The Blogger Q4 - English

CONTENTS

20 23 03 MESSAGES

PUZZLE CORNER CREATIVES A few words from our dearest President and Co
Editors.
Take some time off your An article for every
mind with our exciting question in mind, read 05 PICTURE PERFECT
puzzles. through to find out
Read through to check out some breathtaking
clicks.

AVENUE UPDATES

06 CLUB SERVICE

Club engagement, read through to find out
more.

10 COMMUNITY SERVICE

How was the community benefited?
Find out.

13 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Professionally developing with the many
projects, read through.

16 PUBLIC RELATIONS

Public appeal of the club, check out the projects
done.

18 SPORTS

Keeping the club in shape, find out the projects
done

President's Message

Nimsara Fernando
President 2021-22

The writer by nature is a dreamer - a conscious
dreamer.

Carson McCullers

For a last quarter as the President of I would like to convey my heartfelt
this prestigious club, brings back gratitude to each and every member
tons of memories that I value and of the Editorial team for their hard
cherish everyday that I have gained work and dedication towards the
through the chapter of my life. success of The Blogger as the
Knowing this is my last message in mantle passes down the line from
The Blogger, does not help in generation to generation. I humbly
holding back my emotions, but all invite every one of you to cherish the
good things must come to an end. entirety of the next upcoming year
The Blogger for the 4th quarter of and I wish the best of luck to the
the Rotaract year 2021-22 shares next President. Closing this year I
the joy and goodwill of the club's can confidently say that you have
journey throughout the 4th quarter, witnessed our journey on being
it shares the memories and emotions
and it shows the foundation of the Enriched with Service.
movement, the dedication and love
of our members. Viva la Rotaract!

Rtr. Nimsara Fernando
President 2021-22

Editor's Message

Imesh Akalanka Ibraheem Rifthie
Co Editor 2021-22 Co Editor 2021-22

Writing, to me, is simply thinking through my fingers.
Isaac Asimov

It has been an exhausting yet a very Sadly for us, it is time we pass the
much enjoyable journey for the past baton and we wish the new bearers
years. As Editors of the club, the best of luck. This magazine will
knowing this is our last message for give you an overview of the club for
the club, makes it more painful to the fourth quarter.
write.
Till we meet again, we hope you
Despite a world that has paused and have an enjoyable read, wish you
a beautiful paradise country good health in these troubling times.
collapsing, we continued to publish Until next time, adios!
the past magazines and blogs
continuously.

Rtr. Imesh Akalanka Rtr. Ibraheem Rifthie

Co Editor 2021-22 Co Editor 2021-22

1 noissimbuS yhpargotohP
:tcejbus eht htiw [email protected] ot
12 eussi txen eht ni derutaef eb ot shpargotohp ruoy timbuS

PHOTOS BY RTR. SRIRAM RAJESWARAN

CULTURAL

COLOURS

3

1 Keerimalai Sacred Water Spring in Jaffna
2 Nallur Kandaswamy temple, one of Sri Lanka's most sacred place of pilgrimage
3 A farmer transporting hay to his farm

club
service

The nervous system of Rotaract where members
feel the euphoria of this movement. Built upon the 3

aspects; fellowship, membership development &
regional engagement.

PROJECT
MELOMANIAC

By Hirudika Premaratne

Music has healing

power. It has the ability to

take people out of

themselves for a few

hours Elton John

Music is referred to by many as SLIIT. The event was carried out Nadun Wijesundara
the universal language of via the Zoom platform, and it Kavindi Fernando
mankind. From the sound of birds commenced at 6.00 PM with a Nilmi Peiterz
chirping heard when we wake up participant count of over 100. The Tharuni Baddegama
in the morning, to the lullabies official sponsor for Melomaniac Sathya Jayalal
sang by our mothers at night was Zoom Host LK. Chavindu De Alwis
during our childhood, music is It was announced that going The first performer of the evening
something we all enjoy during the forward, Melomaniac would be a was Sayuru Bopitiya, who
course of our lives. Music has the monthly occurrence which would immediately got the audience
power to make us feel happy and not only be limited to music, but into the groove with his
at peace even at the most instead would be a platform to performence of ‘Right Here
stressful times. showcase various talents of the Waiting’. His performance was
“Unleash your melody” was the undergraduates of SLIIT. On this followed by Sachini Bhagya, who
theme for Project Melomaniac, melodic evening, a talented group delivered a beautiful
which was held on the evening of of young singers representing all performance of ‘Prathihari’.
the 15th of October 2021.The the faculties of SLIIT entertained Afterwards, the song ‘Aadara
project was organized by The the audience with their Sithum’ was performed by Viduni
Rotaract Club of SLIIT under the performances. Pathirana to the delighted
Club Services Avenue. The main audience.
objective of this event was to Sayuru Bopitiya Everyone seemed to be enjoying
showcase the musical talents of Sachini Bhagya the performances as the chat was
the young undergraduates of Viduni Pathirana filled with compliments towards
Panchali Hewawasan

each performer. Next under the

spotlight was Panchali

Hewawasan who performed

‘Pawela Kodu Akase’, which was

loved by the audience. Moving

onwards was Nadun Wijesundara,

who got a song request directed

his way. He got the audience

hooked with his performance of

‘Hearts Don’t Break Around Here’.

An enchanting performance

‘Ganga Addara Ma’ by Kavindi

Fernando was up next.

An energetic performance of

‘Stitches’ by Nilmi Peitersz was

followed by a beautiful rendition

of ‘Talking to The Moon’ by

Tharuni Baddegama. The

audience was stunned by this

performance with one audience

member stating that it bought

them close to tears. The

penultimate performance was

done by Sathya Jayalal with her

outstanding performance of ‘Love

Story’. The final performer of the

evening was Chavindu De Alwis,

who ended the night with a bang,

with his performance ‘Sheela’.

