Alleyne lauded as first Barbadian female in post

Rotarian Sonya Alleyne has become the first Barbadian female to be elected District Governor for the southern Caribbean and South America.

Her elevation was announced at the Rotary Club of Barbados South’s installation of officers ceremony at the Barbados Hilton Resort Hotel on Wednesday.

Alleyne, who assumes duties next year, was lauded publicly for her elevation and contribution to service by newly-installed President Michael Forde, guest speaker Cleviston Haynes, Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados and fellow Rotarians.

“All of the presidents, people like me, will look to her for some kind of guidance,” Forde said. “She will co-ordinate efforts,” he explained.
Alleyne was president of Rotary Club of Barbados South from 2012 to 2013. She has received several awards and recognition for her service to the club and the Barbadian community.

“Let me also congratulate Sonya Alleyne. Your pending elevation to the role of District Governor is indeed a personal honour for you and an honour to the club. It is all the more significant because you are the first female in Barbados to attain this prestigious office,” Governor Haynes said.

The responsibility of District Governor covers more than 72 Rotary and Rotoract Clubs in 17 countries in the southern Caribbean and South America and  navigating three Languages.

“My role is To carry out the expectations of the Rotary International President which revolve around the strategic priorities, to increase our impact, expand our reach and enhance participant engagement as well as  increase our ability to adapt,” Alleyne explained.

She said Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbours, friends, leaders and problem solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create change. (HH)