Aurora Vol. XI 1
Aurora Vol. XI 2 CONTENT Message from the President Message from the First Vice President Message from the Editors UOK Leos Ekka Avurudu Luminaria O’ the Summer Sun! (Poem) Dream, Believe, and Achieve - Interview with Mrs. Caroline Jurie Thuru Pibiduma Reality (Poem) 4 5 6 10-11 21 18-20 16-17 13-15 7-9 12
Aurora Vol. XI 3 Be a leader who heals the wounds of others - Interview with Leo Mandakini Kariyawasam Leoninus’23 Diya Dahara Waruwa Don’t Pass, Breeze…(Poem) It’s not the queen’s problem (Short Story) Corporate Social Responsibility Voice of the Brains One Blood Golden Goal Magazine Team 45 44 42-43 41 38-40 37 34-36 31-33 28-30 26-27 22-25
Aurora Vol. XI 4 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. Considering 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 society and makes ourselves better and it is proud to say that UOK Leos always follows these, trying to make a better world. As undergraduates, we are composed of a set of hidden skills, and we need to unveil ourselves 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 11th Volume of the Aurora magazine, the official newsletter of Leo Club of University 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 motivates 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 ourselves”. 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. Message from the President Leo Sachith Lakshan President (Term 22/23) Leo Club of University of Kelaniya
Aurora Vol. XI 5 The official newsletter of Leo Club of University of Kelaniya, Aurora allows our Leos to improve their efforts with the intention of making someone happy. By providing people with helping hands, the Aurora Magazine energises the spirits of the young blood in accordance with their personal and professional growth. Thus, it’s a great privilege for me to address UOK Leos through this publication. 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. Therefore, as the First Vice President 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. In addition, I truly thank the magazine team for their efforts in producing this wonderful newsletter. I wish you all an amazing Leo journey with Leo Club of University of Kelaniya because it is a place where we spread kindness, humanity, empathy, and love for one another. I hereby invite you all to go through the pages of splendor of Aurora Vol XI. Thank You. Message from the First Vice President Leo Tharindu Amarasinghe First Vice President (Term 22/23) Leo Club of University of Kelaniya newsletter of Leo Club of University 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 motivates 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 ourselves”. 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. Message from the President
Aurora Vol. XI 6 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) 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 11th Volume is unveiled as a tribute to the endeavouring efforts of the proud Leos of Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. We are grateful to Mrs. Caroline Jurie, the Mrs Sri Lanka in 2019 for her contribution to our magazine by sharing her experience with Leos via the interview. Furthermore, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Leo Mandakini Kariyawasam 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 11th Volume discloses the pride of UOK Leos being a strength to all the humble souls. Message from the Editors 6
Aurora Vol. XI 7 Sooriya Sinhale UOK Leos Ekka Avurudu
Aurora Vol. XI 8 When the Erabadu flowers were blossoming in the month of Bak, making everywhere greenery, UOK Leos were ready to proffer the traditional Avurudu feeling for their fellow members by organizing “UOK Leos Ekka Avurudu”. The event was held prior to the Sinhala and Hindu New Year Day with all the fun-filled Avurudu games. It was held on 9th of April in Cyber Ground of University of Kelaniya. Some of the games were modified, which brought a new perspective to the event and was able to give much pleasure to all the participants. Moreover, participants wore colourful dresses like sarongs, lungis, and frocks in an effort to manifest prosperity in the new year’s season. The day began with the traditional ritual of lighting an oil lamp with the chief guests. As the chief guests, Leo District 306B2, Leo, Lion Rageesh Yogeswaran, and a few of the district presidents took part in this ceremony, adding more colous to the events. A table of traditional Avurudu foods was also presented to the participants.
Aurora Vol. XI 9 Moreover, customs and rituals related to Avurudu were performed by Leos. At the end of the day, all participants were delighted by the “Avurudu Kumara and Kumariya’’ event, as most of the members were waiting to see the winners. The Organizing Committee was able to provide an opportunity for Leos to excel in their leadership skills and to provide Leos a moment to follow the traditional customs while preserving Sri Lankan cultural identity. Finally, amidst many hardships and difficulties, the organizing committee provided a perfect Avurudu vibe for all the participants, forming this project as a platform to gather all the Leos together. Leo Dimithri Premarathna
Aurora Vol. XI 10 The project Luminaria is the first project organized by the Child and Elder Care Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya for the Leo Term 22- 23. Luminaria was implemented under two phases: a hair donation campaign and a music therapy programme respectively. After the Organizing Committee was appointed, the first meeting was held on 15th of November via Zoom marking the commencement of this noble initiative. While obtaining sufficient financial aid was a remarkable challenge in organizing the project, our OC members could victoriously hit the goals after a series of sincere efforts. Under the first phase of the project, we were able to donate artificial hairpieces (wigs) in which the hair was collected and processed. To carry out this process, the doctors of Apeksha Hospital, Mahargama gave their fullest contribution by guiding us through the end. It is worth mentioning that it was not very tough for us to find the generous souls who came forward to donate their hair. Apart from those open-handed donors, Little Princess Trust in the UK, an organization that devotes its time and effort to these cancer patients, also extended their contribution towards the success of the hair donation campaign. It was the 23rd of March 2023. ‘Luminaria phase 02 – Swara Miyesiya’ was held at the Shantha Sewana home of Apeksha Hospital. It was all about music therapy. This programme aimed at improving the mental health of cancer patients who are beyond treatments. Dr. Lasanthi Manaranjanie, Senior lecturer, Department of Fine Arts of University of Kelaniya generously accepted our invitation to be the resource person for the programme. Following some soothing songs at the event, Dr. Lasanthika gave an illuminating speech on how music therapy affects the feelings and enhances the state of mind of every individual.
