The human spirit is innately creative. We find ways to express ourselves through words, pictures, stories, and even the clothes we wear. Project Meraki 2.0 stands as a celebration of this very essence, a beacon of hope for artistic souls yearning to express themselves. This ambitious initiative, led by the Editorial Squad in collaboration with the Finance Committee of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, has one mission which is to celebrate the boundless creativity that resides within each of us.

Meraki 2.0 was initiated from a desire to provide a canvas where artistic expression could flourish with endless boundaries. By curating a diverse array of talented individuals works, the project aimed to showcase the power of creativity in various forms from heartfelt poems and captivating short stories to stunning photography and thought-provoking advocacy articles, the magazine became a melting pot of creative voices.

One of the project’s most remarkable achievements was its commitment to embracing the linguistic diversity of the nation. The project culminated in a beautifully curated trilingual magazine. Submissions were accepted in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, ensuring that every voice had an opportunity to be heard and every story had a chance to be told. This trilingual approach not only celebrated the richness of Sri Lanka’s cultural tapestry but also fostered a sense of inclusivity and unity through art. The call for submissions was met with an overwhelming response, with over 100 entries pouring in from across the country, in various categories.

Meraki 2.0 was more than just a platform for showcasing creativity, it was a journey of learning and growth. A dedicated workshop was organized for the PR team members, recognizing the importance of skilled editing for a professional-looking magazine, where they had the opportunity to hone their skills in Adobe InDesign conducted by Mr. Abhishek Ranasinghe. This initiative not only empowered the team with valuable technical expertise but also underscored the project’s commitment to nurturing talent at every level.

To add an element of engagement, a raffle draw was organized, offering five luxurious vouchers worth Rs.10,000 from lap.lk as prizes. 

As the anticipation reached its peak, the stage was set for the grand magazine launch and award ceremony on 21^st of May, 2024, at the Esoft Metro Campus auditorium, with a venue partnership playing a crucial role in hosting this momentous occasion, where a significant crowd eagerly awaited the unveiling of the creative masterpiece.

During the ceremony, the shortlisted nominees from each category and the winners from each category were announced and awarded, their achievements serving as a testament to the power of artistic expression. The raffle draw added an extra layer of excitement, with five lucky winners taking home vouchers worth Rs.10,000 from lap.lk.

The award categories at Meraki 2.0 celebrated the diverse facets of creativity, honoring everything from exceptional photography and captivating short stories to thought-provoking advocacy pieces and cutting-edge graphic designs. Among the awards bestowed were: Best Photographer, Most Popular Photographer, Best Short Story, Best Poem, Best Review of books/movies, Best article for Advocacy, Best article for unique travel destinations, Special Recognition for the Wellness Corner, Special Recognition for the Fashion and Style Category, Special recognition for the Current Technology category, Best Graphic Designer, Most Original Quote, Best OC member.

The success of Meraki 2.0 was made possible by the generous support of sponsors and partners who shared the vision of amplifying artistic expression. From Pearl Bay – Silver Partner and Amaray – Gift Partner, to Stuydway.lk – Digital Media Partner and Doriend – Notable Sponsor, each contribution played a crucial role in bringing this dream to the world of print. Special recognition must also be given to Risindu Perera Photography, the project’s photography partner, for capturing the essence of creativity through their lens.

As the curtains fell on this extraordinary event, the magazine itself was made available for pre-order, ensuring that the artistic legacy of Project Meraki 2.0 would continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.

In a world that often values monotony over creativity, Project Meraki 2.0 stands as a shining example of the transformative power of art. Through its commitment to inclusivity, its nurturing of talent, and its celebration of artistic excellence, this initiative has not only unveiled a tapestry of creativity but has also ignited a spark that will continue to burn brightly in the hearts and minds of all those who were touched by its magic.

Written by: Rtr. Ifrah Riyas

Graphic design by: Rtr. Sathmi Dinanja