“We can’t become what we need to be by remaining what we are.” — Oprah Winfrey

Under the banner of this timeless wisdom, the Rotaract Club of SLIIT gathered for an event that promised not just a transition, but a transformation. As the 12th Installation Ceremony unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with an invigorating blend of excitement and hope. Friends and family, along with past and present Rotaractors, came together to witness a milestone that marked not just the passing of a torch, but the kindling of a new flame. This was more than a ceremony; it was the dawn of a vibrant chapter, where the spirit of Rotaract met the pulse of innovation, setting the stage for a future illuminated by dynamic leadership and boundless possibilities.

A particularly touching moment of the evening came when Rtr. Nivasheni delivered an inspiring speech, reflecting on the projects and achievements of the past year. Her heartfelt recount of each initiative, coupled with a moving video montage showcasing the impact across all avenues, served as a powerful reminder of the club’s dedication and hard work. The audience was deeply moved as Immediate Past President Rtr. Manisha Alwis delivered an eloquent and emotional outgoing speech, capturing the essence of her journey and the spirit of Rotaract. 

The highlight of the ceremony was a moment of collective pride and respect, as the entire audience stood in reverence while Rtr. Jayod Perera was ceremoniously collared, marking the beginning of a new era for the club. This poignant transition underscored the deep bond and commitment within the Rotaract family, setting the stage for a future filled with promise and purpose.

As the ceremony continued, the stage was illuminated by a symbolic light representing leadership. Each light stood for a pledge to serve others, uphold Rotaract’s values, and make a meaningful impact on communities both near and far. The atmosphere was filled with the wisdom of guest speakers, who shared their views on leadership, service, and community strength. Their words struck a chord with the new board members, reinforcing that their roles are not just about titles but about making a real difference in the lives of many.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors, whose support was instrumental in making the evening a success. A special thank you to A. Baurs & Co, our Title Sponsor, for their outstanding support. Our Platinum Sponsor, Pick a Book, and Gold Sponsors, T-Sips and T-Twist, significantly enhanced the event experience. We also appreciate the Media Sponsor, Dev Graphs, for their coverage. Our Associate Sponsors, Keells Krest and Eco Life, contributed immensely to the event’s success. We are grateful to Maggi, our Food Partner, for providing delightful refreshments, and Nestomolt, our Energy Beverage Partner, for keeping everyone energized throughout the evening.

The 12th Installation Ceremony of Rotaract was more than a tradition; it was a powerful affirmation of our theme: “Connect to Empower.” It signified that true leadership is not merely about holding a title, but about fostering connections that drive meaningful change. With the new board members stepping into their roles, they embrace this theme with enthusiasm, ready to forge connections that will empower others and ignite positive transformation. This ceremony was a reminder that leadership in Rotaract is a dynamic journey of building relationships and creating opportunities. As we move forward, we pledge to “Connect to Empower” and continue our mission.

With hearts full of ambition and a shared vision for the future, the Rotaract Club of SLIIT looks forward to a year of transformative impact. The ceremony was a declaration of purpose, a celebration of new beginnings, and a reaffirmation of the club’s enduring commitment to service and leadership.

Penned By:

Rtr. Kavisha Yapa

Co-Editor 24-25