Aurora Vol. XI 11 Thus, Luminaria marked its successful completion reassuring us that from intention, to dedication, to heartfelt efforts, to fellowship we can achieve anything. The project Luminaria is not just a project that served the needy. Apart from the humanitarian aspects it carried, Luminaria remains a milestone in the history of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. Project Luminaria It’s how we illuminated them… Leo Nuzha Farook
Aurora Vol. XI 12 O’ the Summer Sun! Me, the sweetheart of the Fallen Spring Captivated to thy light While my heart murmured, “Marvelous is the summer too.” I saw the twinkling stars In thy humble slaves of leaves, When the West-Wind, the Messenger Commanded to bow thee with his soothing touch. I took pride in thee While the autumn leaves, Sparkled in front of me golden When thou flashed thy light Onto them, the broken old miseries. O’ the Summer Master, I owe thee plethora of love For now thou light my soul to empower, Making my eyes glitter with an ineffable determination, For now thou adorn myself with thy bright might And glance at me while I’m enjoying “The Awakening Spirit”, That I long longed for! Leo Nuzha Farook 12
Aurora Vol. XI Dream, Believe and Achieve. Interview with Caroline Jurie 13
Aurora Vol. XI 14 Aurora Vol. XI 14 Caroline Jurie is an outstanding model and the winner of the Mrs Sri Lanka World 2019 title. She represented Sri Lanka at the Mrs World in 2020 pageant, which was held in December 2019 at the grand finale held in Las Vegas. She can be defined as a woman who has a journey of entrepreneurship, empowerment, and mentoring. She shared her experience with the Leos of University of Kelaniya for being a real leader who believes herself to achieve dreams. Q. How do you define yourself? I am a Dreamer, Believer and an Achiever. Q. Can you give A summary of your journey? My journey has been a long, winding and interesting one. It’s a journey filled with so many broken dreams that have led me to where I am today. It is a journey of many different chapters. Right now, I’m at the beginning of yet another chapter. The start of my journey as a businesswoman. All these journeys are part of my life journey. As Steve Jobs once said ‘you can’t connect the dots looking forward. You can onlconnect the dots looking back’. Q. How do you define “an opportunity”? Until about a year ago that is a question I have always been asking myself. Then I heard a motivational speaker define opportunity as - ‘something that comes to us from nowhere when we have put the work in’. He was explaining that ‘opportunity knocks on your door only once the universe knows that you are ready to take that opportunity’. When I look at my own life I realize this is so true. Q. What is your idea about work-life balance and time management? Time is the most precious gift we’ve got. You can’t buy time and reverse time. So, rather than fighting time, we must make time our friend. It is only thing that we can make the best out of time. We all have 24 hours in a day. How we use that time is what defines our life. Work and Life are both part of the same thing called life. How we manage it is up to us. For me, family comes first. If we have discipline and are committed to managing time, then work and life balance is a pleasure to manage. No matter how busy I am, I make sure to spend enough time with my family and get all the work done .
