It was exactly 112 days since we, the RACUSJ started the new Rotaract journey for the year 2020/21. Though we had many plans to start off the year with lots of laughter and hugs, it wasn’t to be this time because all of us were struck with a word called “LOCKDOWN”. And thus, we had to start off sitting in front of a laptop, quoting a line that would soon become very famous: “Am I audible enough?”
There were times we sat in front of a laptop for nearly an entire day, not to submit an assignment, but to attend a Rotaract meeting. Since our videos were turned on, we maintained a smile right throughout the meeting, and then immediately after it finished, we would complain about our aching cheeks. Some even went as far as to apply ice. I’m not referring to you Rtr. Zaina.
It truly was difficult at that time, but now, even the memory of it brings a smile to our face. Many hidden talents were discovered within our club, including how to dance in front of a laptop with a broom. The stage is yours Miss Secretary 20/21. In addition, new fashion styles were invented. SMART CASUAL vs PYJAMAS. We really should’ve made them stand up right, Rtr. Amasha?
Although it was a new experience for all of us, we were enjoying ourselves immensely and we were making friendships that will hopefully last forever. All thanks to a great Movement named Rotaract.
How was the Quarter RACUSJ?
President Rtr. Amasha Srimanna writes,
“Who thought a DM would go this far? Yes, it was the DM which directed my life towards the path that I’m following right now with the fullest satisfaction”.
I can simply say that Rotaract is one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made in my entire life. When I first entered the university I didn’t want to continue with my university life and Rotaract became the only reason to change my mind. Fortunately or unfortunately, I was fully dressed up for my very first monthly gathering and from that day onwards inner me was motivated to wear the pride of the club, none other than the “President’s collar.”
The first quarter of a president’s life is filled with DCMs, Installations, sudden meetings, night calls (that last for more than 8 hours), District visits, a good number of virtual and physical projects and most importantly fights, misunderstandings, tongue lashings and what not. All of this has given me the faith and the courage to execute things even better and to take the club to greater heights in the upcoming quarters whilst striving as one.
As I always say, Rotaract creates bonds which will last forever, memories that we will cherish for the rest of our lives and results in self-satisfaction that we won’t get from anywhere else in the world.
Secretary Rtr. Zaina Sallay writes,
“From volunteering at the Dengue Prevention week program to becoming the club secretary, I’ve had a very eventful journey in Rotaract”.
And I must admit that joining this beautiful movement is one of the best decisions I’ve taken in my life. Throughout the past year I’ve been fortunate enough to make many friends in this movement and I’ve made some beautiful memories with them. From being total strangers to becoming some of my best friends and family (you guys know who you are), this movement has gifted me with more than I could ever ask for.
As a Secretary, the first quarter has been quite a roller coaster journey for me. From learning how to report on projects and do monthly reports and juggle the maintenance of 200+ members of one of the largest clubs in the district, this quarter has been quite a learning experience for me. I’ve learnt so much about the movement and I’m really grateful to the entire Rotaract District Steering Committee specially Kayal Akki, Kashuni Akki and Charith Aiya for being very patient with my never ending questions, emails and constant drama.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the first quarter as well, due to all the DCMs, Installations, Fellowship Visits and the projects. But most importantly
“I’ve enjoyed all the free food”. (perks of being a Rotaractor is definitely all the free food you get, take notes future Rotaractors who are currently reading this.)
Even though we’re currently unable to have any projects or physical gatherings due to the resurgence of COVID – 19, the memories that I’ve made during the past quarter have helped me realize that we’re a movement that has huge potential to make a difference. Therefore, I’m sure that we Rotaractors will face this challenge bravely and overcome it together while striving as one.
Rtr. Nelufa Sariffodeen writes,
“Thank you, RACUSJ for the amazing memories“
Rotaract doesn’t just provide an aid for the needy. Undoubtedly, it improves a person in terms of leadership, communication and importantly organizing skills of a successful project. It led me to being the activist I am at Rotaract today. This family does different projects every year. AQUATICA’20 was a wonderful experience I will never forget. Truly speaking, it’s not because it was my first involvement attached to Rotaract but because that amazing experience helped me understand the depth and the level we operate at in any project as a team.
AQUATICA – 2020 was simply about conserving water bodies and aquatic bio diversity. I should specially mention the experience I had while facing the very first challenge of conducting a fundraiser. It was a unique experience, to conduct an iced coffee stall and to sell the products while standing at a busy junction during a traffic jam. Mind you, the response was great and generated some good money out. It was definitely a great opportunity and a learning experience I was exposed to.
Rtr. Nethmi Ranasinghe & Rtr. Oshani Samarakkody writes,
“Simply it was a new beginning, a new family“
We joined RACUSJ as new members a few months ago. The Environmental Service Avenue was recruiting members for the OC for the project Growing Green 2.0. And so we applied. Because of the pandemic situation a virtual interview was conducted by the two directors, Rtr. Chathura and Rtr. Poornima. I would be lying if I said that we were not nervous but it was such a friendly conversation with welcoming words, laughter and discovering what our abilities were. This small interview itself made us feel welcomed to the project and we were glad that we grasped the chance to be a part of it. And we were selected!
