MAIN EDITION Q4
THE CON TENT MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Rtr. Manisha Alwis PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AVENUE MESSAGE FROM THE EDITORS Rtr. Benushi Rajapaksha DISTRICT EVENTS Peasanam CLUB SERVICE AVENUE DRR Visit STRIDE INTERNATIONAL SERVICE AVENUE Cultural Odyssey COMMUNITY SERVICE AVENUE Rethink trash PUBLIC RELATIONS AVENUE Dhaa
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE As we conclude the RI year 2023-24 and look back on our journey, I am overwhelmed with pride and gratitude for the incredible achievements we have made together. Our theme for this year, "Serve to Inspire," has been more than just a guiding principle; it has been the heartbeat of our every endeavor. This final quarter has been a testament to our hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. We have successfully completed numerous projects that have not only benefited our community but also inspired those around us. Each project, fueled by our collective passion and determination, has brought us closer to our goal of serving with purpose and inspiring change. Our club has reached greater heights this year, demonstrating that when we come together with a shared vision, there is nothing we cannot achieve. We have tackled challenges head-on, turned ideas into actions, and transformed aspirations into reality. The success of our projects is a reflection of the tireless effort and dedication of each member, and for that, I am profoundly grateful. One of the most fulfilling aspects of this journey has been witnessing the growth of our membership. Our Rotaract family has expanded, welcoming new members who have seamlessly integrated and contributed to our mission. This growth is a clear indication that our work resonates with many, and our commitment to serving and inspiring continues to attract like-minded individuals. Throughout this year, we have also focused on personal and professional development, ensuring that our members are wellequipped to lead and serve. The workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs we have organized have not only enhanced our skills but have also fostered a spirit of continuous learning and growth. As we wrap up this extraordinary year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. Your unwavering support, dedication, and passion have been the driving force behind our success. Together, we have truly "Served to Inspire," and I am confident that the impact we have made will resonate for years to come. Let us carry forward the lessons we have learned, the bonds we have formed, and the spirit of service that defines us. Thank you for making this year remarkable and for being a part of this incredible journey. Yours in Rotaract, President Rotaract Club of SLIIT Manisha Arundathi Alwis
EDITOR'S MESSAGE As we step into the final quarter of this year, I find myself reflecting on the transformative journey we've embarked upon together. Each article, project, and initiative we’ve shared has been a testament to the power of community, resilience, and creativity. This quarter, our stories highlight remarkable initiatives where passionate endeavours towards a polio-free world, uplifting cancer patients, and emphasizing importance of metal well-being were carried out. These narratives not only showcase our collective efforts but also remind us of the profound impact we can make when we unite for a common cause. I am extremely moved by the dedication and compassion that permeate these stories. They serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the toughest times, there is always a way to contribute positively to our community. The creativity and commitment displayed by our contributors have been nothing short of inspiring, and I am immensely proud to share their work with you. As we close this year, I encourage each of you to continue embracing change, fostering unity, and nurturing the connections that bind us. Let these stories inspire you take action, no matter how small, towards creating a better, more inclusive world. As your editor, I am deeply indebted to each and every one of you for your service. Your support, engagement, and passion are what has made this platform vibrant and meaningful. Thank you for being a part of this family. And most of all, thank you for serving to inspire to create hope in the world! Until our next story, Editor 2023 - 24 Benushi Rajapaksha
DISTRICT EVENTS
