Aurora Vol IX

Vol. IX Aurora
1

Aurora Vol. IX

First Vice President Third Vice President Secretary and Assistant
Leo Vinuri Nisansa Leo Tharindu Amarasinghe Secretary

Leo Term 21/22 Leo Term 21/22 Leo Thenuri Gajaweera and Leo
Sanduni Nipunika
Leo Term 21/22

As proud Leos of the Leo I’m proud to have been given It is with sincere gratitude that
Club of University of the opportunity to serve as we thank Leo Club of Uni-
Kelaniya, you have taken one of the the third vice president of the Leo versity of Kelaniya for being the
best decisions for the future, and Club of University of Kelaniya for strength behind our growth. We
that is to be a Leo. I took the same the term 21/22. This has been a learnt how to be inspirational lead-
decision being at your place. Initi- rewarding and interesting experi- ers while ensuring the club strives
ating my Leo journey as a member, ence since I was able to supervise forward by conducting more than
now I am bestowed the opportu- 55 impactful sustainable projects 90+ impactful projects. It was truly
nity of working together with Leo with our talented and enthusiastic the best journey we had with the
Multiple District. As I believe Leo directors and members. And also, most supportive individuals who
club is the best place where you get I have always looked up to working became family.
to find solutions for all sorts of your for society and being a part of the We, as the empowered Leos,
problems and weaknesses. At the change to make it a better place. It’s rendered our helping hand in
same time, you will get the self-sat- always been a pleasure to work for every possible way while gathering
isfaction to the fullest. I invite you the society and, on the other hand, thousands of professional experi-
all with a warm heart to join your to develop fellowship. I would like ences, tokens of love and sharing
hand with our Leo club and enjoy to thank each and every member and more than everything, the val-
the finest time of your life. for their commitment to the club, ue of true humanity in our youth.
the donated time, and all their hard Last but not least, expressing our
work to ensure we had a success- sincere wishes for another glorious
ful leoistic year. It’s a pleasure for year ahead which is full of spirit
me to be able to be aside with this and grace!
bunch of amazing souls. Finally, I
have to say, once and always be a
Leo.

1

CONTENT Vol. IX Aurora

Message from the Vice Chancellor 04
Message from the Director of Career Guidance 05
Unit 06
Message from the President 07
Message from the Immediate Past President 08
Chief Editor’s Note 10-11
Throwback 21/22 12
Once a Leo, is always a Leo! 13-16
Never Give up until you are proud – Interview 19-21
with Vini Productions 24-26
Transition’22
Scheduling your priorities is more important 28-31
than prioritising your schedule. - 32-33
Interview with Leo/Lion Thathsara Rajapaksa 34-35
Insight into Zac Jehan Photography 37
Glimpse to Artistic World - Leo Sandeepani
Godage 2
WHAT’S TO BE??? - Poem by Leo Wathsala
Jayawardhana
Magazine Team

Aurora Vol. IX

Senior Prof.
Nilanthi
De Silva

Vice Chancellor,
University of Kelaniya.

The University of Kelaniya is Leos, they always attempt to bring everyone to enjoy the 9th volume
one of the largest of the state a smile to the people in society. of the magazine ‘Aurora’ through
universities in Sri Lanka, sup- While providing a great platform the lens of love and respect. I in-
porting thousands of students to for all undergraduates to find bet- vite all readers to appreciate their
achieve their dreams and wishes ter version of themselves, the Leo potential, their skills and the
each year. It provides a very wide Club of University of Kelaniya also mindset that has enabled the suc-
range of opportunities for all stu- seeks to serve the needy and vul- cessful publication of this maga-
dents to sparkle and show their po- nerable in our community. The Leo zine for the 9th consecutive year.
tential, through academic activities Club raises its voice on their be- As the Vice Chancellor of the Uni-
as well as extracurricular activities. half, thus enhancing the public im- versity of Kelaniya, I extend my
The Leo Club of the University of age of the University of Kelaniya. warm good wishes to this young
Kelaniya is one of the most out- The official newsletter of the Leo Leo squad. My heartiest congrat-
standing clubs in the university, Club of University of Kelaniya is ulations and best wishes to all
with strong roots in a large com- a prestigious written piece which Leos – may the legacy of the Leo
munity of more than 1000 mem- highlights the tremendous service, Club of the University of Kelani-
bers in the whole University rep- talents, and achievements of young ya grow stronger with every year!
resenting all the faculties. As UOK Leo leaders. I cordially welcome

3

Vol. IX Aurora

Prof.
Dilkushi
Senaratne

Director,
Career Guidance Unit,

University of Kelaniya.

It is with great pleasure that I that you need to read as a person azine and witness the glory of the
send this message to “Aurora of value to see the glamour of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya.
Volume IX”, the Official Newslet- Leo Club of University of Kelaniya.
ter of the Leo Club of University I hereby send my best wishes to
of Kelaniya. The Leo Club is one the Aurora Magazine, and I take
of the most important clubs at the this opportunity to thank all the
University of Kelaniya, with a large Leos who have offered their val-
membership that spans all facul- uable services to be a strength to
ties. Leo Club organizes a number our people amidst the difficult and
of community service projects for unprecedented circumstances that
the betterment of society, simul- we have experienced during the
taneously improving leadership previous years. As the 9th volume
skills and offering more opportu- of Aurora, this magazine will be a
nities and experience to the un- testament to the immense efforts
dergraduates who are shining as and hard work of Leos in organ-
Leos. Accordingly, this magazine izing wonderful projects. Thus, I
includes the essential messages invite you to go through the mag-

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Aurora Vol. IX

Message
from the
President

Leo Sachith Lakshan
President (Term 22/23)
Leo Club of University of Kelaniya.

