I’ve often joked that “if you take swimming lessons by mail, you risk drowning halfway through the third letter”.You don’t learn the role of Assistant Governor from PowerPoint slides, but through hands-on work in clubs and among people.
Few words about my own rotary career
After joining the Tikkurila Rotary Club in autumn 2021, things progressed quickly: I became club president for 2023–24 and Assistant Governor in spring 2025. My actual AG term began in autumn 2025, and I’m still on that path. Rotary matters have come at a fast pace, and the MyRotary Learning Center has been invaluable in helping me understand what the role requires and how I can add value. My two years on the Training Committee have further deepened my understanding of Rotary’s foundations – as we know, the trainer always learns the most.
The role of assistant governor
An AG serves as an important link, supporter and sparring partner between the District Governor and the clubs. The role demands activity: maintaining connections, visiting clubs, engaging in conversations, participating in events and familiarising oneself with club plans.
Key responsibilities of an AG
- Club support — serves as the closest support for clubs and their presidents, helping them achieve their goals.
- Liaison — communicates information and acts as a link between the District Governor, district leadership and the clubs in the assigned area.
- Governor’s visits — assists in coordinating the District Governor’s official annual club visit.
- Area cooperation — promotes collaboration and information flow between clubs and may organise area meetings.
- Orientation and strategy — supports the training of new club presidents and helps implement district strategies in practice.
If you are one day asked to become an AG, accept the challenge proudly – you will learn a great deal and gain new Rotary friends.
Text: Juha Merinen, Tikkurilan Rotaryklubi
