From Curiosity to Confidence
When I stepped into university life, I was just a curious girl trying to figure out where I belonged. Like many, I was exploring different clubs and societies, hoping to find a place that resonated with me. Among them, Rotaract caught my eye — something about it felt powerful, purposeful, and vibrant.
But, fun fact? I didn’t get in the very first round.
It didn’t discourage me, though. I made it into the second round and joined as a general member, not knowing a single thing about avenues, project roles, or club structure. I just had my passion — and that passion was writing.
Soon after, I applied for a project called CLICK 2.0, a cinematography and short film competition. I still remember the joy of being selected as the External Relations Coordinator my very first role in Rotaract. A huge thanks to Senara akki for identifying my skills and talent. That was the spark that lit a fire in me.
Over time, I worked as a PR Agent, learning how to manage time, responsibilities, and people. With each passing experience, I built stronger connections within the club and discovered more of myself. Gaveen aiya and Sewwandi akki were the leaders and my mentors at that time.
The true turning point in my journey came when I was appointed as a Team Leader in the Editorial Avenue. From writing articles and captions to drafting letters and managing PR I found joy in every word. It was my way of giving back to the club.
One of my proudest moments was leading a team in the Rota Tomorrow 4.0 competition, which focused on the 12 Sustainable Development Goals. My team chose waste management as our topic, and I initiated the project Harawuma – Waste into Wow. Here, my biggest motivational supportive arm was Dinithi akki, my mentor. I learned a lot from her especially patience heee… and of course, my talented team how can I even begin to mention each one?
Our team created a unique icon using plastic bottles to represent the University of Kelaniya. That symbolic icon was “UOK” This creative and eco-friendly project was designed to raise awareness about recycling and sustainability. What started as a simple idea turned into something special, gaining attention not only within the university but also across the country.
After months of hard work and dedication, our project received incredible recognition: Most Popular Project, Most Sustainable Project 2nd Runner-Up, Most Effective PR Campaign And personally, I was honored as the Most Outstanding Team Leader. Those recognitions meant more than just awards. They were proof of growth in my leadership, confidence, and creativity.
Then came Year Two, and with it, another chapter: I was appointed Co-Director of Public Relations a role I absolutely cherish. But let me tell you, it’s not always easy.
The fun fact? I receive calls and messages 24/7 yes, even at midnight from directors and team leaders asking for sharing the PR materials. Still, I handle all the club’s social media willingly and with love, because I know how much it matters.
This year, my co-director and I made history by initiating the very first set of original PR projects in RACUOK. One of them, Rota Brain Tease, is about content creation around special days and spreading awareness in fun and meaningful ways.
The other, Influencia, is one of the most significant and special projects in my journey. It focused on personal branding and creative content development, and it pushed me to explore new boundaries. Need to mention the girl power behind this because the whole OC is conducted with girls so hats off gurliess!
And yes, Rota Tomorrow 5.0 came along. This time, I stepped back from leading and stepped into the role of a mentor. I guided my team as they tackled the important issue of drug rehabilitation and mental health through the project Parivarthana. My talented team leaders Sithika and Pranama helped me conduct our amazing team.
Now, with just a few days left in this chapter, I look back at everything with no regrets only gratitude. I would like to mention Roshan aiya and Akshana akki, our former president and the secretary you two are my favourite as always. I love to listen to the way you speak, and I am very grateful to have had your leadership. Disandi akki is also a supportive one I had during this journey. Need to mention Vihanga aiya and Adeesha aiya with their supportive instructions and experiences, this year was hopefully well successful. Oh how could I forget my overlooking kacha kache Sachinthani, and one of my co’s Chamangi akki love you a little more!
Grateful for the memories, Grateful for the growth, Grateful for the family I found in this club. And most importantly, grateful for each mentor who guided me with kindness and wisdom. To me, Rotaract isn’t just a club. It’s a journey of opportunities. A journey that helped shape who I am today and will always hold a special place in my life.
Viva la Rotaract!