Dear Readers, serve the community? Leo Club are doing and will do our best to
of University of Kelaniya is a place the community overcoming hun-
With the theme of “Making where in undergraduates can un- dreds of challenges and that is what
others smile”, Leo Club of veil and develop their skills while the young leaders always do. Let’s
University of Kelaniya is one of serving the community in need. help others and make them smile.
largest movements in University of Thank You.
Kelaniya under Leo Multiple Dis- Thereby, you are warmly wel-
trict 306. Considering the UOK come to the Aurora magazine
Leoism so far since 2014, as a uni- the official newsletter of Leo Club
versity-based Leo Club, we have of University of Kelaniya. Through
served thousands of people who this newsletter, you will see what
in need in the society with 50+ an- UOK Leos have done in past years
nual service projects. Leo is always and the experiences of previous
one who helps others, serves the leaders. As a movement which
society and make ourselves better covers all six faculties of University
and it is proud to say that UOK of Kelaniya, Aurora magazine will
Leos always follows these, trying be a turning point of your life as it
to make a better world. As under- motivates others to serve the com-
graduates, we are consisting of a munity. With the past experience,
set of hidden skills, and we need Leo Club of University of Kelani-
to unveil ourselves to the world ya is heading to a new era with the
in order to make a better world. theme “Making a better world un-
What if we can use our skills to veiling ourselves”. As Leos, we did,

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Vol. IX Aurora

Message from
the Immediate
Past President

Leo Navod Dunusinghe
Immediate Past President (Term 21/22)
Leo Club of University of Kelaniya.

Aurora magazine, the Official a beautiful smile to someone’s the legacy day by day. Furthermore,
Newsletter of University of face. I truly believe that the Leo I congratulate all the newly elected
Kelaniya, is one of the great initi- club of the University of Kelani- leaders and all the members of the
atives exhibiting the pride of the ya is fulfilling its vision of being club, wishing them the best of luck
LEO club of University of Kelani- an enthusiastic, competitive, and for a remarkable term. Finally, and
ya. I’m very grateful to address leading club among all the univer- most proudly, I appreciate and give
the entire Leo and non-Leo read- sity-based Leo clubs in Sri Lanka my gratitude to the “AURORA’’
ers of this remarkable magazine. and beyond with a keen focus on magazine team for your wonderful
leadership, enthusiasm, support, effort to create this beautiful art. I
Iappreciate all the hard work and service. Each day, we provide a invite you all to go through Auro-
and courage of the fellow Leos number of experiences and oppor- ra IX and witness the glory of the
who gave their sole contribution tunities for our university under- Leo Club of University of Kelaniya.
and support for the betterment of graduates, making them unique.
the LEO club of the University of
Kelaniya. I’ve learned on the path As the immediate past president
thus far in my journey of Leoism of the Leo Club of Universi-
that being a Leo is all about being ty of Kelaniya, I truly and heartily
a great human being who loves show my gratitude to every leader
every single person and every sin- and every member who became a
gle living and non-living being on wonderful Leo to bring our club to
this earth, regardless of their ori- where we are today, and I invite you
gin or importance. As Leos, our all to intertwine your hands with
sole intention should be to bring ours in this journey of connecting

6

Chief Editor’s NoteAurora Vol. IX

“Learn as if you

will live forever,
live like you will
die tomorrow.

Mahatma Gandhi

Leo Samali Irugal Bandara
Chief Editor (Leo Term 22/23)
Leo Club of University of Kelaniya

Aurora is the written inscription the support given to make a good to devise a magnificent outcome.
showcasing the glamour of the impression on our Leos via the in-
proud UOK Leos. “Words are our terview. Furthermore, I would like Accordingly, I wish all proud
most inexhaustible source of mag- to express my heartfelt gratitude Leos the best of luck in their
ic” in penning our heartfelt emo- to Leo/Lion Thathsara Rajapaksa, future endeavors and hope that
tions. Hence, the Aurora Magazine past president of the Leo District you achieve the maximum ben-
energizes the spirits of the young 306 B2, and Leo Dilshan Peris, past efit from being a Leo by offering
blood as per their personal and pro- President of the Leo Multiple Dis- people smiles and making your-
fessional development by offering trict 306, for assisting us in hon- selves smile by being the best
people helping hands. Aurora mag- oring Aurora by participating in versions of yourselves. Hence,
azine contains valuable inscriptions interviews. I would like to thank Aurora 9th Volume discloses
from our proud Leos, and it will the Executive Board, the Editorial the pride of UOK Leos being a
energize everyone to dive deeper Avenue directors, and the Editori- strength to all the humble souls.
into the depths of seeking happi- al Team for their constant efforts
ness while offering people smiles. and unwavering commitment to
Accordingly, Aurora 9th volume is ensuring a successful newsletter
unveiled as a tribute to the accom- this term as well. Through their
plishments of the Leo term (21-22). dedication, we were able to over-
come all the challenges we encoun-
Ihereby disclose my gratitude to tered in the process of planning
the VINI Productions team for up to execution and ultimately

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Vol. IX Aurora

Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer Co- Editors
Leo Dimanshi Siriwardena and Leo Kasuni Geethandi and Leo
Leo Himanshi Siriwardena
Leo Term 21/22 Thilini Anupama
Leo Term 21/22

Leo is the best place where The very specialty of being a
you can find the unity Leo is that you feel wanted
of freedom to do social volun- and appreciated. The amount of
tary work and have that endless pleasure you gain by knowing the
self-satisfaction. There were many impact of you on society can nev-
challenges we faced while we were er be turned into words. In the last
experiencing the Leo journey, but successful Leo term, we managed
one thing that hasn’t changed is our to run lots of great projects that
deep love, respect, and passion for impacted on society in great ways.
this Leoism. We truly believe that As the co- editors, we got to
Leo Club of University of Kelaniya work with a wonderful magazine
is inherited with youngsters who team and we were able to launch
have great leadership skills that two volumes of the Aurora mag-
empower the generation. There is azine. For the first time, we could
nothing more beautiful and pow- create an Editorial team with great
erful than people standing up for impacts for the club. We believe
making this world a peaceful place. that all of them are achievements
After we joined the Leo our entire of our last Leo Term 2021/2022.
life started to move towards a pos-
itive change. We invite all the new
Leos to join hands with us because
this place is yours.

