Old Fort

We meet In Person
Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.
The Balmoral Club
78 Sanford Drive
Nassau,
Bahamas
1st and 3rd Wednesday of each Month
Welcome to the Rotary Club of Old Fort
We are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Learn more about us below.
Club Executives & Directors
President
Immediate Past President
President Elect
Vice President
2nd Vice president
Assistant Treasurer
Secretary
Executive Secretary
Sargeant-at-Arms
Club Administration Chair
Club Membership Chair
Foundation Chair
Club Public Image Chair
Club Public Image Chair
Service Projects Co-Chair
Service Projects Co-Chair
Disaster Relief Chair
Fundraising Chair
Environment Chair
Club Young Leaders Contact
Club Learning Facilitator
Mental Health Champion
STEM Saturdays Coordinator
Senior Advisor
Club Stories
 

We are delighted to announce Rotarian Dr. Petra Forbes as RCOF’s Mental Wellness Champion for the 2026-2027 Rotary year.

 

A respected psychiatrist with the Public Hospitals Authority of The Bahamas, Rtn. Dr. Forbes brings a wealth of expertise in mental health care, with experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through life’s challenges. She has served as Mental Wellness Chair for the Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas and has been a member of RCOF for 8 years.

Throughout the year, she will champion initiatives that promote awareness, resilience, and meaningful conversations around mental wellness while helping to strengthen fellowship and member well-being within our club. We are pleased to have her expertise, compassion, and leadership guiding this important initiative.  

 

In recognition of Maternal and Child Health Month, on July 29, members of RCOF came together for our third annual hands-on packing party to assemble care packages for mothers and newborns at Princess Margaret Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care and Critical Care Unit (NICCU). The evening was filled with fellowship and service as members sorted, packed, and organized the essential items. The packing party reflected the club’s shared commitment to supporting families, demonstrating that meaningful service begins long before a donation is formally presented.

On July 30, in partnership with Nassau Agencies Limited (NAL), RCOF donated the care packages to the NICCU. The packages included preemie/newborn diapers, sensitive baby body washes, multivitamin packs for mothers, baby wipes, and postpartum self-care kits containing maternal vitamins, moisturizing cream, and a care guide highlighting the signs of postpartum blues and available support resources.

The initiative reflects the club’s commitment to supporting both mothers and newborns during one of life’s most critical moments, ensuring families have access to essential items that promote the health and well-being of both mother and child.

The presentation was attended by representatives of PMH NICCU, the PHA Foundation, and PMH Administration, along with RCOF board members and club members.

 

Our club was pleased to welcome Dr. Agatha Foulkes-Mackey to speak on the topic: "Supporting Mothers Through the Reproductive Journey: From Prenatal Care to Postpartum Recovery and Beyond".

She shared her expertise in obstetrics, postpartum care, and women’s hormonal health, with a focus on supporting mothers through the reproductive journey, including prenatal counseling and high‑risk antenatal care, safe delivery and postpartum recovery, early maternal‑infant bonding, and longer‑term considerations such as postpartum hormonal changes and midlife reproductive wellness. 

Our Disaster Relief Chair & Sergeant-at-Arms Cleophas Smith provided a disaster preparedness presentation and launched the first step in our club’s Disaster Preparedness Plan. We ended the evening with a Rotary After Dark - Independence Style social, where members dressed in Bahamian flag colors and enjoyed trivia, games, food and fellowship.

 

 

We began the new Rotary year with our first official meeting and the installation of our board. RCOF was honored to host, Mr. Herschel J. Walker, United States Ambassador to The Bahamas as our inaugural speaker. 

Speaking on the topic: “Create Lasting Impact”,  Ambassador Walker shared his distinguished record of leadership across athletics, business, civic life, and public service, which was a profound encouragement to our 2026-2027 executive board and membership at the start this year.

Our 2026-2027 executive board was installed by Assistant Governor Lionel Haven and the outgoing board extended its gratitude to Immediate Past President O’Niel Bain for his service in the 2025-2026 Rotary year.

