Message from the President Message from the Secretary Message from the Editors INIZIO’22 Unveiling the Leadership Board - Leo Term 22/23 Suraksha Always Take Advantage of Opportunities - Interview with Leo Lion RageeshYogeswaran Better Mind A Peaceful Mind - Poem Puss in Boots - The Last Wish - Film Review Inspired Future Try to Find Uniqueness in Everything - Interview with Rashith Yapa Prana Valentines - Poem Link to Sync The Final Hearing - Short Story Nenasara Athwela Get Break from... Lassana Sri Lanka The Flower - Poem Magazine Team 03 04 05 06 - 07 08 - 11 12 - 14 15 - 17 18 19 20 - 21 22 23 - 25 26 27 28 29 30 - 31 32 33 - 34 35 36 - 37 CONTENT
AURORA VOLUME X 3 Dear Readers, With the theme of “Making others smile”, Leo Club of University of Kelaniya is one of largest movements in University of Kelaniya under Leo Multiple District 306. Consider - ing the UOK Leoism so far since 2014, as a university-based Leo Club, we have served thousands of people who are in need in the society with 50+ annual service projects. Leo is always one who helps others, serves the society and makes ourselves better and it is proud to say that UOK Leos always fol - lows these, trying to make a better world. As undergraduates, we are composed of a set of hidden skills, and we need to unveil our - selves to the world in order to make a better world. What if we can use our skills to serve the community? Leo Club of University of Kelaniya is a place where undergraduates can unveil and develop their skills while serving the community in need. Thereby, you are warmly welcome to the 10th Volume of the Aurora magazine, the official newsletter of Leo Club of Universi - ty of Kelaniya. Through this newsletter, you will see what UOK Leos are doing to bring smiles to thousands of innocent faces. As a movement which covers all six faculties of University of Kelaniya, Aurora magazine will be a turning point of your life as it mo - tivates others to serve the community. With the past experience, Leo Club of University of Kelaniya is heading to a new era with the theme “Making a better world unveiling our - selves”. As Leos, we did, are doing and will do our best to the community overcoming hundreds of challenges and that is what the young leaders always do. Let’s help others and make them smile. Thank You. Sachith Lakshan President (Term 22/23) Leo Club of University of Kelaniya Message from the President
4 AURORA VOLUME X Dear readers, Aurora is the official newsletter of Leo Club of University of Kelaniya where we proudly exhibit the Leoism of University of Kelaniya. Therefore it’s a great privilege for me to address UOK Leos through this publication. When referring to the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya, through Leo Club of University of Kelaniya, we execute to enhance the leadership, opportunities, and experience among the undergraduates of the University of Kelaniya. We support the community by engaging in numerous service projects while providing the youth with the best opportunities to grow into young leaders. As a Leo of the University of Kelaniya, I personally enhanced my leadership potentials, expanded my network, recognized my strengths and weaknesses and helped those in need. As Leo Club of University of Kelaniya, we always encourage the youth to make a difference in the world by serving the community and guiding others towards the path of success by being innovative, committed, and determined leaders. As the Secretary of Leo Club of University of Kelaniya, I would like to extend my gratitude to each and every Leo who is working hard to uphold the dignity of UOK Leoism on behalf of Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. Moreover, I sincerely appreciate the efforts of the magazine team who is behind making this wonderful newsletter. Since the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya is a place where we spread kindness, humanity, empathy, and love for one another, I wish you all have a wonderful Leo journey with Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. Thank You. Yasasvi De Silva Secretary (Term 22/23) Leo Club of University of Kelaniya Message from the Secretary
AURORA VOLUME X 5 Aurora is the written inscription where we can enhance every attempt of our Leos with the aim of giving a smile to someone’s face. “Writing is not telling all the things we can say, but telling what we can’t say”. Hence, the Aurora Magazine energizes the spirits of the young blood as per their personal and professional development by offering people helping hands. Aurora magazine contains valuable inscriptions from our proud Leos, and it will energize everyone to dive deeper into the depths of seeking happiness while offering people smiles. Accordingly, Aurora 10th volume is unveiled as a tribute to the endeavoring efforts of the proud Leos of Leo Club of Message from the Editors University of Kelaniya. We are grateful to Leo Rashith Yapa for his contribution to our magazine by sharing his experience. Furthermore, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Leo, Lion Ragesh Yogeshwaran, the president of the Leo District 306 B2 for assisting us in honouring Aurora by sharing views in interviews. We should mention here that moderating interviews and writing magazine articles are new experiences for the new members of the editorial team and we believe that it would be helpful for their future. Moreover, we would like to thank the Executive Board, the Editorial Avenue directors, and the Editorial Team for their constant efforts and unwavering commitment to ensuring a successful newsletter this term as well. Through their dedication, we were able to overcome all the obstacles we encountered in the process of planning up to execution and ultimately to devise a magnificent outcome. Accordingly, we wish our proud Leos the best of luck in their future endeavours and hope that you achieve the maximum benefit from being a Leo by offering people smiles and making yourselves smile by being the best versions of yourselves. Hence, Aurora 10th Volume discloses the pride of UOK Leos being a strength to all the humble souls. Leo Samali Irugalbandara (Chief Editor) (Term 22/23) Leo Aruni Kaushalya (Co-director of the Editorial Unit) (Term 22/23) Leo Adithya Perera (Co-director of the Editorial Unit) (Term 22/23)