Aurora Vol. XI 15 Q. What is your turning point in your life? When I almost gave up on life for the second time, as a depressed teenager, but failed to accomplish my task. It suddenly opened my eyes, as I realized that life has a bigger plan for me, and it is not yet time to leave. From that day, I turned every ounce of my energy to focusing on my dreams and goals. Q. University undergraduates face different issues mainly because of stress, lack of confidence. Could you please give any advice or any suggestions to enjoy life? I believe what drives us forward is our purpose. We all have one, even if we may have not realized it yet. We all have a talent or capability that aligns our souls with the universe. If we can define our ‘Why’ I am sure we can enjoy life, as we will be focused on journeying towards our dreams and goals. Even when the challenges come our way, if we know what dreams we are trying to reach, we will enjoy the challenges and overcome the stress. Stress will always be there, but when we are focused on our mission it won’t blind us. We will find ways to overcome and turn stress into positive energy. Confidence will come to us when we know we are driven to achieve our purpose in life. When our mind’s eye is clear about our path, then, from within our souls we will find the energy that will turn us into confident individuals. Q. What is your message for the younger generation? Have dreams. Stop asking if it’s achievable and just focus on the mission. Hence you will start believing in your dreams no matter how big they are. Once you find that belief and faith go ahead and achieve them. 15
Aurora Vol. XI 16 Thuru 2.0 The project Thuru 2.0 is a series of projects conducted by the Clean Water and Energy Conservation Avenue of the Leo Club of the University of Kelaniya aiming to achieve its objectives of environmental conservation, promoting environmental sustainability and inspiring future generations in environmental action. The project is carried out under four phases mainly focusing on promoting and implementing innovative solutions in addressing environmental issues to build a sustainable future. As the first phase of the project an indoor vertical gardening programme was held on the 31st of March at the University of Kelaniya premises with the presence of the with the presence of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Director of the Career Guidance Unit Senior Professor Chamindi Dilkushi Senaratne Wettewe and Senior Lecturer Dr. Amila Jeewandara. The objective of this phase was to promote the novel concept of green buildings in addressing environmental issues faced due to urbanisation and deforestation. The second phase of the project was a virtual awareness session on the Green Building Concept conducted by the Senior Lecturer of the University of Kelaniya Dr. Amila Jeewandara. The session took place on the 2nd of April via the Zoom platform aiming to ucate the e d u c a t e educate the participants on howthe implementation of green building concepts can foster an environmentally friendly construction. The third phase of the project was implemented as an impactful workshop conducted by the “THURU” company on the 8th of April at the Thuru Store Boralesgamuwa. The workshop mainly focused on educating the participants and influencing them to take a stand in climate action by addressing deforestation and trash hazards. The THURU Store also donated plants for the mass plantation programme conducted under Thuru 2.0 encouraging the youth to play a remarkable part in building a greener world.
Aurora Vol. XI 17 As the fourth phase of the project Thuru 2.0 a mass plantation campaign was held at the Knewsmior Pahala Vidyalaya Bulathkohupitiya on the 21st of April, in reminiscence of the victims of the Easter Sunday attack. The key focus of this phase was to create a positive impact on the world while honouring the beautiful souls we lost in the Easter attacks four years ago. Through the project Thuru 2.0 the Leos of the University of Kelaniya discovered an opportunity to fulfill their duties of building a sustainable environment for a sustainable future while gaining an inexplicable experience to shape up their lives. Leo Azeeza Sheriffdeen
Aurora Vol. XI 18 Pibiduma The project “Pibiduma” was started with the aim of educating people about responsible consumption and waste management and teaching children how to dispose of waste in the environment from an early age. Due to the informal waste management system in today’s society, the damage caused to the environment is huge. In order to prevent such damage, the waste agement system was developed, and people were management system was developed, and people were made aware of that. The Organizing Committee has contacted the environmental authorities and related institutes. Finally, the organizing committee selected four suitable places to proceed with the project: Dompe Sanitary Landfill, clean tech (pvt)ltd, Wellawatta beach and Zero Trash (pvt) Ltd. Then, the plan was to conduct an awareness flyer series about recycling and responsible consumption parallel to the organizing process of the project. With the creative and digital skills of the directors for Public Relations and marketing, we could conduct an attractive awareness program virtually. Moreover, social media including Facebook, Instagram pages, WhatsApp groups, and statuses were used to spread awareness to the community about the environment facts. First of all, we conducted a practical session about compost making at the Dompe Sanitary Landfill. This was the first awareness program of the year for waste management and responsible consumption where students interactively participated in the program. Executive staff of the Dompe Sanitary Landfill shared knowledge, practices and other important facts related to waste management while explaining the operations in the landfill premises. When we consider the process of sanitary landfill, waste is deposited in thin layers (up to 1m) and promptly compacted by heavy machinery like bulldozers. Several layers are placed and compacted on top of each other to form a refuse cell (up to 3m, thick). A landfill comprises systems like is called Leachate collection & treatment system, Cap system- which is Gas recovery system or flaring system and Landscaping- which is Groundwater & gas monitoring system.