We are thankful for the talented

performers who delighted the

audience with their performances.

We would also like to thank the

main sponsor of the event Zoom

Host LK for helping us in making

Melomaniac a success. Finally, we would like to thank all the participants for their participation in this

wonderful event.

PROJECT
SOCIUS 21

By Bernadette Jayasooriya

If Pac-Man had

affected us as kids, we’d

all be running around in

dark rooms, munching

pills and listening to

repetitive electronic

Organised with creative intellect music
from the Rotaract Club of SLIIT,
the Chairperson – Rtr. Sithum Marcus Brigstocke
Gammanage and Rtr. Abirami
Thanabalasundaram along with participants made an appearance, Participants had a joyful
the Rotaractors of the Club no doubt excited for the thrilling
Services Avenue took the initiative night that followed ahead. experience, divulging into their
to make Socius 21 – a Virtual On Friday, the 26th of November,
Game Night, a reality. It was at 7.30 pm, participants were artistic minds as we all shared a
presented as an opportunity to welcomed to the virtual Game
extend and develop our Night via ZOOM. Taking great laugh trying to decipher
fellowship amongst the members advantage of the pulsating
of the Club, keeping the Club ambience, the moderators dived what the drawing represented.
active, despite the halt in right into it.
extensive activities due to the Sketchful.io is a Pictionary-like Nevertheless, you cannot cease
Global Pandemic. browser game that you can play
Socius 21 took a week to plan and with your remote team members. the fun after one Game!
execute, recruiting coordinators The game shares some similarities
and obtaining registrations for the with the others, in which players Finally, participants were put to
event was a challenge, albeit need to acquire the most points
rewarding. 60+ enthusiastic to be the top player. the ultimate test in an Escape

Room. Enchambered:

Sacramento Escape Room is an

escape room experience.

Participants were locked inside

two virtual rooms for 60 minutes,

each team handing out clues to

the other to make the ultimate

escape.

community
service

The avenue of the dedicated, socially responsible &
disciplined individuals gathering around to do their part
for the betterment of the community & the environment.

PROJECT
APHRODITE

By Chulani Dilsara

Communities and
countries and ultimately
the world are only as
strong as the health of
their women

Project Aphrodite is an initiative of The guest speakers of the session effort and time they took for the
Community Services Avenue of was Dr. R.Chandrika Rajapakshe successful completion of Project
Rotaract Club of SLIIT. The project and Ms. Deebika Shantkumaran. Aphrodite. It is also important we
was organized with the purpose Dr. R.Chandrika Rajapakshe is a thank the organizers of this event
of increasing awareness regarding lecturer, ayurvedic doctor, for bringing opportunities and a
women’s health and sanitation. motivational speaker and special thanks to all the
The session was held on 6th of counsellor. Ms. Deebika participants for making this a
February 2022 via zoom platform. Shantkumaran is a certified success.
The session successfully hypnotherapy & NLP, practitioner,
conducted with over 80+ personal Well-being advisor and
participants. Project Aphrodite ayurvedic consultant. The project
was a phase under Project Help was conducted with the help of
Her Raise. these two renowned speakers
Sanitation the process of keeping through zoom, where each
places free from dirt, infection, speaker would tackle various
disease, etc. Safe water access, topics under women’s health and
sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sanitation.
are the most basic building blocks The project provided valuable
for empowering women information about women’s
everywhere. Providing basic health and sanitation. We would
information on sanitation for like to sincerely thank Dr. R.
women and girls is life saving and Chandrika Rajapakshe and Ms.
life changing. Deebika Shantkumaran on the

PROJECT LUMINESCENCE
By Chulani Disara

Project Luminescence is an initiative of Rotaract Club of SLIIT under
Club Services Avenue. Project Luminescence, Project Melomaniac
phase 3 and Project RivalShield took place on the same day. The
project was conducted on 30th of April 2022 at Lani’s Place Beach
Restaurant from 6PM onwards.
The objective of the Project Luminescence was to create an
extravagant and a magical night with a touch of love, to bring back the
long-lost celebration of love due to the pandemic and to provide
businesses an opportunity to sell their brand during the seasonal time.
During the event all participants got a chance to receive a sky lantern
with a partner. The evening was colorful with love and happiness.

PROJECT MELOMANIAC
By Kasuni Kavindya

Music is a very unique language that can satisfy any object in the
universe. Such beauty was achieved by the 3rd phase of Melomaniac,
which was conducted under the luminescence and ravished projects
by the Club Services Avenue of the SLIIT Rotaract Club. It held on April
30, 2022, at Lani’s place beach restaurant in Dehiwala from 4 to 6 p.m.
The primary purpose of organizing the Melomaniac was to provide
SLIIT’s performers with a hidden singing ability, to present their vocal
skills live in front of audiences, and to provide relief to members who
are under stress due to current educational conditions. Accordingly,
the previous two phases were online, and the third stage, the physical,
is a specialty.
Here was a chance to perform by some of the most talented singers
found in the previous two phases. Antique delicious food stalls, DJ
concerts and an open microphone event were performed at the
concert venue. During a sudden power outage between live
performances, Rtr. Kavindu Viraj’s singing delighted the audience.

22 the blogger

professional
development

The avenue endeavors to enhance the skills of individuals by
providing guidance on developing personal & professional skills
via mentoring to bring a realistic view to enrich ones' experience.

PROJECT AVONTEUR | PHASE 2


By Chulani Dilsara
Higher education is considered as the last

step in formal education. It follows the An investment in
achievement of a high school diploma and knowledge pays the best
generally involves the completion of a degree.