In a world often divided by differences, Rotaract Club of SLIIT joined our Rotary district to embark on a mission to bridge gaps and foster understanding through a remarkable initiative— Peasanam. This project celebrates fellowship and peacebuilding by bringing together diverse communities around four major religious holidays and festivals: Deepawali, Christmas, Iftar, and Vesak. Peasanam is more than just a series of events; it is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and mutual respect. By honouring these significant celebrations, out district aims to cultivate an environment of inclusivity and harmony, where individuals from all walks of life can come together to appreciate and learn from each other's traditions. The celebration of Deepawali, the festival of lights, was a vibrant affair filled with joy and festivity. Attendees adorned the venue with colourful rangoli designs and illuminated it with countless diyas, creating a mesmerizing scene. The event featured traditional dances and songs, along with a feast of delectable Indian sweets and snacks. Christmas brought with it a sense of warmth and generosity. The venue was transformed into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, including a beautifully adorned Christmas tree. Participants exchanged gifts and shared stories of goodwill and kindness. The event also included a segment on the importance of giving back to the community, encouraging attendees to embody the spirit of Christmas in their daily lives. P E A S A N A M
reflection, gratitude, and community. The night began with the traditional breaking of the fast with dates and porridge, followed by a sumptuous feast featuring biriyani. The event also included a poignant reading from the Quran, emphasizing themes of compassion and unity. Vesak, a festival commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, was celebrated with reverence and joy. The day started with a Bana session at a local temple, where monks delivered sermons focusing on spiritual healing and the importance of controlling the mind—an essential trait for youth leaders. Participants engaged in the beautiful tradition of making lanterns and lighting oil lamps, allowed for a reflective space for the teachings of Buddha and promoted inner peace and mindfulness among the attendees. Each celebration under the Peasanam project not only honoured the respective traditions but also highlighted the common threads that bind humanity—compassion, unity, and the desire for peace. Peasanam stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when people come together to celebrate their differences and similarities. By surrounding themselves with the beauty of Deepawali, the warmth of Christmas, the reflection of Iftar, and the enlightenment of Vesak, our clubs have created a lasting impact on the community.
PUBLIC RELATIONS
DHAARAA On a mesmerizing April evening in 2024, Rotaract Club of SLIIT hosted a magical event at the prestigious Musaeus College Auditorium, redefining the standards of their club and leaving an indelible mark on everyone present. This event, aptly named "Dhaara," was not just a musical night; it was a heartfelt endeavor to raise funds for the educational needs of Dorangeama Maha Vidyalaya, reflecting the club's commitment to service and community development. "Dhaara" was a celebration of music, talent, and compassion. Renowned artists like Dhanith Sri, Ridma Weerawardena, Senaka Batagoda, and Umara Sinhawansa graced the stage, captivating the audience with their soul-stirring performances. The highlight of the night was the electrifying performance by Wayo Live, which kept the energy levels soaring throughout the event.
The auditorium, filled to its brim with over 1500 attendees, was a testament to the success of the event. From vibrant youth to esteemed senior citizens, people from all walks of life came together to support a noble cause and enjoy a night filled with music and camaraderie. The performances were not just about entertainment; they were about creating unforgettable memories and touching the hearts of everyone present. The event was also graced by esteemed guests, including DRRE PHF Rtr. PP Shanel Mendis, and President of Rotary Club of Battaramulla Rtn. Sumit Law, who added to the grandeur of the evening. The show kicked off with the charismatic compere Manuranga, who kept the audience engaged and entertained throughout the night.