Aurora Vol. XI 19 Moreover, Dompe Sanitary Landfill runs a compost production center in the premises. They give compost to farmers around Dompe at a subsidized price and get an income.Home composting is a great way to practice environmentally sustainable behaviors. It is a natural way of recycling and natural fertilizer rich in nutrients created by breaking down organic matter. Some of the many benefits to composting, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, saving money on fertilizer and help to create a healthy garden. They encourage us to make a compost bin in our own home. As part of the project, our organizing committee members prepared a compost bin by themselves under the instructions given by them. At the end of this phrase 1 of ‘Project Pibiduma’, we were able to gain a proper idea about waste management and responsible consumption with the feeling that everyone can change t he future by reducing waste and recycling more effectively. Our first phase second program is a practical session about recycling and responsible consumption at clean tech (pvt) Ltd. It was a great session about recycling. Our second phase was beach cleanup at Wellawatta beach clean-up. Wellawatta Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. Unfortunately, it is also plagued by litter and pollution, which pose a significant threat to the marine ecosystem. The Leo Club recognized the importance of taking action to address this problem and partnered with other organizations to make a positive impact. The cleanup event was a massive success, with dozens of volunteers showing up to participate. The Leo Club members and other volunteers worked tirelessly to collect litter and debris from the beach, with the help of Clean Tech Company’s specialized cleaning equipment. The Central Environment Authority of Sri Lanka also provided their support in terms of guidance and supervision. The occasion not only assisted in beach cleanup but also served to increase public understanding of the value of protecting the environment. Together with distributing educational information on environmental preservation, volunteers from the Leo Club pushed individuals to embrace sustainable living habits. In conclusion, the Wellawatta Beach beach cleanup exercise conducted by the University of Kelaniya Leo Club in association with Clean Tech Corporation and the Central Environment Authority of Sri Lanka was an important step toward environmental protection. This incident provided a great illustration of how teamwork and concerted effort may actually change the way environmental problems are handled.
Aurora Vol. XI 20 The program for collecting ecobricks was the third phase. We created eco-bricks for this project, delivered them to a relevant recycling facility, continued our conversation with them, and shared the knowledge we learned with other parties. An eco-brick is a plastic container that has been tightly filled with spent plastic to provide a reusable building material that sequesters plastic. Our group’s members created ecobricks by putting polythene inside plastic bottles. Ultimately, we turned all of the eco-bricks over to the Zero-Trash collecting center. This is how we carried out the magnificent project, “Pibiduma”. Leo Sameera Lakmal
Aurora Vol. XI 21 In faith , if it become pleasant the word we see through the poem , Will need a heaven to find the blessings ? By killing the humanity In the own house which we got our birth , Cruelty has get the kingship In the kingdom of hatred People has become the beasts ? Darkness and Corruption has already overpowered the world By locking the heart and the consolation , People are searching for Where the HAPPINESS is... In faith , if it become pleasant the word we see through the poem , Will need a heaven to find the blessings ? By killing the humanity In the own house which we got our birth , Cruelty has get the kingship In the kingdom of hatred People has become the beasts ? Darkness and Corruption has already overpowered the world By locking the heart and the consolation , People are searching for Where the HAPPINESS is... Reality Leo Rashmi Ekanayaka 21
Aurora Vol. XI 22 “Be a leader who heals the wounds of others” Leo Mandakini Kariyawasam is a magnificent leader who strives to give opportunities to others and guide them. As the secretary of the Leo Multiple District 306, she has done everything possible to advance the Multiple District. She is an inspiration to many other ladies who will succeed in their endeavors. 22
Aurora Vol. XI 23 “Be a leader who heals the wounds of others” Leo Mandakini Kariyawasam Interview with QHow do you define yourself? I would define myself as someone who came through a storm because when I was joining Leo, I didn’t have much knowledge. So, I’m really proud of myself, and I am willing to accept and challenge myself even without knowing anything as someone who started from zero and stood up to go higher. Even though I am a simple person, I’m strong in my mind because I’ve had to come through a lot of storms. I’m also someone who genuinely likes to help others. As a girl, I don’t try to be jealous of someone. If I feel that someone is capable, I’m willing to lend my hand to them. Furthermore, I’m an ambitious, independent, and sensible girl. That’s how I sum up defining myself. QCan you tell us about your Leo journey? Just like I mentioned, I came from zero to this level. I haven’t even heard about ‘Leo’ and known nothing. Soon after my A/Ls, I joined Leo. From that day onward, starting from zero, I was the elected president of my club. That first point changed my life, and in some matters, I was much more introverted; for example, I was afraid of speaking in public. However, with this new beginning, I got a chance to have a kick start to my life. Thus, from that day onwards, as the Chartered President for consecutive two years (2014–2016), I got to go on a long journey. In these years, my club became the best Leo Club in Sri Lanka, and I became the best Leo. I was also invited to the District Council. For two consecutive years, I was in the Multiple District Council, and I was awarded many prestigious awards; for instance, I was awarded as the Leo of the Year in 2019. Even though everything was a challenge, I