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Aurora Vol. IX

THROWBACK
21/22

that Leo of UoK was rewarded for nine projects by winning awards at Leo
Multiple District Award Ceremony.

• Pibiduma – The Winner-Most Outstanding Project for Respon-
sible Consumption & Waste Management
• Voice of Brains–The Winner–Most Outstanding Project for
LEO is the place where they Youth Development
serve the world for 60+ years • H20 – The Winner-Most Outstanding Project for Clean Water
by providing the younger genera- and Energy Conservation
tion with numerous opportunities
to develop individually and collec- • The Beat of Youth – The Winner-Most Outstanding Project for
Fundraising
tively. The LEO club of University
of Kelaniya has become one of the
best platforms to realize the hid-
den talents of a person along with
leadership. It is the only club where
the 1000+ members can work on
various projects with their beloved
leadership board. With the biggest

AURORAcapacity, it has become the most
outstanding club of LEOs in the • Debatinators – 2nd runner up-Best Inter District Project
• Dirisawi – 2nd runner up - Most Outstanding Project for Hun-
ger
• Thuru – 1st runner up-Most Outstanding Project for the Envi-
ronment
• Hasarella – 2nd runner up-Most Outstanding Project for Pediat-
ric Cancer
• Nethi Yathra – Winner-Most Outstanding Project for Crime &
Accident Prevention

term 21/22. It is not only about the awards, but it’s all about to what extent LEO term
21/22 is successful through enhancing the numerous skills of our mem-
The term 21/22 can be introduced bers. We could identify people who are multi-talented in event manage-
as the most glorious era of LEO of ment, art, photography, dubbing, and especially empathetic souls who
UoK with the guidance of the im- understand one’s hardest period of life. To the Leo club, we thoroughly
mediate past president, Leo Navod trust that, “Leo needs more people who are great inside.”
Dunusinghe and the rest of the
leadership figures. We could com- By
plete 50+ social projects through Leo Aditya
14 avenues aimed at giving a smile Perera
to one’s face. The success is obvious

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Vol. IX Aurora

“LEO is a floor
where you
realize
who you are”

710

Aurora Vol. IX On a warm afternoon, someone Thus, I would say this three-letter
asked me what my expectations word “LEO” is a magic spell. Not
ONCE A were of being a Leo. everyone can be magical, but Leos
“Offering pure smiles to plenty of will perform magic in front of your
LEO hearts is my expectation of being own eyes. Thousands of pretty eyes
a Leo.” They were the words that are still glancing at us, witnessing
IS ALWAYS echoed in my heart. It’ll be hard to that they can see magic because
explain the emotion of satisfaction of Leos. It’s not about precious
A LEO! at seeing someone’s smile. If we awards, but it’s about earning peo-
took a breath and thought of all the ple, helping them to see the light
hardships that we had to undergo, of their lives. No matter how hard
it’d be the greatest satisfaction to you work, you’ll have the greatest
realize that we were also the reason satisfaction in your heart that you
behind that beautiful smile. did something precious, and that
Everyone needs help. If Leo were will show you the path of success
to be my aid, I would also have the because Leo is a beacon that illu-
responsibility of being an aid to minates the desperate hearts with
someone. Leadership, Experience, sparks!
and Opportunities will definitely
show the paths of success. On the Leo Samali
one hand, each beautiful individ- Irugal Bandara
ual who is a part of society needs
support, and on the other hand,
each one needs to play the role of
a supporter.

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Vol. IX Aurora
13

Aurora Vol. IX - Interview with
VINI Productions -
YouTube has become the
most popular social me-
dia platform worldwide for differ-
ent goals including gaining extra
income, as a hobby and for enter-
tainment. 95% of the population
views it as beneficial, whereas the
minority thinks it is useless. How-
ever, a visible growth tendency to-
wards YouTube is obvious among
Sri Lankan younger generations.
Recently, the number of group and
pair creations has been increas-
ing rather than that of individual
content creators. Vini Productions
can be introduced as the best in-
stance of a comedy content-creat-
ing group who could change their
whole lives via YouTube and be
loved and admired by everyone
today. When talking about the
beginning of “Vini”, it began with
only 4 members in 2014, aiming
to entertain the audience. Along
with entertainment, they have
become role models since they
teach us how we can be success-
ful as a team with unity, manage-
ment, patience, and leadership.

QWhat is “Vini Productions” er. In the past, our area lacked re- in computer knowledge. Therefore,
and who are you? sources like signal strength. But we read computer magazines from
now the current condition is bet- our library and gained knowledge
We would like to define Vini as ter than before, with the support related to information technology,
a group of comedy content crea- of the Dialog service. We initiated as there were no internet facilities
tors who aim to provide a creative this as a hobby in our leisure time. and those technological methods
output for our beloved audience All four of us had a keen interest had not been trending. Finally,
without any age gap. We always we bought computers and tried to
believe if we can draw a smile on learn those skills. By that time, we
someone’s face, it is the success of were encouraged to create content
our journey so far. However, the for the stories from Gappiya, Loku
group, Vini Productions, is willing malli and podi malli and Kusal Sri-
to create more diverse content for mal. Firstly, we did cover songs and
our community on the YouTube posted them on Facebook. As pre-
viously mentioned, we did this as a
Qplatform. hobby. After knowing that Youtube
What was your first initiative is a platform where you can earn
as a team and how did you money, we decided to do this as a
take the first step? profession.

