Speaker Spotlight: Dr. Jude Kong at The Rotary Club of Toronto
The Rotary Club of Toronto was honoured to welcome Dr. Jude Kong as a featured speaker at our June 3 meeting.
What set Dr. Kong's presentation apart was the deeply human thread running through his technical expertise. His principal research focuses on developing and deploying AI and data science methodologies for decision-makers in communities, public health, government, and industry with the aim of generating meaningful insights into local and global socio-ecological challenges. In other words, his work is not just about algorithms; it is about people.
Dr. Kong holds a Canada Research Chair in Community-Oriented Artificial Intelligence and Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Disease at the University of Toronto, where he directs the Artificial Intelligence and Mathematical Modelling Lab. He also leads the Africa-Canada AI and Data Innovation Consortium and the Global South AI for Pandemic and Epidemic Preparedness and Response Network, uniting over 160 researchers across 16 countries to advance public health through responsible, community-oriented AI.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Kong led a team of more than 52 researchers across nine African countries, leveraging AI to help contain and manage the virus, a defining example of the globally minded, community-driven research that characterizes his career.
His contributions have earned him widespread recognition, including designation as one of Canada's Innovation Research Leaders and placement among the top 0.5% of scholars worldwide by Scholar GPS in 2024.
The Rotary Club of Toronto thanks Dr. Kong for a compelling and inspiring presentation,
and commends his continued commitment to using science in service of humanity.
By Diego Ribeiro Galbiati
Annual General Meeting Election Results:
Congratulations Newly Elected
Vice President and Club Board of Directors 2026-27
Vice President - Alanna Scott
Treasurer (1 year term ) - Jeff Pollock
Directors (3 year term) - Kwami Ahiabenu, Kaitlynn Almeida, Andrea Tirone, Jake Tran
Environment Committee Nature Walk
On Sunday, June 7, 2026, members of the Environment Committee welcomed fellow members, families, and children for a delightful two-hour nature walk at Tommy Thompson Park in Toronto. Blessed with beautiful sunshine and pleasant weather, participants enjoyed exploring one of Toronto’s remarkable natural spaces while appreciating the vast landscape and diverse surroundings. The walk offered an excellent opportunity to connect with nature, observe the scenery, and enjoy the tranquility of a perfect summer afternoon.
Beyond the beauty of the park, the outing provided a wonderful setting for fellowship and learning. Participants benefited from the knowledge and insights shared by Kurt and from the many exchanges of experiences among Rotarians. Conversations, laughter, and camaraderie filled the afternoon as members and their families enjoyed walking together and strengthening friendships. The event proved to be a memorable combination of nature, learning, and fellowship, making for a truly enjoyable day for everyone who attended.
By Diego Ribeiro Galbiati
Contribute to the Voice!
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UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
Club Meetings
Friday June 19, 2026
The National Club
Lunch
Check in no later than 11:30am
Indigenous People's Day
Keynote Speaker; Steve Teekens, Executive Director
Darren (Sage) Hodder, a HIP Y2Y Alumni
Native Men's Residence (NaMaRes)
Topic: NaMaRes Efforts to Address Homelessness
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Friday June 26, 2026
The National Club
Lunch
Check in from noon
Presidential Changeover
Come out to thank
President Dauna for her epic year!
Join Liz Compton (DGE) and her Committee for an inspiring weekend celebrating service, connection, and community impact. Meet fellow Rotarians and Rotaractors, learn from engaging speakers, and enjoy time together in the heart of North York.
For all members who have joined or wants to join the WhatsApp Group, please note that we will use your first name & last name - no business name or acronym please. Thank you.
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