would embrace my Leo journey as beautiful. I lost things, but at the same time, I won them. Thus, this Leo moment helped me uplift myself personally and professionally. In this movement, I was never afraid to take a step back. It’s surprising that somebody takes up positions below them, but I volunteered myself as the secretary after being the president. That is also a beautiful journey and a milestone because I learned a lot as a Club Secretary. My journey is a mix of a lot of excitement, adventure, experience, and building myself from zero up to this level by getting to know a lot of genuine people. It’s challenging but really wonderful. It’s not a bed of roses, and it’s also never a boring story. QWhat are the experiences gained through leadership in order to uplift the Leo Multiple District? If you are confident, you can be a good leader. I was able to gain more experience even from my start as a Club President, along with my Leo journey. I’ve been a Club President for two years, then a Club Secretary, a District Context, a District Secretary, and a District President. Accordingly, being in several positions had molded and upgraded me to get sufficient experience
Aurora Vol. XI 24 in different positions and areas to gather my knowledge in one place to cater best to the Multiple District. There, I got the ability to understand a lot of things where we introduced new strategies to upgrade respective Districts. Earlier, there wasn’t any appointment system or calendar for a Multiple District President. So, this year, I was the first person to initiate that at the Multiple District level, so anyone can request Multiple District President for their events to join them. So, there, I maintained the documents and sent them confirmation, whether it’s confirmed or not, to avoid any clashes in Multiple District events, District events, or club events. In that way, it also created the path for the District to actively get involved with Multiple District and clubs. Moreover, I was the first one to initiate feedback sessions to the District Executive Committees on how to upgrade their respective districts and how to improve their work. Accordingly, I have conducted several feedback sessions for the progress of the District, continuously keeping in touch with them. Multiple District is the body where we do the administration part. It can be either District administration or club administration. We have to be there to support them. Therefore, I was able to coordinate and arrange all the work. Consequently, for the first time, with the Multiple District President, I was able to bring out the highest number of Leos to an international forum from Sri Lanka. That also shows how strong we are as the Multiple District. I could also
Aurora Vol. XI 25 QHow was the impact of your Leo journey on your life? My Leo journey encouraged me to accept who I am and supported me to explore myself. You will be able to see that you are capable of doing things that you previously thought were not feasible when you give yourself the chance to experiment. I was able to identify a lot of things that impact me, such as public speaking, being more active, facing a lot of challenges, losing important things and how to come back, and identifying good from bad, especially when it comes to working with people and building relationships. QAs a lady, you may encounter various challenges in your Leo journey. How did you handle those? It’s basically adjusting to things. My story is never boring, and it was not a bed of roses. It was very challenging. I am so proud of myself, thanks to the people who let me down. They actually helped me have the most beautiful, adventurous, and amazing journey of my life. I was able to handle them very well. On the other hand, most of the people around me help a lot. Sometimes they handle things for me. We need people who will be there for us because we are all human beings. So, I’m happy to say that I have friends, like family, to face challenges with. QWhat is your next initiation as a Leo? I have already reached my goal of being a District President and I’m satisfied with my life. My next initiation is to not hold any positions but to help others accomplish their goals. QWhat is the final message you want to give to the upcoming leaders or fellow Leos? Give yourself the opportunity to identify yourself and experience new things. Put yourself to go out. Always challenge yourself, and always try to support others. Create opportunities for everyone. That’s my message to all the Leos of Sri Lanka. Interviewed by: Leo Yesmin Devanga Leo Naveera Asanki Scripted by: Leo Yesmin Devanga Leo Samali Irugal Bandara improve documentation quality by instructing all the District Secretaries to send monthly reports in both MyLeo and MyLion platforms to showcase their progress to the Multiple District, because it will be a great opportunity for them to uplift their club standards. Thus, I was able to accomplish a handful of these things in order to improve the Multiple District. I’d rather say that the position of Secretary of the Multiple District 306 was molded by being a Club Secretary. I never hesitated to take on challenges, and those things gave me a lot of experience to strive for the best in my Leo journey, simultaneously uplifting the Leo Multiple District 306. QHow do you define leadership according to your perspective? Compared to the experiences that I have faced, I would say that what people have not identified is that leadership is not always about having followers. For you to gain followers, people should accept you as a leader. Nevertheless, you are no longer a leader. Hitler is a leader. Although in a negative way, there were people who accepted him as a leader. Mother Teresa is also a leader in a positive sense. That’s my perspective. But this might not be the same for someone. Thus, leadership is about how people see you as a person. Leadership should be an action that actually heals someone. Some people use leadership to let others down. There are many people who are wounded and down. You should understand their emotions. Therefore, if you can be a healer, you’ll be a great leader who helps the followers heal ing their wounds and giving them the courage to uplift themselves.
