Events

Professor Ross Lawrenson is a senior academic at University of Waikato Medical School and a respected leader in population health and primary care research.

As Director of Medicine, he has played a key role in shaping the development of the Waikato Medical School and advocating for a third medical school in New Zealand to address workforce shortages and improve health outcomes, particularly in rural and underserved communities .

His work spans cancer epidemiology, health equity, and the use of data to inform better healthcare decisions, and he is widely recognised for his collaborative approach with clinicians, policymakers, and communities to translate research into practical improvements in patient care.

This week, we’ll be hearing from 5 attendees at this year’s RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) programme.

RYLA is a Rotary-sponsored leadership development programme for young people, typically aged 20–26, focused on building confidence, communication skills, and a strong sense of community leadership.

Through workshops, guest speakers, and team-based challenges, participants are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally while forming lasting connections with like-minded peers. RYLA aims to inspire the next generation of leaders to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

kindly arranged by Philip Coles

President Laurie passes on the chain of office to incoming Pres Shona

Miriam Ellis is the founder of Cycle Coffee Company, where great coffee, genuine connections and community are at the heart of everything she does.

Before building her business, Miriam forged an impressive sporting career as a competitive cyclist, representing New Zealand on the international stage. The resilience, discipline and determination developed through elite sport have continued to shape her approach to business and leadership.

Today, Miriam combines her entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for bringing people together through exceptional coffee and welcoming spaces. Join us as she shares her journey from elite sport to business ownership, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the importance of backing yourself when taking on life's next challenge.

Camille Guzwell is a well-known and much-loved broadcaster with The Breeze, where her warmth, humour and genuine interest in people have made her a familiar voice to listeners across the Waikato.

Beyond the microphone, Camille is a passionate supporter of her community, regularly championing local organisations, events and charities, and using her platform to celebrate the people and stories that make our region such a great place to live. Her approachable nature, infectious enthusiasm and quick wit have made her a favourite at community events and a trusted voice on local issues.

Camille will share a little about her journey in radio, what goes on behind the scenes, and some of the memorable people, experiences, and moments she's encountered along the way.

This will be catered by a Music Group - The Jazz Bandit who have qualified with a jazz piece that Hunter Davis composed. They will be travelling down to Wellington to compete in the National Competition. They are delighted to have this as a fundraiser.

Liz Stolwyk has dedicated much of her career to serving the communities of the Waikato through local government. In her current role with Waikato Regional Council, and previously with Waipā District Council, she has worked across a broad range of initiatives that help shape the places where we live, work and play.

Known for her practical approach, has developed a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing our region. Her work has seen her partner with elected members, community groups, and a wide range of stakeholders to deliver projects and initiatives that make a real difference.

Liz will share insights into her experiences with both Waikato Regional Council and Waipā District Council, and some of the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for our region.

Evie Ismay

Evie Ismay is no stranger to Cambridge Rotary, having previously shared her inspiring Hands Up To Help initiative while still at high school. Evie has a big heart for her community – just like her grandmother, Bev Maul-Rogers.

This time, Evie returns her latest fundraising adventure in support of the Pirongia Te Aroaro o Kahu Restoration Society. Along with her friend Chris, she is taking on the incredible challenge of walking the length of New Zealand to raise both awareness and funds for the restoration of Mount Pirongia's unique native environment.

Join us to hear about the inspiration behind their journey, the preparations for such an ambitious challenge, and how they hope their walk will make a lasting difference for one of our region's most treasured landscapes.

Raewyn Kirkman is well known to many across the Waikato through her longstanding commitment to Rotary, community leadership, and philanthropy. As Chief Executive of the DV Bryant Trust, she works alongside organisations throughout the region to help strengthen communities and support initiatives that make a lasting difference.

A Past District Governor of Rotary and an active member of Rotary Sunshine, Raewyn has dedicated many years to service above self, building strong relationships and supporting projects both locally and internationally.

Having recently returned from a remarkable journey to Antarctica, Raewyn will share some of her experiences and reflections from this unique part of the world. It promises to be an engaging presentation, offering a glimpse into one of the most remote and fascinating places on Earth through the eyes of someone who has experienced it firsthand.

Professor Claire McLachlan – Thursday 10 September

Professor Claire McLachlan is one of our newer Rotary Cambridge members and brings with her an extensive background in education, teaching, and research.

Claire has spent much of her career exploring how children learn and the experiences that help set them up for success. Her academic work spans early childhood and primary education, and she has worked alongside educators and researchers to contribute to our understanding of teaching and learning in New Zealand.

At our upcoming meeting, Claire will give us an insight into her current research project in primary school education – sharing a little about the work being undertaken, what they are learning along the way, and why the research matters.

It will also be a great opportunity for us to learn a little more about Claire, her work and the passion for education that has shaped her career.

Kevin Burgess will be a familiar face to many of us and has a longstanding connection with the Cambridge community. He joins us to talk about the work of the Cambridge Community Trust and the important role it plays in supporting local people and families..

The Trust provides a range of services and practical support for people navigating some of life’s challenges. Much of its work happens quietly behind the scenes, helping people when they need it and strengthening connections across our community.

Kevin will share a little more about what the Cambridge Community Trust does, who it supports and some of the needs the team is seeing locally. It’s also a chance to hear more about an organisation that is very much part of our Cambridge community and the difference it is making close to home.