 

  

A new chapter in community health and emergency readiness began on Saturday, July 26th, 2025, with the official launch of the HeartSafe Bahamas campaign, an initiative led by the Rotary Club of Old Fort aimed at making The Bahamas a cardiac-safe nation — one community at a time.

Held at the Fox Hill Community Centre, the inaugural event marked the first public installation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and the beginning of CPR/AED training sessions. The initiative will unite health professionals, volunteers, civic leaders, and citizens under a shared goal: saving lives.

President of RCOF Mr. O’Niel Bain stated, “Rotary District 7020 Governor Dr. William “Bill” Aiken has set this year’s theme as 'Recognize Needs. Transform Lives' and encouraged clubs to focus on installing AEDs in public locations to help save lives during cardiac emergencies. The Rotary Club of Old Fort is continuing its track record of impactful service projects by launching our HeartSafe Bahamas campaign in recognition of this goal. We will be continuing this initiative with additional AED installations in public locations around the island as well as raising awareness of heart-related illnesses and prevention.”

The Rotary Club of Old Fort proudly announces the installation of its Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 Rotary year. The new leadership team is set to guide the Club in continuing its mission of service, fellowship, and community impact locally and internationally.

Incoming President O’Niel Bain will lead the Club under the Rotary International theme for the year, “Unite for Good”. President O’Niel succeeds Immediate Past President Nateisha Bain, whose tenure was marked by significant achievements, including the District 7020 Governor’s Red Diamond Award, the District Governor’s Trophy for Peace, and the Zone 34 Public Image Award.

 

During our March meetings, we proudly promoted HANWASH (Haiti National Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Initiative) raising $1,000 in generous contributions from both members and guests. This fundraising effort is a testament to our collective commitment to supporting clean water and sanitation projects in Haiti. The funds raised will be donated directly to HANWASH, helping to further their mission of improving water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions in communities across the country. This initiative not only highlights our dedication to global service but also strengthens our role in addressing critical issues affecting public health worldwide.

 

At the March 19 meeting, Charles Beall, CEO and President of Pure H2O, delivered a compelling talk on the critical importance of delivering clean water to communities, emphasizing the fundamental role water plays in public health, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Beall highlighted the challenges and solutions involved in ensuring access to safe and reliable water sources, especially in underserved areas. He underscored the need for continued innovation and investment in water purification and distribution technologies to meet the growing demands of a changing global population. His presentation reinforced the vital connection between clean water access and overall well-being, inspiring attendees to support initiatives that promote water security for all.

Each Saturday in March, the club continued with its signature STEM Saturdays Program, a wonderful initiative aimed at inspiring underserved youth to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. This hands-on program fosters creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills in the younger generation, opening up opportunities for future careers in STEM fields. These sessions are currently geared towards developing student’s skills in coding through the use of platforms provided by MIT to create animations and stories.

At our club meeting held on March 5, Cyprian Gibson, Deputy General Manager of the Water & Sewerage Corporation of The Bahamas, delivered an insightful talk on the crucial role of supplying clean water and sanitation facilities in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Highlighting the ongoing efforts of the Water & Sewerage Corporation, Mr. Gibson emphasized the importance of maintaining robust water and sanitation infrastructure to safeguard public health. His presentation underscored the need for continued investment in these essential services, particularly in the face of climate change and population growth, to ensure a sustainable and healthy future for all Bahamians.

In celebration of International Women's Day on March 8, the female Rotarians of the Club were celebrated at this meeting for their unwavering dedication and contributions to the community. As a gesture of appreciation, attendees were treated to delightful treats, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.

  

To cap off a month filled with impactful, peacebuilding activities, RCOF hosted a special screening of the Bob Marley: One Love Movie as a social and fundraiser event. The screening brought together members and the community for a night of entertainment and reflection on the life and legacy of the legendary musician through art and music, while also raising funds for future community service and peace projects.

 

On February 22nd, members of RCOF joined the Road To Peace Committee of The Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas at The Road to Peace Peace Pole Ceremony at Lend A Hand Bahamas in The Grant’s Town Community.
 