One of the highlights of the evening was the tribute paid to the legendary Senaka Batagoda, a master of melodies, whose soulful performance left everyone in awe. The club honored him with a laser-etched souvenir and flowers, recognizing his invaluable contribution to the world of music. As the night progressed, more magical moments unfolded, with solo performances, duets, and interactive sessions with the audience. Featured artists from all over Sri Lanka performed on stage, creating the interactive energy. In the end, "Dhaara" was not just a musical night; it was a celebration of music, culture, and humanity. It was a night that brought people together, touched hearts, and left a lasting impact on everyone who attended. Rotaract Club of SLIIT not only achieved its mission of branding but also set a new benchmark for future events, proving that with passion, dedication, and a shared vision, anything is possible.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
In the heart of Sri Lanka, Rotaract Club of SLIIT has been orchestrating a transformational journey for young individuals through one of our most anticipated signature projects, STRIDE. This year, STRIDE unfolded in three distinct phases, each crafted to empower participants with the essential skills and mindset for future success. STRIDE The journey began with Project Redefine, featuring the esteemed Dr. Cary Goulston, President of Global Pioneers and International Educators Association. Dr. Goulston shared insights on personal branding, communication strategies, and time management. The session was a blend of interactive discussions and practical exercises, setting the stage for personal growth and development. Project StepSync followed, offering participants a chance to learn social dancing etiquette from the talented Mr. Priyan Wasala. With a focus on respect and personal hygiene, Project #Viral, led by Mr. Adeesha Dharmakeerthi, empowered participants with skills in social media marketing and influencing. The session combined engaging content with practical exercises, fostering expertise in digital marketing. Project Momentum, featuring a panel discussion led by Professor Rosa and Mr. Sampath Thrimavithana, focused on AI, STEM fields, and the importance of soft skills. Attendees were encouraged to stay current with trends and prepare for AI's impact on the job market. The highlight of Speaker STRIDE was VOCÈ’24, an inter-university best speaker contest. The journey began with workshops on public speaking, speech structure, and delivering impactful messages, culminating in a competition where participants showcased their oratory skills. Project STRIDE has empowered participants to emerge as confident, well-rounded individuals ready to tackle future challenges. This project ensures that our country as a whole will be provided with empathetic, understanding and open young leaders. Phase 1: Persona STRIDE Phase 2: Corporate STRIDE Phase 3: Speaker STRIDE
StepSync introduced participants to various dance styles, creating a vibrant and respectful dancing community. Next, Project LifeLead, led by Mrs. Kavitha Amaratunga, provided valuable insights into success myths, productivity, resilience, and financial planning. Participants engaged in discussions and conducted personal SWOT analyses, gaining deeper insights into their personal development. Finally, Project Rules2Table concluded Persona STRIDE by focusing on dining etiquette. Mr. Dilum Perera guided participants on proper utensil usage, napkin etiquette, and dining decorum, culminating in a practical session with a 4-course meal. As Rotaract Club of SLIIT looks forward to future iterations of STRIDE, the impact of this transformative project will undoubtedly continue to resonate, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
INTERNATIONAL SERVICE
In a world where borders often divide, Rotaract Club of SLIIT dared to dream of a different narrative—one of unity, understanding, and cultural celebration. Their vision came to life through "Cultural Odyssey," a five-day international service initiative that transcended geographical boundaries and brought together Rotaract members from Sri Lanka and India in a journey of discovery and camaraderie. The event kicked off with a warm welcome at Katunayake Airport, where 11 delegates from India were greeted by their Sri Lankan counterparts. Settling into the comforts of Youth Premises Maharagama, the stage was set for a memorable experience ahead. The heart of the project was a vibrant cultural exchange exhibition held at SLIIT. The venue buzzed with traditional activities, performances, and stalls showcasing the essence of Sri Lanka. From tea varieties to traditional music and dance items, visitors immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture. Guest speakers added depth to the experience, with Mr. Asitha Pinnaduwa delving into Sri Lankan history and Ms. Arina Sheldiaeva offering a unique perspective on the country's heritage. CULTURAL ODYSSEY
A Joint General Meeting followed, bringing together delegates, club members, and representatives from other Rotaract clubs. Twin club agreements were signed, connections were forged, and a spirit of collaboration filled the air. The delegates embarked on a captivating twoday trip to Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, where they explored ancient sites, climbed Mihinthale rock, and witnessed the breathtaking sunset from the top of Sigiriya Rock. As the journey came to an end, the delegates bid farewell with gratitude and appreciation. Tokens of appreciation were exchanged, and invitations were extended for future cultural exchanges. "Cultural Odyssey" was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of cultural exchange in fostering unity and understanding. It was a journey that transcended borders, bringing together individuals from different backgrounds to celebrate diversity and forge lasting connections. As the delegates returned home, their hearts were filled with unforgettable memories and a renewed commitment to international friendship and collaboration.
Rotaract Club of SLIIT @rotaract_sliit Rotaract Club of SLIIT Rotaract Club of SLIIT Rotaract Club of SLIIT VISIT OUR SOCIALS