Graphic Designed & Written By: Rtr. Nethmi Tharushika.

If you had told us a year ago that we would be standing here today, collecting award after award, we might have smiled, perhaps even laughed in disbelief. But here we are. When you look back at a year of service, what do you remember first? The sleepless nights? The deadlines? The never-ending to-do lists? Or the laughter? For us at RACUSJ, it has always been about the people.

This was the day. A day to reflect, to pass the torch, to look ahead, and most importantly, to appreciate the incredible personalities behind every project, every initiative, and every smile we brought to our communities. Once again, RACUSJ stood steady with pride in our past and fired up for what lies ahead at the 36th Rotaract District Assembly!

As the RI year 2025-26 came to a close, we gathered at the elegant Taj Samudra, Colombo, alongside over 1,000 young leaders from across Sri Lanka and the Maldives to celebrate the journeys we had undertaken. The day marked not only the end of an era of “Redefined Service” but also the ceremonial collaring of PHF Rtn. Rtr. PP Jude Shannon as the new District Rotaract Representative for RID 3220, and the ushering in of the 2026-27 term with the theme of “Creating Lasting Impact”.

For the Rotaract Club of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, this year’s assembly wasn’t just about numbers. It was about the stories behind them. While we have never been a club that actively seeks the spotlight, we are immensely proud of the projects, the passion, and the sincerity that RACUSJ poured into every moment of the RI Year 2024-25. And at the 36th RDA, that dedication was recognized in a way that left us all speechless.

Honoured, Humbled & Recognized

The nominations had been announced, and we were thrilled to see our work acknowledged across multiple categories:

• Most Outstanding Project under Rotary Focus Area – Environmental Protection: Aquatica Wave 6.0
• Most Outstanding Project under Rotary Focus Area – Community Economic Development: SheBlooms
• Most Outstanding Project under Rotary Focus Area – Water & Sanitation: Drops of Hope
• Most Outstanding Project under Supporting Environment: Aquatica Wave 6.0
• Most Outstanding Blog

However, it was on the night of the assembly that our pride truly knew no bounds! As each name was called and the recognition began to pour in, the room echoed with cheers for RACUSJ.

Here is a glimpse of what we brought home from the 36th RDA:

Awards & Recognitions

• Most Inspiring Club Award
• Most Outstanding President – Rtr. Nethmi Bandara
• Most Outstanding Club
• Most Innovative Project – Gold Award – Thala Rekhawa
• Most Outstanding Project under District Focus Area – Marginalized Communities – Thala Rekhawa
• Most Outstanding Recreational Activities Based Project – Gold Award – Amigo 4.0
• Most Outstanding Project Under Rotary Focus Area – Peace Building and Conflict Prevention – Someone’s Daughter Vol. 08
• Most Outstanding Public Image Initiative – Bronze Award – Someone’s Daughter Vol. 08
• Most Outstanding Club Service Initiative – Internal – Silver Award – I’M A ROTARACTOR
• Most Innovative Professional Development Initiative – Bronze Award – YES’26
• Most Outstanding Annual Report – Bronze Award

Adding to the pride, several of our own were recognized for their individual contributions:

• President of the Month (October) – Rtr. Nethmi Dulanjana
• Secretary of the Month (September) – Rtr. Manushi Kavindya Rathnayaka

We were also honored with Special Recognitions for:

• Certificate of Appreciation – In recognition and appreciation of the Club’s successful achievements of 100% Completion of the District Citation and its commitment towards redefining Service.
• Certificate of Appreciation – In recognition of your outstanding efforts and contribution towards the cyclone Ditwah flood relief response during RI Year 2025-26.
• Certificate of Appreciation – In grateful recognition of your commitment, dedication, and exceptional efforts in successfully hosting the Yaluva during RI Year 2025-26.
• Special Recognition – In recognition of the exceptional spirit of Service, leadership, and commitment demonstrated in strengthening and advancing Rotaract during the RI Year 2025-26 – Rtr. Manushi Rathnayaka.

A New Chapter of Leadership

The celebrations did not end there. We were delighted to witness three outstanding members of RACUSJ being entrusted with district-level leadership roles for the RI Year 2026–27, a testament to their dedication, capability, and commitment to the Rotaract movement.

• Rtr. IPP Nethmi Bandara – Joint Director, Professional Development Avenue
• Rtr. Nisula Seekkubaduge – Joint Director, Sports and Recreational Avenue
• Rtr. Nithara Dias – Joint Editor

Their appointments stand as a proud milestone not only for them as individuals but also for RACUSJ, reflecting the club’s continued contribution towards developing leaders who are ready to serve beyond club boundaries. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and wish them every success as they embark on this exciting new chapter of district service.

For us at RACUSJ, these awards are more than just trophies. Each one represents a story, the story of a community impacted, a life changed, or a skill learned. From the environmental advocacy of Aquatica Wave 6.0 to the powerful messages of Someone’s Daughter Vol. 08, our year was a mosaic of purpose-driven action.

As we step into the RI Year 2026–27 under the leadership of our new President, Rtr. Gaveshna Pelenage, we carry forward the legacy of excellence that has become synonymous with RACUSJ.

We are ready to build on our past successes and create an even greater impact in the years to come.

Viva la Rotaract!