That’s how our journey began as the Growing Green 2.0 team. We witnessed how our members got familiar with each other. We were total strangers at first, coming from different faculties, different cultural backgrounds but Rotaract made us one family. Growing Green 2.0 is a huge project but knowing that we have each other’s backs assures us that this project will come to an end with great success.
The Director of Membership Development Rtr. Dinushi Alwis writes,
Celebrating the end of a wonderful year, and the beginning of another
The eagerly awaited moment of RACUSJ was the 10th Installation Ceremony. After trying many venues (Thanks to covid) we finally came up with the day 24th September. I expect each and every member of RACUSJ will agree with me that this year’s installation was a victory. It was a proud moment to see most of the past presidents and past members with us. It gave us the strength to shine even brighter. The word “installation” signifies the end of a wonderful year, and a beginning of another. We always say this, but that day I truly witnessed the true meaning of an installation. All of us wanted to be the first to clap for our Secretary’s report, and we didn’t even think twice to be the first to clap for our very own IPP. Simply because the year 19/20 was magical. A big thank you goes out to the “DREAM TEAM” for taking RACUSJ to greater heights.
Much greater things are yet to come! And how could I ever forget the behind the scenes of the 10th installation ceremony,
Please be careful when you drink water from a glass Rtr. Amasha.
And don’t worry BOD, that introduction video wasn’t that bad. I think? And my co director Rtr. Chamika was so worried about the water bottles that she even forgot that she had to deliver the welcome speech.
Missing those memories so badly now. Viva La Rotaract
Any guesses who wrote this?
Off to NAMUNUKULA….
Right after an installation ceremony who would ever think to climb a mountain? But yes, we did it. The fellowship visit to Badulla was an incredibly a great experience for all of us. And our RACUSJ team had three pro hikers with two boys who loved nature but hated mountains. (Oh really!!) It was the very first experience for the pro hikers to climb a mountain, but they weren’t nervous because they didn’t even know what hiking was. The only problem they had was whether team RACUSJ would be in the same bus. And yes, luckily they were. (cheers to BUS number 1)
So the journey started… We were hoping to have a good nap but till we reached Badulla our bus was all about,
“Can we have a haaa from left side and a hooo from right side”. (we will never forget this line Mid Town Family)
Then came the most awaited part, climbing mountain Namunukula. Before that, we had an awesome bus ride where some people even said now that’s enough hiking. But believe me, it was a mind-blowing sight of nature. So the hike started, and the first pro hiker was brave and climbed Namunukula without any help. But don’t forget the motivation you got from mentos. (Thanks to the West Family) The second and third pro hikers were not that skilled at hiking, and we will not talk much about them. (thanks to all the caretakers who motivated and dragged us up the mountain saying that the mountain peak was only 50 m away)
The simple word named fellowship, gave us the opportunity to climb the mountain Namunukula and it revealed the true meaning of Rotaract. Later that evening we were off to our camp site. How could I ever forget that bus ride? It was not a bus ride for the boys, but it was hike number 2 for them. But after all the drama somehow we managed to reach the campsite. And the next question was:
How to fix a tent without ants?
But we did it. Though it was a weary day for all of us, no one really wanted to sleep. Some were singing near the bonfire and some even played cards. We were just making memories and friendships that would last forever. The next day was a busy schedule for all the Rotaractors, but we never forgot to take a group picture.
(who ever thought that we would pose for a picture without brushing our teeth? And thanks to that alarm keeper who woke up everyone else but not themselves) and cheers to our famous quote “Sharing is caring” (Tent/Chicken/Alarm)
Though our official intention was to attend the Installation ceremonies of the Uva Wellassa University and Rathnapura, this fellowship visit resulted in so many loving bonds and friendships. Much love to you Rotaract.
Rtr. Malsha Dilhani writes,
A day to remember – Butterfly Effect 3.0
Butterfly effect 3.0 will always be in my heart not because it was my first project, but for revealing the true meaning of Community Service. The project was executed to develop mental health. The third phase which was done at the National Institute of Mental Health in Angoda was a heart-warming session for everyone. As Rotaractors the true necessity of helping people in dire was seen massively in this phase. Thus, I personally believe it was a step forward to show that these people were not secluded or forgotten. Apart from the project, how could I ever forget the backstage memories.
Thank you Rtr. Dinushi for giving us a ride just to eat, Waffles and for tolerating our melodious voices. (Rtr. Thiloka; you are a singing star BUT please bring a bottle of sugar if you don’t want to have bitter coffee hereafter.)
Well…. RACUSJ is a stage full of talent, creativity, potential and leadership. Yet, who thought that the “BACKSTAGE” of it would be this fun, exciting and memorable.
Beautifully penned 👏