6 AURORA VOLUME X INIZIO’2 Marking the sublime pride of our Leos, it proceeded. The Leo Club of University of Kelaniya, since the beginning of its Leo journey, has been able to magnify the name of Mother Kelaniya through the vast amount of humanitarian initiatives it has carried out. INIZIO’22 highlights this remarkable journey, crowning the most enthusiastic members of the club. Thus, INIZIO’22 is none other than the Annual Installation Ceremony of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. It was held for two days, namely 10th and 11th of December 2022. On the first day of the ceremony, a leadership camp was conducted for the newly appointed board members. The primary aim of the leadership camp was to reinforce the team spirit among the new board members and develop their leadership skills. As everyone anticipated, the board members could make unforgettable memories by participating in the leadership camp while simultaneously gaining knowledge and wisdom from our generous resource people. The Annual Installation Ceremony was held on the second day, 11th of December
AURORA VOLUME X 7 22 and it signaled the commencement of the 9th Leo expedition of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. The Installation Ceremony was held at the Aradhana Hotel, Galle. Leo Rageesh Yogeswaran, the District President of the Leo District 306B2, was invited as the Chief Guest for INIZIO’22. The Guest of Honour was the Multiple District President, Leo Rahul Aththanayake, and as the Special Guest, Leo Mandakini Kariyawasam, Multiple District Secretary attended the Installation Ceremony. The appointment letters were issued for the newly appointed Leadership Board after pledging themselves to work towards achieving a remarkable milestone in their Leo journey. Furthermore, the organizing committee was also recognized and valuable certificates were presented for their outstanding collaborative efforts to make INIZIO’22 a success. Thus, the 9th Installation Ceremony of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya, INIZIO’22 was graced by the participation of the guests, board members, and organizing committee, and it was successfully concluded with all the blessings and well wishes as a remarkable watershed in the history of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. Leo Nuzha Farook
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12 AURORA VOLUME X Suraksha “Safety is the best investment for a prosperous future.” As an avenue that always does its duty for the betterment of society, the Leos of the Environmental Conservation Avenue conducted the project “Suraksha” for the term 22/23, with the aim of crime and accident prevention. Mainly, there were three phases to this amazing project.
AURORA VOLUME X 13 PHASE 01 As the starting point, phase one of the project “Suraksha” was successfully completed on 30th of October 2022. It was held at the Pettah Central Bus Stand with the contribution of many zestful Leos. The main objective of this phase was to increase social awareness about accidents and crimes. In particular, there was a sticker campaign on buses. That campaign received very good compliments from the drivers and passengers, too. PHASE 02 Simple accidents might seem a trivial part of day-to-day life. Acknowledging the importance of health and safety, in particular first aid, can make a significant difference in the safety of children. Thus, as the project’s second phase “Suraksha”, ten wellstocked first aid boxes were donated covering 10 places such as schools, disabled children’s homes, and pre-schools. The members of the avenue gave their great support towards the successful completion of this valuable phase.
14 AURORA VOLUME X PHASE 03 As the third phase of the project “Suraksha”, a successful Road Safety Awareness programme was conducted at Sri Chandrajothi Maha Vidyalaya, Yakkala on the 20th of January, together with the Sri Lanka Traffic Police and Fairfirst Insurance Limited. This programme included sessions that explained the possible dangers pedestrians and drivers face due to negligence of traffic rules. Over 500 students from Sri Chandrajothi Maha Vidyalaya -Yakkala, Imbulgoda Rajasinghe Vidyalaya, and Henarathgoda Keppetipola Vidyalaya participated and got priceless knowledge about road safety. Some of those students were issued certificates as certified school traffic wardens. Traffic Warden Associations also were established for those schools. Officers of Colombo Traffic Police gave them theoretical and practical training on traffic control methods. There was a great dramatic roadshow too, at Colombo-Kandy A1 road to expand the knowledge of students about road accidents. At the end of the project- “Suraksha” it was able to remind the people that there’s no better achievement in society than pursuing the health and safety of its people.” The Environmental Conservation Avenue expressed gratitude to all who gave their wonderful contribution to this valuable project. Leo Wasana M. Wickramasingha.
