When I first stepped into university life, I had no idea that something called Rotaract would become such a meaningful part of my journey. It all began during my first year, when I registered for the Rotaract Club of University of Kelaniya, unaware that the official registration period had already ended. Luckily, there was one remaining chance in the SR avenue, and without much hesitation, I took it. Simultaneously, I joined the Editorial avenue as my technical avenue, though back then, I had no real idea of what was going on or where this path would lead me. Due to the weight of academic work, I remained an inactive member that year. But something about Rotaract stayed with me—an unspoken call to return.

When the Rotaract year 2023–24 arrived, I decided it was time to take that call seriously. I became an active member, choosing Club Service Avenue as my main avenue and continuing with Editorial Avenue as my technical avenue. My very first project was Christinzel’23 Reunion, where I had the honor of serving as the secretary. It turned out to be a heartwarming and impactful project that went on to win the Silver Award for Most Outstanding Club Service Initiative – Inclusivity and Diversity at the 34th Rotaract District Assembly. I also served as the secretary for Peasanam – Vesak Edition, another project that added color and meaning to my Rotaract year.

But the true turning point of my journey came with Rotatomorrow 4.0. I was selected as the Co-Chair of Project Apen Gamata, an initiative launched by Team Infinity (Team 2). This project was close to my heart and it aimed to provide sustainable access to clean and safe drinking water for the community of Anamadu through the installation of water purification systems. What made it even more special was the incredible team I got to work with: my Co-Chair Rtr. Aadil, our guiding light Rtr. Chanumi akki, our dynamic team leader Rtr. Delishia, and our dedicated OC members. Together, we turned a vision into reality.

Project Apen Gamata was recognized as the Most Sustainable Project, 2nd Runner-Up Team and Best Partnership Development in Rotatomorrow 4.0. It was also nominated at the 34th Rotaract District Assembly under the category of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. I was deeply humbled to be recognized as the Most Emerging Project Chair of Rotatomorrow 4.0.

As the new Rotaract year 2024–25 began, I felt it was time to give more to this community that had given so much to me. I applied for the Board of Directors and was selected as the Co-Editor of this club for the term 2024-25. With this role came a new world of responsibilities and creative challenges but also an incredible support system. I had the privilege of working under the gentle guidance of Rtr. Sapna, one of the kindest and most patient senior editors I’ve known. I also had the constant support of our Ex-Co member Rtr. Delishia and the companionship of my fellow Co-Editors, Rtr. Deepna and Rtr. Janooshikaa. More than teammates, they became sisters, an unbreakable bond formed through deadlines, laughter, and shared passion.

Among the many highlights of this term, Writing Maze 2.0 holds a special place in my heart. It was the main project of our Editorial avenue, and I still can’t believe we pulled it off. It would’ve remained a dream without the belief and encouragement of our secretary, Rtr. Adeesha, and our president, Rtr. Vihanga ayya. Their trust in us gave us the strength to make the impossible, possible. None of it would have been possible without the incredible OC who stood behind us, every step of the way.

I was also given the opportunity to serve as an editor for Career Fair 2025, organized in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit. It was yet another experience that broadened my horizons and reminded me of the power of teamwork and purpose.

Looking back, I smile at the girl who joined Rotaract not knowing a single thing and I feel proud of the person I’ve become. Rotaract has been more than just a club. It has been my platform for growth, a canvas for creativity, and a circle of people who turned into family.

If my first year was about finding my way, and the second was about discovering my voice, this year is about becoming the writer of my own story with Rotaract by my side.

Viva la Rotaract!