Actually, four of us have been
best friends since our school days,
and we are very close to each oth-

13

QHow do you define teamwork other, and all of us go through that. Vol. IX Aurora
and how do you manage that It may be a fortune and a blessing
concept as a team? for us. becomes a failure. Also, the major
factor is creativity. When there is
Maintaining teamwork is a dif- QDo you think you could a team, there are more vivid ideas
ficult task. For our shootings, we achieve this success if you and we are not limited to the only
task or thing. When elaborating it
more, an individual can be consid-
ered as a fruit. In general, rather
than a taste of one fruit, a mixed
fruit is better. This instance can be
applied to this team work. Thus,
we were able to achieve this huge
success as we worked as a team. So,
Vini production is the final best
output of a coalition of 12 mem-
bers’ diverse opinions.

QIs there any particular difficul-
ty that you encounter when
you work as a team?

take worked as individuals by using No such problem needs to be
our own villagers who are famil- only your own potential? So far, highlighted when we discuss our
iar with us. On some occasions, how is the success of your journey current situation. However, when
we take two or three people from as a team? we first started out, we ran into
outside for that. In our team, Viraj, some difficult circumstances be-
Nisal, Ishara and I are given priori- Actually, it could not be suc- cause of the state of the econo-
ty among the other team members, cessful if we worked as individu- my, which made it difficult for us
as we are engaged in main tasks. als. Because in our team, there are to manage things like the cost of
Also, four of us guide and lead 12 members, and they are good at videography and other expenses.
our other members. Therefore, various skills and potential. When Other than that, there aren’t any
it is easier. We work in a friendly considering our Vini combina- significant disagreements among
and welcoming environment. We tion, Nisal Saranga is good at vid- us when it comes to the challeng-
always respect and listen to each eo graphing, Ishara Madhushan at ing circumstances we face when
other’s opinions, and we have a video editing, and Viraj Madhu- working as a team. It’s true that
good rapport. Thus, there are less sanka and I even if we share similar interests,
problematic situations. are proficient we undoubtedly have different
at script writ- viewpoints. Therefore, as a team,
QWhat experiences have you ing. There-
gained from this journey, and fore, I think we think that in or-
how have you applied those expe- that it is im- der to succeed, we
riences to your creations? possible to must respect one
achieve this another’s opinions.
Most of the time, our points success as Coming to a bet-
of view are similar to each other. an individu- ter decision won’t
When talking about experience, al. Actually, be difficult if we
we often utilize our own experi- most people freely express and
ence for our creations. As a team, are trying to share our opinions,
we always share our experience accomplish it tolerate those of
and choose the best experience as individu- others, and discuss
for our creations and content. Fur- als. But, most everything as a team
thermore, the way we appreciate of the time, it with mutual respect.
something is also similar to each
QWhat kind of
message do
you need to give to

14

Aurora Vol. IX

the audience? about what we do. Thus, you need
It’s because of you, we have to identify what you were born
with and what your capabilities
come this far. We must appreciate are. Then, without looking back,
your love for us. This appreciation you must start doing what you
goes to each and every one who love. We cannot forecast the fu-
supports us, and that’s what gives ture, but if you put in more effort
us energy to do more for you. The and keep trying, you will succeed
name ‘VINI’ still exists because you in some way. We also have a jour-
talk about us, watch our videos and ney, one that we initiated, went
share them with your friends. We through, were guided, and that
always think that there’s no gap be- brought us to this point. Hence,
tween our audience and us because we give thanks to everyone who
we are two parts of a single work. has supported, motivated, and as-
Additionally, we believe that there sisted us.
is no generation gap among our

audience, which makes us pleased Interviewed by :
and motivates us to continue pro-
ducing content since that is what Leo Aditya
we need to do: to make people Perera
smile, regardless of where they are Leo Samali
from or what they do for a living. Irugal Bandara
We can sum it up in one word: “we Leo Aruni
love you!” Warnasooriya

QWhat advice would you
give to someone who
adores teamwork?

Never give up until you are
proud! We need to be passionate

15

Vol. IX Aurora

Director of Youth Development Co-Directors of Poverty & Hun- Co-Directors of Differently Abled
Avenue - Leo Vimukthi Vaz ger Avenue – Leo Dilshan Randi- Avenue – Leo Chathur Dilmika,
Leo Term 21/22
ka, Leo Rashmi Rupasinghe Leo Thejani Dilanka
Leo Term 21/22 Leo Term 21/22

Beginning my Leo journey as In the previous term as the First of all, we would like to
a member of the Youth De- poverty & hunger avenue, thank the Leo club of the
velopment Avenue and thereafter we’ve done 04 projects for the bet- University of Kelaniya for giving us
becoming the Director of the very terment of society. They are Ame- a directorship. Through our team,
Avenue, was indeed an indelible liorate, Happy Hearts, Heels on we have been able to give our sup-
experience for me. During the last Hills, and Dirisavi. Project Ame- port to a large number of people in
Leoistic term I was able to execute liorate was virtual and the other the community who deserve our
many signature projects through 03 projects are physical projects help. Therefore, we are very happy
the avenue that were recognized on benefiting a mass community. As to be the directors of Differently
both Dist+rict and Multiple Dis- the avenue, we did those projects Abled Avenue. Happiness is the
trict levels. Collaborating with two very well and they helped us to most precious thing in life as a hu-
other university Leo clubs from gain new experiences. And also man. But many people in our so-
two different Leo districts to a pro- at the award ceremony, we’ve re- ciety have lost their happiness due
ject for the first time in the history ceived three Awards. We have to the legacy of fate. We were able
of LEO UOK, project Debatinators been awarded with two awards in to bring back happiness to such
22’ stood out as one of the most the district award ceremony and people. The Waruwa project is the
successful projects by the avenue. another one at the multiple district most valuable project we have done
Not forgetting the projects ‘’Break- award ceremony. for them. Not only that, like Friday
ing Free, Adventure Awaits, Jingle • Best Project for hunger- Night, the Voice of the Brains pro-
Mingle and Chill & Thrill’’ which Winner ject enabled us to reveal the talents
created a genuine impact on the • Best Project for Poverty & of our own Leos and awaken their
youthful souls in the society, term Better Life -1st Runner up prudence. With all that, the most
21/22 was indeed an era to cherish • Best Project for hunger- valuable thing is Leo’s bond. We
forever on the Youth Development 1st runner up (Multiple would like to say that the Leo club
Avenue. District) of the University of Kelaniya is one
of the loveliest stay in our life.

