Since I was young, I’ve always wanted to help others and make a difference in society. That passion is what led me to join the Rotaract Club in my very first year at university. I believed it was the perfect place to do something meaningful, and it completely changed my university life.
I joined the Community Service Avenue, where I got my first opportunity through a project called Project Swabasamudra. Although I couldn’t attend the interview due to exams, I still wanted to be part of it because it was related to the ocean — something I truly care about. So, I reached out to Rtr. Dinithi Akka and requested to join the team. Thanks to her, I was welcomed into the project, and from there, my journey truly began.
Swabasamudra became my foundation. I learned everything — from how an Organizing Committee works to fundraising and execution. I even got promoted to External Relations (ER) Coordinator during the project. But more than learning, it was the unforgettable memories that made it so special. It was the first time I ever stayed away from home — we did beach camping, released sea turtles, swam in the ocean at night, cleaned beaches, and planted mangroves. It was all so new to me, and I loved every moment of it.
After that, I was the ER Coordinator for Project Jingle Bells, a one-day Christmas event at a children’s home. I’m proud to say that I helped raise a big part of the budget for the project. That day was full of joy — we danced, sang, played games, and gave out gifts to the children. By the end of the day, we were all emotional because of the deep bond we had built with them.
Then came Project Word Wave under the Rotatomorrow initiative, where I got the chance to teach English to students in a rural school. The love I received from those children was overwhelming — even today, I still have the sweet letters and notes they gave me.
As time passed, I became more and more attached to the club, especially to Community Service Avenue, because of the bond that was created by Rtr. Wikshi Akka, Dimithri Akka, Dinithi Akka, and Vihanga Aiya. Their guidance, kindness, and support made me feel like I truly belonged, and that connection made every project even more meaningful. My university friends even started calling me “Rotaract Dinanga” because I was always working on club projects — but the truth is, I never felt tired or bored. I loved it.
Then came one of the biggest projects of my Rotaract journey — Ignite Sri Lanka 1.0. This was a huge initiative focused on uplifting an entire village through six key areas: agriculture, economic development, youth and women empowerment, clean water, health, and education. Even though I wasn’t sure if I was selected, I wished with all my heart to join the Clean Water section — and to my joy, I was selected as the Finance Coordinator.
At first, I was nervous. The budget for our section alone was Rs. 2.5 million. But that’s where I met two amazing girls — Paba and Sachi — during our first visit to Giribawa. From that day on, we became more than friends — they are like sisters to me. We laughed, cried, and shared everything. Our bond grew stronger with every visit to the village. The villagers even started calling us “Jala Missla Thun Denā” . Despite the challenges, we never gave up. Together, we found a sponsor, faced obstacles, and completed the project successfully.
At the end of my first year, I applied to become the Co-Director of Community Service for 2024–2025 — because I wanted to give back even more and complete what I had started. I was thrilled when I was appointed to the position, alongside my co-directors Ravindu and Darshi Akka, and our overlooking Exco member Paba. As a team, we gave our 100% to uplift the avenue — and I’m proud to say that we managed to launch projects worth Rs. 50.8 million this year!
We started the year with two massive parallel projects: Swabasamudra 2.0 and the continuation of Ignite Sri Lanka 1.0, with two incredible Organizing Committees whom I lovingly call my “COM Babies.” These projects gave us so many unforgettable memories. But more than that, we built a family within our avenue — full of love, commitment, and shared dreams.
When Ignite Sri Lanka 1.0 concluded, it felt like one of my biggest dreams had come true. Along with that, we also completed two other meaningful projects: Haritha Siripa and Clean Up Sri Lanka. These projects weren’t just events — they were emotional milestones that marked the final chapters of my time with RACUOK.
As we wrapped up the term, we also began research for Ignite Sri Lanka 2.0. After visiting three different villages, we selected one in Haguranketha — a place full of potential and hope. Even though I won’t be part of the next phase, I’m so proud to have laid the foundation for what’s to come. I know the next team will carry it forward with love and strength.
Looking back at my journey at RACUOK, I feel nothing but gratitude. I’ve come such a long way with thousands of beautiful memories, countless new experiences, and priceless lessons. Though this chapter has now come to an end, the impact it had on me will stay forever. This journey shaped who I am today, and I’ll always carry it with all my heart.
