When Jere Jantunen joined the Rotary Club of Lohja in 2016, it felt like a circle had closed. His father had been a Rotarian since 1967, and Rotary had been part of Jantunen’s childhood through meetings and events.
“When I was invited to join, it felt right to follow in my father’s footsteps. Becoming president of the Lohja club was particularly meaningful – I knew it was something he was proud of,” Jantunen recalls.
His Rotary journey has been fast-paced. He was immediately appointed club secretary and soon after, president. During his term, the Lohja clubs were merged – a major and instructive undertaking.
“I learned that I’m more of a big-picture thinker than a detail-oriented secretary – I was the worst in the world at that. But leading cooperation and managing change were valuable experiences.”
A Boating Gardener
Jantunen’s professional background ranges from the restaurant industry to municipal property and service management. He worked for many years as a public official in Lohja and the Western Uusimaa wellbeing services county in food and cleaning services, until health issues forced him to step away from working life.
“As a civil servant, I knew all the local politicians and learned how to build networks. That’s been a great asset in Rotary.”
In his free time, Jantunen enjoys his boat and countryside cottage. He’s a cruising boater and closely follows the condition of the Baltic Sea. Gardening, pets, and family also keep him busy:
“Our asparagus has been growing for twelve years now, and every summer we harvest blackberries, tomatoes, and zucchinis. My wife, our children, six grandchildren, and now two great-grandchildren complete the circle of life.”
More Stories, More Action
As the new district governor, Jantunen has a clear vision of where Rotary should focus.
“We do a lot of good work, but we need to talk about it more. Even just by going to the market square and chatting with people. Stories stick – we need more of them.”
Jantunen wants to continue the district’s strong collaboration and inspire clubs to attract new members. He believes the key to engaging new members lies in compelling projects. At the same time, he emphasizes internal clarity in the organization:
“We need to update the roles of assistant governors and committee chairs – right now they’re unclear to many.”
At the international level, one issue is especially close to his heart: eradicating polio.
“The last 10 percent is always the hardest. Rotary must raise $50 million so that the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will match it. That’s why I encourage all Rotarians to become monthly donors – even ten euros a month can make a big impact.”
The District Governor’s Three Messages to Rotarians:
- Get familiar with the My Rotary platform. “Everyone should create an account and take advantage of the massive resource bank.”
- Be proud of being a Rotarian. “We joined voluntarily – so why not share it boldly?”
- Bring a friend. “Invite a friend, neighbor, or family member to a meeting – and treat them to lunch.”
Jantunen sees a strong future for Rotary in Finland and Estonia:
“Our district has a great spirit and energy, and the cooperation between Finland and Estonia works beautifully. Youth exchange is our flagship program, but protecting the Baltic Sea and international projects are also at the core. No project is too small to be worth doing!”
Photo: Martin Heinrichs
