For a dedicated Lion, the spirit of service travels wherever they go. When PDG Ar. Balbir Singh Sahni, member of the Ujjain Friends Lions Club, District 3233G2, planned a family trip to Cairo, he saw an opportunity to connect with fellow Lions and learn from their service activities.
Under the leadership of International Third Vice President Manoj Shah, who played a pivotal role in connecting the Lions of Egypt with their Indian counterparts, and the guidance of PID Vinod K. Ladia, a remarkable exchange took place: an exchange of ideas, best practices and community service approaches.
On March 11, 2025, Cairo North Lions Club, District 352, led by PID Dr. Ahmed Salem warmly welcomed PDG Ar. Balbir Singh Sahni and his partner in service Sonia Sahni. District 352 leaders including District Governor Dr. Ibrahim Darwish, Vice District Governor Bala El Nandy, and PDG Ar. Magdy Azab, LCIF Area Leader of Africa, joined this meaningful exchange.
The Lions from India also visited the Neonatal Care Centre in Cairo, an initiative of Garden City Lions Club, District 352. This specialized facility created for premature babies with heart complications serves 3,000 children yearly. Since 2015, club members have donated over US$1 million to support the centre.
This initiative was led by the Club President Hazem Khalil under the leadership of PDG Eng. Hatem Abdelkhalek and his partner in service PCP Eng. Neha Nureldide along with District 352 GET Coordinator Ar. Nail El Attar.
The Lions of District 352, Egypt also highlighted the Sight for Kids initiative. Under the leadership of PID Dr. Ahmed Salem and Second Vice District Governor Dr. Arafa Kika, the Lions have recently signed an MoU with the Government of Egypt, to provide vision screenings in primary schools.
The clubs formalized their partnership through the Lions Club Twinning Program, agreeing to regularly exchange ideas and experiences while supporting Lions’ global causes and MISSION 1.5 objectives.
“When compassion transcends borders, real change is possible,” reflected PDG Sahni. This collaboration not only strengthened ties between Cairo and Ujjain but set a powerful example of how Lions unite in service while embracing diverse approaches to meeting community needs.