122 Service Above Self Award Recipients to be Honored in Calgary
By Rtn Sylvia Nankya
This Rotary year, 122 members will receive Rotary’s Service Above Self Award.
The prestigious award, honors Rotarians – and now also Rotaractors – who help others by volunteering their time and talents, and embody Rotary’s primary motto, Service Above Self. It is considered the highest honor bestowed on a member.
Recipients of the award are selected based on their ongoing, exemplary humanitarian service, with a focus on personal volunteer efforts and active involvement in helping others through Rotary.
It emphasizes continuous service rather than recognition for a single project or financial contributions and represents the pinnacle of recognition for Rotarians who dedicate themselves to humanitarian service.
Previously, several distinguished Rotarians from Uganda have been honored with the Service Above Self Award for their significant contributions. They include;
1. Nelson Musoke Kawalya (2001-2002)
A charter member of the Rotary Club of Mengo, Nelson Kawalya (RIP) was instrumental in the club’s formation in 1988 and later served as District Governor. His leadership and commitment to humanitarian service led to the expansion of impactful Rotary projects, particularly in health, education, and community devel
opment.
2. Samuel Frobisher Owori
A member of the Rotary Club of Kampala, Samuel Owori was selected as Rotary International President for 2018-19, becoming the second African to be elected to the position. He had previously recieved the Award in recognition of his leadership which significantly contributed to the growth of Rotary in Uganda and Africa, with a strong emphasis on membership expansion, community service, and leadership development. His passed on suddenly in 2017 before assuming the position.
3. Dr. Jim McWhirter
Though originally from the Henley Bridge Rotary Club and later with Reading Matins, Dr. McWhirter was recognized for his extensive medical missions in Kamuli Mission Hospital, Uganda. His efforts brought much-needed improvements to medical services by leveraging his connections within the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. His work greatly benefited both hospital staff and patients, showcasing Rotary’s commitment to improving healthcare access.
These recipients exemplify the spirit of Rotary through their tireless efforts to uplift communities, making a lasting impact in Uganda and beyond. Their legacy continues to inspire Rotarians worldwide to serve with passion, integrity, and commitment.
This years recipients will be invited to a special celebratory reception at the Rotary International Convention in Calgary, Canada, to honor their service. The convention starts on June 21, 2025