Higher education prepares students to meet interest

these challenges with grit and determination.

Continuing education through undergraduate

studies after finishing high school, definitely

brings a lot of benefits to young people,

including the increased chances of a higher

salary and employment, a chance of pursuing

further knowledge in a particular area,

adequate preparation for a career, as well as a

number of practical and health benefits.

The second phase of Project Avonteur was

initiated with the purpose of creating

awareness about the importance of higher

education and the opportunities available in

Sir Lanka. The session was on 6th May 7.00

p.m. onwards via zoom. Avonteur phase 2 was

a joint project by the Rotaract Club of SLIIT,

Interact Club of Horizon College International

and Dharmapala Vidyalaya Pannipitiya.

The session was conducted with four guest

speaker including Prof. Harischandra

Abeyguanawrdena, Dr. Rajika Ranasignhe, Ms.

Dumani Jayasinghe and Dr. Viraj Ranawakage.

Prof. Harischandra Abeyguanawrdena is the The second presentation was conducted by Dr. Rajika

chairman of National Education Commission Ranasignhe, a senior policy research officer at National

and he discussed about the minimum Education Commission. Dr. Rajika Ranasignhe explained

competency profile expected from a student about the opportunities for higher education in state

at the exit from G.C.E. advanced level in the universities. Ms. Dumani Jayasinghe who conducted the

first presentation. third presentation is a programmes officer at National

Education Commission. She focused on the
opportunities for higher education in non-
state higher education institutions including
professional training courses. The fourth
presentation was conducted by Dr. Viraj
Ranawakage, a senior policy research officer
at National Education Commission. Dr. Viraj
Ranawakage clearly explained about the
opportunities for tertiary education in the field
of technical and vocational education and
training.
The project provided valuable information
about the importance of higher education.
We would like to sincerely thank Prof.
Harischandra Abeyguanawrdena, Dr. Rajika
Ranasignhe, Ms. Dumani Jayasinghe and Dr.
Viraj Ranawakage on the effort and time they
took for the successful completion of the
project. And also we would like to thank the
organizers of this event for bringing
opportunities and a special thanks to all the
participants for making this a success.
We would like to sincerely thank our mentor
the guest speakers on the effort and time they
took to complete this project successfully.
And also we would like to be thankful to all
participants for making this a success.

public
relations

The avenue that manages the clubs social footprint hence
connecting the club to the world. The avenue plays a crucial

role in publicising the goodwill of the club.

PROJECT 50
SHADES

By Ibraheem Rifthie

Project 50 Shades kicked off on Prior to kicking off, participants The project came to a successful
the 22nd of May 2022 for the 3rd were notified of the rules and closure on the 30th of May with
consecutive year. This project that regulations of the entire challenge the results of the final winners
took place with the aim of through a blog. Level 1 kicked off announced as the team of Parana
expanding the club’s social media with clues and riddles given to our Horu.
presence, reach and digital participants and Master & Side
footprint. The project is based challenges opened.
about a virtual scavenger hunt
that is designed to be a fun In similar fashion, Level 2 and 3
experience with a bunch of also continued on the days before
enjoyable riddles, clues and fun coming to a successful closure.
challenges throughout the 3 Participants were given 12 hours
levels. for the task to be completed after
The project was divided into 3 which the level was closed.
levels for 3 different days. Level 1, 2 Towards the end of the day,
and 3 took place on the 22nd, Jackpots were opened where
26th and 30th of May respectively. participants had to find the
The project had onboard gift jackpot cards on the blogs.
partners from Sathi Designer
Wear, Phlox and Mellyy who
provided gifts for the winners of
bonus and side challenges.

sports

The avenue responsible for initiating & managing all sports
related projects, focusing on ensuring the physical & mental

wellbeing of the club members.

PROJECT RIVALSHIELD
By Manelka Jayasooriya

Initiated by the Sports committee of the Rotaract Club of SLIIT and chaired by Rotaractors Anupa
Somasundara, Banusha KanaheraArachchi, & Pasindu Serasinghe, Project Rivalshield – The Sports Carnival was
held on the 30th of April 2022 at Lani’s place Beach Restaurant, Dehiwala.
Rivalshield was launched as a brand by the Rotaract Club of SLIIT with the great intent of creating
sustainability and awareness through Sports under a comprehensive framework. The Sports Carnival, a festive
event, took up its role exuding excitement and heightened anticipation in our Youth; especially after the
tumultuous circumstances that we encountered during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
It was the ultimate change to engage with friends, colleagues, and members of the Rotaract Club in a Sports-
fest of adrenaline-packed events like Beach Volleyball, Beach Relay, Tug-of-war, and a mind-numbing game
of Treasure Hunt. Amongst the excited participants were members of external Rotaract Clubs, students at
other universities and any enthusiast who would dare take up a good ole challenge.
And despite our growing concerns for the country’s situation, Rivalshield – The Sports Carnival, was executed
through and through with the hard work of like-minded Rotaractors working towards a cause. We thank the
chairpeople of the Project, Rotaractors Anupa Somasundara, Banusha KanaheraArachchi, & Pasindu
Serasinghe and the Club Services Avenue for providing the members of our Youth, the chance to connect
through an avenue of Sports.
Whether we have more to come from the fringes of Rivalshield, we are yet to find out.

22 the blogger

puzzle
corner

Now that you've read through our achievements & projects,
it's time for you to shine by completing the puzzles for your

chance of winning exciting prizes!

