The Kibuli Voice was launched in July, opportunely heralding Ms Kariisa's ascent to the Rotary Club of Kampala Kibuli leadership.
Ms Julie J. Kariisa, together with Interact Club students and Joseph Masembe of Little Hands Go Green planting the Kariisa Tree at the entrance of Ssangalyambogo Complex at Kibuli Secondary School.Having dived into the new responsibility like a woman given a chance to enjoy her best hobby for the common good, Ms Kariisa says their commitment to service and impactful projects has been unwavering.
It is service and more service. On July 21, her leadership launched the Sickle Cell Awareness campaign at Kibuli Secondary School and planted and named balance of 84 trees, contributing to health, education, and environmental conservation and sustainability.
Additionally, the Rotary Club of Kampala Kibuli hosted the Assistant Governor, Mrs Susan Wilkinson, from D7910 Boston, who presided over their visit to Seeta High School, Mbalala Campus.
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"It was all smiles at Seeta High School after a successful awareness drive on mental health and sickle cell," Ms Kariisa enthused.
"Our team collaborated with the Red Cross Society, Little Hands Go Green, and the Sickle Cell Rescue Foundation to raise awareness about mental health, first aid, and sickle cell, making a meaningful difference and creating an impact in the community."
She called on members to engage actively in planned projects and social activities and to continue building cohesion through meet-and-greets, plan interesting meetings and fellowships, and enhance our club's experience and vibrancy.
Looking ahead, Ms Kariisa noted that the annual Cancer Run is soon approaching.
"We urge everyone to bring partners on board, sell tickets, and secure a tent for our club and our baby clubs at Kololo Independence Grounds on August 25," she said.
"Let us also support our partners."
Ms Kariisa sees it all as an "irresistible journey" and she is determined to walk it, talk it, smile it and make it as rewarding as it can be for the Rotarians and the community she serves.