AURORA VOLUME X Interview with Always Take Advantage of Opportunities Leo Lion Rageesh Yogeswaran is a remarkable leader who always strives to offer the best for everyone around him. He is the president of the Leo District 306 B2 for the Leo Term 22/23 and acts as a role model for his fellow Leos, uplifting the Leo district. Leo Lion Rageesh Yogeswaran
16 AURORA VOLUME X Q- How do you define yourself? I would say I am a committed and driven leader. You can recognize me as the president of the Leo District 306 B2. Accordingly, I am proud to say that, by the end of this term, my involvement with the Leo movement will have lasted ten years. Over the years, I have upheld a variety of positions. My biggest struggle was not giving up on the Leo movement while simultaneously growing as a person, improving my abilities, and juggling my academics and other obligations. Despite the difficulties, the Leo family had faith in my ability to remain a leader. They provided me with a lot of support. I have become the person and leader I am today because of the guidance and experiences of previous leaders. Q- What are the current goals you have set your mind on achieving? Since I was a district vice president in previous year, I have been organizing my aspirations for the presidency. The previous district president was a source of advice for me. He showed leadership qualities, and he excelled in a number of areas, which taught me something. Intensifying sustainability is what I’ve committed to. The district-wise acquisition should likewise be increased, right? 75% of my goals have already been met. Our district’s clubs have already received instructions on how to do so from us. There is no doubt that those objectives will be accomplished in the next four months. Q- What are the challenges that you had to encounter as the district president? I am in charge of events and reporting of the club. I also have to cooperate with the Lions, a group that commands the respect of all district-wise Leo clubs. They require our support in order to accomplish their international objectives. Each club has different formats that should be considered. All of those operate differently. I must therefore be careful while interacting with these varied clubs and people because they require very different approaches. Q- What has been your favourite thing about working as the district president? My confidence has grown even more since I started serving as district president. I never doubt myself or have pessimistic thoughts. My focus is always on effectively completing a task and serving as an example for present and future Leos. As you are aware, we receive calls concerning queries, some of which I may not be able to respond to right away. I might have to search through, examine, and then respond. Nonetheless, I have never delivered below-par work. I am not a fast decision-maker either; all of my choices are made after thorough consideration. These are a few aspects of serving as district president that I particularly enjoy. Q- Are there any inspirational characters you follow to improve your leadership skills? My inspirational figures in Sri Lanka are my former district presidents. During my Leo moment, my inspirational figure was my brother, Rajitha Abeysekara, the past Multiple District President. When I talk about him, he has a perfect character. He did a lot of work while he was working as the district president. That’s why everyone knows him and respects him. So that is the reason why he is my first role model in my Leo journey. On the other hand, I have some international figures who have inspired my life. Those are Barack Obama and Abdul Kalam.
AURORA VOLUME X 17 Q- What do you think about the leadership skills of the undergraduates, especially the Leos? What are the skills that they have to improve? Leo members typically have a ton of work when they are undergraduates. They may have a variety of positions over their Leo career, including president, vice president, treasurer, and others. Managing these posts is difficult. But they ought to take on difficulties in light of what some prior presidents have said or what other members of society have learned. But as the workload grows and they can no longer handle it, they quit their jobs or stop doing anything. Therefore, they want to keep in mind that there are people behind them. If they neglected those duties, they might pass up great opportunities that they truly deserve. Always take advantage of opportunities because once they are gone, they are gone forever. All of you must complete academic work as undergraduates, but it will be preferable if you can balance that with sharing your Leo work with your team. Nevertheless, when you step into the corporate world, you have to work in a very stressful environment. You can overcome any pressure scenario in your life if you don’t give up on those trying times during your Leo journey. Also, when people observe you, they might ponder your balanced behavior. Q- According to your perspective, what is the most powerful weapon to be a good leader, and what is your final message to your fellow Leos? A leader, in my opinion, is someone who has the self-confidence to take on any challenge. Without such confidence, a leader finds it challenging to advance. Moreover, making an effort to give them an opportunity and mentoring them properly are good qualities of a leader. If you offer one of the people you know through your Leo journey the chance, try to look for their leadership qualities. While nobody is perfect for what they have, this would be a fantastic chance for them to obtain some experience. The best characteristic of a Leo is the ability to give someone an opportunity to gain some experience. I also