D S V I AMN E Z D U R T E V

word Search S U O V I N E J O R K MMO Z

ED L GU J K N L OO F W I E

N N U R L MU T T I W T GU L

OI N T E RNA T I ON A L W

S W T R R MG H I M L O T R P

L E E N T U R R D S H L L OY

F R E S S Y P L N WO Z U R N

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WE L P D I OYQRG K S V N

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E F K OQ D N B N C X I B Y N

Rotaract Rotary
Development International
Community Fellowship
Volunteer Public
Professional

Crossword

4 Across 1 Venue for the

First place international rotaract
whereinternational conference 2020
rotaract conference
recognised by rotary 2 One of six areas focused
international took place
by Rotary international
6 City in which Rotary was grants

founded 3 Introduced Rotary to its

7 A Rotary Youth program motto

for post primary school 5 Rotary founders main
students occupation

10 A rotary program for 8 Rotary founder

Young Adults

12 Rotaract motto consists 9 The word that follows

the word service and? 'Community' & 'Club'

13 Month in which Rotary Only international
was founded
11 rotaract conference
14 One of the four main
recognised by rotary
avenues international
Down

Creatives

For novels, poems, articles, tips &
tricks and many more.

Read ahead to find an amazing pool of
write-ups

from our very own editorial team

CHERNOBYL

By Thanushi Thilakarathne

It can be the lives of millions of them with “The best mini series.” from nuclear fission of radioactive
although the series won, isotopes called Uranium. They
animal and human and also the Chernobyl real catastrophe was may have considered this to be
devastating defeat for humanity. the most environmental friendly
lives of million of unborn babies The series begins when professor method, as it does not expose the
Valery Legasov record his environment. However, the power
those who will be born next confession and commits suicide. plant, which was completed
His confession suggest 1stly that, without proper quality control,
thousand years. the 10 year prison sentence for began to deteriorate in a matter
man like Diatlov was never of seconds, endangering the very
Chernobyl is the story of that enough. existence of mankind. Professor
On April 26, 1986, a fourth reactor Legazo’s speech to the Politburo
unfortunate incident. it is a mini core’s explosion at the Chernobyl on the severity of the eruption
power plant unexpectedly was as follows:
series that created in 2019. it became the basis of this story.
Soviet Russia produced energy
brings to life,a most unfortunate

days of history in fan hearts. this

was written by Craig Maziu and

directed by Johan Renck.

Chernoby miniseries was

nominated to 19 awards in 71st

Primetime Emmy awards

ceremony and it won most of

“An RMBK reactor, uses uranium the Soviet authorities, despite the No.. pills. Do not we have Iodine
235 isotopes. Every atom of this
Uranium 235 is like a bullet. They fact that the people of Prypriet pills stock?
are travelling nearly like a speed
of light and penetrating were still unaware that their deaths Iodine pills..? why we need Iodine
everything is his past, wood, metal
concrete. every gram of this were imminent, exposed to the pills?”
isotope force over billion trillion of
bullets. And Chernobyl hold over 3 deadly radiation emanating from This is a conversation between
million grams and right now it is
on fire. Winds will carry these Chernobyl. doctor and nurse at the Pripret
radioactive isotopes across the
entire continent. Rain will down it The immediate cause of the hospital. Even the hospital
to on our body. These are 3 million
billion trillion bullets in the air we explosion was an attempt to carry authorities do not seems to have
breath, food we eat and water we
drink. Most of this bullets are not out an investigation that had any idea about the pool of iodine
stop in 100 years. Some of them,
not will stope before 50000 already been said to be over. The tablets, which is must have in a
years.”
That is the real problem of character of the power plant hospital in an area with at least a
Chernobyl explosion. But power
plant controllers report to the top engineer Dietlov, who was in nuclear radiation plants.
that there is only a slight radiation
leak. It is a pity that the hundred charge if this investigation, irritates There were times when the silent
of thousand of Russian people
have to pay for all these lies. the audience. The instruction book but profound imagery shown
The political interventions that
have taken place since the that follows the night throughout the story felt like
beginning of build this Chernobyl
are evident from place to place I Shift, which now has nothing to do painful knife cuts. In the midst of
the story. The arbitrary rudeness of
the award winning power plant with the test, is unprecedented. the radiation, birds flying in the sky
managers before the final test on
the safety of the plant, evoke Also the order is given to struggled to their deaths, and in
disgust in the heart of the
audience. Also “We have sealed Follow the instructions that have the midst of it all, it was able to
the city to prevent information
leaking unnecessarily. No one is been cut and removed. The heartbreak of children on a school
leaving.” That was the decision of
engineer in charge of the test is a going to unaware that they had

25 years old electrical engineer inherited death from radiation.

with four months experience. How After the Chernobyl explosion,

do you feel about such a thing? thousand of acres became

The power plant does not even unusable for the next 50000 years

have a measurement of the as a propaganda Russian nuclear

minimum amount of radiation power struggle. Of those fifty

emitted after a power plant thousand years, only thirty three

explosion. “This is the maximum have passed. The people around it

that can be shown. Roentgen are still suffer the effects of

radiation 3.6. all good radiators are radiation. Birth defects, still birth

locked in cupboards.” The and cancers are just some of health

administrative weakness of the problems that are still associated

power plant are always arises. Also, with these conditions. Soviet Russia

even hospitals do not seem to any missed hundreds of opportunities

idea about the environment in to avoid guilt and through its lies.

which they are located. Plunged hundreds of thousands of

“Do we have stock of Iodine? children in to a tragic fate for the

You mean disinfectants? next fifty thousand years.

