A landmark celebration in Arlington, Texas, this week saw Indian-American physician and entrepreneur Dr Shabana Parvez recognised with the Paul Harris Fellow Award—one of Rotary International’s most respected distinctions. The event marked the Rotary Club of Arlington Highlands’ 9th anniversary and reflected the club’s growing reputation for service, leadership, and inclusive community impact.
Dr Parvez, the first Indian-origin President of the Arlington Highlands chapter, was celebrated alongside Jim Swann and Sue Welch, who were named Rotarians of the Year. The trio’s fellowships were sponsored by club leaders Paul Brodie and Becky Gerro, part of an annual tradition supporting exemplary members whose work embodies Rotary’s ethos of selfless service.
Speaking on the night, Arlington Mayor Jim Ross hailed the club’s diversity and drive. “Arlington is proud of its growing reputation as the Dream City of America,” he said, applauding the local leadership’s efforts in advancing civic participation and education. He extended a warm welcome to RiseBack, an education start-up announced as officially relocating its global headquarters to the city.
Founded by Indian-American entrepreneur Dr Tausif Malik, RiseBack is an affordable, inclusive online education platform. Dr Malik, who was inducted as an Honorary Rotarian on the night, described the platform as a way to bring quality education to marginalised communities worldwide. “We’re building something that opens doors—no matter where you start,” he said.
The evening also featured recognition for several returning Paul Harris Fellows, with Barbara Brodie receiving the Blue Sapphire Pin—marking her elevated support of The Rotary Foundation.
The club used the opportunity to showcase its “Start Here, Go Anywhere” initiative, a collaboration between Rotary and RiseBack launched earlier this year. Through a video presentation, Dr Parvez shared how the programme is already beginning to shape lives by providing accessible education pathways for students who would otherwise be left behind.
The Rotary Club of Arlington Highlands, restructured in 2020, is now one of the most diverse in the Rotary network. Members include business leaders and community figures active across several civic organisations including the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce and River Legacy Foundation.
As the club approaches its 10th year, its leadership says the focus remains on expanding service through partnerships, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion. Dr Parvez, reflecting on the evening, described the honour as humbling but motivating. “It reminds us why we do this,” she said. “Because when you lift one, you lift many.”
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