The Rotaract Club of NSBM welcomed a new chapter of service, leadership, and fellowship with its 14th Installation Ceremony, held on the 9th of August 2026 at the NSBM Green University Auditorium. The ceremony commenced at 10:07a.m., with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, symbolizing the beginning of a new RI year. This was followed by a warm welcome address delivered by Rtr. Sayuni Maddumage and Rtr. Veenu Jayathilaka, setting the tone for an inspiring celebration of leadership and service. The formal proceedings continued with the calling of the house to order by Rtr. Rishana Rathnayake, followed by the flag salutation and recital of the Four-Way Test, announced by Rtr. Shane Daniel. Bringing together members and senior members of the club, the ceremony marked a meaningful transition of leadership and the beginning of another promising chapter for the Rotaract Club of NSBM.
The Secretary’s Report for the RI year 2025/2026 highlighted a series of remarkable accomplishments by the club across various avenues. In terms of community service, the club successfully executed 34 projects, including Project SEN focusing on students’ mental well-being, Project ATHA HITHA supporting communities affected by Cyclone Ditva, and Project Dream Cricket, which received the Gold Award for the Most Outstanding Initiative with the Rotary Family at the 36th Rotaract District Assembly. The year began with the 13th Installation Ceremony and was supported by “Fund for Impact,” a year long fundraising initiative.
The club also focused on professional development through Horizon 25, Foster Doe, and Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025, with the latter earning the Gold Award for Most Outstanding External Participation. Internationally, the club strengthened its twin-club relationship with the Rotaract Club of Hinduja College and contributed to district initiatives including the President-Elect and Secretary-Elect Learning Seminar. Club service, sports, and recreational activities promoted fellowship and well-being, while Public Relations documented the year’s journey through “Rewind Rotaract.”
The outgoing President, Rtr. Chamodi Vishwadeepanee, reflected on her journey throughout the past RI year, highlighting the club’s growth and achievement during her tenure. She spoke proudly of her vision to expand Rotaract’s presence beyond NSBM and highlighted key milestones, including hosting the 36th Rotaract District Assembly and the President & Secretary Learning Seminar, along with winning two Gold Awards. She emphasized her belief that Rotaract should be a ” home” built on love, meaningful relationships, and shared experiences rather than titles or awards. Expressing her gratitude to her team, mentors, incoming leaders, and family, she also shared the importance of finding purpose, giving one’s best, and not allowing a position to define one’s identity. Looking back on her journey from wearing the red T-shirts to becoming President, she described it as one of the greatest honours of her life.
The newly appointed President, Rtr. Senodh Inimankada, addressed the gathering with enthusiasm as he began his journey of leading the club into the new RI year. Reflecting on his Rotaract journey, he highlighted the meaningful experiences, connections, and personal growth the movement has offered him. He expressed his appreciation to the outgoing President, Rtr. Chamodi Vishwadeepanee, and her Board for establishing a strong foundation for the club, while emphasizing the responsibility of the incoming Board to build upon it and strive for greater achievements. Introducing the year’s theme, “Link Through Service,” he explained LINK as Learn, Inspire, Nurture, and Connect, encouraging members to strengthen the club through service and meaningful connections. He concluded by inspiring everyone to contribute towards a year of growth and impact, leaving the club better than they found it, with the thought-provoking question, “Did we leave RAC NSBM better than we found it?”
The Executive Committee and Board of Directors for 2026/2027 comprise a strong team ready to lead the club forward. President Rtr. Senodh Inimankada will head the board, together with Secretary Rtr. Senaya Dayaratne and Treasurer Rtr. Michelle Samarakoon. The board also includes Vice Presidents Rtr. Nirmalene Basnayake and Rtr. Waleed Ifthikhar, Joint Directors for Club Service, Community Service, International Service, and Professional Development, Joint PR Directors Rtr. Sithumi Dissanayake and Rtr. Disney De Alwis, Joint Sports Directors Rtr. Thulani Liyanage, Rtr. Tharuk Lokuhetty and Rtr. Akshara Wijeweera, Membership Chair Rtr. Ishani Uthpala and Editor Rtr. Tevin Gamage.
The event also featured an address by the special guest. Chief Guest Rotarian Harsharajan commended the outgoing board and welcomed the incoming team. Speaking on this year’s theme “Link through Service”, he encouraged the new board to stay resilient and reminded them that “you fail only when you stop trying.” He reaffirmed the continued support of the Rotary Club of Colombo West and stressed the importance of building stronger connections between Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact.
The ceremony concluded with a lighthearted segment featuring the introduction of the new President. This reflected the fellowship of the Rotaract Club of NSBM. The Installation celebrated past achievements and reaffirmed the club’s commitment to service, leadership, and impact.
Written By: –
Rtr. Poojani Weerakoon
(Prospect member 2026-27)
Rtr. Gavindi Thathsarani
(Prospect member 2026-27)
Rtr. Ruvindi Panagoda
(Prospect member 2026-27)