Rotarians assisted with the Peace Pole installation, a Peace Walk (25 mins), and painting of the Peace Mural.
 
May be an image of 4 people.  May be an image of 4 people

On February 22, our club hosted a New Member Orientation to welcome and introduce new members (2 years and younger) to the values and activities of Rotary. The session provided an overview of the club’s mission, goals, and opportunities for engagement in both local and international service projects.

 

At the February 19 meeting, the Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Rolle shared valuable insights into Crime Prevention, Peacebuilding, and Conflict Resolution in the Bahamas. His presentation highlighted the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, communities, and organizations like Rotary in maintaining peace and safety. He spoke on the role of law enforcement in proactive peacebuilding and provided strategies for reducing crime through community engagement.

RCOF’s Peace Webinar Series kicked off with a powerful session by Past President Novelette Grant of the Rotary Club of Manor Park, Rotary Caribbean Peace Activator and Institute for Economics and Peace Ambassador who spoke on the topic, “Positive Peace: A Framework for Rethinking Our Approach to Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention”. The webinar was attended by members of the Rotary Club of Old Fort and District 7020. PP Novelette’s presentation provided a comprehensive look at how positive peace can be cultivated in communities to prevent conflict and foster sustainable peace.

The Second Installment of the Peace Webinar series was held on February 26, 2025 where we heard from: Dr. Katherine Wilson who spoke on Tools for Transforming Conflict and Building Bridges.

On February 8, the club hosted its signature STEM Saturdays Program, a wonderful initiative aimed at inspiring youth to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. This hands-on program fosters creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills in the younger generation, opening up opportunities for future careers in STEM fields.


On February 5, our club had the honor of welcoming Rotarian Azaleta Ishmael-Newry and David Locket as guest speakers. They shared insightful details about the PACT Coaching Program, a valuable initiative that supports youth in the juvenile justice system. The program focuses on providing mentorship and life skills to at-risk youth, helping them navigate challenges and build positive futures.


The second semester of STEM Saturdays commenced on January 18 under the new theme of the marine ecosystems which presents an exciting opportunity for students to explore the diverse and vital environments of our oceans and waterways. 

Through hands-on activities and interactive lessons, students will learn about the critical roles marine ecosystems play in maintaining biodiversity, supporting coastal communities, and regulating climate. Through hands-on activities and interactive lessons, students will learn about the critical roles marine ecosystems play in maintaining biodiversity, supporting coastal communities, and regulating climate. This semester's STEM Saturdays program aims to encourage students to investigate the intricacies of coral reefs, mangroves, and other marine habitats, fostering a deeper understanding of their importance to the planet’s health. By focusing on marine ecosystems, STEM Saturdays aims to inspire future environmental stewards and promote awareness about the urgent need to protect these invaluable resources for generations to come.

 

On January 21, 2025, under the theme, “Your Passport to Destination Success”, the Rotary Club of Old Fort hosted an inspiring Career Day at Adelaide Primary School, engaging students in grades 4, 5, and 6 with a diverse group of professionals from eight different vocations. Each speaker gave an insightful talk about their career paths, highlighting the skills, qualifications, and personal qualities necessary to succeed in their field. After the presentations, the professionals stood at exhibition booths where students had the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the day-to-day realities of various careers. The event provided invaluable advice and tips, helping the students understand how they could pursue their dream careers by developing the right skills, staying focused, and persevering through challenges. It was a motivating and interactive day that opened the students' eyes to the wide range of opportunities ahead of them. The club also made a donation of additional school supplies to the students for the current school year. 

 

 

At the first meeting of the new year, January 15, 2025, Mr. Roger Archer, Vice President and Head of Caribbean North for Scotiabank Bahamas Limited, delivered an engaging presentation on the evolution of banking in the Caribbean. He shared insights into how the banking sector has transformed over the years, from traditional banking methods to the innovative digital solutions shaping the future of financial services. Archer also took the opportunity to highlight the significance of Vocational Services Month in Rotary, emphasizing how vocational development plays a crucial role in shaping communities and providing individuals with the tools to succeed in their careers and their personal lives. His speech was a thought-provoking reminder of the ongoing changes in both the banking industry and the wider world of professional development, aligning perfectly with Rotary's commitment to fostering skills and knowledge for the betterment of society.

