This speech was written and delivered by Charlize Chow, the 2024 Australian Leo of the Year, at the 73rd Lions Australia National Convention in Traralgon, Victoria.

BY CHARLIZE CHOW.

Good evening, esteemed Lions, fellow Leos, and honoured guests,

I stand before you today feeling incredibly humbled and full of gratitude as I reflect on the journey I’ve had as a Leo. This moment is not just about celebrating my own growth but about honouring the collective efforts of all those who have supported me along the way.

As I look back on the past year, I can’t help but marvel at how much I’ve grown—not only as a Leo, but as an individual. I’ve learned that leadership is not about titles or recognition, but about empowering others, listening with empathy, and constantly striving to make a positive difference, no matter how small the act may seem.

But perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned this year is the significance of collaboration—how essential it is for Leos and Lions to support one another. Lions, you are the foundation that helps us build the future of service. You are the mentors, the guiding lights that show us the path to success. Without your wisdom and encouragement, many of us wouldn’t have the confidence to take the next step, and some of the challenges we face as Leos would feel overwhelming.

Now, as I reflect on my own personal journey as a Leo, something truly special has happened that I never could have predicted when I first joined: I know it sounds quite cheesy but I’ve found a second family. There’s something deeply personal about being part of a Leo Club. It’s not just about the service projects or the events we organise—although those are incredibly meaningful—it’s about the bonds we create, the memories we make, and the way we support one another through thick and thin.

I’ve learned that being a part of this organisation has touched my heart in ways I can’t fully express. The friendships, the laughter, the shared experiences—those are the things that truly define this journey for me. We may come from different backgrounds, but when we come together as Leos, we are united by our shared purpose and our shared values. And in that unity, we’ve become more than just a group of individuals—we’ve become a family.

One of the most eye-opening experiences I’ve had as a Leo of the Year was attending the Lions International Convention 2024 in Victoria. Walking into that space and seeing so many cultures, so many people from around the world coming together in the name of service—it was truly incredible. It opened my eyes to the global reach of this organisation and the powerful role we play within it. I spent my time proudly promoting the Leo movement, having conversations, making connections, and showing the world what young leaders are capable of. And let’s just say… I may have come home with a few too many new badges —but who’s counting?

To every single Leo I have met along the way, you’ve all made an incredible impact on my life. Every single one of you brings something unique to the table, and your passion, kindness, and determination inspire me every day. I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Leo Club of Melbourne Next Gen, Pam, Lee, and Georgia. Pam, as the Leo advisor, your leadership, vision, and unwavering support have been instrumental in helping us grow and thrive.

You’ve created an environment where we feel empowered to take initiative and make a real difference. Lee, your guidance and dedication to assisting Leos in Victoria has been invaluable. Your support, wisdom, and mentorship have been a source of strength for so many of us, and we are truly grateful for everything you do. And Georgia, thank you for setting such a strong example for the next generation of Leos. Your role as Chairperson of the Leo Advisory Panel and your ongoing contributions continue to inspire and uplift our community. You have given me the biggest shoes to fill.

But I’d also like to take a moment to reflect on the power we, as Leos, hold within our clubs and in our communities. The Leo Club is more than just a youth organisation—it is a dynamic, global force of positive change. We, as Leos, are not just learning how to serve, we are creating a legacy of leadership and compassion that will carry on for generations to come.

The work we do as Leos directly impacts our communities, from small acts of kindness to large-scale projects that address urgent issues. We are often the spark that ignites change, driving innovation, compassion, and hope into the lives of those who need it most. What’s more, we have a unique ability to bridge gaps—between generations, between cultures, and between communities. Through our work, we show that leadership is about more than just direction; it’s about creating connections, inspiring others to act, and leading with integrity and purpose.

And here’s the incredible part: we are the future of Lions. The impact we have today, no matter how big or small, is a testament to the values we hold dear and the potential we have to shape the world in ways that will echo far beyond our time.

That is why it is so essential for Leos and Lions to work together. When we join forces—when we combine the energy, creativity, and enthusiasm of Leos with the experience, wisdom, and resources of Lions—we become an unstoppable force for good. The mentorship and support Lions offer to us are invaluable, and the fresh ideas and energy we bring to the table offer new perspectives and solutions to long-standing challenges.

Lions, here I stand before you as I urge you to see that we, the Leos, are your future. We are the next generation of leaders, and we are ready to take on the mantle of service with all of the energy and passion that we possess. But to ensure that we continue to thrive and grow, we need your support more than ever. Whether it’s encouraging the formation of a Leo Club in your district or reaching out to connect with the existing ones, your involvement will make a world of difference.

It’s also important to consider how Lions Clubs can continue to support and retain Leos as they transition into adulthood. One way is by actively inviting Leos to participate in joint service projects and leadership opportunities within Lions Clubs. Providing clear pathways—such as mentorship, young Lion membership programs, or creating “Leo-Lion” hybrid clubs—they can help young leaders stay engaged and feel valued.

When Lions take the time to recognise the potential in their Leos and invest in their development, they foster a legacy of service that spans generations.

Your guidance will help us create a legacy of leadership and service that will carry Lionism into the future. Together, we can build something extraordinary, something that will last for generations to come.

This partnership is crucial, not just for our personal development, but for the continued success of the global mission of Lionism. Together, we can amplify the reach of our service, drive innovation, and inspire future leaders to carry on the torch.

In closing, I encourage all of us to continue working hand-in-hand, building upon the legacy of service that has defined this organization for over a century. Together, we can achieve more, inspire more, and, ultimately, change more lives.

Thank you for this incredible opportunity to reflect and grow. Let’s keep moving forward, side by side, as we create an even brighter future for the communities we serve.