When over 1,500 Lions gathered in Hyderabad for the 52nd ISAME Forum from December 19-21, 2024, they weren’t just attending another convention – they were participating in what would become one of the most memorable Forums in Lions history. As promised by the organizers, the Forum offered a masterful blend of enlightenment, excitement, and entertainment, embodying its theme of ‘Live Every Moment’ in every aspect of its execution, and setting new standards for future Forums.
The Inaugural Session, chaired by International Director Dr. G. Babu Rao, set the tone for excellence. Telangana Governor Shri Jishnu Dev Varma was joined by International President Fabrício Oliveira, LCIF Chairperson Dr. Patti Hill, and International First Vice President A. P. Singh in lighting the traditional lamp. The 90-minute ceremony captivated the 1,600-strong audience, including 100 Leos, with its meticulously choreographed flag ceremony led by PID Aruna Oswal and its inspiring addresses interspersed with spectacular performances.
The Forum venue impressed delegates with its blend of grandeur and functionality. The main hall featured a striking stage with 1,400 square feet of LED walls, creating a spectacular visual experience. Two large venues hosted concurrent sessions, while three well-designed meeting rooms, each accommodating over 150 participants, served the track sessions efficiently. The organizing committee enhanced the experience with spacious registration lounges, networking areas, and exhibition spaces that facilitated smooth operations.
The Forum’s educational component featured over 35 sessions – 22 track sessions, eight concurrent sessions, and five main sessions. These were consistently packed, often exceeding capacity, as delegates eagerly absorbed knowledge from experts across various fields. Recognizing the diversity of its audience, the Forum offered sessions in English, Hindi, and Nepali, making the learning experience accessible to all delegates.
Distinguished speakers brought unique perspectives to the Forum: Prof. Dr. Himanshu Rai explored ‘Ethical Leadership,’ Mr. Rajeev Bajaj shared ‘The Ikigai Way of Life,’ and Mr. Kumar Gera discussed ‘Staying Relevant’ – each showing how professional excellence and personal fulfillment intertwine.
A groundbreaking hybrid session moderated by PID Sangeeta Jatia featured international speakers Mr. Lars Hajslund (Denmark), Mr. Tony Benbow (Australia), and Mr. Mark Mansell (USA) discussing “Let’s Make a Difference.”
The Forum’s business sessions demonstrated the strength and scope of Lions’ leadership across the ISAME region through its Consultative Assemblies and Plenary Sessions.
The Opening Consultative Assembly, chaired by International Director Dr. G Babu Rao, featured addresses by PIP Dr. Naresh Aggarwal and LCIF Chairperson PIP Dr. Patti Hill. PID Pravin Chajjed and PID Aruna Oswal presented plans for the 53rd ISAME Forum in Ahmedabad, while at the Closing Assembly, chaired by International Director Balakrishna Burlakoti, MD 325 led by PID Sanjay Khetan secured the bid for the 54th ISAME Forum 2026.
Many important decisions were taken during both sessions. This included:
- Adoption of Agenda and 51st ISAME Forum report
- Finalization of the 54th ISAME Forum
- Adoption of forum seminars report
- Endorsement of PID Tony Benbow as ISAME's candidate for International Third Vice President 2025-2026
- Endorsement of PDG P. Subhash Babu (MD 316) and PCC Nazmul Haque (MD 315) for International Director positions 2025-2027
The Opening Plenary Session brought MISSION 1.5 into sharp focus, with Past President Mahendra Amarasuriya setting the stage, followed by International President Fabrício Oliveira and Vice President AP Singh presenting comprehensive perspectives. International Director Ramesh Prajapati chaired this crucial session emphasizing every District and Multiple District’s role in achieving the 1.5 million member goal.
The Second Plenary Session, also chaired by International Director Ramesh Prajapati and led by LCIF Chairperson Dr. Patti Hill, celebrated exceptional generosity to LCIF. The session honoured:
Multi Million Dollar Donor ($1,000,000,000)
- PID Aruna Oswal
Million Dollar Donors ($100,000,000)
- PCC Prakash Rao (District 320D)
- PID V. P. Nanda Kumar & Sushama Nandakumar (District 320D)
New Progressive Lead Donors
- PID Pravin Chhajed (District 3232-B4)
- Rajesh Agarwal (UAE)
New Lead Donors ($100,000)
- Chaminda Kuruppu Arachchi (District 306C1)
- Heshan Padukka (District 306C1)
- Vijay Jain (District 322B1)
- Vineet Jain (District 322B1)
- Lalita Jain (District 322B2)
- Ajay Dhanotiwala (District 322F)
- Shyam Agarwal (District 322F)
- Mihir Parekh (District 3232-B1)
- Dr. Bharat Rao (District 3232-B4)
- Kunal Shah (District 3232-B4)
The session also recognized recipients of the FY 2023-2024 LCIF Chairperson’s Medal, President’s Medal for Goal Achievement, and Districts achieving 100% of their goals or raising over US$100,000 in cash contributions.
