Written By: Rtr. PP Vidushith Jayasundara

Sometimes the most meaningful letters aren’t written to others, but to ourselves, to the version of us who was just starting, unaware of the journey that lay ahead.

In this heartfelt reflection, our 9th President (2019–20), Rtr. PP Vidushith Jayasundara writes to his younger Rotaract self. A letter filled with wisdom, gratitude, and stories of growth, it reminds us all that Rotaract is more than service — it’s a way of life.

Dear Younger Me,

As I sit down to write this letter, I’m flooded with memories of laughter echoing through monthly gatherings, of late-night planning sessions, of community service projects that touched lives, and of friendships that blossomed in the spirit of giving. You’re just stepping into the world of Rotaract, unsure of what lies ahead. Let me tell you: you’re about to embark on a journey that will shape your soul.

You’ll learn that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about empathy, resilience, and the ability to lift others up. When you become President of the Rotaract club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, you’ll feel the weight of responsibility, but also the joy of impact. You’ll discover that kindness is a strength, not a weakness, and that helping others will become one of your greatest sources of satisfaction.

Rotaract will teach you to see the world differently. You’ll begin to notice the quiet struggles of others, and you’ll find purpose in being part of the solution. You’ll organize projects that seem small at first, but they’ll leave lasting impressions on communities and on you.

More than anything, the club will inspire you to do good things you never imagined you were meant to do. You’ll step out of your comfort zone, take on challenges that once felt impossible, and find joy in serving others in ways that surprise even you. Rotaract will awaken a part of you that believes deeply in the power of compassion and action.

You’ll gain more than just experience. You’ll gain lifelong friends, mentors, and memories that will warm your heart for years to come. These people will celebrate your wins, support you through challenges, and remind you of the power of unity. 

And when you step into the corporate world, you’ll realize how much Rotaract prepared you. The skills you honed—communication, teamwork, problem-solving will set you apart. But more importantly, the values you embraced—integrity, compassion, and service will guide every decision you make.

Today, as I reflect on all that I’ve achieved, I do so with immense pride and gratitude. I owe so much to my Rotaract Club —for the growth, the joy, the friendships, and the perspective. I am in debt to the club that gave me a platform to lead, to serve, and to become the person I am today.

So, dear younger me, embrace every moment. Say yes to every opportunity. Lead with heart. Serve with purpose. And never forget: Rotaract isn’t just a movement—it’s a way of life.

And when it’s all over, you’ll miss it more than you can imagine. So enjoy every second of it. Every meeting, every project, every laugh, every challenge—live it fully. Because these moments will become the stories you’ll carry with you for a lifetime. 

Let me leave you and every current Rotaractor reading this with a message I shared as the outgoing President at our 10th Installation Ceremony:

“Believe not in anyone else’s ability to bring about change—but in yours. And know that you are truly blessed to be a part of the greatest youth movement in the world.”

With gratitude,
Rtr. PP Vidushith Jayasundara

Though this message comes a little late, its essence is timeless. The experiences, lessons, and bonds shared in Rotaract don’t fade with the years — they only grow deeper.

Graphic Design by Rtr. Manaal Zainab