send my best wishes to my new Leo fellows. You can gain lots of experience, both in your Leo journey and in your personal life, because you have a lot of opportunities when you become a Leo. Throughout this Leo path, there are also many difficulties to overcome. It would be acceptable to leave the Leo moment if you have any type of personal problem and choose to do so. But, if you enjoy working or have that mindset, this location is ideal for you. Then you can work with your fellow Leos to make this world a beautiful place. Q- According to your opinion, how can one be a good leader in society? If we take the current situation in our country, then the president or a leader is a person who has a lot of responsibility. For example, I’m the leader of the Leo District 306 B2. So, if there is an issue from the side of the district or the side of the club, the responsibility goes through the president of the district. Thus, I should be a good leader, because if I did something wrong or made the wrong decision, it would not be a good example for my juniors. They watch me and learn from me. Therefore, I should act as a good leader for the new Leos to learn how to stay strong. If I didn’t talk to anyone or give proper advice to my Leos, I wouldn’t be able to reveal my leadership qualities to them. So, I have to talk to them and give them motivational speeches. Then, I can properly teach them how to be good leaders in this society and what kind of leaders our society needs. Interviewed and scripted by: Leo Zainab Fouz & Leo Navodya Wickramasinghe
18 AURORA VOLUME X Better Mind Better Life Mental health holds as much importance as physical health does. Enhancing a peaceful mind will create a positive impact simultaneously on day-to-day life and in professional life. Nowadays, with various issues in the country, people are under tremendous stress. Leos understood the negative impact caused by the stress. The proud Leos of the University of Kelaniya understood this negative impact caused by stress and made some effort to improve the physical and mental health of those people. During this project, “Better Mind,” conducted by Poverty and Hunger Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya selected twenty street workers and did their best to create a memory of a happy day in their tiring life. On 27th of December 2022, at Sri Wickramasingharamaya, these people were given a bag of dry foods for the upcoming new year’s eve. The chief guest of the function was Leo Rageesh Yogeshwaran, district president of the Leo District 306B2. A special session on mental and physical health was also conducted by the guest of honour, Dr. Damith Wickramarathne, at the National Ayurvedic Hospital. Leos had organized entertainment events to brighten up the faces of street workers. The special gratitude goes to the Britishway English Academy, Kiribathgoda, the sponsor of the event, and the Colombo Municipal Council for their cooperation. Shining eyes and smiling faces of street workers paid off all the hard work of Leos of UOK and gave immense strength to conduct more relative projects. Leo Ashani Imalka
AURORA VOLUME X 19 A Peaceful Mind By, Leo Wasana M. Wickramasingha Life is an amazing, lucent art It will end up one day, fast... So, if you can follow your heart Mind will be very calm and smart... Always we’re trying to find, Strategies for a peaceful mind... But, our thoughts move left and right Without any break, day and night... Who cares till you find your ray So don’t think about, what they say... You should glimmer to win your day Cuz, they will not create your way... Think many times before your actions People will give so many captions... But, they will not give instructions So Friend, go and clear obstructions...
20 AURORA VOLUME X Puss then finds out he is face to face with another “friend”. Kitty Soft - paws, his former rival and lover, after a magical map to a mythical wishing star. Forced to flee yet again, he joins the other two on a quest to find the said star, having his own plans. Fur - ther complicating matters, the three friends find that they are chased by none other than Goldilocks and the three bears and “Big” Jack Horner and his bakery crew, each wanting the wish for themselves. Puss learns much in his quest for the star. Also, his teammates and odd - ly enough, one of his pursuing teams. The pursuing team realizes that family is family. No matter how odd they are. Puss learns firstly that no matter how fearsome you are, you cannot walk alone in your life. Then a team makes you stronger. Secondly a good leader will be with his team and carry them to victory. Last but not least, he real - izes that arrogance is a way to dam - nation and proves to the mysterious bounty hunter why he was The Puss in Boots. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish The Last Wish is the second movie of the story of Puss in Boots. After 11 years of the first mov - ie, it packs tons of funny moments, incredible visuals and also valuable lessons for life. It has a score of 7.9 in IMDb, 95% in Rotten Tomatoes and 75% in Metacritic. The cast is packed with talented actors like Antonio Banderas (Puss in Boots), Salma Hayek (Kitty Softpaws), Harvey Guillen (Perro), Florence Pugh (Goldilocks). Puss, who is a dashing adventurer, a charmer with the ladies and a fearsome swordsman renowned throughout the land, finds himself chased by a ter - rifying bounty hunter wolf. He realizes that he is now down to his last life due to his playboy lifestyle. Scared, he flees and fakes his death to hide from the bounty hunter and seeks shelter in a cat refuge run by an old lady. But there he meets an unlikely “friend”, a Chihuahua pretending to be a cat. His innocence and enthusiasm are sure to attract attention from anyone, but Puss finds him annoying. Leo Dakshina Migara MOVIE REVIEW
