Rotary’s image as an exclusive club for retirees and older adults is rapidly evolving. Ask 34-year-old Indeevar Duhan – the new president of the Rotary Club of Tauranga Sunrise.

A dedicated club member for four years, Indeevar represents a wave of younger individuals joining the ranks of Rotary.

“I first encountered Rotary while pursuing my MBA at Waikato University,” says Indeevar, a registered nurse who also launched his own company.

“I was eager to enhance my business skills and found Rotary to be a valuable networking platform.”

Introduced to the club by Nathan Capper in 2021, Indeevar was initially drawn by the networking opportunities. However, he soon appreciated Rotary’s commitment to service.

No-judgement perspective 

“As a nurse, I saw first-hand how Rotary could assist those in need. What kept me involved was the camaraderie, the laughter – people cracking jokes – and the welcoming environment.

"I love the fellowship where people try to get to know each other from a zero non-judgemental perspective.”

Having moved to New Zealand in 2008, Indeevar adapted well to Kiwi culture and hopes his parents will eventually join him. He began his nursing career at age 20, inspired by a strong family tradition of care.

“Nursing felt like a natural fit for me. I’d seen the culture of care in my own home with my parents looking after my grandparents. Nursing marries up my knowledge of human anatomy and physiology with a deep-seated desire to care for others.”

Indeevar’s pursuit of an MBA was a logical extension of his nursing career.

“I wanted a broader understanding of healthcare management, particularly the complexities of funding and administration.”

This new perspective has informed his ongoing work as a registered nurse and his recent venture into business with Signature Health Group, a home and community health service he founded in March 2024.

“We go out to people and make sure they stay happy and healthy living in their homes with their families, away from the hospital.”

‘Given me the wings’ 

Indeevar’s progression from Rotary club director to president reflects his commitment and enthusiasm for the organisation.

“Rotary’s multifaceted aspects motivated me to take on more responsibilities. The culture of the club has given me the wings, and it’s fun.

“The team I’m joining is fantastic and supportive with assistant governor Pat Taylor, and previous president and secretary Michele and Simon Beaton just a phone call away, and they respond with the precise information I need.”

As he steps into his role as president, Indeevar has outlined four key goals for the 2024/2025 year: increasing membership and impact, expanding the club’s reach, enhancing adaptability; and, most importantly, ensuring the club remains enjoyable.

“We need to be responsive to community needs, such as the rising cost of living,” says Indeevar.

“Growing our membership will foster camaraderie and enhance our community outreach, supporting charities like Waipuna Hospice and the Graeme Dingle Foundation.”

Enriched voice 

Secretary Kathy Webb says the club’s membership has become more diverse in the past five years, with members like Indeevar, Shiv Thammalla, and Arshdeep Singh bringing new perspectives.

“This shift has enriched our club’s voice.”

With an ambitious agenda for the year ahead, the Tauranga Sunrise club is to continue to make a positive impact and embrace a vibrant new era of service.

“The key message I want to convey is that Rotary is fun,” says Indeevar.

“I’m excited about making a positive difference and enjoying the camaraderie. It’s a motivating experience, and I look forward to what we’ll achieve together, making one change at a time.”

Upcoming project

The Kōpūrererua Valley Rotary Centennial Trust needs 200 volunteers to plant 4500 native trees and shrubs on September 29.

The valley’s network of walking and cycle paths gives the public access to this open green space, its rich history, and a convenient way to bypass traffic congestion.

Volunteers who can help from 9.30am-12.30pm on September 29 can register at: www.eventspronto.co.nz/event5622