“The ability to react quickly and appropriately to change is the only way to survive today.” – Gowri Rajan

PDG Gowri Rajan is a well-known female figure in the Sri Lankan Rotary and Rotaract community, known for her passion, dedication, and leadership in service to others. Her tireless work and commitment to the ideals of Rotary have made her an inspiration to many, and she has become a role model for young people across the country.

Being a past Rotaractor and second-generation Rotarian, she is the first female Rotary Governor to be elected to serve Rotary International District Sri Lanka and Maldives. During her tenure as Governor, Sri Lanka was placed number second in the world for the highest per capita giving to the Rotary Foundation. She inculcated the values of Rotary at the early age of 10 through her Rotarian father, the late Past President T. R R Rajan, and since then, she has been living as a proud Rotaractor and a Rotarian.

She is a certified professional marketer, a graduate of the University of Bangalore, an MBA graduate of the University of Peradeniya, and a Doctoral candidate in Business Administration. She is the Director of Sun Match Company, Asoka Exports PVT LTD, and Sun and Asoka Group’s Director and Chief Marketing Officer.

Speaking of her achievements, in 2013, she was awarded the ‘Most Inspirational Woman of the Year’ by Women in Management – Sri Lanka, and in 2017, the World Bank (IFC)/WIM recognised her as one of the Top 50 Professional Women in Sri Lanka. In 2018 she was recognised with the Management Excellence awards under the industry sector as the ‘Best Women in Management’ by the Chartered Institute of Management (CMI).

Her journey as a Rotaractor and a Rotarian has been splendid and an inspiration one full of passion and commitment. She founded the Rotaract Club of Katugastota in 1999 and became its Charter President. She joined the Rotary Club of Kandy in 2002 and was invited to serve in the District within a year even before assuming office as Club President. She is also the chairperson of the Rotary One Million Tree Trust Guarantee that helps Sri Lanka grow back its forests to support future generations. She represented Sri Lanka at the Annual Rotary international conventions. She was the keynote speaker at the induction of the newly formed Rotary Club of Port City. She raised funds for an initiative of Rotary International in partnership with UNICEF to help Sri Lanka get all essential lifesaving drugs.

Throughout her journey in Rotaract and Rotary, Rtn. Gowri has demonstrated a deep commitment to the values of service, integrity, and leadership. She has inspired countless others to get involved in their communities and make a difference in the lives of those around them. Her work has not only improved the lives of countless Sri Lankans, but has also helped to build a stronger, more resilient, and more compassionate society.

As she continues to lead and inspire others, Rtn. Gowri Rajan is the best example of the power of community service to create positive change in the world. Her legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of Rotaractors and Rotary members to work together to build a brighter future for all.

Written by: Rtr. Vindula Randeniya 

Graphic design by: Rtr. Tharushi Nadunika & Rtr. Rashmika Budunwela