A warm summers day dawns, bringing with the anticipation and contained excitement for the day ahead. Bright and early, our dear members of Rotaract gather together, a cohort of bright colours and gleaming uncontrolled smiles simmering in their seats. There is suspense in the air, spreading through each table- a sense of wrong and right, a thread of fear and nervousness balanced by enthusiasm and zest. One would wonder why such emotions has been arisen on a Sunday morning, when the day ahead should be spent in calm and quiet, but one must remember that this is no ordinary Sunday, it was the 16th of July, the day of the 33rd Rotaract District Assembly, where hundreds of clubs and even more of its members gather together to celebrate the end of an fantastic RI year and the start of another brilliant one.

The purpose of a Rotaract District Assembly is unique; it acts as the bridge that connects the past, present and the future, signifying the start of a new chapter in the legacy of Rotaract. Past leaders share their most cherished memories, present leaders showcase their accomplishments, both embodying the spirit of Rotary and passing on that embodying legacy onto the future. It embraces the hard work and dedication of each member of Rotaract, encasing each on in the glory and righteousness of being one with the movement.

With over 92 Rotaract clubs in attendance under the Rotary International District 3220, the assembly serves as a beacon of inspiration, igniting the passion for service and leadership in every participant’s heart. Hundreds of Rotaractors from all over the country, even the ever reaching far off corners, were present on the day. Renowned speakers, seasoned Rotarians, and distinguished community leaders graced a well lit stage, weaving powerful stories of change and transformation. As exciting as the event was, there was a budding anticipation that was slowly permeating through the air, gaining in traction as the even neared an end: the anticipation of the awards ceremony. The crowd was near wild with nervous fear, anticipation, anxiety, and then barely contained joy as the event drew to a close.

As the sun sets on this gloriously magical day, proof that this year proved had been like no other shone through: our Rotaract club celebrates and unforgettable victory of winning 17 prestigious awards! As each award was called out, we could no help but grasp at each other, holding back tears, with the deepest sense of pride and humility. Our Rotaract family has set the bar high, and we look forward to new adventures, new projects, and new ways to shine brightly as we continue our pursuit of service above self. These awards are not just a reflection of successful projects; they are a testament to the growth of our members as compassionate leaders.  

The 33^rd Rotaract District Assembly became a hopelessly important moment in time in most of our lives, the life of the movement, and the history of the legacy of the country. As we move forward, we carry with us the spirit of service and the knowledge that together, we can achieve extraordinary things. In a time of crisis and struggle to live, hundreds of young leaders amassed to encapsulate the needs of the country. In a time of desperation and despair, we promise to Create Hope In The World.

Below are the awards obtained:

1. Most Outstanding Club of the year 2022-23
2. Best Reporting Club of the Year – Gold
3. Most Outstanding Annual Report of the Year – Gold
4. Most Outstanding Secretary of the Year – Rtr. Manisha Alwis
5. Most Outstanding Newsletter – Gold
6. Most Outstanding Professional Development Initiative – Personal Development – Silver for STRIDE
7. Most Outstanding Club Initiative- Membership Expansion – Silver for Rotaverse
8. Most Participated Club – Bronze
9. Most Outstanding External Participations based Initiative for STRIDE – Bronze
10. Most Outstanding Blog – Bronze
11. Spirit of Service – Rtr. Manisha Alwis
12. Award of Excellence – DCM September
13. Rotaract District Citation – Silver Distinction
14. Certificate of Appreciation – Sachintha Senarathna, Samadhi Watsal as PR advocates
15. Certificate of Appreciation for Hosting District Project – Tri Cultural Fusion
16. Secretary of the Quarter – Rtr. Manisha Alwis
17. Together SL Most Spirited Initiative

Penned By:

Rtr. Benushi Rajapaksha

Co Editor 23-24