DisCo 2018/19 signs off on a grand note
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If there’s a youth movement that has evolved to be bigger and better, it is definitely Rotaract. The young aspirants the larger Rotary community continue to be an inspiration to the rest of the world. In Sri Lanka, Rotaractors have become change-makers with projects such as Run for their Lives that aim to raise funds for those in need. Once you become a Rotaractor you will feel a sense of responsibility to make a lasting change in society. Rotaract in Sri Lanka has evolved to become a hub for inclusive youth development. The movement is led by the District Rotaract Representative who is appointed every year to lead the movement. Today (June 23), the District Rotaract Representative for the year 2018-19 Rtr. PP Amjath Yoosuf will hand over the leadership to Rtr. PP. Krishan Balaji.
The Rotaract movement functioned under the theme ‘Inspire the Future’ for the last year and has truly led inspiration in bringing positive transformation to the communities around Sri Lanka. Sustainability has been a core element of Rotaract initiatives since 2016 and has been a cornerstone for the lasting impact. The key strategic focus built on Sustainability, Innovation and Partnerships drives meaningful service.
This year witnessed the completion of over 2000 social action projects by 70 active Rotaract clubs from around the country with the involvement of over 4000 young change-makers. What is quite beautiful is the fact that all these projects have been initiated with a passion to see a change in society. This is why you will see yourself spending more time in Rotaract than at your workplace or even at home. Like in every other year, several Rotaract projects earned global recognition for outstanding initiatives and best practices. Some of these include :
Most Outstanding Rotaract Project in the world 2017 and 2018
Most Outstanding Rotaract Project in South Asia 2019 – Zooxanthallae by Rotaract Club of University of Moratuwa
Most Outstanding Rotaract District at Rotasia 2019 (Rotaract South Asia Conference)
Outstanding DRR and District in South Asia
Gold Award for the Most Outstanding Community Service Initiative in South Asia by Rotaract South Asia MDIO – E Mithudama (RAC IIT)
In addition to that, the contributions of Rotaract have been recognized by being appointed as a Co-Chair of the Youth, Peace and Security Coalition in Sri Lanka for 2019 – 2020.
At times of despair and distress, Rotaractors have always been there to lend a hand. This was evident when Sri Lanka experienced devastating landslides and floods in previous years. This year, when the Easter Sunday terror attacks struck the island nation, it was the Rotaractors who initiated relief efforts and counseling sessions in affected areas and also made it a point to emphasize on the role of young people in Peace-building and Coexistence at the recently concluded 28th Rotaract District Conference. The Conference in fact hosted an impactful and inclusive youth dialogue.
Moving away from the conventional avenues initially introduced to Rotaract/Rotary, this year the Directors of the Human Resource and Development avenue made a significant contribution to the movement. By conducting interactive workshops and ongoing projects such as the Job Bank, many opportunities have been created for the youth. It also creates opportunities to fine tune your public speaking skills and in turn is a great platform for personality development. It is where you will find yourself being a part of a larger family of change-makers. In no time, an entire group of strangers have become friends and with time they definitely become family. As the movement continues to inspire the youth, the future certainly looks bright.
Viva la Rotaract!
-Kamanthi Wickramasinghe