An installation ceremony is a special event where the outgoing leaders officially hand over their roles to the new team. It’s a time to celebrate past achievements, thank the outgoing team, and welcome the new leaders as they start their journey for the year ahead.
Leadership, legacy, and a leap into the future; this is what the 22nd Installation Ceremony was all about.
The 22nd Installation Ceremony of the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, was held on 25th of August, 2024 at the ILC auditorium. As the clock ticked to 9:00 a.m., a wave of excitement swept through the room, setting the stage for an unforgettable morning to kickstart a fresh chapter of Rotaract excellence.
The highlight of the event?
The formal installation of Rotaractor. Shenal Wickramasinghe as the president for 2024-25, accompanied by the introduction of a dynamic Board of Directors for the year.
Kicking off the event…
The event began with the glowing tradition of the oil lamp ceremony, warmly welcoming the Chief Guest; Rtn. Samiru Muthugama, the president of the Rotary Club of Colombo DownTown, DRR Paul Harris Fellow Rtr. Past President Shanel Mendis and many other esteemed dignitaries. The ceremony officially began with the Rotaract Invocation, flag Salutation, and the Rotaract song.
The gathering was warmly welcomed by Rtr. Gagani Liyanarachchi and Rtr. Vihanga Nawarathna, the talented directors of the Club Service Avenue, who delivered the welcome address.
A Journey of Achievements: The Secretary’s Report
The success of a Rotaract year? It’s all about the impact created, the bonds strengthened, and the goals achieved. The Secretary’s report for 2023-24 captured it all, taking us on a journey through the unforgettable memories and milestones of an incredible year.
Next came a heartfelt segment of appreciation dedicated to our Senior Staff Advisor, Madam Ramani, who has been a guiding light for the club, serving us with unwavering support and dedication. The event also featured the presentation of Service Letters, a heartfelt token of appreciation for the outgoing board of executives, honoring their dedication and contributions over the past year.
Passing the Torch: The President’s Vision for 2024-25
As we kicked off the new Rotaract year, it was with pride that we introduced the incoming President for 2024-25, Rtr. Shenal Wickramasinghe. To offer a glimpse into his character, Rtr. Asanki Wickramarachchi, the outgoing Joint Director of the Club Service Avenue, shared a few words. The highlight of the evening came with the symbolic transfer of leadership. The outgoing president, Rtr. Nikitha Iddagoda, officially collared Rtr. Shenal Wickramasinghe, passing on the Gavel and Charter Certificate, marking the start of a new chapter for the club.
The moment we had all been waiting for arrived after the collaring ceremony; the address by the President for 2024-25, Rtr. Shenal Wickramasinghe. With great enthusiasm, he shared his inspiring vision for the year ahead, touching everyone with his heartfelt words.
What does leadership mean to you? For us, it’s the courage to create change, celebrated at every step.
The excitement continued as we introduced one of the most eagerly anticipated moments of the event; the presentation of the Board of Directors for the year 2024-25.
President – Rtr. Shenal Wickramasinghe
Immediate Past President – Rtr. Nikitha Iddagoda
Vice Presidents – Rtr. Asanki Wickramaarachchi, Rtr. Supul Wickramasinghe, Rtr. Lakshan Dissanayake
Secretary – Rtr. Kavindi Hettiarachchi
Assistant Secretary – Rtr. Januthi Guruge
Junior Treasurer – Rtr. Sithara Salgado
Sergeant at Arms – Rtr. Dineth Vidushan
Editors – Rtr. Rushini Imalka, Rtr. Vinuji Ranasinghe, Rtr. Methmi Chandrasiri
Community Service Directors – Rtr. Anjalee Ranasinghe, Rtr. Nethmina Ediriweera, Rtr. Dilanka Welivita, Rtr. Reshini Balasuriya
Club Service Directors – Rtr. Vihanga Nawarathna, Rtr. Gagani Liyanaarachchi
Professional Development Directors – Rtr. Yasuri Fernando, Rtr. Mokshana Alahakoon
International Service Directors – Rtr. Tharani Weeraman, Rtr. Aadhila Nasir
Sports & Recreational Director – Rtr. Akindu Gunarathtna
Public Relations Directors – Rtr. Kaveesha Weerasinghe, Rtr. Dinan Harish, Rtr. Prabhavi Ridmika
IT & DP Directors – Rtr. Udara Vimukthi, Rtr. Sukitha Rathnayake, Rtr. Oshini Jayathunga, Rtr. Kasun Vishvajith
Environmental Services Directors – Rtr. Pahan Perera, Rtr. Leandra Shiyara
Membership Development Directors – Rtr. Tanuli Erathna
Finance Directors – Rtr. Deana Perera, Rtr. Panchana Abenayake
Next, Nidula Paranavithanage brought vibrant colors to the ceremony with a stunning performance adding a burst of energy to the event leaving us all in awe.
The event continued with impactful addresses from our distinguished guests.
First, we heard from the PHP, Rtr. Shanel Mendis, followed by the Guest of Honour, Rotarian Mindula Perera, and the Chief Guest, Rotarian Samiru Muthugama. Each speaker shared words of wisdom and encouragement, truly elevating the occasion.
To express our gratitude for their presence and contributions, Rtr. Shenal Wickramasinghe, our newly appointed President, had the honor of presenting Tokens of Appreciation to our esteemed guests.
Among the special individuals who graced us with their presence were:
-District Rotaract Representative, Rotarian Shanel Mendis
-Chief Guest, Rotarian Samiru Muthugama
-Guest of Honour, Rotarian Mindula Perera
-Assistant District Rotaract Representative, Rtr. PP. Sahan Gunasekara
-District Rotaract Representative Elect, Rtr. PP. Nazmi Mahamood
-District Secretary, Rtn. Rtr. PP. Salman Mohammad
-Incoming Guide Club Coordinator, Rtr. Harini Sadewani
-Outgoing Guide Club Coordinator, Rtr. Bhagya Ranasinghe
-And a special thank you to our main event sponsor, Deshabi Weerawardhane
As the event unfolded, we opened the floor for felicitations, inviting everyone to share their kind words and well wishes. Next, we moved to the final segment of the ceremony; the Vote of Thanks which was delivered by Rtr. Kavindi Hettiarachchi, the incoming Secretary for 2024-25. With that, we came to the conclusion of the 22nd Installation Ceremony of the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo officially closing this memorable occasion.
Behind every successful event is a dedicated team; thank you, Club Service Avenue, for your tireless efforts!
I am making this an opportunity to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone in the Club Service Avenue who worked tirelessly to organize this event; from the beautiful decorations to the delicious refreshments, and everything in between. Their dedication made this event truly special. A big thank you also goes to all the members of the Rotaract Club for your continuous support and commitment. This event wouldn’t have been possible without each one of them.
By: Rtr. Eveesha Don Kaluarachchi
Image Credits: FOS Media
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