16

Aurora Vol. IX

Co-Directors of Health Care Av- Co-Directors of Environmen- Co-Directors of Marketing
enue - Leo Poornima Srimal, Leo tal Conservation Avenue - Leo and PR Avenue - Leo Rashith
Achini Poornika, Leo Ranindu
Adeesha Samarasinghe Yapa, Leo Mistika Samana
Leo Term 21/22 Pabasara Leo Term 21/22
Leo Term 21/22

It is a great pleasure to join Leo Environmental Conservation As the Co-Directors of the
Club in University of Kelani- Avenue was a significant Marketing and PR Avenue
ya. As Directors in Health care av- Avenue for the members of the we could achieve our goal, spread-
enue in Leo Club me & Adeesha term 2021/22. They had chances to ing the glory of the Leo Club of
had done several projects. One of participate in five projects namely the University of Kelaniya offering
the projects is the Built on Respect Turtarine, Eco Scope, Greencep, much to society as well. Simulta-
about Maternal & Infant Health Pibiduma and Eco Diary. Among neously, we could gain experience
awareness project. Another one is those five projects, there were four working with the other Leos to
handing over Sugar checking ma- physical projects. make a great impact on our club
chines in rural area hospitals in Ba- As the co-directors of the Ave- during the Leo Term 21/22.
dulla & five Elder’s homes. nue we are pleased to say that, there Keeping a brand and communi-
With Projects like this we have were more than 55 OC chances for cating itself has many responsibil-
gained knowledge about weakness- the projects. The members were ities. It’s hard to make a name and
es in the health sector in the rural highly engaged in the projects. maintain it as it is or improvise it.
area & gain experience how to do Accordingly the project Pibiduma As directors in PR and marketing
projects with the team of Leos. As was awarded as the most outstand- we believe we achieved our mis-
we expected we were able to do ing project for Responsible Con- sion in many ways.
the projects that make us happier. sumption and Waste Management We would like to express our
Finally Leo Club is the best place at the Annual Multiple District heartfelt gratitude to each and
to find generous & kind hearted Conference 2022. every Leo who worked tirelessly
Leos & for the younger generation to achieve true prestige as a club at
to train to do projects and to be a It was awarded as the best the pinnacle. We invite everyone to
leader. project for Responsible Consump- be a part of this wonderful family,
tion and Waste Management at spreading love and kindness and
17th Annual Leo District Confer- receiving many things in return.
ence 2022.

Finally as the co-directors we
wish to have an exciting Leo Term
2022/23. Wishing the best for the
newly appointed executive board
and the director board.

17

Vol. IX Aurora
7

Aurora Vol. IX Thus, the strength of Leoism is out a clear idea about the image of
fed by the contribution, attitude, Leoism. A few past director board
“We are each other’s harvest, we leadership, motivation, and aware- members shared their experience
are each other’s business; we are ness of each and every single Leo. with these newbies and those
each other’s magnitude and bond”. Therefore, as a Leo club of a reput- gained experiences were presented
As an iconic club of University of ed state university in Sri Lanka, making tears in the eyes of those
Kelaniya, Leo Club of University of the Leo Club of the University of board members. It is praiseworthy
Kelaniya was getting ready to con- Kelaniya has the responsibility to to mention that the entire induc-
nect with their new Leo blood with endow skilled, rewarded and credi- tion programme was organized
the beginning of another amazing ble LEOs to the society to be served under the thematic concept of the
term. Transition’22 was organized and district 306 to be strengthened. movie ‘Raya & the Last Dragon’
by the Executive Board, Direc- Interesting online game sessions, as our board members wanted to
tor Board, and the former Leos of experience-sharing speeches, vide- make this event a remarkable one
the Leo Club of the University of os, and entertainment events were in each and every new member’s
Kelaniya and it was held on the conducted with the intention of ac- mind.
25th of September. quiring more efficient and success-
It was truly a conversion from one ful outcomes from this orientation Finally, with the number of
chapter into another novel chap- programme. heart-touching feedback and re-
ter of a precious Leo diary. The A descriptive presentation was sponses, Transition’22 remarked
event was conducted on a virtual conducted by Leo Sachith Lak- the end officially initiating another
platform due to the prevailing eco- shan, President of the Leo Club of magnificent term in order to ex-
nomic crisis with the participation the University of Kelaniya for the pand the epithet of UOK Leoism.
of more than 300 new membership term 22/23 which was able to bring
applicants. This event was the be- Leo Aruni
ginning of newbies’ Leo journey Warnasooriya
being energized as a proud UOK
Leo member who is passionate
about serving society. Leo Kasun
Balasooriya, Past President of Leo
Club of the University of Kelaniya
for the term 20/21 , and Ms. Rasi-
ni Bandara who is a psychologist,
public speaker as well as counselor
joined us to add more glamour to
this induction programme as guest
speakers.

Transition’22 was comprised of
many alluring sessions that sup-
port new members to be inspired
as future leaders. LEO club is a
well-reputed organization, around
the world for its unlimited service
for society and for the well-being
of people. Leo Multiple District
306, Sri Lanka, is also well recog-
nized for the effective performanc-
es and social services with a great
number of beneficiaries. This lega-
cy and reputation are empowered
by each and every LEO in all 6 dis-
trict clubs.

