RC Makati Rotary Anns’ Launch Learning Series with Fellowship in Sta. Elena

On August 4, the Rotary Anns, led by First Ann Trina Galvez, held their first monthly gathering for the Rotary year at the Acacia Waldorf School, The Farm Shed in Sta. Elena, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Eighteen members came together for an event that blended fellowship, learning, and inspiration—underscoring the group’s commitment to continuous personal growth and meaningful engagement. The day’s theme centered on the vital connections between soil health, ecology, composting, and community well-being—topics closely aligned with Rotary’s mission of service.

The program opened with thought-provoking presentations from two inspiring speakers: Ms. Hindy Weber-Tantoco, sustainable fashion designer and agripreneur, and Ms. Melanie Teng-Go, an emerging biologist and co-founder of the innovative Holy Carabao Farms. Together, they explored the deep relationship between food, health, and the evolving modern food system. They discussed how industrial farming, commercial marketing, and lifestyle shifts have distanced communities from wholesome, nutrient-rich diets. Addressing issues like genetic modification, excessive chemical use, and misleading food advertising, they urged a return to natural, mindful practices—growing and preparing real food, supporting small-scale local farms, eating seasonal produce, and cultivating gratitude for the nourishment nature provides.

Adding a hands-on dimension, Ms. Yvette de Leon-Manotoc, sister of First Ann Trina, delivered an engaging and practical talk on composting. She demonstrated how dried leaves and kitchen scraps can be transformed into nutrient-rich organic soil through a natural process. She introduced a special activator—created by burying a mixture for six months to harness both earth and cosmic energy—that accelerates decomposition and enhances soil vitality. Yvette showed how to energize the activator with water and vortexing before spraying it over layered organic waste. Beyond waste reduction, she framed composting as a sustainable, chemical-free practice that improves soil health, reconnects people with natural cycles, and supports healthier food production.

The gathering also featured a heartfelt reflection from First Lady Sue Ann Nolido, who began her Rotary journey in 2001 alongside her husband, now District Governor Reggie Nolido. At the time, she participated as a Rotary Ann—the title given to Rotarians’ spouses when Rotary was still an all-male organization, a tradition that RC Makati preserved. Over the years, she has been involved in numerous impactful projects and has come to see Rotary not just as an organization, but as a way of life rooted in compassion, dignity, and genuine human connection. Guided by Maya Angelou’s words—that people may forget what you said or did but will never forget how you made them feel—she shared her hope that every project she supports makes others feel seen, valued, and empowered. For her, changing even one life for the better is a success worth pursuing.

After the enlightening talks, the Anns enjoyed a sumptuous lunch sponsored by RC Makati, fostering camaraderie and strengthening bonds. With this successful first event, the Rotary Anns aim to make monthly activities a tradition—building relationships while exploring new ways to collaborate with Rotarians in serving communities in need.

Those who joined the fellowship included: Tess Aseoche, Jojo Borromeo, Angela Garcia, Tesha Garcia, Rachel Harrison, Camille Makasiar, Daianne Mempin, Queenie Mills, First Lady Sue Ann Nolido, Menchit Ordoveza and her daughter Margaux, PP Fred and Mely Parungao, Mitzi Parungao, Myda Prieto, Angela Quila, Menchu Tiglao, Caling Young, and Yvonne Kuan.