For 34 years, I have devoted myself to shaping Mongolia’s future citizens, serving as both educator and social worker within the hallowed halls of learning. In this time, I have borne witness to the transformative projects and humanitarian efforts of Rotary, often joining hands with my students and colleagues to partake in their noble work. Particularly, the works of Zuunmod Rotary Club have left an indelible mark on the children of Tuv aimag. Without embellishment, I recount their deeds since 2020, a testament to their unwavering commitment.

My heart swells with gratitude for the revitalization of the “Humuun Complex” high school library, enriched with computers, desks, chairs, and essential equipment to foster a nurturing environment. The complete renovation of the elementary school’s sanitation facilities, funded with a generous 100 million tugriks, stands as a monumental achievement. When I served as a social worker, my school’s aging infrastructure struggled to meet the needs of modern students. The sanitation facilities, meant to be havens of cleanliness, had fallen into disrepair, plagued by leaks, foul odours, and dysfunction, resulting in constant complaints from students, citizens, and parents. Despite our pleas to numerous entities, only the Zuunmod Rotary Club answered with open hearts, fulfilling our fervent wishes.

The backbone of a social worker’s mission lies in the student council and its leaders. Among them was N. Nomin, my youngest council president, a prodigy whose talents knew no bounds. Graduating this year, she now thrives at the National University of Mongolia. Nomin, defying convention, fell in love with the art of flying under the mentorship of J. Bayarbat at the Tuv aimag Flying Club. Her prowess led her to become the first Mongolian woman to compete in the F2B Aerobatics World Championship in Poland, earning a silver medal. In 2024, she claimed another silver at the World Junior Championship in Indiana, USA. Air sport, a costly pursuit, demanded significant equipment, materials, and travel resources, which were too much for a pupil. While many contributed to her journey, the Zuunmod Rotary Club’s financial support for both championships was pivotal. Nomin’s social activism and dedication to community service also inspired her to found the Interact Youth Club under Zuunmod Rotary, a legacy much appreciated by her teacher.

In the shadow of the Covid crisis, when fear gripped our nation, Rotarians emerged as beacons of hope. Their donations of hand sanitizers, face masks, immune support products, and thermometers sustained schools, kindergartens, and hospitals. Their contributions of vital equipment to the provincial general hospital saved countless lives, a quiet heroism I witnessed firsthand.

In Zuunmod soum’s western part, or the 6th Bag, ger settlements languish far from clean water sources. In 2024, the Zuunmod Rotary Club unveiled a visionary project: constructing electronic drinking water wells for these distant households. Reading this endeavor in the newspaper filled me with joy, for clean water and a pristine environment are the bedrock of a healthy society. The project’s swift and exemplary execution brought elation not only to the 6th bag but to all who champion virtuous deeds.

As a social worker, I collaborate with organizations, individuals, and programs to safeguard the well-being of students and teachers, amplify their voices, and shield them from harm. In this noble pursuit, Rotarians stand as my most steadfast allies. I take pride in the Zuunmod Rotarians and am honored to chronicle their impact. Since embracing this role, I have grown even closer to them, aiding teachers and students with overseas surgeries and witnessing the light of hope kindled in their families. In its ceaseless flow, life brings moments of joy and sorrow, times of desperation and triumph. When it comes to delivering swift, meaningful impact for individuals, their organizations, communities, the children who illuminate tomorrow, the elderly, or anyone in need, Rotary rises like the Chandmani Mountain of lore, a wish-fulfiller that asks for nothing in return. Like the brave boy in my childhood tale, they stand as a celestial treasure, their deeds flowing like water and air to a society in need.

For 30 years, Rotary has flourished in Mongolia, its positive influence expanding through Rotaract and Interact clubs even in rurals. On this historic milestone, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the thousands of Mongolian Rotarians who have brought the Chandmani Mountain to life. May their luminous deeds and resolute path continue to inspire. The Rotarians I know are relentless in their pursuit of purpose, and though these examples merely glimpse their vast contributions, they illuminate the profound impact of their work in Zuunmod soum. May their legacy of goodness ripple ever outward.

PARTICIPANT IN THE PUBLIC COMPETITION:

Ariunaa Purvee, Senior teacher from Zuunmod soum, Tuv aimag

• Tel: 96007739
• Email: [email protected]
• 26.03.2025