Editors’ Hot Seat~Rtr. Jayod Perera

18 Nov 2024

In this new column, we dive into the minds of Rotaract Club leaders, starting with our current President, Rtr. Jayod Perera. Co-editors Rtr. Kavisha Yapa and Rtr. Tanuri Dissanayake got to sit down with Jayod, uncovering the highs, the laughs, and the unforgettable memories that have shaped his Rotaract journey.

Q: So, what got you into Rotaract?

Jayod: Believe it or not, I didn’t exactly choose Rotaract—Rotaract chose me. Or more accurately, my friend Kisaja did. Back when I was a first-year student, I wanted to join an extracurricular club but hadn’t decided on anything specific. One day, Kisaja essentially ambushed me, took my application, and filled it out himself! He was practically dragging me in, and at the time, I didn’t realize how significant that moment would be. I couldn’t have known it then, but that decision completely reshaped my college life. It’s funny to think about how a little “peer pressure” led me to experiences, friendships, and skills that I wouldn’t trade for the world.

Q: Rotaract is all about growth. How has it helped you personally and professionally?

Jayod: Public speaking is the first thing that comes to mind. I’ve always admired people who could speak confidently in front of an audience, and I wanted to do it myself. But I was incredibly shy; the idea of speaking up, especially in front of a crowd, was terrifying. That all changed when I became a Director. Suddenly, I was responsible for presenting monthly updates as a director, so I had no choice but to face my fears head-on. With each meeting, I grew a bit more comfortable, and eventually, the fear just… dissolved. Now, I don’t even prepare for speeches—I just go with the flow and trust myself to say what needs to be said. That transformation was only possible because of Rotaract, and it’s something I carry with me in everything I do.

Q: Is there a “special person” you met through Rotaract?

Jayod: Ah, that would be Sansika, my co-director of International Relations. We actually met during a board meeting, but we got close during an event called Synergist. And let me tell you, it was a friendship forged in one of the funniest and most unexpected situations. After a long day of activities, including a scavenger hunt and hours in the pool, I was exhausted, dirty, and absolutely starving. So I decided to use the outdoor shower near the pool while everyone else was inside, getting ready for dinner. Sansika, who was also tired of waiting and probably just as hungry, suddenly decided to join me in the outdoor shower. Without missing a beat, he started scrubbing the dirt off me, and before I knew it, we were practically paparazzi targets, with everyone snapping pictures. That night, we ended up sitting together at dinner, and something just clicked. We’ve shared so many moments since then, and although we don’t talk as often now, he’ll always be a close friend. Some people just leave a lasting mark.

Q: What’s been your proudest moment as a Rotaractor?

Jayod: It has to be the moment I officially became President, which was announced during the Cultural Odyssey event. I was only a second-year student, so reaching that position felt like a huge achievement. I’d always dreamed of becoming President one day, but I didn’t expect it to happen so soon. When I heard my name called, it was surreal—it felt like all the hard work, long hours, and dedication had paid off. And not just for me, but for everyone who had supported me along the way. In that moment, I felt an immense sense of pride and gratitude for this journey, and it’s something I’ll never forget.

Q: Why should others join Rotaract?

Jayod: Rotaract is more than a club; it’s a transformative experience that challenges you to grow in ways you’d never imagine. For anyone who wants to step out of their comfort zone, this is the perfect place to start. You get to work on projects that genuinely impact communities, which gives you a sense of purpose that’s hard to find elsewhere. The skills you develop—public speaking, leadership, teamwork—become assets you carry for life. And then there’s the network of people you meet. Rotaract brings together individuals from so many backgrounds and interests, and you end up building a network of friends, mentors, and collaborators. And let’s not forget the fun—the events, the memories, the inside jokes that make you feel like you’re part of a big, slightly crazy family. Joining Rotaract is like joining a life-changing community, where you get to grow, contribute, and have some of the best experiences of your college years.