Written by & Graphic design by: Rtr. Buthma Menali

If you had told us a year ago how far we’d come, we might’ve smiled, maybe even laughed at some points, in disbelief. But here we are! So, when you look back at a year of service, what do you remember first? The sleepless nights? The deadlines? Or… The laughter? For us at RACUSJ, it’s the people!

And this was the day! A day to reflect, to pass the torch, to look ahead, and most importantly, to appreciate the great personalities behind all these. Once again, RACUSJ stood steady with pride in our past and fired for what’s to come in the 35th Rotaract District Assembly!

As the new page for the RI year 2025-26 turned, the day was illuminated by the inspiring new theme: “Redefine Service”. It all says that this year isn’t about doing more, but about doing things differently and reshaping the way we serve, lead, and grow together as Rotaractors.

The torch was passed – and the flame only burned brighter!

The year was marked by impactful service projects that addressed the SDGs and the emergence of newly established clubs that energized the Rotaract community. Next, the outgoing District Rotaract Representative for the RI year 2024-25, PHF Rtn. Rtr. PP Shanel Mendis delivered that final speech, full of gratitude, memories, and hope. The room felt it!

Then came the moment: PHF Rtn. Rtr. PP Shanel Mendis handed over RID 3220 to Rtr. PP Nazmi Mahamood, the new District Rotaract Representative for RI Year 2025–26. With a new wave of leadership, fresh ideas, and bold visions, all were ready to take the impact to the next level.

Honored, Humbled & Recognized!

Awards or not, the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura has never been a club that seeks the spotlight. But with our hard work and teamwork, we proudly brought home 6 awards, 5 recognitions, and had 3 of our very own leaders appointed as Joint Directors in the District Steering Committee. Sounds quiet but meaningful wins, right? Absolutely!

For us, it wasn’t about the number of awards, but being seen for the service, the spirit, and the sincerity that RACUSJ poured into every moment of the RI Year 2024-25. This 35th RDA reminded us of the club’s steady presence and dedication as we stepped out of our 14th year of service with the same passion that started it all.

So, these were the awards that hold our pride as a club!

• Gold Award – Diviyata Diviyak 4.0 – Most outstanding project in line with Rotary focus area: Maternal & Child Health.
• Gold Award – Ceylon Fest ’25 – Most outstanding project in line with District focus area: Tourism
• Silver Award – Amigo 3.0 – Most outstanding recreational activity-based initiative
• Bronze Award – SkillXcelerator – Most outstanding professional development initiative: Career guidance
• Bronze Award – Most successful newly established twin club effort with Rotaract Club of Balkumari, Nepal
• UGRAM Award – Venture Voice

We received the following recognitions for our service:

• District Rotaract Representative’s Special Recognition – Rtr. Akila Weerasuriya
• District Citation Cover
• Spirit of Service Award – Rtr. Hiruni Dissanayake
• President of the Month – May: Rtr. Akila Weerasuriya
• Secretary of the Month – May: Rtr. Nithara Dias

With each name called out, the room echoed with cheers as RACUSJ took one praise after another – and yes, we’re still smiling from ear to ear!

And for the exciting news, three of our dynamic Executive Committee members from the RI year 2024–25 have just been appointed as Joint Directors of RID 3220 for the new RI Year!

• Rtr. IPP Akila Weerasuriya – Joint Director, Public Relations Committee
• Rtr. Nithara Dias – Joint Director, Professional Development Avenue
• Rtr. Hiruni Dissanayake – Joint Director, Community Service Avenue

Well, if the 34th RDA was incredible, the 35th blew the roof off!

As we step into the RI Year 2025–26, one thing’s for sure: RACUSJ isn’t slowing down. This new chapter is going to be nothing short of extraordinary, with fresh ideas, fierce passion, and a family that always has your back. We move forward with our dreams and are shaped by the truth!

Viva la Rotaract!