Aurora Vol. XI 26 It’s not the queen’s problem!!! Once upon a time, there was a queen who was drinking tea with honey with her chief advisor on her balcony. As they drank, the queen’s arm hit the bottle of honey and it spilled on the balcony railing as the queen was pointing at something in the distance. The chief advisor asked if he should call a servant to clean it up but the queen only laughed and told him that it was not her problem because it was just a bit of honey and someone will come and clean it later. They continued drinking and chatting as the drip of honey began to slowly drip down and landed on the busy street below. The advisor once again called the attention of the queen and told her that the honey has now fallen into the street and is now attracting flies. He asked again if he should call for a servant. Just like the last time, the queen yawned and replied that a little drop of honey that is swarmed by a few flies is not her problem. She added that someone would deal with it later. Soon after that, a lizard rushed out from underneath the palace wall and began to catch flies with its tongue. Then a cat sprang from a nearby bakery, ready for some fun! The two animals batted each other back and forth like toys until suddenly, an angry butcher’s dog came charging at them and began biting the cat’s neck. The advisor now reminded the queen that the flies attracted a lizard, which then attracted the cat who is now being attacked by a dog. Once again, the queen just stretched and shook her head. She told her advisor to relax and those silly fighting animals are not her problem. When the baker saw the animals fighting, he saw that a dog was attacking his cat. He then ran out with his rolling pin and began hitting the dog. When the butcher heard his dog’s cry, he ran out with his broom and started hitting the baker. Soon after that, the butcher and baker started fighting each other while the other shopkeepers nearby took sides and joined the fight. When the soldiers came along, some of them knew the butcher while some knew the baker. They too took sides and the battle just grew and grew in the streets. The people began throwing rocks at the windows, tipping over carts, hurdling a torch through a window, and eventually, a fire raged and spread to the palace. The queen and the advisor were escorted out of the palace into the street below because the flames spread throughout the palace. Later that day when the fire had died out, they surveyed what remained of their land. Suddenly she stopped in front of where her balcony once stood and noticed a small puddle on the ground. She realized that it was honey and told herself that she should have cleaned it from the start. Now, all her kingdom was lost because of a drop of honey. From that day on, the queen never said “It’s not my problem!” Leo Dakshina Migara
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Aurora Vol. XI 28 Diya Dahara “Water is life’s matter and matrix, mother and medium. There is no life without water.” -Albert Szent28
Aurora Vol. XI 29 A survey has revealed that a per - son uses 40 liters of water per day. It consists of 3 liters for drink - ing, 5 liters for cooking, 15 liters for bathing, 7 liters for washing utensils, and 10 liters for cleaning the house. Accordingly, the use of clean water has become one of the main needs of man. But so far, many people in society have not been able to fulfill that need. Leo Club of University of Kelani - ya recognized this problem and implemented the Water Stream Project as a solution. The main purpose of this project was to donate a water pump, a pipe - line, and other necessary equip - ment to the school to provide clean drinking water. This proj - ect consisted of two phases. Ac - cordingly, an awareness program and equipment were provided. .
Aurora Vol. XI 30 Accordingly, under the awareness program, school students are targeted to understand the lack of clean water, how it affects the health and well-being of individuals, and how to protect water sources. Awareness was imparted through motivational stories, cartoons, and paintings, and under the donation of equipment, the students of Kalegama Dhammaloka Maha Vidyalaya donated a water pump, a pipeline, and other necessary equipment to get clean drinking water for teachers and non-teaching staff. Singer Sri Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. and Vijaya Institute sponsored the project. Finally, various parties contributed to the completion of the project to achieve the SDG 6 goal of clean water and sanitation. As one of the main needs of a person, this is especially important for all people. Leo Hashini Disanayaka
Aurora Vol. XI 31 One Blood “We are linked by blood, and blood is memory without language.” -Joyce Carol Oates31
Aurora Vol. XI 32 The contribution of blood to a person’s growth is greatly affected. A person will have the necessary environment to maintain his health condition through the balance of its existing density and the components to be contained. But due to some bad habits that people have, it is possible to have various masks in the blood in the body, and the results are quite serious. If we talk about that issues, At present, the desire to lighten the skin in most of the youth community can be taken as the primary and immediate reason for this, and apart from that, the balance that should exist in the blood is lost due to factors such as drinking drugs, alcohol, not eating healthy food, lack of cleanliness, and excessive stress. Considering all this Having a understing of the value of blood, the Leo members of the University of Kelaniya Leo club began to devote their efforts to the value of blood and to provide the necessary help to those who are currently in need of blood. For that, they started a project called one blood. When we talk about this project , The project One Blood was implemented by the HealthCare Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya in addressing two major issues of the healthcare sector of the community; supplying the demand for blood by organising a blood donation campaign and supporting the kidney patients by providing them essential medicine. These two objectives were reached by the two phases of the project. The blood donation campaign was successfully held on the 1st of March 2023 at the Faculty of Medicine, Ragama.
