Susy is a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in economic development, with a proven track record of advancing regional prosperity and fostering community growth across Canada and the United States.

From 2019 to 2023, Susy served as CEO of 3+ Economic Development Corporation, where she led a comprehensive regional economic development strategy for Greater Moncton. Under her leadership, a dedicated team of professionals worked to increase economic opportunities for local residents, enhance business attraction, and support sustainable growth.

Susy is the co-founder and former CEO of Community Grants Associates, and previously held the role of Vice President at Randall Funding and Development. Throughout her career, she has supported clients in economic development, housing, and parks and recreation initiatives across North America.

Her leadership and community impact have been recognized with numerous awards, including:

• Canada 150 Recognition Award (2017)

• Community Recognition Award, YWCA Moncton (2017)

• Phenomenal Women Award, Business Professional Women’s Club of Greater Moncton (2019)

• Rotary Resiliency Award, Moncton Rotary Club (2022)

• Queen’s Jubilee Award (2023)

• Atlantic Business Magazine’s Most Powerful Women in Business Award (2023)

Academically, Susy holds a Combined Honours degree in Political Science and History, and a Master’s degree in International Relations and Political Theory from McMaster University, as well as an MBA from Université de Moncton. She also holds a Certificate in Economic Development.

Presentation Summary – Rotarian Anissa Mustafa
Rotary Club de Chiclayo, District 4465

Rotarian Anissa Mustafa delivered a compelling and informative presentation about the Rotary Club de Chiclayo, located in District 4465. She shared historical insights, current projects, and collaborative efforts that showcase the Club's strong legacy and vibrant future.

Founded on October 8, 1926, and certified on August 6, 1927, the Rotary Club de Chiclayo has a long-standing tradition of service. Anissa presented photographs of the Club's past presidents, the Board of Directors for 2024–2025, and members of both Rotaract and Interact. She also highlighted the important role played by her mother, Graciela Mustafa, who currently serves as President of the Ladies Committee.

The presentation emphasized Rotary’s areas of focus and the Club’s active role in various community initiatives, such as:

• Fundraising efforts

• Civic collaboration with local authorities

• Medical, environmental, and educational campaigns (e.g., school furniture and literacy programs)

• Tree planting

• Coordinated support with international partners, including:

  • Swan City Rotary Club of Grande Prairie (Alberta, Canada)

  • Rotary Gestagh (Germany)

  • Government of Sweden

  • Rotary Club of Sturbridge (United States)

The Ladies Committee and Youth Groups organize and participate in various events throughout the year, commemorating milestones such as the Club Anniversary, Rotary Anniversary, National Holidays, and World Polio Day. Their activities include bingo fundraisers, community events like the "Bicycle for Peace", and more.

Additionally, the Club has been instrumental in supporting impactful projects such as:

• An oxygen plant

• Irrigation systems

• A center for the rehabilitation of the blind

• Baking and sewing workshops to promote vocational training

Anissa concluded her presentation with two thoughtful reflections:

“The one who serves best, benefits.”
“Give of yourself, before thinking about yourself.”

Her words served as a powerful reminder of the Rotary spirit and the enduring impact of service above self.

Following Anissa's presentation, her mother, Rotarian Graciela Mustafa presented President Sherry with a banner from her Rotary Club of Chiclayo along with a beautiful handmade embroidery table runner shown in the photo below. Graciela has been a Rotarian for 52 years.  

Rotary Friendship Exchange to Peru – A Journey of Connection and Culture

Rotarian Noel Eustace recently shared an inspiring presentation with Club members about the Rotary Friendship Exchange he and his wife Karen participated in from February 14 to March 2, 2025. Their journey took them through the vibrant culture and landscapes of Peru, offering a memorable experience of fellowship, service, and discovery.

During the presentation, Noel shared interesting facts about Peru: the country is about one-eighth the size of Canada, with a population of approximately 34.5 million. The average monthly income in Peru is around $770, in contrast to Canada’s $4,760. These insights helped frame the economic and cultural differences the group encountered during their exchange.

The Canadian Rotarians visited the historic cities of Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco. Along the way, they connected with several Rotary Clubs, strengthening international friendships and Rotary ties. The trip was filled with highlights, including delicious local cuisine, stunning natural and urban scenery, engaging museums, traditional entertainment, and even a spectacular light show. We also learned about service projects including School Garden in Lima and Trade School for Youth.

A particularly memorable moment was completing the Coldest Night of the Year challenge—right in Peru! This meaningful act of solidarity underscored the service and camaraderie that define Rotary’s global mission.

Overall, it was a truly incredible Rotary Friendship Exchange—an experience filled with heart, culture, and connection.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Rotarian Stacey Couturier for receiving the Community Services Award from the Canadian Progress Club recognizing her 90.5 volunteer hours this year outside of organizing Progress events, bi-weekly business meetings and fundraising initiatives.

A Bittersweet Farewell for Our Rotary Youth Exchange Students

(Article provide by Julianna Mutch)

On Monday evening, Nadine Larche graciously hosted all of the Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) students, along with Julianna Mutch, RYE Events Coordinator, for a final celebration together. Jesse Kerpan was there in spirit, as he is currently working in Kenya.

As the exchange year comes to a close, we prepare to say goodbye to our Spanish students, who are departing this month, while our Ugandan students will be leaving in August. It was a bittersweet evening—filled with laughter, reflection, and fun!

When asked about their favourite part of their time in Canada, here's what the students had to say:

• Beni: Learning to ski!

• Rocio: The people!

• Elivan: Joining a choir!

• Victor: The snow!

We will truly miss these incredible young people and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. There’s no doubt they’ll go far!

A heartfelt thank-you to Nadine Larche for being the hostess with the mostest and making the evening so special.

Pictured from left to right:

• Victor Pita, Spain

• Beni Enosh, Uganda

• Rocio Rodriguez, Spain

• Elivan Kasigeire, Uganda

Ribfest June 19-22, 2025