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22 AURORA VOLUME X Inspired Future Leo Hashini Nimeshika The great leader Nelson Mandela has uttered that education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world. As Leos of the University of Kelaniya, they always attempt to bring a smile to the face of the needy community uplifting their lives. Aiming at the quality of education, which is a sustainable development goal, the Education and Literacy Avenue of the Leo Club of the University of Kelaniya organised the project ‘Inspired Future’ with the aim of expanding computer literacy and knowledge of the youth. This project consisted of six phases. Computer literacy has become a very important requirement with the current severe economic problems in Sri Lanka. Also, a low rate of computer literacy is reported in Sri Lanka. In an attempt to find a resolution for that problem, this project was implemented to improve basic skills such as CV writing, PowerPoint presentations, Excel spreadsheets, and Microsoft Word document processing which are at a minimum level among the youth. According to that, through this project, a series of workshops to improve those skills were organised. The students between the ages of 16 - 30 were given priority here. On 20th December 2022 from 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m., the project's first phase was conducted at Don Bosco Technical College, Negombo. There, a session on skills and knowledge related to the Microsoft Office package conducted under the guidance of Mr. Shehan Hansaka who is a graphic designer, Camila Networks Pvt Ltd. The students of that college in various fields such as bakery, beauty, motor mechanics, and information technology were the audience of the session. Seiko-Do Japanese Institute joined hands with the Leo Club of the University of Kelaniya as the major sponsor for this event. The second step of this project was to develop the computer skills of the undergraduates of the University of Kelaniya. Finally, remarking on a number of positive feedbacks and responses, the project was concluded successfully supporting these young souls to find their own paths and enhancing their technical knowledge.
AURORA VOLUME X 23 Try to Find Uniqueness In Everything “ Be patient and wait for your results ” - Rashith Yapa - Interview with Rashith Yapa
24 AURORA VOLUME X How would you introduce yourself? I would like to introduce myself mostly as a content creator while many people would recognize me as a YouTuber or a Marketing individual. Can you sum up your YouTube journey? The first thing is it was not easy. It was not easy to choose the right path to become a successful professional. When I started Hamilton, my main YT channel, it was not easy to find content that hit the public/go viral. At that point, many YouTubers motivated us. After naming the channel as "Hamilton", I and my team were trying experiments in every kind of content. We were also influenced by some Instagrammers such as Jackson and Shammy. Following them we attempted to create content that will draw attention of the Sri Lankan audience. People at first didn't recognize our channel and it took a month or two to be known. Mr. Manitha Abeywardhena acted as a turning point in my life. After his shoutout to our videos, they went viral. That's how we came. How do you define an “Opportunity”? I was left out from the Final 20 round at Derana Dream Star, which had me wondering about my next step in life. I can say I was battered. But I didn’t give up. I already had the YouTube channel, “Hamilton ‘’ which had 4k subscribers at that time. Unfortunately, when Covid-19 struck I couldn’t go out and make videos. Since I make videos about public stuff, I couldn’t do it properly and was stuck on content. I didn’t give up there either. I agreed to wait and did so for about 3 years. Still, I uploaded some videos to the channel. During the waiting period, I realized I should create my own path. Then I created a new channel at the end of the year 2022 and it became popular. So, I learnt that every desperate situation has its own benefit and blessing. Opportunities emerge from those situations and you have to have the courage to accept them and utilize them hoping for the best. Do you have any negative influences? Getting eliminated from Derana Dream Star was a great disappointment for me since I targeted farther than that. Unluckily, as I chose the wrong song, I was left out. I consider it the biggest downfall of my life as I felt like I had something in my hands and then lost it. Do you have any role models in life? When it comes to role models, the number one motivational element for me was the YouTuber KSI. He was the biggest influence in my life. I watched his videos from his early stages as a YouTuber. As a YouTuber he was an honest character and he’s true to himself. He’s also a hardworking individual. You can say I am driven by his honesty and his perseverance. What is your idea about balancing career and academics and time management? First, I don’t consider YouTube to be my career, rather, it’s my passion. When it comes to my career, I have a different path as a content creator. Education is a must according to me. Some might wonder that I don’t need further education as I have already established my path in YT. But it’s just the opposite. The best example for me is, before starting the channel Hamilton, I didn’t have much knowledge on marketing. The knowledge I gained through my degree was of immense support there. It boosted me further to start a new channel bringing me to this far. So I believe, having education properly is also a must.
