When I started university in 2023, I wanted to do volunteering, but I didn’t know which club to join. One day, I randomly decided to join the Rotaract Club of the University of Kelaniya. I had no idea that this one decision would change my life in so many ways.
At first, I didn’t know anything about Rotaract or the different avenues, but I selected Club Service Avenue as my main avenue. My very first project was Diwali 2023, held at the University of Peradeniya. It was a district-level project, done with three other Rotaract clubs—KDU, NSBM, and Kandy. I worked as the Editor for the project, but I also helped in all the activities. I will always remember this project because it gave me unforgettable memories. We learned about Hindu culture, made new friends, and had a lot of fun. I want to specially thank our loving directors, Lanka Akka and Daran Ayya, for their amazing guidance.
My second project was Arogya, organized by Team Elysium under Rota Tomorrow 4.0 competition. This project was the turning point in my Rotaract journey. It was focused on health and took place in three phases to support the well-being of the community. I worked as the Secretary and managed all the documents. I also took part in all the phases. I made strong friendships during this project, and I’m thankful to Navodya Akki (my mentor) and Pabamini (my team leader) for guiding me. Because of their support, I was recognized as the Most Outstanding Project Secretary, and our team won the Best Project Report award. That’s why this project is very special to me.
The last project I did in my first year was Rota Wasantha Udanaya ‘24, where I worked as a Co-Chairperson. It was a big responsibility, and I had to manage everything from beginning to end. I’m proud of how well we organized the event for our members and university students. It was a fun and successful project.
In my second year, I was appointed as the Co-Director of the Member Relations Avenue, and that was another big milestone in my Rotaract journey. As a director, I led with a friendly approach, and many members still come and talk to me whenever they see me. I also learned a lot of new skills because of this role.
As Co-Director of MR Avenue, I led two amazing projects: Rota Romp ‘24 and Rota Tomorrow 5.0.
Rota Romp ‘24 was a project for member engagement and development. It was my favorite project with the most loving and dedicated OC members. I had no stress during this project because my team was so supportive and motivated. We created so many happy and fun memories together.
Rota Tomorrow 5.0 was a large-scale project that focused on 12 SDG goals. All club members were divided into 12 teams, and each team worked on a different project related to one SDG goal. At the end, we organized a successful award ceremony with district members and university lecturers. It was tough to plan, but we did it! I want to give special thanks to my Co-Director Sanduni and our Vice President Himas. Without them, this project would not have been a success.
As a Member Relations Director, I also managed member registrations and updated their details on the RI and RMIS portals from the start of the year to the end. It was a lot more responsibility compared to being a general member, but I am proud and grateful for the service I gave to our club, our members, and the community.
I also want to thank my best friend Amali, the PR Director of RACUOK. She pushed me to apply for the Board of Directors. I didn’t believe in myself at that time, but she helped me see my own potential, and for that, I’ll always be thankful.
Most importantly, none of this would have been possible without the support of my parents—my Amma and Thaththa. They played a huge role behind the scenes, from helping with project ideas to finding sponsors, they were always there for me. Their love truly powered my Rotaract journey.
Looking back, this journey has given me so much—experiences, memories, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships. I’m truly thankful for the day I joined the Rotaract Club in my first year. Now, as our term ends, so does my journey as a board member. I wish the best of luck to the upcoming team and hope our club keeps shining in the future.