Aurora Vol. XI 33 As the first phase with the contribution of 100+ donors and by collaborating with the Islamic Students’ Association of the Faculty of Medicine, Ragama. It remarked a successful end. Moreover, an awareness session regarding health and nutrition was held with the contribution of the resource person from the Colombo North Teaching Hospital. In Sri Lanka, the biggest crisis in the districts like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa is kidney disease. This kidney condition has worsened due to the damage caused by the chemicals used in the water and cultivation. The second phase of the project was challenging as the Organizing Committee had to collect more funds in order to buy medicine for the kidney patients. However, the fundraising campaigns were organised and the necessary funds were collected in order to donate medicine for the kidney patients. Project One Blood was a charity event and the indirect objectives of the project were promoting individual contribution to the society by inviting citizens to fulfil their social responsibility in trying times of a country. Accordingly, moral values such as empathy, love and kindness were given value by this project in creating a better society. Leo Navodya Wickramasinghe
Aurora Vol. XI 34 Leoninus’23 34
Aurora Vol. XI 35 We have come to realize that leadership is a crucial factor in contributing an idealistic individual to society. As a result of that, Leo Club of University of Kelaniya unveiled a tremendous project to awaken the leadership skills of youth while uncovering leaders within them. It was the project Leoninus’23, a two-day leadership camp organized by the Youth Development Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya with the aim of developing the leadership skills of the undergraduates of University of Kelaniya. Moreover, it can be considered one of the highlighted milestones which was initiated by the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. The initial step of the project Leoninus’23 was taken by the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya back in 2021. It was conducted virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation that occurred in the country during that period. However, the current organizing committee of the Leoninus’23 determined to conduct the leadership camp physically this year since it will be more productive and more successful when it comes to the physical form, especially outside of the university. Moreover, the project mainly focused on creating a space to boost specific leadership skills, such as effective communication,decision-making, stress and time management, problem-solving, discipline improvement, conflict resolution, creativity, unity and teamwork. Furthermore, this leadership camp was designed to offer participants a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire and practice leadership skills in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. This massive event was held on 18th and 19th of March 2023 at Batangala Youth Centre. It was packed with a range of activities and sessions such as engagement activities, interactive sessions, games, outdoor adventures, a talent show, hiking, a yoga session and an award ceremony to recognize and motivate the membership for the upcoming term. Throughout these two days, instructors of National Youth Services Council, Mr. Nimal Pathmasiri, Ms. Thanuja Dissanayaka, Mr. Chathura Sanjeewa and Ms. Shamali Perera headed by Mr. Eranga Rathnasekara, Assistant Director Sports gave their constant support, contribution and guidance to make the event more successful.
Aurora Vol. XI 36 Leoninus’23 strives to shape the minds of youth while providing opportunities for the growth of soft skills and active leadership, inspiring them to be passionate, enhancing the cooperation and teamwork, and reducing the stress that comes along with their heavy academic schedules. Throughout this project, the Director, the Leadership Body and the Organizing Committee of the Youth Development Avenue made a significant contribution to undertake the project towards success from the beginning to the end under the guidance of the Board of Executives and the Board of Directors. Accordingly, the Youth Development Avenue was able to accomplish the project adding a remark to the pride of Leo club of University of Kelaniya. Leo Dilshi Wickramarathna
Aurora Vol. XI 37 Corporate social responsibility is the commitment to improve the sustainable economic and environmental development and community well being. CSR is a widely recognized concept which in the business world in the 20th century is gaining momentum in the organizations beyond the business companies. The individual is required to be responsible considering ethics, economy, law and philanthropy. Everyone can contribute to strengthening the social and environmental services. Although this concept is activated in the business world; the organizations with enthusiastic, respective, sincere humans get together to promote sustainable social and environmental development. The positive impacts are brought by the transparent, accountable, ethical behavior; international norms of behavior and respect for human rights of the individual or the organization. An individual, as a responsible citizen in the community concerns about the other humans, animals and environment to achieve the long term sustainable goals. Cooperate citizens provide the services and volunteering for the sustainable development of the environment and society. As a human; responsible, corporate citizen should be encouraged and contribute for the sustainable future. Corporate Social Responsibility Leo Sachintha Radhi 37
Aurora Vol. XI 38 According to Nikki Rowe, there is a remarkable amount of strength residing in those who move forward without being able to physically move. Ones that carry the weight of illness or a disability, they battle wars most know nothing about. They are the true warriors of the world, the ones who have every reason to quit but never do. As Leos, we always try to bring a smile for an innocent soul. The Differently Abled Avenue of Leo Club of the University of Kelaniya initiated a project called ‘Waruwa’. Through this project, we expected to address and support the needs of the differently abled children. Moreover, with the prevailing economic crisis in Sri Lankan context, these little buds are facing numerous hardships and difficulties. Therefore, we decided to lend our hands to them, uplifting their lives in any way we could. According to that, we visited ‘Senehasakata Nawathenak’ place located in Dankotuwa where disabled children reside. This project was implemented on 6th of March with the participation of organizing committee members and Leo members. The honorable Nawagamuwe Ghanananda Thero was in charge of this place. There were about 20 children who were suffering from various disabilities. As we planned, we were able to donate chairs for them and spend a beautiful day with those innocent souls. It was an immense pleasure for them, rather than what we expected. Waruwa
Aurora Vol. XI 39 We entertained them by performing various items by our own Leos. They also joined us by performing their hidden talents in front of us. All of them spent that moment cheering and applauding for their own brothers and sisters. On that day, all of them were happy, and it was clearly proved by their smiley faces. Also, the thero who is in charge of that place, appreciated our effort and blessed us to do more charity work like this. At the end of the day, with these positive feedbacks, we were satisfied that we could do sustainable tasks on behalf of them in building up their lives without getting support from others. It is praiseworthy to mention that we are fortunate to have lived without any disability. Therefore, it is a noble task, if we can support someone who is trying to rise on their own as an individual.