AURORA VOLUME X 25 We need to have the ability to bal ance career, academics and personal life properly. Once we are skillful in handling the balance between things, we naturally become good at time management. Undergraduates undergo problems due to stress and lack of confidence. Could you please give any advice or suggestions to overcome them? Finding something interesting in what you’re doing would be a great way to overcome any negativity. Try to find a simple positive vibe in anything you want to do, if not you like to do. Stay for that 1% of good even if all the 99% is completely bad. Find something precious to disregard the bad in everything. When you’re studying, view it as a part of your goal. Don’t think about short-term comfort. Think about your future. When you consider your big goal, the tasks you have to do at the moment automatically become small. Further, have a hobby, take some rest, don’t study for a long time, take time to be with. your friends and enjoy life. As a YouTuber what is your message for our younger generation? Try to find uniqueness in everything. For example, if you are to have an interview with someone, you can have it underwater, in a fish tank or even at a zoo. Always find a unique way to accomplish your tasks and goals. And especially (for boys), be patient. You have to wait for the results and you need to stick to the plan till the results come. Interviewed by: Leo Aditya Perera Scripted by: Leo Nuzha Farook
26 AURORA VOLUME X "Making a difference to the welfare of animals doesn't require a massive effort; it requires small actions that can make a significant impact". The Leos of the Wildlife and Animal Conservation avenue launched their first project of 2023, "Prana," in an effort to improve the well-being of animals. A number of awareness campaigns for school children were launched during the initial phase of the project. Additionally, a nature and animal conservation society called "Soba Gave Shana" was established in these schools remarking another magnificent moment of the project. The local schools were selected for this project as they are the focal point for disseminating an essential message to the general population. The first phase of the Prana project began on 16th of January in 2023, at Kelaniya Wedamulla Vidyalaya. Six awareness campaigns were held on 20th of January in 2023, at the following institutions: Kelaniya Wedamulla Maha Vidyalaya, Ananda Shasthralaya Mathugama, C.W.W. Kannangara Central College Mathugama, Sri Dharmaloka College Kelaniya, Viharamahadevi Balika Vidyalaya Kelaniya, and Vidyaloka Vidyalaya, Kadawatha. There were many positive comments about the awareness programs praising this prominent attempt of UOK Leos. Some of them have been mentioned here. “We found the awareness campaign put on by the University of Kelaniya’s Leos to be significant and helpful. We were made well aware of the significance of environmental preservation and the negative effects of environmental contamination. It was also noteworthy how the program was organized methodically.” "Really well thought-out explanations were provided. It is admirable that you were able to impart so much information to us in such a short period of time. Your suggestions will always stay in our minds." “We learned a lot of new information. We had the chance to discover new justifications for appreciating the environment and ways to preserve it. We realized how pitiful we are as people when how little we are doing to protect the environment was brought to light. The presenter had a good command of the language.” Moreover, the innovative concepts of “Soba Gaveshana” to address the current issues with wildlife and animal conservation will be presented in an exhibition titled “Ecolution” during the second phase. A group of judges will choose the top five concepts, and the funds will be offered to these societies in order to bring their innovations to life. ECOLUTION will also feature innovations from other parties involved in animal conservation, such as projects by undergraduate students and members from other institutions. Through the exhibition, we hope to promote the sustainability of wildlife and animal conservation, provide school children a platform to share their original ideas and inspire their creativity, educate school children and the public about both aquatic and land animals, as well as the significance of conserving them. PRANA Leo Zainab Fouz
AURORA VOLUME X 27 Do only red roses know about love? Do you give only red roses for love? Does Valentine’s belong only to red? Is there only one day for love? Are the reasons for love really the same? Smile with love.. So then one day you will live with memories, beautifully So then why give only one day to love... Let’s share love to everyone, everywhere forever... Let’s gather memories full of smiles.. On a day like that, Let’s celebrate Valentine’s Day forever.. Leo Chandupa Rathnayaka
28 AURORA VOLUME X Link to Sync 2.0 As we evaluate the reasons for maintaining international relations around the world, we have noticed that sustainable development is a crucial factor. As a result of that, Leo Club of University of Kelaniya unveiled a tremendous project to establish sustainability. It was the project ‘Link to Sync 2.0’ , one of the milestones which were initiated by the International Relations Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya with the aim of promoting and developing sustainable relationships. It was an international joint project involving many representatives from four international Leo clubs namely, LEO Club Bali Shanti from Indonesia, LEO Club of University of Delhi from India, LEO Club of Curtin University from Malaysia and LEO Club Victor Garrido from Dominican Republic. Link to Sync 2.0 was a virtual event held on 15th January 2023 at 10 am via zoom. Moreover, this project came up with an