36 the blogger

DO PROTESTS WORK

By Easara Weerasinghe

The answer to this question is and in a programming sense, simple options. Either he fixes the
never black and white. You have
to see beyond that typical “it’s something that the programmer bug by himself and replaces the
either black or white mindset” for
the answers since there are can’t change once the program same system in another different
various variables at play during a
protest, and in other terms, how executes itself, so in simple words, manner where most of the end-
many “constant variables”
(constant) you got is equivalent to corruption of government that has users are happy with the current
the change you can affect by the
work people do towards the kept on forever, a system that is working condition, or he gives it to
protest. Let’s take a simple IT
jargon to explain the scenarios of failing yet manages. someone else, such as a Quality
a protest.
First, let me explain the variables; This will keep going until it fails to Assurance engineer, to check
most simply, it could be a
problem. People get into protests the point that the end-user sees which could reveal the Faulty
for numerous reasons: lack of
essential things such as fuel the problem with the program and program to an extent which turns
supply or electricity. This could be
a reason for people to raise their wants to change it, and the protest out it’s more than just bug that
voices. As long as these needs are
met by whoever is in charge, to change the constant variable is people didn’t see unless shown.
people can be kept at bay; that’s a
changing variable. As long as you more visionary and credible. That’s the same scenario in the
supply, it’s a smooth ride.
What is a “Constant variable”? It’s So, what’s our condition? Are we system of Sri Lanka; we don’t get to
something that’s not changing, a
tradition that has kept on forever, trying to fix a minor bug such as see the programmer’s side to know

lack of electricity, or are we trying how things operate, and in the

to implement a new program? worst-case scenario, we don’t even

What’s your view? think for a know if he’s telling the truth or not;

second. we can’t distinguish what is true or

Different people come from false, the reality is what he set out

different walks of life, and their to be so. That’s the programmer’s

views vary; some might want the power, and the user is like a

bug fixed while some might want a toddler who doesn’t understand

new program altogether; it’s just technology.

the difference between the type of So, what’s the case of “knowledge

the variable they hold on to. is power?” not exactly like cerci

When the end-user complains that said, “Power is Power,” even

the program isn’t working, our knowing seems insufficient.

programmer usually has two Everyone knows the programmer is

faulty, but can anyone prove it? It I hope our generation changes the He knew it wasn’t going to be an
isn’t peculiar.
The problem is that users program to a point where it will instant success. He knew they had
genuinely don’t know who’s their
enemy. Users do not know only continue to improve. to face the difficulties of “today and
whether the quality assurance
engineer is on their side to prove And I know some people don’t tomorrow.” He knew the struggle
or just there to reap his benefits. I
think it will be a case of “every exactly believe in our current would continue for a long time, but
saint has a past, and a sinner has a
future. “I don’t believe that situation like it’s never going to he pretty much achieved what he
someone with 100% wanting a
better nation for people will come change regardless; as I said, set out to do; why? Because his
out. We might have to settle in for
a compromise, but that’s not bad. Protests are never overnight values and vision were far more
It’s a step right now; we all need
steps in the right direction. It’s successes. They are there to make significant for his people and
never going to be an overnight
success. It’s a project that takes history; one of the most prominent country.
time; whoever comes into power
to change the system will always examples is the Washington I believe our generation is here to
represent a typical citizen’s
behavior, more or less. Maybe protests in 1963, “I have a dream” by make history and make the
that’s how most of us are; power
changes people. I remember Martin Luther King JR. statement, “you messed with the
hearing people say if I were a
powerful man’s son or daughter, I “Even though we face the wrong generation” I hope the
wouldn’t lead a life any different.
The problem always starts with us. difficulties of today and tomorrow, values we hold on to are far
If you want to make a new
program, you might have to learn I still have a dream. It is a dream broader than the ‘rice packet and
a new programming language;
maybe a new algorithm, but just deeply rooted in the American arrack bottle.’
as some don’t understand the
programming jargon out here. We dream. I have a dream that one
all might have to step out of our
comfort zone and change day this nation will rise and live
ourselves so that we are
transparent and patient. out the true meaning of its creed:

We hold these truths to be self-

evident, that all men are created

equal.”

SYNOPSIS OF
CYPTOCURRENCY

By Heshani Hewagama

If you are interested in how to The money can be used to buy This makes it difficult to copy and
make money on the internet then goods online as well as hire
no doubt you have heard of this people to perform services. counterfeit money. This
cryptocurrency. This has become And that money can be bought
one of the most used topics on and invested by selling when the blockchain technology also
the internet in recent times. What value increases.
is cryptocurrency? Cryptocurrency Satoshi Nakamoto started this in protects the personal details of
is a digital currency that exists 2009 with the introduction of the
electronically. Although these first crypto currency, bitcoin. There the account holders. Although
methods are relatively new to the are many of these currencies
use of physical money, they are today. The most popular crypto there is no governing body,
still very popular today. currency is bitcoin, in addition the
Cryptocurrency operates on a following currencies are also security is high. It has the
common ledger called a commonly used. Some currencies
blockchain. The process by which can be used in day today life. potential to be converted into
these currencies are created is
called crypto mining. Here, Ethereum physical currency at any time.
complex mathematical problems Ripple
are solved by using a large EOS Investment is advantageous as
computer power. Cardano
To deal with cryptocurrency, you Polkadot demand increases faster than
need to use a digital wallet called Before considering the benefits in
a cryptocurrency wallet. In this this regard, let us pay our gold. Anyone can easily send and
way you can transfer money from attention to the blockchain
one account to another. system. This is a record of all receive cryptocurrency anywhere.
Investment and purchases can be transactions conducted by cash
made here as well as regular cash. holders. This has no central There are also disadvantages in
authority to monitor and it is a
ledger that can be monitored by using cryptocurrency. This can
all customers.
also be used for illegal activities as

the privacy of transactions is high.

Data deletion causes financial

loss. This requires advanced

computers, high power and

energy. This cannot be done in

normal computers.

