SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) A proud moment for Multiple District 60 and the Caribbean, Leo-Lion Nichele Smith has been appointed to serve as the Leo-Lion Board Liaison for Lions International for the 2026–2027 Lions year.
Her appointment places her among a distinguished group of international leaders helping to strengthen the connection between Leos and Lions, while championing youth leadership and service across the globe.
Lions International is one of the world's largest and most respected service organizations, with 1.4 million members in over 200 countries and geographic areas, united by a common mission to improve lives through humanitarian service. Serving in an international leadership capacity within such an organization, is both a tremendous honor and a significant responsibility.
As Leo-Lion Board Liaison, Leo-Lion Nichele Smith will serve as a vital bridge between the International Board of Directors and the global Leo movement, ensuring that the voices, ideas, and aspirations of young leaders are represented while fostering collaboration between Leos and Lions.
The role reflects Lions International's continued commitment to developing the next generation of servant leaders and creating meaningful opportunities for young people to grow through service.
A Leo-Lion Board Liaison is a one-year, non-voting appointee to the Lions International Board of Directors. Chosen annually by the current international president, these liaisons act as advocates and advisors, ensuring the young adult perspective is represented in global initiatives and on standing committees. The work includes extensive travel on behalf of Lions Club International and many speaking engagements with clubs, districts, forums & conventions.
Her appointment also marks an important milestone for Multiple District 60, the Lions & Leos of the English-speaking Caribbean, along with Suriname & Guyana in South America as she proudly represents the multiple districts on the international stage.
It is a testament to the strength of leadership emerging from the region and highlights the growing impact that Caribbean Lions and Leos continue to make within the global organization.
Speaking on her appointment, Leo-Lion Nichele Smith described the opportunity as both humbling and inspiring: "Service has been one of the most transformative parts of my life. To now serve at the international level is an incredible privilege that I do not take lightly. I remain committed to listening, learning, and working alongside Lions and Leos around the world to strengthen our organization and create opportunities for young people to lead through service."
Her appointment is equally significant in advancing the visibility of women in leadership within Lions International. As more women continue to assume influential leadership positions at every level of the organization, Nichele Smith’s achievement serves as a powerful reminder that leadership is strengthened through diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Her journey demonstrates that dedication, perseverance, and a heart for service can open doors to leadership that extends far beyond national borders.
This Lions year also begins under the inspiring leadership of 2026-2027 Lions International President Mark S. Lyon, whose theme, "Rooted in Service," calls upon every Lion and Leo to remain grounded in the fundamental purpose of the organization—serving others.
The theme reminds members that while leadership roles, recognition, and accomplishments are meaningful, the true strength of Lions International lies in its unwavering commitment to compassionate service.
Like a tree with deep roots, service provides the foundation from which leaders grow, communities flourish, and lasting change is achieved. Remaining rooted in service, means remembering that every project, every volunteer hour, and every act of kindness has the power to transform lives.
Nichele Smith believes this message perfectly reflects the journey of every leader. "As we grow, we must never lose sight of why we began. When we remain rooted in service, we lead with humility, compassion, and purpose. Our greatest impact comes not from the titles we hold but from the lives we touch."
Her appointment also serves as an inspiration to young people throughout Multiple District 60 and beyond. It demonstrates that age is not a limitation to leadership and that local acts of service can lead to opportunities on the world stage. Through Leo Clubs and Lions Clubs, young people develop confidence, leadership skills, lifelong friendships, and a passion for making a difference in their communities.
As Lions International continues to invest in youth leadership, Nichele Smith hopes more young people will embrace the opportunity to serve: "Dream boldly, serve selflessly, and never underestimate the impact one person can make. Every great leader begins by choosing to serve.
The Leo and Lions movement provides an extraordinary platform to grow, lead, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Your journey can begin with a single act of service."
As Multiple District 60 celebrates this remarkable achievement, Nichele Smith’s appointment stands as a reflection of the district 60A & 60B commitment to leadership development, youth empowerment, and community service. It is also a reminder that when leaders remain rooted in service, they inspire others to dream bigger, serve with purpose, and create a legacy that extends far beyond themselves. Her appointment is not only a personal milestone but a celebration for Multiple District 60, the Caribbean, and every young person who believes that service can change lives. It is a powerful example that leadership begins with a willingness to serve, and that from those roots, extraordinary opportunities can grow.
