I’m incredibly honoured to step into the role of President of the Rotary Club of Hamilton for the 2025–2026 year. This club has stood at the heart of our city since 1913, and I’m proud to carry that legacy forward — not just with tradition, but with vision, heart, and a renewed sense of purpose.

And what better way to begin this journey than with something deeply personal and symbolic?

At our Rotary Garden Celebration, I had the privilege of unveiling a one-of-a-kind Dreamcatcher — handcrafted by my wife, Michelle Oldfield.

Now, let me take a moment to say how proud I am of Michelle. She is a strong, talented, and inspiring Indigenous Mohawk woman, and her work reflects not just her incredible artistry, but her deep connection to culture, meaning, and healing. The Dreamcatcher she created, titled “The Dream of Service,” was made with intention, beauty, and purpose.

The design isn’t just decorative — it’s symbolic.

• Six golden spokes at the centre echo the Rotary wheel, representing strength, shared responsibility, and motion.
  
• Twenty-four beads encircle it, each representing an hour of the day — a reminder that our service doesn’t sleep.
  
• The yellow and blue colours honour the Rotary brand, but also reflect Indigenous teachings of clarity, hope, and unity.

This Dreamcatcher is now a symbol of the direction we are heading as a club: forward-thinking, inclusive, community-focused — and committed to Truth and Reconciliation in both word and action.

As President, I believe Rotary is more than weekly meetings and service projects — it’s a platform for real impact. It’s about connection, storytelling, and using our voices and resources to lift others. And it starts by honouring the voices that haven’t always been heard.

Michelle’s creation represents that belief. It’s a reminder that our club is not only rooted in service — it’s also rooted in people, in culture, and in the dreams we choose to build together.

To every Rotarian, supporter, and friend: thank you. I’m excited about the year ahead. Let’s lead with purpose, serve with pride, and dream big — together.