But the rapid increase in the value

of these currencies can lead to a

large income. If you are interested

in new technological trends,

invest and experience the results

of cryptocurrency

WHY SHOULD YOU SLEEP?

By Anuji Karunathne

First of all, do you know what is have seen people set alarms to have to experience if you do not
wake up at night and sleep in the
sleep and how it happens? Sleep morning but it is so hard since get an adequate amount of sleep.
there is a pattern going in our
is a periodic, natural, reversible, body. Some of them are,
Have you ever thought about
and near-total loss of what will happen to you if you do Poor memory and focus
not get enough sleep? Or have
consciousness. Sleep is a you ever thought about why we Weakened immunity
need to sleep? As an adult, we
restorative process that repairs need to get 7 to 9 hours sleep as Mood changes
we need to keep us healthy and
and resets us to start our next day well. Our body and our brain start Anxiety
to get repair and restore when we
refreshingly. Getting enough sleep sleep. Most people think that Depression
when we sleep our brain also
as adults is mostly seven to nine sleeps. That, it is not, our brain Fatigue
works until the day we die. When
hours, every night is important. we sleep it gets to re-energize and Weight gain
helps us to starts a fresh day when
Did you ever know something we wake up the next day. There As adults, we need to sleep seven
are lots of side affects you might
about circadian rhythm? to nine hours a day to restore our

Circadian rhythms are physical, brain and body to start a fresh

mental, and behavioral changes day. Did you know that there was

that follow a 24-hour cycle. This is a disease that occurs when you

a biological clock that lasts for a did not get enough sleep? That is

24-hour inside ourselves. That sleep deprivation. Sleep

starts operating in constant light deprivation occurs when a person

or constant darkness, the onset of is not able to get enough sleep.

light reset the clock. The timing of Not getting enough sleep is the

the sunrise influences strongly for main cause of sleep deprivation

the circadian rhythm. You might but other things cause sleep

WHY SHOULD YOU SLEEP?

deprivation. Those are, It is not good to have sleep
Poor sleeping habits deprivation for the long term as it
Restless leg syndrome affects your daily routine. Since
Sleep apnea you feel sleepy all day you might
Circadian rhythm disturbance not be able to pay attention to
Using of medication or drug what you are doing, and you
ADHD (Attention Deficit might also end up being injured.
Hyperactivity Disorder) or ASD Gaining weight is not good at all
(autism spectrum disorder). since it leads to many other
These are a few of the medical conditions. Such as
symptoms that you feel when diabetes, heart disease & strokes,
you have sleep deprivation, high blood pressure, kidney
Though it is daytime you feel diseases, and mood disorders.
sleepy, especially while
performing activities like
studying, reading, doing
activities.
Gaining weight in an
inappropriate way
You could not be able to
concentrate or focus on some
kind of a task.
You might get things to forget
and have difficulties in
learning new concepts.

DREAMS OF
THE YOUTH

By Dulmi Gunathilake

Have you ever had a dream? cultures of different countries, instances like this, clashes occur
Young, old, or youthful, everyone there is an inequality of the youth between the youth and the
lives in hope of achieving their getting the necessary culture frequently.
dreams no matter how big or independence and autonomy To have a shot at achieving
small they are. Amongst this, the needed to work towards their dreams, one should consider the
youth have the most amount of goals. This inequality is made space given to the voice of the
dreams. This is due to the innate more imminent by the gender youth within a country’s political
energy that inequality. For example, consider arena. In country where the main
wasn’t present during childhood, the environment of a young positions are held by politicians
that comes to us naturally in our woman in an Asian country like who should be enjoying their
youth. Moreover, since a youth Sri Lanka. When following fashion retirement, where political
doesn’t have the large amount of trends, going on about their day instabilities are constantly
responsibilities an adult has, they to day activities, and even when created, and development has
have the biggest probability of choosing the future career…there been taking place since what
making their dreams come true. are many interferences and seems an eternity…it is almost
However, when considering the obstacles to overcome. So in

comical to inquire what chances An effective education system
the youth has to pursue their should allow young students to
dreams. However, still countless learn with peace of mind and
youths in our country haven’t yet improve their skills. A successful
let go of the sparks of hope of student is born not only from
making their dreams come true. studying but from close contact
More often than not, parents with art and aesthetics as well.
attempt to forcefully instill If there is chance for the youth to
dreams in their children when achieve their dreams when
they are small. With the physical stepping into the job world after
and mental changes taking in completing higher education, it
place of a child, they inherit will be a solution for a lot of
unique talents and capabilities. As problems including suicide. For
they grow older, how many give that what the youth needs to do
appropriate value to these skills? first is to identify the obstacles and
Some adults try to make their skills that are between us and our
children to chase after the dreams dreams.
they couldn’t achieve in their This is an invitation for all of you to
younger days. Children who fail to sow fresh seeds in a dying field of
realise their own dreams, chase dreams!
after the dreams of others and
lose happiness in their lives.
Furthermore, the modern
competitive education system is
one of the biggest obstacles that
stand in the way of dreams. After
thirteen mandatory years of
education, they have to face a
similar exam focused education
system.

