When war broke out in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mr Rashidi and his family were forced to flee their home country.
"We couldn't go back home, if people went back they might get killed," Mr Rashidi said.
Mr Rashidi and his family lived in Kigoma camp in Tanzania for almost five years before the Australian Government granted them refugee visas.
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READ NOW"My first impression of Australia was good because I can live safely with no problems, I thought: �this is freedom",� he said.
A Balga resident since arriving in 2003, he said he wanted to support the local community through his Rotary involvement.
"I help in the African community in Balga but I can't just limit it to my own community, I need to help the whole community," he said.
In the refugee camp, Mr Rashidi witnessed the Rotary Club's humanitarian work.
"They were very helpful, seeing the way they helped us, when I came here with my family I wanted to join," he said.
Mr Rashidi said moving to Australia was daunting to begin with.
"When I started learning English I wondered if I�d ever be able to speak this language and if I�d be able to study."
He is now studying mining engineering at Curtin University.
Balcatta Rotary Club president Jackie Bullock said the club members were excited about inducting younger members from different backgrounds.
"There was a perception that it was only open to successful older people but that's all changed now; we're absolutely excited to have younger members," Ms Bullock said.
"Once you're a member it doesn't matter where you go, you're part of 1.2 million Rotarians across the world, you're part of a family."