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Transition’ 22Vol. IX Aurora
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Aurora Vol. IX

Co-Directors of Women Em- Co-Directors of Religion and Cul-
powerment Avenue - Leo Nipuni ture Avenue - Leo Nimesh Madu-
Lowe, Leo Vishwanee Alahakoon
shan, Leo Chathuka De Silva.
Leo Term 21/22 Leo Term 21/22

‘There is no limit to what we can accomplish’. Leo Club of University of Kelaniya is a place
where we can get challenges, lessons, surpris-
As the Women Empowerment Avenue we es and happiness all in one place. In the term 21/22,
were able to launch five projects which made as the directors of R&C avenue we were able to do,
a huge impact on the society as a whole. We believe five projects (Glorious Souls, Abhilasha, H2O, Sang-
that we gain great satisfaction through the smiles of abhisheka, Neethi Yathra ), 50+ OC Chances, 100+
the beneficiaries of our projects. and in Sanghabhisheka all the society Beneficiaries,
Those projects won many awards at B2 Leo District Rs.450000 total project value.
conference as follows: Among these we were awarded with the Best
• Best Project for Women Empowerment - Pro- Project for Clean Water & Energy Conservation -
ject Femina H2O, Best Project for Crime & Accident Prevention
• Best Project for Disaster Management - Project - Neethi Yaathra in the District conference of Leo
PAWURU district 306B2.
• Best Project for Pediatric Cancer - Project In the Leo Multiple District Award Ceremony
HASARELLA we were awarded with the Most Outstanding Pro-
We have a humble satisfaction about Project ject for Clean Water & Energy Conservation - H2O,
HASARELLA for awarded as the 2nd Runner Up at the Most Outstanding Project for Crime & Accident
the Leo Multiple District Award Ceremony. Prevention - Neethi Yaathra, and one of the most
As Leos and as undergraduates we experienced significant and unique projects of the year is the
many things that an ordinary undergraduate cannot Sanghabhisheka.
gain within the four years at the university. More- Finally, we would like to invite anyone who wants
over, we believe while making an impact on the to take on challenges, face and overcome them to
human kind we were able to change our lives with join us.
many valuable lessons which has made us into the
human being we are today.
Finally, it proves that Leo is not just an organi-
zation, it’s the place where you can spread your hu-
manity, you can give a smile to another face, you can
empower yourself as a great leader and you are able
to build an immortal bond with a new family that is
worth for the lifetime.

21

Vol. IX Aurora

Director of Fund Raising and Co-Directors of Education and Co-Directors of Wildlife and
ER Avenue - Leo Kavindya Literacy Avenue - Leo Shaveen Ar- animal conservation avenue - Leo
Siriwardhana ambage, Leo Rushani Athapaththu Kaushalya Yapa, Leo Vinod Dis-
Leo Term 21/22
Leo Term 21/22 sanayaka
Leo Term 21/22

When it comes to our It’s our privilege to serve as We still remember the first
achievements we were the directors of Education day of our leoism. We
able to raise several funds togeth- and Literacy avenue of Leo Club were very lucky to Have a lot of ex-
er as a club. For example we got to of University of Kelaniya for the perience and had unlimited happi-
build up partnerships with highly term 21/22 . Looking back the time ness from that day. We had the best
recognized companies islandwide we have passed , we feel very hap- team who had confidence in us. so,
like Nippolac and Vision Care. Ex- py and proud of being able to lead we brought our love Not only for
cept for these achievements of the such a wonderful club. Throughout society but also for animals. It is the
club, I have got my own personal the term, we dedicated our time pinnacle of volunteering. We think
achievements. Leo club supported helping out in our community in it is the same for others. We were
me to unleash the true leader in- performing service projects, which able to give our contribution for
side me and made me a great team enabled us to develop crucial lead- our people and for mother nature.
player. UOK Leos shine and crown ership skills that have helped us be- If we talk about the projects done
whatever they do and wherever come better leaders today. Togeth- in the last term, we successfully
they go. That wouldn’t be possible er, we were able to make difference completed three projects.They are
without everyone in the club. in the lives of the less fortunate, project Naturapeps, Fauna rescue
and in our own lives as well while and project Outterra. Project Nat-
gaining personal and profession- urapeps is a virtual session which
al skills ultimately through leoism was done by three sessions regard-
that will last a lifetime .We are re- ing wildlife and environmental
ally grateful to all who helped us conservation, marine conservation
to learn more and more of the Leo and wildlife photography. Fauna
leadership, its complexities and its rescue project launched for ani-
benefits, its dedication to the ser- mals dying due to careless disposal
vice and humanity and the unpar- of garbage and animals dying due
alleled fellowship. to illegal driving. Another one is
Project Outerra.The main objec-
tive of project Outterra was to de-
velop the leadership skills and soft
skills of our members and give
them a new camping experience.
The expression of satisfaction in
our life from the little little activi-
ties was able to do more than joy.
We felt like we could entirely ac-
complish our responsibility as the
Co-directors of the Wildlife and
Animal Conservation Avenue.

22

Aurora Vol. IX

“Scheduling your

priorities is more
important than
prioritising your
schedule

Interview with Leo/
Lion Thathsara
Rajapaksa

Leo/ Lion Thathsara Rajapak- QHow do you define yourself? QWhat can we achieve as a
sa is the former District I’m Thathsara Rajapaksa, a per- leader for our lifetime?
President of the Leo District 306 son who would be interpreted as A person’s life depends greatly on
B2 of the Leo term 21/22. He is a very strict. But I am sort of a per- their ability to lead. But there are
fantastic leader who has achieved son who idealises, visualises and “Made leaders” and “Born lead-
his goals throughout his lifetime thinks of an ideal world which can ers” , when it comes to leadership.
of success. Thus, we are providing be named as something “Perfect”. These so-called leadership traits
a glimpse into his incredible expe- can originate from both inside and
riences as a proud Leo who strives QHow do you define a leader? outside of an individual. It might
to help others while attaining his In my definition, a leader is the come from their schools, and lead-
objectives. person who enables his team mates ers might join these voluntary or-
to perform better even in uncertain ganizations to hone their abilities.
situations with the given resources Therefore, they must possess the
to achieve the perfect outcome. essential passion to attain whatev-