A STATUE, TREE AND A LOST BOY

By Esandi Udana

with dried leaves. Mr. Walsh was pale blue door at the very end of
ready to step out into the porch the hallway. He rapped on the
with a very hot cup of tea in his door thrice, but there was no
hands, when his wife suddenly answer.
called for him from the “Milo?” Mr. Walsh spoke to the
kitchenette. door, his lips inches away from the
“Dear, will you please check poster that read; ‘Milo’s room’. He
whether Milo’s awake?” Mrs. Walsh set his ear on the wood and
asked as she scraped a chair to carefully listened, but he could
the pantry and stood on it. She only hear a low rumble. He called
started rummaging through the again, but no one answered back.
top cupboards, clearly searching He turned the doorknob and
for something. entered.
“He’s not awake yet?” Mr. Walsh
A homeschooled boy suddenly asked in surprise. Their son, Milo
disappears, and the only clue is a Walsh, is a homeschooled boy
short story he recently printed off who is turning seventeen very
his computer. His parents woke soon. He was given permission by
up that day without having the his parents to finally apply to the
slightest idea that their lives are final year of high school, so that
about to take a sudden turn. he can have the opportunity to
The sun washed the wooden floor socialize and make some friends,
as it slowly creeped through the other than his mother and father,
open windows of the small and their fat dog, Chunk.
suburban house. It was clearly “No, he’s not.” Mrs. Walsh
midday. It was a busy Friday as answered. “He’s supposed to get
everyone in the neighborhood his breakfast and be ready for his
were buzzling around, getting math lesson with me.”
ready for the long weekend. All “Let me go upstairs and check on
the children were still at school, him.” Mr. Walsh said. He carefully
but the parents always loved to set his tea cup on the counter top,
arrange a good surprise for their and made his way up the rich
kids. The houses slightly creaked wooden staircase. “Milo!” He called
as a strong warm breeze swept as he went, and approached a
past them, tittering the streets

AN SOLICITED WAR

By Ibraheem Rifthie

There I was, bright and early as As I continued on this tranquil “Are we at war?”, I thought to
the beams of the sun lit up the stroll, it wasn’t long before the myself as I bent over to pick it up.
path, walking to get breakfast. tranquility was cut short. In The fear took the better of me
Hoping I was not too early, I fairness, when has tranquility ever quick, I felt my weight drop and
slowed my pace and looking been uninterrupted. I stumbled the shivers down my spine. I had
around as I walked to appreciate upon a can, immediately I knew in my hand a tear gas canister,
the environs. Although I have seen for certain this had to be a littered but I could not feel it, my hands
the trees and the canal a million can of beer as this was certainly were numb with the fright in me,
times before but never at this not the first time I tripped over however, the panic in me soon
golden hour when the sun was at beer cans. Before I continued wore off as I realised that this was
its happiest and the birds singing along like no big deal, the corner an exploded canister. This was a
it tunes. of my eye had captured an image first for me, seeing and even
of what this beer can was, a tear holding one, previously I only ever
gas canister. heard of it in the news reports in
the most distant of towns
hundreds of kilometres away.
Never would I have thought it
would eventually reach my
doorstep within yards.
I checked my rickety cheap watch
through the shattered glass, the
time was 8:05AM. “Time does fly
fast”, I thought to myself, just 5
minutes ago it was 7:50AM as I
remember, not realising that I was
so invested in this can I had
discovered.

Tossing it aside and walking I saw grief in my parents’ eyes, the
towards bakery, terrifying grief of not being able to provide
thoughts ran past the back of my for their children, the grief of being
mind but were only fuelled as I in a war they never signed up for,
walked past a dozen more tear the grief of skyrocketing cost of
gas canisters ahead. “Are we really living and the grief of knowing that
at war”, I thought to myself again, they cannot sustain this household.
this time out loud. This was my We were stuck and we had no
bubble of thought till I set foot where to go. The paddy harvest
into the bakery. that we relied on did not exist and
I greeted the baker with a slightly savings were draining fast. I could
despondent hello and asked for not stand seeing the suffering of
the usual, a loaf of unsliced bread, my parents as their soul ripped
the cheapest option for my family. apart day by day.
I picked up the loaf of bread As I munched on the bread I just
before handing him Rs. 100 and brought with a side of nothing,
then proceeded to walk out. “It’s flying in came a can of beer. Again,
170!” I heard the baker yell behind it wasn’t. In a matter of seconds, I
me. “Since when?” I asked could see nothing and I was
confusedly but it did come off in a tearing up like I had never before.
defiant tone. The baker then All I could hear were screams of a
explained that the price had war that was happening at our
skyrocketed since last night, but I doorstep, a war we never signed up
had to explain that I only had for and a war I could only pray to
what I had given him. come out of safe.
Understandingly, he let me off as I
was a regular expecting me to
return the balance I owe him, but
deep down I knew I had no way of
doing so neither did my parents. I
headed back home, well some
called it a shed, but it was still
home to me. I opened the
decaying old wooden door made
off a tabletop. I stepped inside
into the square all-in-one shed
and explained the price concern.

SELF LOVE

By Samadhi Wathsala

You yourself, as much as
anybody in the entire
universe, deserve your
love and affection

Lord Buddha

Do you know the importance of . Without self-love you will lost the Self-love can benefit us in various
self-love? We are living in as era soul inside yourself. So it is really aspects of life. It might be the
where the self-love revolution is important to love yourself first. best investment because a little
gaining momentum, yet we have There are several action that we effort every day can result in a
trouble of loving ourselves. Self- can take to improve self-love. huge improvement in our health.
love means that you accept
yourself fully, treat yourself with Being assertive Greater happiness
kindness and respect and nature Forgiving yourself Stronger resilience
your growth and wellbeing. All we Motivating yourself with Increased motivation
need to do is love ourselves and positive vibes Better physical and mental
let the negative things pass Prioritizing your health and health
through; eventually things will wellbeing Everyone is special and unique.
change and bad times will pass. Spending time around people By accepting yourself fully and
There are three types of self-love: who support you treating yourself with kindness
Valuing your feelings and respect, nothing in the world
Physical—refers to how you see Recognizing your strengths will stop you from achieving your
yourself Holding yourself accountable goals. One day you can win the
Mental—refers to how you You can’t take care of anyone else world as successful person.
think of yourself (self- until you’ve taken care of yourself.
acceptance) All starts with yourself and if you
Psychological—refers to how are not in love with yourself it is
you treat yourself (self-respect) really difficulty take care about
Self-love is the foundation to others. So you should love yourself
discover yourself. If you are lack of first, build your inner peace and
self-love you’re likely to be highly balance your life, then you would
self-critical and fall into people- be able to be the best partner,
pleasing and perfectionism parent, or friend that you can be.