During the meeting, we also announced the winner receiving the most votes for Rotarian of Quarter 2, Club Administration Chair Ebony Rolle. Ebony has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication in organizing each meeting with precision and enthusiasm. Her hard work behind the scenes has played a key role in ensuring the smooth running of club activities, creating an engaging and welcoming environment for all members. We are proud to have Ebony as a part of our Rotary family!

 

 

 
Message from the President
 
As we come together to celebrate this joyful season, we reflect on the incredible Rotary year we’ve had so far, and we are filled with gratitude. I want to extend my warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to our members, our community, our partners and our extended Rotary family.
 
This year, thanks to your unwavering support and dedication, we have been able to achieve so much. Through our successful community service initiatives we have organized maternity donations, smart TV and peace garden transformations at Adelaide Primary School, our STEM Saturdays program, coastal and community clean ups, reading and literacy events, entrepreneurship incubators, health fairs and Christmas gift giveaways all while connecting with each other through engaging socials, general meetings and movie pre-screenings.
 
Your hard work has created a lasting impact in the lives of those in need and we couldn’t have done it without your passion and commitment.
 
As we look to 2025, we are filled with hope and excitement for the great things that lie ahead. There is still much to be done, but with the continued support of our partners and the strength of our RCOF family, I know we will accomplish even greater feats. 
 
This season is a time to appreciate the true meaning of giving and community, and I am so grateful to walk this path alongside each of you. 
 
May this holiday season bring peace, joy, and love to you and your families, and may the new year be filled with continued success and new opportunities for service.
 
Thank you for being an essential part of our journey. Here’s to another year of making a lasting difference together!
 
Yours in Rotary Service,
Nateisha Bain
President 2024-2025
Rotary Club of Old Fort
On December 14, the Rotary Club of Old Fort kicked off the holiday season with a successful community event, the “Your Health: Your Wealth” Gambier Community Christmas Health Fair, held at the Gambier Community Park. This event brought together members of the community for a day filled with health education, fun activities, and festive cheer, all aimed at promoting wellness and celebrating the holiday season.
 
Free Health Screenings
 
A major highlight of the event was the wide range of **free health screenings** available to attendees. Health professionals were on hand to conduct dental checkups, glucose testing, blood pressure monitoring, BMI assessments, and cholesterol screenings. These vital tests offered participants an excellent opportunity to check in on their health, with many people taking advantage of the chance to monitor key indicators and get personalized advice from health experts.
 
Wellness Booths
 
In addition to the screenings, several wellness booths were set up by prominent organizations such as The Kidney Association, the Diabetes Association, and the Alzheimer’s Association. These booths provided valuable information, offering tips for healthy living and preventative measures to manage and reduce the risks of chronic conditions. Attendees walked away with practical advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing their well-being throughout the year.
 
Zumba and Fitness Demos
 
To encourage physical activity and inspire attendees to stay active, the event featured exciting Zumba and fitness demos. Led by Jay Fitness and the Zumba Fitness Dynamic Duo, the demonstrations brought high-energy workouts to the park, with community members joining in to dance and move to the rhythm. The dynamic session highlighted the importance of staying active for physical and mental health, while providing a fun and inclusive environment for people of all ages to participate.
 
Fun and Gifts for the Kids
 
The event wasn’t just about health—it was also about bringing festive joy to the youngest members of the community. Kids enjoyed hours of fun with a bouncing castle, face painting, and even a special visit from Santa Clause. 
This holiday season, the members of the Rotary Club of Old Fort came together to bring extra joy and warmth to the Gambier community in a special way. As part of our ongoing commitment to service, Rotarians donated Christmas gifts, which were wrapped and distributed at the fair. The festivities were a great way to keep the little ones engaged while parents took advantage of the health resources available.
 