online discussion on one of the sustainable development goals; youth engagement for the economy while linking the international communities together. In addition, both local and international Leo members of the respective clubs gained the opportunity to address the subject using Power Point presentations and videos. The presentations were based on significant topics such as the current youth status of the country, how youth engagement contributes to the economy, government support for the youth generation, benefits of youth contribution to the economy and recommendations for increasing youth engagement in the economy. Furthermore, it gave an amazing opportunity for UOK Leos to communicate, work and share knowledge with other countries. Throughout this project, the directors, the leadership body and the organizing committee of the International Relations Avenue made a substantial contribution to undertake the project towards success from the beginning to the end. Accordingly, the International Relations Avenue was able to accomplish the project adding a remark to the pride of Leo club of University of Kelaniya. Leo Dilshi Wickramarathna
AURORA VOLUME X 29 The Final Hearing “Hi!” Astonished at once I peep through the books. Is it really meant for me? “Good morning, Tash!” The second. I’m still taken aback. It takes a few seconds to occur to me. Yeah, “Tash” proves it is intended to reach me. Yet, I double-check. It is there. “How ya doin?” The third. “I’m good,” I respond instinctively before I have time to think if I should. “Great to hear,” appears the text as soon as I reply. “So, SUP?” “Getting ready for my finals,” I type but tap to delete them. It’s none of his business. I am myself after a long period of grief resulted from betrayal. It took me ages to give up tears before starting off with my routine. There he is again to drown me into a depth which I cannot escape so easily. But, it is my craving to talk to him. Why should I give up? “What’s up there? Anything special?” I send with some indifferent-looking emojis to show that I’m not excited. But I don’t proceed to respond to his “SUP?”. Anyhow heart wins; I respond. “Nothing special, missin ya. Feels like was too hasty.” “Oh!” I type again innately. “It can never be too hasty, Jay. It’s been 10 months now.” “Sometimes it takes time to reflect on what you did.” “Not in your case, though.” “Anyway, we gotta move on. I’m engaged, Natasha.” My heart pounds at the news. The atmosphere feels like one battlefield where thousand troops stab my unarmed self at once. Pain flows like blood wishing death soon. “I’m sorry. Everything happened so quickly.” “Why should you even text me?” “Ohhh, just felt like I oughta. Didn’t want to hurt ya, Tash.” Being guilty that I replied, reproaching myself begins. I was good studying and was completely focusing. I had long ceased waiting for his texts. No more, please. Let me stay free. All at once, tears trickle down my face. Am I losing my spirit before him? It is the time I realize my deep-rooted love towards him. I had no idea before it ever existed from such a profundity. Perhaps, we’re not meant to be. “It takes time to forget someone. Don’t force yourself. It will eventually be all good,” my best friend would say in a way that happily consoles me. Every book I read, every video clip I referred attested it to be true. I’m waiting. When I take my notepad to highlight the essentials, my eyes meet the beautiful garden outside. All the trees promise good harvest. I noted one distinct scene: I had my favourite orchid bush presenting me its very first flower. What a blissful day! Leo Nuzha Farook
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AURORA VOLUME X AURORA VOLUME X3131 I f there is an investment for the future, the best investment is education. If I say why, no one can steal the knowledge we have, no matter how long it has been. Thus, the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya started a similar big investment through the sustainable developed avenue. The project, Nenasara Athwela can be introduced as a big step taken by them. Referring to this project, the project “NENASARA ATHWELA” is one of the tremendous projects to expand the knowledge of O\L students and assist them to get higher grades in the upcoming G.C.E. Ordinary Level examination in 2023. Education should not be limited to urban students only. It belongs to all the children scattered all over Sri Lanka. Realising that, the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya started this project as a series of projects which will be launched continuously by covering the subjects of Sinhala, English, Mathematics and Science through this project under 3 phases. As the first step, covering more than 80 students, they started to help the students who are studying in G.C.E. Ordinary Level. In order to carry out the tasks of teaching these subjects by defining the extent to which learning is valuable, the contribution of the fellow students in the Leo Club of our university as well as in the university itself was taken to distribute the knowledge they have for our brothers and sisters. Moreover, in order to better grasp the subject of mathematics for the students, we were able to receive their resource contribution through the Sasnaka Sansada Foundation, which is attached to the university. The future hope of a country is the youth community living in that country. As a responsible youth community living in a country, we have not only provided education through this project, which was launched to the school community living in the country, but also arranged to provide the necessary documents to the students studying education as possible. Launching a project is not an easy task. It requires a lot of effort. It is a big challenge to get the necessary financial as well as labour contribution. But by managing all those challenges well, the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya successfully completed this project in three phases through the Sustainable Developed Avenue. Even if you grow up in society according to what you have received, if you are able to earn something for yourself, you should definitely get an education. The reason for this is because education directly affects living as a respectable person in a society. For example, Mr. Abdul Kalam, who was the son of a boatsman, became a world-renowned scientist because of the power of education. Thus, the aim of the Nenasara Athwela project is to be a port for the country’s future as much as possible. ir w;aje, Leo Navodya Wickramasinghe