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT

By Chamudi Wijesekara

You can’t pass the Halloween The fictional character, created by Countess Elizabeth Báthory
season without spotting at least a author Bram Stoker, was, in fact, was a Hungarian
few dozen of Vampires. Vampires based on a real historical figure. noblewoman and reputed
are everywhere, from most Vlad of Wallachia, better known as serial killer of hundreds of
popular movies, books, and tv Vlad the Impaler medieval prince young women in the 16th
shows to favourite Halloween whose brutal acts inspired the and 17th centuries. Stories
costumes. These creatures were world’s most famous Vampire, of her sadism and brutality
described in many folktales in Dracula. Vlad III was born in quickly became part of
various cultures worldwide. Transylvania, a mountain area in national folklore, earning
Though they appear to be myths, modern-day Romania, in the year her the nickname “The
there were several exciting 1431. Vlad II Dracul, the monarch of Blood Countess” or
instances over the years around Wallachia, a principality to the “Countess Dracula.” Legend
the world which raised the south of Transylvania, was his says that she would bathe
question of the actual existence of father. Vlad Dracul, according to in the blood of her victims
vampires. So hold on to your garlic legend, enjoyed eating among his as a way to retain her
as we explore the legends rooted dying victims and dipping his legendary beauty and
in fact over the centuries. bread in their blood. youth.

When we explore a different part of the world,
Vampires and bloodsuckers were also popular
among Egyptians. According to the Egyptian
“Book of the Dead,” if an element of the soul
called the ka didn’t get adequate offerings, it
would leave the tomb to drink blood. This was
famously known as “The Legend of the Ka.”
Another story comes from China, “The Legend of
the Chiang-Shih,” which translates to “corpse
hopper.” The Chiang-Shih are Chinese
mythological undead demons that resemble
vampires in Europe. The risen Chiang-Shih were
believed to suck the breath of the living rather
than feasting on their victims’ blood. Like many
European vampires, they were reported to have
long hair, brows, fingernails, and the ability to fly.
For centuries, mankind has been haunted by
vampire legends. Some of them are based on true
events, which makes them creepier. Therefore
given the fascination people have with all things
horror, vampires, real or imagined, are likely to
continue to inhabit the earth for years to come.

ME, MYSELF & I

By Pasindu Gunawardhana

Friday the 13th was just another day at “He’s coding, he’s coding, administer serum IX to him,
College for Johnny. Even though some STAT”, yelled Dr. X to his protégé Dr. 11.
people thought of the day to be cursed or “I told you not to give him that solution , the trials were not
frightening due to implications of popular complete, and it was very clearly unstable. Now look at
culture, Johnny did not mind it in the least. what you did , it triggered his phobia of bees into his
To him it was a regular day with the only subconscious mind. Poor bloke is lucky he didn’t have an
possible upside being his favorite rapper aneurysm ”, yelled back the protégé with a look of utter
dropping a new studio album the same annoyance on his face as he administered the vaccine.
night. So, he went on with his day rather
uneventfully up until the walk to his college
dorm at the end of the day. It was here the
first inflection point of the day caught up
with the young man.
Floating around the walking path was a
solitary bee on its merry way to collect
pollen. In this scenario another grad student
might have laughed it off thinking what
degree of difference a singular bee would
have on this sizable sideline garden.
Another might have even pondered how
the bee spent its entire existence chasing
parallel to us humans, who chase after
materialistic effects just to inevitably leave
them behind. But in the case of Johnny, the
bee struck only one thought, fear, for he had
a phobia of bees. A full-fledged panic attack
stung through rendering the grad student
incomprehensible of his surroundings and
landing him face first on the ground.
************

“It’s all for the greater good of the humankind my dear, once the trials are complete, we might finally be able
to cure schizophrenia, get rid of phobias and so much more for the entire population of the Earth !”, said X
with a smile.
“But if the trials continue, we might not have a test subject to progress any further with. I’m unplugging him
from the machines! “, said 11 inching closer to Johnny who was strapped on to the Helmviewer machine in
the middle of the dimly lit room.
At this point surprisingly Dr. X chose not to intervene allowing Dr. 11 to unplug the poor lad from the
machine. The two doctors watched over as the young man regained his consciousness and woke up from
the hospital bed, he was lying in.
Johnny woke up disoriented without a clue of where he was or who he was. He looked at the two doctors,
glanced at the machine he was strapped into and immediately flew into a rage. He grabbed a pair of
surgical scissors was about to stab Dr. X in the eyeball when a third doctor appeared behind him and
injected another syringe into his neck . Once again Johnny passed out on to the floor face first causing Deja’
Vu to run buck wild inside his grey matter.
************
Johnny woke up in his room clutching a pair of safety scissors, lying in a pool of his own sweat. His dad
walked in dressed in his lab coat and concealing another vial of antipsychotics in his hand just in case.
“Rick?”, he called out, his voice trembling with fear and hope.
“Yeah dad”, answered back the young lad.
“Oh, thank God, I thought you were still Johnny”, muttered the good doctor under his breath.
“Johnny? Who’s Johnny dad?”
“Oh, never mind that son! Put on a shirt we’re going out for pizza!”

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