(25 Oct) Rotary 5th Regular Meeting and Welcoming of H.E. Mrs. Hoefter Zuccoli (+GAL)
In the true spirit of Rotary, we are delighted to share the highlights of our recent 5th joint regular meeting with the Sovereign Order of Malta. This exceptional gathering took place at the Hilton Hotel Sofia, marking another milestone in our commitment to service and fellowship.
The evening commenced with an official opening by our newest member, Mr. Domagoj Stefan, who set the tone for the meeting with his enthusiasm and dedication. President, Mr. Grant Dale extended a warm welcome to our distinguished guests, embodying the very essence of Rotary service for this year – the belief that through unity and shared purpose, we can create hope in the world.
We were honored to receive invitations from two fellow Rotary Clubs, RC Harmanli and RC Gotse Delchev, who are celebrating both the joys of wine and friendship and the remarkable 15-year journey of RC Gotse Delchev. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Rotary that we continue to forge connections and celebrate milestones together.
At the heart of our meeting was our acknowledgment of the Rehabilitation Center for Children with Oncohematologic Diseases. We take immense pride in our recent contribution to this worthy cause, a testament to our commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need.
Our Past President Ms. Ani Hristova, shared her enriching experience of an exchange dinner hosted by Rotary Club Chisinau Moldova. Among the distinguished guests were the President of the club, Mrs. Marina Teleaga, the Assistant District Governor, Mr. Dmitri Popa, Secretary Mrs. Silvia Volosatii, and the attendees of the Excellence in Music gala event that was a occasion to reinforced our belief in the power of international connections and sustaining culture and art.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the presentation by H.E. Mrs. Hoefter Zuccoli, the Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta. Her dedication to serving the needy, disabled, homeless, children, and the sick both in Bulgaria and around the world was truly inspiring. The Sovereign Order of Malta, with its rich 900-year history and a presence in Bulgaria since 2005, has thousands of members and volunteers engaged in hundreds of projects. These include providing essential medical and humanitarian aid in emergency situations, offering meals to the homeless, and donating vital medical equipment. Our club was moved by the Order’s commitment to serve those in need and supply essential resources in Bulgaria. The Order of Malta in Bulgaria is working exclusively through the Embassy and the many faithful and motivated volunteers.
This joint meeting provided a valuable opportunity for both Rotary Club Sofia International and the Sovereign Order of Malta to exchange project ideas and find common ground for future collaborations. It reaffirmed our shared mission of working together to serve others, demonstrating that when we unite in the spirit of service above self, we can achieve remarkable things.
The evening continued with delightful social fellowship, reinforcing the bonds of friendship that make Rotary so special. As we look forward to our next meeting on the 8th of November, we eagerly anticipate our sixth regular gathering, which will take place outside the Hilton at De Alte Lampe. This event will serve as a belated celebration of Oktoberfest, in honor of our German friends.
Thank you for being a part of our Rotary journey, and we look forward to many more opportunities to serve, connect, and make a positive impact on the world together.