To celebrate the New Year Season, we, the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura took steps to establish new friendships by initiating a Joint General Meeting with the Rotaract Club of Jaffna MidTown. The meeting was held on the 27th of April 2023 from 6.00 pm onwards via Google Meet. Rtr. Sandunika Samandini and Rtr. Anujini Perera, the Co-directors of the International Service Avenue organized this memorable gathering.

The President of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Rtr. Madushan Dananjaya commenced the meeting by warmly welcoming all the participants representing both clubs. It was then followed by the formalities set forth by Rtr. Chathuni Edirisinghe. Following her the Secretary, Rtr. Gagani Gunasinghe read out the meeting minutes, and the minutes were proposed by Rtr. Piumi Methma and seconded by Rtr. Ravindu Lakshan. Afterwards, the Directors of the respective avenues presented their avenue updates.

Then it was time to reveal our very own Rotaractors who had given their immense contribution to the club during the past months. The nominees for the ‘Rotaractor of the Month-March were Rtr. Yezeed Yehiya from Sports and Recreational Avenue, Rtr. Rishma Deen from Finance Committee, Rtr. Nisal Dilmith from Club Service Avenue. Rtr. Gagani Gunasinghe then announced the ‘Rotaractor of the Month-March as Rtr. Yezeed Yehiya and he was congratulated by everyone for his contribution and hard work.

It was then time for the Rotaract Club of Jaffna MidTown to take the stage and share all the amazing work done by their club during the past few months with everyone. The president of the Rotaract Club of Jaffna MidTown, Rtr. Aniojan addressed the gathering and as said earlier, he shared some of the most impressive work done by their club. Following that, the Secretary Rtr. Nitharshan presented the minutes and two Rotaractors from the Rotaract Club of Jaffna MidTown proposed and seconded the meeting minutes.

The meeting was then terminated by the President of the Rotaract Club of Jaffna MidTown and was opened for fellowship. Sharing our best memories with each other, we had a great time where laughter roared throughout the mini chit-chat. With a warm invitation to visit the North, the Monthly gathering for the month of April was thus terminated, with a bag full of beautiful memories and giving sparks of new friendships, thus celebrating the very essence of Avurudu!

“There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humour.” – Charles Dickens

In the realm of virtual events, RACUSJ has left an indelible mark with its unique and engaging monthly gatherings. Bringing together young leaders with a passion for service, the final gathering for the year 2022-23 proved to be a remarkable testament to the club’s commitment to fostering camaraderie, even in the face of adversity. Held via Google Meet on the 28th of May 2023 from 8 PM onwards, the meeting was an amalgamation of laughter, celebration, and an unexpected twist. The monthly gathering was organized by the Co-directors of the Community Service Avenue, Rtr. Kavindu Kokila and Rtr. Sehani Perera, together with the Director of the Club Service Avenue of RACUSJ.

The participants eagerly awaited the final monthly gathering, marking the culmination of a year filled with impactful service projects, insightful discussions, and cherished memories. However, we had something truly special in store for our dedicated members.

As the virtual curtain rose, attendees were greeted by the President of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Rtr. Madushan Dananjaya. Following the Rotaract formalities, the Secretary, Rtr. Gagani Gunasinghe read out the meeting minutes, which were later proposed and seconded in order. Afterwards, the Directors of the respective avenues presented their avenue updates. Subsequently, the nominees for the Rotaractor of the Month for the months of April and May were announced. The Rotaractor of the Month for the month of April was Rtr. Sewmini Banadaranayke and for the month of May was Rtr. Dinithi De Silva. Further, the Avenue of the Quarter for the 3rd and 4th quarters were announced as Environmental Service Avenue and the Sports and Recreational Activities Avenue, respectively.

The unexpected, the highlight of the gathering: a comedy short film was shown to the participants giving them a different experience from all other previous gatherings.

As the event drew to a close, there was a bittersweet feeling in the air. The final monthly gathering not only brought laughter and joy but also marked the end of an extraordinary year for our Rotaract Club. Yet, with the memories created, the bonds formed, and the impact made, the participants were filled with optimism for the future.

As the virtual screens faded to black, we bid farewell to an extraordinary year, but not without leaving an enduring legacy of service, friendship, and laughter in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to be a part of it.

Written by Rtr. Anujini Perera & Rtr. Malithi Fernando

Graphic design by: Rtr. Malithi Fernando