23

er goal they have in mind. A leader my abilities. In specifics, Leo pro- Vol. IX Aurora
must first establish themselves as a vided the majority of the practical
leader in society number of projects as well as to
in order to de- implementations while JCI pro- bring the club’s unity and structure
velop these traits, vided the majority of the theoret-
and they must al- ical aspects. In addition, I believe to a given level. So I end-
ways be aware of that I was able to practice it on a ed up with around four
what they should much wider scale, because of my prior presidents at my
be doing, what age and maturity. Since there are so club, two of whom had
traits they re- many leos, they provided me with retired, to inspire them.
quire, and how a platform to interact with individ- I had to analyse every-
they will go about uals and learn about their psyche. one in order to discov-
achieving those Therefore, the part I’m playing er my own path back to
traits. right now is essentially a result of where I wanted to be. We
that process as well. The practical reached a point in the lat-
QHow is the aspects helped me grow, but more ter half of the year when
contribution than the academic ones, it offered WhatsApp groups had
of Leo for the me a platform to do so. more than 100 members,
person that you and communication was
are today? QAs a leader how do you moti- possible. It needs contin-
vate others? ual contact to reach out
I need to take Being a leader involves inspir- to every member and
you back a few years to be able to ing others, but as I don’t often get learn about their trigger
answer that question. Actually, I the chance to interact with oth- points in order to moti-
was not this far forward in school er Leos, I don’t currently inspire vate someone. My personal idea is
and I started volunteering in 2014. many other Leos. However, when that getting into direct communi-
In 2014, I found this amazing I speak about the period as club cation about what their ambitions
organisation called JCI (Junior president, I presided over a club are for the next term works better.
Chamber International). That was with 12 and more than 50 mem-
actually a coincidence, because bers. Immediately before my club QWhat opportunities have you
it was after I went to one of their presidency, the number of projects gained through your Leo jour-
leadership programs. With time, I done was eight. So, even though ney?w
could identify my potential while my community was modest, I had
going through the leadership lad- a challenge to increase a specific Opportunities have come to me
der at JCI. There was a point that in a regular stream as a person who
I became the vice president at JCI has mostly developed through two
Gampaha, and there I got the op- volunteer organisations. I must
portunity and so many valuable admit, though, that I took most of
experiences. the theoretical elements from JCI,
like networking, workplace skills,
In addition, I got to collabo- and how to write a minute - all of
rate with Leos from the Gampa- which were significant advantages
ha Metro. In 2018, I served as the I acquired during my Leo journey.
JCI president for JCI Gampaha Sri There were a ton of things I might
Lanka while also serving as one have learned from the club presi-
of the club’s treasurers for the Leo dents and other district presidents.
Club. So, I collaborated with two I presently have a strong regional
voluntary organizations. The traits network with Leos and universi-
I exhibit are a perfect blend of JCI ty-based organisations. Leo is a
and the Gampaha Metro Leo Club. sizable, widely dispersed organi-
However, my club president at JCI zation with a sizable network. An-
Gampaha initially failed. I didn’t other priceless gift and fantastic
do anything, but after getting an- opportunity I received is called
other chance, I was able to advance Friend Circles. Therefore, I believe
that the knowledge, expertise, and
working capacity are necessary be-

24

Aurora Vol. IX necessary expertise. Furthermore,
I’m telling you that you shouldn’t
cause of the nature of the working prioritise the things on your agen-
workplace. da. Your main priorities should be
scheduled first, because scheduling
QAs the former district presi- your priorities is more important
dent in 306 B2, what are the
tricks that you used to uplift the
Leo District?

I had to work than prioritising the items on your
despite numerous schedule.You don’t have to volun-
obstacles, as I pre- teer all the time, you have peace to
viously indicated. I choose your priorities and you can
had to devise a plan lead a better life with the utmost
to get around them. satisfaction.
I’d like to share a few
ideas that got me Leo Achini
through this jour- Samarathunge
ney. When I first Leo Samali
arrived, there were Irugal Bandara
challenges with ad-
ministration, lead-
ership, and unity of
the club.

We started plac-
ing them in a par-
ticular framework
in administration.
Language barriers
pushed club pres-
idents to be collaborative, and
physical activities led to welcom-
ing new members with excellence.
In addition, for a district to devel-
op, clubs must work together. We
carefully followed, looked into,
and closed all the gaps that were
present on all sides. As the former
president of the Leo District 306
B2, I therefore think that I could
address the issues to the best of my
ability.

QWhat is the message that you
have to give all the leos?

We emphasise leadership, ex-
perience, and opportunity pri-
marily in leo. Even when a leader
makes a mistake, Leos should be
able to call him out on it. If there
are such courageous people and
knowledge-driven leaders, we can
go on a great adventure. You can
perform anywhere, if you have the

