Deborah Sass - eClub Secretary

Editor’s Note
This article is part of an ongoing series profiling the Board members of ReCII, a new kind of Rotary eClub led by professionals - many of whom had never set foot in Rotary before stepping into leadership.

Each piece offers a candid look behind the scenes: the responsibilities, the surprises, the challenges, and the deeply human rewards. It’s written in the hope that others might see a little of themselves in these stories - and feel encouraged to take their own step forward.

And for those who know Deborah Sass, “secretary” isn’t a title that springs to mind. She’s a founder, a force, an entrepreneur through and through. But true to form, she stepped up. She learned the ropes, rolled up her sleeves, and continues to serve with spirit, humour, and a relentless drive to get things done.

Rewriting the Rotary Rulebook,
One Event at a Time

Deborah Sass

When people think of Rotary, they don’t usually picture a big gay wedding in Madrid – but that’s exactly where my journey began.

Denise – now President of Rotary eClub Ibiza International – was the MC at that event. She spoke fluent English, German, and Spanish. One groom was German, the other Spanish, and most guests spoke only English. She kept the whole thing flowing effortlessly.

That moment sparked a friendship – and eventually, an invitation.

When Denise proposed starting a brand-new Rotary club, my first instinct was skepticism. My perception of Rotary was a bunch of well-off retirees sitting around drinking wine and writing cheques. Denise wasn’t any of that. Her energy was contagious, and what she described was hands-on: giving back to our Ibiza community in a way that actually did something.

Rewriting the Script

I’m now Club Secretary of the Rotary eClub Ibiza International (ReCII).

In the beginning, I knew absolutely nothing about how Rotary worked. But with a bit of guidance and a few lessons, I figured it out. Now I handle all the fun stuff—offered a little tongue-in-cheek, since it’s mainly admin. But here’s the thing: I’ve found I actually enjoy it.

I’ve also helped build the club from the ground up. Denise spoke to everyone she knew. I did the same. Some friends I thought wouldn’t be interested joined right away. Others I was sure would love it said they didn’t have the time. That was eye-opening – more on that in a moment. It was also largely understandable, but often misinformed. Rotary is changing, as you’ll see.

Making Space for Professionals

One of my proudest contributions is launching the Ibiza Professionals project, an invite-only networking initiative born from my own frustration. It was hard to find meaningful ways to connect with other professionals here. So I pitched the idea, and it’s been a hit.

Our first event was oversubscribed – with a waiting list! We’re bringing together entrepreneurs, business owners, and specialists from over 25 nationalities every two months. The icing on the cake? We also use it as an opportunity to raise funds for local charities.

Real People, Real Service

Rotary, I’ve learned, isn’t what people think it is.

The commitment? Well, we’re a new kind of Rotary Club – a hybrid eClub designed to suit busy lives and modern schedules. Our members range in age from 35 to 75 and are mostly hardworking professionals, so we keep things efficient and engaging. We meet online once a week, three times a month, and hold one in-person meeting each month in the evening after work. It runs for about three hours and is always part meeting, part social – and genuinely great fun.

And in return, you build real relationships and contribute in real ways, because outside of those meetings, we work together on projects that benefit the community.

And speaking of community – I’ve been blown away by the generosity of spirit in this group. Everyone in ReCII shares a deep love of selfless service. The time, the commitment – it’s inspiring.

Rotary is the largest global service organization, with 1.4 million volunteers. It’s for everyone. It changes lives. And one of the loveliest side effects? You meet people who become lifelong friends.

Looking Ahead

Right now, I’m focused on expanding the Ibiza Professionals project and shifting perceptions about Rotary.

Education and awareness are hugely important. People need to understand that Rotary isn’t outdated – it’s evolving. We’re the proof.

And if I have my way, the Ibiza Professionals model will soon inspire other Rotary clubs around the world. That’s the dream: real impact, real connection, and a lot of fun along the way.

Thinking About Rotary?

If you’ve ever thought Rotary wasn’t for you – I get it. I thought the same. But now I’m part of a Rotary that’s evolving, inclusive, and unexpectedly aligned with who I am. Turns out, it fits better than I ever expected.

Deborah Sass.
Club Secretary
ReCII, 2024-25