32 AURORA VOLUME X Get Break From... “TAKING A BREAK CAN LEAD TO BREAKTHROUGHS” -RUSSEL ERICDOBDAFrom birth to death and wombto tomb, humans are staggering in a rat race to accomplish a lot more materialistic values that all think to be necessary to gain in their lifespan. It has spread from one end to the other even if it is a bluish wave pulling the all surroundings into the sea earth. The sea waves drag all polythene coverings and wastes towards itself yet, casting away the colorful seashells on the beach. As such, people tend to gather materials on an endless path out of the sense of priceless virtues that will make oneself worthy. To break this conventional rule, you should have a break from people, emotions, and life. Since humans are social beings, they consciously or unconsciously interact with others to maintain their social lives but a pause among people is required. There may be parents, friends, soulmates or anyone else you have connections with and sometimes, it is a chill pill to get distracted from those individuals who are unique themselves and temporary bodies the same as you are. The isolation compels you to focus on yourself and especially your breath that will only stay with you and cannot be taken a break until the mortality. Being with others won’t give a chance to take a deep breath byheart and you will be influenced by unwanted voices and their targets. Thus, detachment from people gears you up to uncover your real desires and prepares you to give the best shot to the future endeavors. Even though some say that you cannot give an applause with one hand, what if you have zero interest in hand clapping? Therefore, sooner or later, you need to have an interval between people and in turn it will give you a selected set of goals to achieve and a small circle of people to have close contacts with. By the time, it is better to use the mirror technique and unwrap yourself consciously to select the emotions you’re struggling mostly with and get a break from them. Do you want to deal more with bliss or pain? The answer would be happiness because the ultimate goal of chasing after everything is to find happiness. However, experiences will point out to you that there is no sole happiness without pain and vice versa. In that sense, the mirror technique will guide you to discover meanings or the reasons behind every emotion. It is necessary to break the usual flow of emotions and place a pause on the emotion line and then rushing along from emotions may pave the way to dive in peace, calm, and solace of life. Thus, try to mind your own mind and it will aid you to mind your own business. Finally, you can get a break from life and commence a new life with a new engine. Some people might have mistaken the idea of taking a break from life means to destroy or suicide and die. Currently, the reason for the high-rate of suicidal cases might be this misunderstanding on the value of life and the life after death. If someone is lingered in the suicidal mentality, it can be mitigated through presenting a positive energy to that someone and give a new hope to thrive in his or her life. Similarly, it is plausible to take a break from present life blended with highs and lows, pains, failures, breakups and other dark sides and start everything with a sublime aspiration. So, don’t rush to work, hurry to take a break to start again. Leo Wathsala Jayawardhana
AURORA VOLUME X 33 “Sri Lanka is an island that everyone loves at some level inside themselves. A very special island that travellers, from Sinbad to Marco Polo, dreamed about. A place where the contours of the land itself forms a kind of sinewy poetry.” - Romesh Gunesekera Project “Lassana Sri Lanka” is an initiative by the Differently Abled Avenue, which consisted with two phases. As the first phase BLINKS’22, a virtual photographic competition was held in an effort to reveal the mysteriously magical places in Sri Lanka. The best photograph and the most famous photograph were chosen through a voting system on Facebook. Along with that, a flyer series was shared with the purpose of making aware the general public about the hidden locations in Sri Lanka and inviting to visit them.
34 AURORA VOLUME X As the second phase, aiming to make an attitudinal change in minds of people who visit Sri Lanka to experience its beauty to protect the environment and keep it clean rather than implementing rules, a clean-up program was implemented in Adam’s Peak by joining hands with the Zero Plastic Movement. Along with that, boards were displayed in selected areas to convey the message of importance of protecting the environment around Adam’s Peak. Project Lassana Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of goals for ensuring Sri Padasthanaya is a beautiful location while enhancing its spiritual value. Leo Dimithri Premarathne
AURORA VOLUME X 35 AURORA VOLUME X 35 Oh my god !!! Aren’t you shy ? Covered from top to toe In a cotton comfy bed Sleeping? Open up ! Your windows To see another one who Spread her delicacy Proudly Amongst cold shivering mist Kissed by the baby sun THE FLOWER Leo Ashani Imalka
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