Food and Healthy Treats
 
To complement the health-focused activities, the fair offered nutritious snacks and refreshing drinks, giving attendees a chance to indulge in tasty yet healthy treats while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
The Rotary Club of Old Fort is proud to have hosted such a successful and impactful event, which truly embodied the spirit of Rotary—service to others, community engagement, and making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. 
 
We look forward to continuing our commitment to community health and wellness in the coming year. 
 
 
  
 
 
 
On December 19, the Rotary Club of Old Fort (RCOF) hosted a memorable and exciting fundraiser at Fusion Superplex, where members, friends, and supporters gathered for a special pre-screening of Mufasa: The Lion King. This exclusive event not only offered an opportunity to enjoy a highly anticipated film but also served as a vibrant evening of entertainment, community spirit, and support for the club's ongoing community service initiatives.
 
The evening kicked off with a dynamic performance by a local dance group. Their energy and creativity captivated the audience, sparking cheers while guests enjoyed complimentary libations.
 
 
 
 
At the December 4th meeting, RCOF embraced the monthly theme of Disease Prevention and Treatment with Job and Health Talks by its newest members, Dr. Avery Cunningham and Dr. Yasmine Cooke, both distinguished physicians committed to promoting health and wellness in our community. 
 
Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Cooke both took the floor to deliver insightful job talks. Their presentations not only introduced them to the members but also provided valuable health knowledge and practical tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The meeting was a reminder of the critical role healthcare professionals play in both the community and within Rotary’s global mission.
 
  
Members of the Rotary Club of Old Fort attended the induction ceremony of six new members into its sponsored Interact Club at Lyford Cay International School (LCIS). This marks a significant milestone for the club, as it continues to thrive as a vibrant community of young leaders committed to service, friendship, and positive change.
 
The induction ceremony took place on December 5, where the newest members were welcomed into the club by current officers, members and faculty advisors. These six students have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, a passion for making a difference, and a strong commitment to community service. As part of the induction, the new members took the Interact Oath, pledging to uphold the values of integrity, fellowship, and the spirit of giving back.
 
   
Birthdays & Anniversaries
Member Birthdays:
  • Tammi Watson
    September 9
  • Derek Smith
    September 15
Spouse/Partner Birthdays:
  • Derek Smith
    September 15
  • Giorgina Duncanson-Thompson
    September 18
Anniversaries:
  • Kelley Adams
    Dennis Adams
    September 14
  • Deidree Bain-Toote
    Shanley Toote
    September 22
  • Shanley Toote
    Deidree Bain-Toote
    September 22
Join Date:
  • Philip Simon
    September 13, 2017
    9 years
  • Robbie Myers
    September 13, 2017
    9 years
  • Ralpha Moxey
    September 22, 2017
    9 years
Connect with us
ROTARY CLUB OF OLD FORT
 
Contact:
President O'Niel Bain
 
Email: Rotaryoldfort@gmail.com
 
Rotary Club of Old Fort
Nassau, N.P. Bahamas
CLUB HISTORY
ROTARY CLUBS OF THE BAHAMAS WELCOME NEW CLUB
Rotary Old Fort Becomes Eighth Club In The Country
 
Founding members proudly stand together on the night that the new Rotary Club of Old Fort was officially chartered.

The Rotary Club of Old Fort (RCOF) was chartered on 5th May, 2015 with 25 charter members, becoming the ninth member of Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas in Rotary’s District 7020. The Rotary Club of Old Fort has 58 active and 4 honorary members. RCOF is a young, dynamic and  professional Club with over seventy percent of the members under the age of 40 years old and women representing more than half of our membership.
 
Historically our community service outreach has focused on fostering sustainable partnerships, notably with The Bahamas Feeding Network, The Bahamas Crisis Centre, The Salvation Army, Solomon’s Fresh Markets, Super Value and the neighboring home owners associations. Our signature fundraisers include STEM Saturdays, and World's Greatest Meal with Dunkin Donuts.
 
The Rotary Club of Old Fort sponsors the Interact Club at Lyford Cay International School & T. A. Thompson Jr. High School.