Written by: Rtr. Zima Ashraff

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

— Mahatma Gandhi

Kindness is not just an act—it’s a ripple that spreads, touching lives and transforming hearts. Heal the World 4.0, organized by the Community Service Avenue of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, stood as a powerful testament to this belief. Designed with a global vision and a deeply personal impact, the project unfolded in two impactful phases.

The first phase featured a virtual conference on human rights, held in collaboration with 18 international Rotaract clubs from across the globe. The session was graced by two insightful panelists: Mr. Ruki Fernando, a renowned human rights activist, and Ms. Hamna A. A. Wakil, a passionate advocate for justice and equality. Their perspectives sparked meaningful conversations and deepened participants’ understanding of global human rights issues, inspiring them to act with empathy and awareness.

The second phase turned awareness into action. The team reached out to children’s homes, specifically identifying a home for differently abled children, to understand their unique needs. After gathering a list of sanitary  products, groceries and other required items, the club initiated a donation drive at Supem Niwasa, Nugegoda; encouraging contributions in the form of money or necessary supplies. With the support of kind-hearted donors, these items were collected and personally handed over to the children’s home—bringing joy, comfort, and a sense of care to the lives of the little ones. This phase was conducted in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Balkumari, Nepal, who set up a library and launched a scholarship aid program at an orphan’s home in Lalitpur.Through international collaboration, we demonstrated that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, opportunity, and human dignity.

Heal the World 4.0 was more than a project; it was a heartfelt mission. We managed to touch upon multiple SDGs, namely; No poverty, Good Health and Well-Being, Partnerships for the Goals, Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. From raising voices for human rights to reaching hands to those in need, the journey was filled with compassion, collaboration, and connection. It reminded us all that healing the world starts with simple acts of love—and when we come together, change becomes possible.

Graphic Design by: Rtr. Abhirami Ravindranathan