Multilingual Welcome Messages

What could this idea change?

A consistent welcome helps people build relationships sooner and understand how they can take part.

It may suit: New and prospective members, and the club members helping them settle in.

A simple way to start

1. Review local enquiry, census, event and member evidence, then speak with relevant community contacts about which languages, dialects, formats and locations would be useful rather than assuming from appearance or surname. Who could lead it: Membership lead and community liaison
2. Write one concise English source message that says what the club is, what the person can do next and how to ask for help; remove jargon and approve the meaning before translation. Who could lead it: Communications lead
3. Commission or arrange translation and independent checking for each selected language, recording the language variety, practitioner or reviewer, date, source-text version and any wording decision. Who could lead it: Language-services coordinator
4. If a First Nations language is proposed, pause the general workflow and seek direction and permission from the relevant language owners, language centre or authorised community representatives about whether and how it may be used. Who could lead it: Club president and nominated First Nations liaison
5. Lay out every message with readable type, correct writing direction and character support, strong contrast, uncluttered spacing, accessible digital text and a visible contact or QR destination that works without the display. Who could lead it: Designer and accessibility checker

What should we look for?

• After 90 days, review Multilingual Welcome Messages. Look for a broader range of voices being heard, identified barriers being addressed and voluntary feedback showing a stronger sense of belonging.
• Selected languages supported by documented local need and community consultation rather than a generic diversity list.
• Messages with an approved English source, identified translator or reviewer, independent check, version date and renewal owner.
• Speakers who report that the message is accurate, respectful, readable and leads to a clear next step.
• Language-related enquiries that receive a useful response, plus errors, complaints or gaps corrected within the agreed timeframe.

Before we say yes

• Does it fit a real local need?
• Can people take part safely and fairly?
• Are the facts, permissions and Rotary branding right?
• Who will lead it, and when will we review it?