25

Vol. IX Aurora

Co-Directors of Sustainable Co-Directors of Sports and En-
Development and International tertainment Avenue – Leo Pasan
Relations Avenue - Leo Yasasvi de
Silva, Leo Yenuli Amarathunga Sanjula, Leo Maheshika
Madadeniya
Leo Term 21/22
Leo Term 21/22
As the co-directors of Sustainable Develop-
ment and International Relations Avenue, As a proud product of the University of
we could successfully conclude two remarkable Kelaniya Leo member, things we have
projects. The first project was ‘Nanasara Athwela,’ a learned cannot be exactly transferred to the words.
continuous project focused on conducting a sem- When we started this journey in 2020 we are kind
inar series for schools with inadequate facilities of doubtful about how this works and how to cre-
and teachers, to prepare their students for the O/L ate connections through this Leo platform.
examination. We won the 2nd Runner up award As directors of the Sports and Entertainment
for “Most Outstanding Continuous Project” at the Event Avenue, we had over 50 members in our
District Award Ceremony. team. With the support of our team we had done
The second project of our avenue was ‘Link to several events as the major event we had done we
Sync,’ which was an international project. In this had successfully completed KELIBIMATA ARUN-
project, we partnered up with three foreign Leo ALU sports equipment donations and volleyball
clubs from Germany, Indonesia, and Republica championship on Kothmale Vidyalaya. We had ca-
Dominicana and had a discussion on SDG Goal tered sports equipment to over 150 students from
number 13- Climate action. This was the first in- that event. As the signature project KELIBIMATA
ternational project we have done from Leo Club of ARUNALU had done through our Avenue with the
University of Kelaniya. Moreover, we could win the support of our S&E members.
2nd Runner-up award for “Best joint project with Throughout these couple of years we could
foreign Leo clubs’’ at the District Award Ceremony. learn and practice leadership skills and especially
The Organizing Committee members and Av- the lovable souls that we met from these years of
enue Leadership Body developed their leadership experience. we’re always honored to be in the Leo
potential and interpersonal skills through these family and thank you all for giving this much of
two projects, which helped them to become the experienc.
best leaders.
Finally, we take this opportunity to thank our 26
dear Executive Board and the Director Board for
always being by our side and helping conduct the
projects throughout the term. Further, it’s a priv-
ilege to mention that our members and we could
improve ourselves a lot as leaders during the last
term and we could gain the maximum benefit by
being proud Leos of Leo Club of University of
Kelaniya.

Aurora Vol. IX

Creative Corner “No matter what you have
on your hand, if you work

hard with it for your
purpose, it will enhance

what you do.”
-Zac Jehan-

Insight into Zac

Photography is a beautiful expectations, photography needi-
sector which is an essential ness went high. From my point of
part of society now. We belong view, these are the main aspects of
to an online generation. During photography.
COVID-19, we started diving deep
into the online marketing sector Iam Zack Jahan or Zacky
and other online sectors. We be- Ahamed. I am a smartphone
came especially aware of the need photographer. I use a smart-
for the photography and graphic phone with a tiny sensor to take
designing processes. Because dur- high-quality photos. I have a mot-
ing the pandemic, people got stuck to in my life. “No matter what you
at home, and they were not allowed have on your hand, if you work
to travel outside or hold any kind of hard with it for your purpose, it
function. As a result, people went will enhance what you do.” .” I have
through different websites and learnt what the limitations are in
did everything to find fine photo- the photography field and how far
graphs for the satisfaction of their I could break them. The evalua-
minds. With these photographic tion of photography is surprising.

27

Vol. IX Aurora

Jehan photography

The big devices are providing less be more opportunities in that field
of a contribution, whereas small since smartphone companies are
devices are taking over the field. more concerned about developing
The way I see it, even though there the photographic features on their
are several types of photogra- devices. In that case, smartphones
phy like DSLR, digital camera, or will lead the photography sector.
drone photography, smartphone This is my perspective. If you’re an
photography is gradually covering undergraduate who is interested
every segment in the field. When in photography, I hope you realize
it comes to photography, mobile how the smartphone changes the
phones are more user-friendly and future of the photography world.
convenient. Be it smartphone pho-
tography or any other type, always Edited by
take your shots in a different way. Leo Dinesha
That makes you unique. I’m do- Liyanagedara
ing the same thing. Since smart-
phone photography is replacing
the other types, I think there will

28

Creative CornerAurora Vol. IX
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Vol. IX Aurora
30

Creative CornerAurora Vol. IX

Glimpse to Artistic World - Leo San

The best thing that eve
as a Leo I have been
self. I have always gained
tion through leoism to walk
me to build myself strong a
I have been able to find ma
ents and improve them. Pai
comfort zone, but being a
the things we are passiona
they are our calling. It is wi
say that both being a leo and
become the passion in my li

31

Vol. IX Aurora

ndeepani Godage

er happened to me is that
n able to discover my true

the courage and motiva-
k in my path, which helped
and confident. Being a leo,
any ways to show my tal-
inting has always been my
Leo made me realize that
ate about are not random,
ith my greatest pleasure to
d painting as an artist have
ife.

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Aurora Vol. IX

WHAT’S TO BE???

Creative Corner Far reaching box of feathers
Smelled the divine vanity though
I did sense it out of touch
What’s to be a human???
Dire need of getting aligned
With room for consolation
Stupid at the helm of ties
What’s to be a wo/man???
Staying with no connections
Short term in rat race
Striking for unseen Nibbana
What’s to be a nun???

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Vol. IX Aurora

Sky fraught with rainy clouds
Stormy windy girl
May wish
A peaceful weather

Amidst the heading chaos
Yet, it’s better to yield
A heavy pouring
A wild cyclone

To wash away mud scars
No keeping ice on eyes
Then, peace after the storm
Sublime emotions after the rain

Will spill out like
A laiden bougainvillea tree

In a rose garden

Leo Wathsala
Jayawardhana

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Aurora Vol. IX

Director of Clean Water and Co-Directors of Child and
Energy Conservation Avenue - Elder Care Avenue - Leo Rasangi

Leo Timeshi Herath Gamage, Leo Tharushika Sew-
Leo Term 21/22 mini

As the Director of the Clean Leo Term 21/22
Water and Energy Conser-
vation avenue, I am so proud of my As the Co-directors of the
members who were the supportive Child and Elder Care Ave-
team behind. We could successfully nue we were able to offer smiles to
do the projects, “Thuru”, “Anduren plenty of hearts through our pro-
Eliyata” and the project “Sayuru” jects. As directors we have success-
in the term 21/22. We have proved fully completed our leoistic year
“Team spirit is the secret of success” with Fabulous Hearts, Lighting over
by accomplishing “Best Avenue” Hills and Viyath Senehasa offering
and Best Project of the Year with more services to our children and
many awards. elders. We are really grateful to all
who supported us to learn more
and to develop leadership skills to
find the better versions of ourselves.
We wish all the best to each Leo
member to achieve dreams and do
service to the society as well.

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Vol. IX Aurora
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Aurora Vol. IX

https://about.me/LeoClubUOK/