Aurora Vol. XI 40 Leo Kaushalya Warnasooriya
Aurora Vol. XI 41 Aurora Vol. XI 41 GOLDEN GOAL Kelibimata Arunalu is the signature project of the Sports and Recreation Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. In 2022, this project was carried out as one single massive project with a huge budget, but in 2023, a few changes were made after several discussions of Avenue directors and members. This year, the signature project was supposed to execute after two phases. The purpose of having planned two phases was to expand the horizons of the signature project and increase its impact and value. The project Golden Goal turned out to be the first phase of the project series carried out by the Sports and Recreation Avenue. Project Golden Gold was a combination of a session and a physical training program which was held on 30th of January at the gymnasium of University of Kelaniya with the participation of 100 school students of Mahamaya Girls college, St Francis college and Viharamahadevi Girls’ College, President College. The motivational session and the physical training program for the participants was conducted by the carrom coach of the University of Kelaniya. Participants got the opportunities to engage with fun games and group work. The project was successfully wound up raising the mental and physical energy of the participants. By Leo Sachini Dinesha
Aurora Vol. XI 42 Voice of the Brains In the Leostic year 2022/2023, the Leo Club of the University of Kelaniya launched the “Voice of the Brains” debate competition in collaboration with the Leo Clubs of Mahanama College, Thurstan College, and Richmond College. The competition was launched with the participation of 42 schools. Royal College, Thurstan College, Ananda College and Sri Sumangala College have advanced to the semifinals out of the 42 schools. Alongside the debate tournament “Voice of the Brains,” an oratory competition called “The Glory of Voice” was held as a new initiative of the project to foster the skills of young speakers. The organizers intention was to provide university and school orators with a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate their oratory skills and inspire young creative brains in order to develop a talented next generation for the country. The completion was initiated with 73 school participants and 98 undergraduate participants. 42
Aurora Vol. XI 43 In the third stage of the project’s implementation, a series of workshops to educate and upskill the future generation on debate and to support them in developing their own debating teams in their schools was launched as a new initiative. The workshops were conducted targeting two districts in Sri Lanka. The first session took place on March 25th at Wickramabahu Maha Vidyalaya in Kandy District. The second session was held on March 26th at Kegalu Balika Maha Vidyalaya in Kegalle District. With almost 20 schools participating, the program was a big success. The grand finale of the competition is scheduled to take place on April 30th. Leo Zainab Fouz
Aurora Vol. XI 44 When I walk around Thousand eyes I see And my eyes yearn just to spot thee Will you be there? I’m singing of loneliness Which you can never hear now, For you have found another love!! Can you feel my pain? See, my heart still beats for you If you could only but hear And I am a voice to a faith forever, If you have the heart to listen to. Tell me, Did my roses not smell enough for you? Don’t Pass, Breeze… Leo Nuzha Farook 44
Aurora Vol. XI 45 Dakshina Migara Editor Krishan Fernando Designer Samali Irugalbandara Editor Dilshi Wickramarathna Editor Kaushalya Warnasooriya Editor Dimithri Premarathna Editor / Designer Aditya Perera Editor Zainab Fouz Editor Naveera Asanki Editor Fahad Husein Designer Nuzha Farook Editor R. A. Yesmin Devanga Editor Kaveendra Jayalath PR Cordinator Hashini Disanayaka Editor Rashmi Ekanayaka Editor Sachintha Radhi Editor Sachini Dinesha Editor Azeeza Sheriffdeen Editor Sameera Lakmal Editor Navodya Wickramasinghe Editor
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