Special Events and Review Meetings
Also part of the ISAME Forum 2024 were some very crucial meetings and programs. These included- LCIF Chairpersons Tea Ceremony
- MISSION 1.5 Summit Review
- GAT Area Leaders Review
- LCIF Area Leaders & MD Coordinators Meeting
What is a Lions’ event without service? At the ISAME Forum Lions participated in a significant project supporting 1,000 orphans from 24 orphanages. Delegates, wearing yellow Lions Service Jackets, packed 1,000 boxes with utility and food items. This initiative, led by International President Fabrício Oliveira, LCIF Chairperson Dr. Patti Hill, and International First Vice President A. P. Singh, exemplified Lions’ dedication to meaningful community service.
The Forum’s sporting highlight was the Inter Multiple District Cricket Tournament held at the Chetan Anand Badminton Academy on December 18. International President Fabricio Oliveira inaugurated this exciting event that saw teams from MD 316, 317, 320, 3231, and 324 compete before an enthusiastic crowd. MD 317 (Karnataka) emerged victorious, lifting the championship cup.
Several innovative programs marked this Forum. The Summit Maximizing Young Lions Engagement (SMYLE), exclusively for Lions under 45, proved highly successful with its combination of learning sessions and recognition of young achievers.
The Lions Business Network (LBN) was launched with the inauguration of LBN Hyderabad chapter, comprising 46 founder members. This initiative, aims to enhance networking opportunities and attract new members to Lionism.
The Women’s Wall of Fame session highlighted women’s leadership in Lions. The session’s success was particularly evident in the participation of 100 women delegates from MD 320 alone.
Blockbusters – An exclusive session for Institute Graduates of LCIP; FDI & ALLI, with the theme ‘Expanding Capabilities,’ offered insights into newer approaches to training through Artificial Intelligence and contemporary methods.
The Forum embraced technology through its dedicated mobile application, which featured gamification, speaker ratings, and digital certificate downloads. The app included special competitions for capturing moments with Third VP Endorsee PID Tony Benbow and a knowledge quiz on Lionism. Over 500 certificates were downloaded, and more than 500 ratings were received for the 22 track sessions, demonstrating high delegate engagement.
Evenings at the Forum were spectacular celebrations featuring diverse entertainment. Performers included Laqshay Kapoor’s troupe from Mumbai, Bengal Beauty and Bad Salsa dancers from Kolkata, and Amjad and Tina’s band from Hyderabad. The Military Band from Hyderabad added a unique dimension to the performances. Special performances by saxophonist Anjali Shanbhogue and drummer Dr. Priya Andrew from Bengaluru, along with 13-year-old singing sensation Devanasriya K from Kerala, received Excellence Awards for their outstanding accomplishments.
The Presidential Gala, dedicated to International President Fabrício Oliveira, served as a fitting conclusion to the Forum. The 95-minute event featured stunning dance performances, a military band, and special performances by award-winning artists. During this event, International President Fabrício Oliveira presented International President Medals and Leadership Medals to organizing committee members. PDG Surya Raj (District 320D) received the prestigious Ambassador of Goodwill Award for his outstanding contributions.
A special Commemorative Souvenir was released on the occasion.
The triumph of the 52nd ISAME Forum resulted from the yearlong dedicated efforts of the organizing committee led by PID Sunil Kumar as Chairman, and wholeheartedly supported by International Director Dr. G Babu Rao as Planning Committee Chairman. Key team members including PCC S. Narender Reddy, PDG Juluri Raghu, and PDG N. N. Murthy along with a large team of leaders from MD 320 worked tirelessly to ensure every aspect of the Forum met the highest standards.
Over 125 Lions received special recognition for their valuable contributions to the Forum’s success at a well-attended ceremony on December 21. The awards were presented jointly by the executive officers and six International Directors in a special ceremony held before the Presidential Gala.
Patrons and Friends of Forum
The 52nd ISAME Forum was well supported by Platinum Patron – PID Aruna Oswal; Golden Patrons – International Director Dr. G. Babu Rao; PID Vijay Kumar Raju; PID VV Krishna Reddy and PDG GR Surya Raj. Lion Leaders from MD 320 as well as from other Multiple Districts of India came forward to support the efforts of the Organizing Committee by contributing as Patrons and Friends of Forum.The Forum’s attention to detail transformed the delegate experience at every touchpoint. From warm airport welcomes and efficient registration processes to thoughtfully curated delegate kits for men and women and innovative branding, each aspect was carefully planned. Special care for senior delegates through battery-operated buggies and wheelchairs demonstrated the organizing team’s commitment to inclusive hospitality. Dedicated volunteer teams ensured seamless service delivery, making every delegate feel valued and welcomed.
The Forum’s success in delivering its theme ‘Live Every Moment’ through carefully crafted sessions, meaningful service projects, and engaging activities has set a high standard for future Forums to emulate. As International First Vice President A. P. Singh noted in his feedback, “This was a memorable forum, so well organized, and you had a team that delivered hundred percent.”
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