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Did you ever wonder at school what life in university would have  been? Did it ever scare you, how life might turn out to be at university? whether you will find friends, or whether you will be able to explore life more in depth or not… The life of a university student could potentially be called “dynamic” as their lives take an immense turn. For nearly fourteen years, they were accustomed to being surrounded by their friends, but suddenly found themselves in a completely unfamiliar environment. For each student their life as a university student is different to one another, but one thing we can all agree on, is that we are thrown to the depths of hell most often, with stress igniting us every few weeks. Let me tell you, the day in the life of a university student through the perceiving eyes of a psychology student. The student wakes up early in the morning to study the previous given study materials, and then after studying for 2 hours or so, has a wash and gets dressed to leave for the university, after going to their father’s office to eat, they leave to the university around 8:40AM as lectures starts at 9:00 AM, the day starts with the cooling crisp air, the chattering of people, and the gossip sessions (Gossip sessions are mostly done for the purpose of psychoanalysis and not because it is juicy ). Thereafter the lectures begin, some days, it’s very interesting to learn why stress is good and bad for the health, and some days it’s interesting to learn how to navigate an AIDS patient case, regardless, even in between boring lectures, where a student may seemingly fall asleep, there’s also interesting facts and hearty laughter exchanged through the lecturer and the students, in between the lectures. As a psychology student, the fun part of the whole process, is when there are activities given in between the lectures, specially after lunch seemingly knowing, that a student could barely keep their eyes open after having a heavy meal, we most often look in depth about multiple client cases in counselling, and sometimes about how different parenting styles are the reason for the quirks and personalities of a child. Apart from the hearty laughs and jokes in between, or having an emotional breakdown, occasionally, it is quite fascinating to learn about the different aspects of psychology. Then comes the “favorite” procedure of all students. Assignments ! With Presentations, every month from different modules, and coursework’s on different disorders, or topics which sometimes is very confusing or very interesting, there’s no  in between, and the student’s main perception being that “I’m not procrastinating. I’m giving my ideas time to mature.” Which results in last minute work being done, and stressing about it (hence, was the time to use the stress coping mechanisms the lecturer taught us) amongst all of it comes, the extra reading, which are psychology related books, or dissertations to understand research thoroughly. There are two types of psychology students, one type of students, are the type of people to only focus on studying, while the other type is to engage in extra curriculum activities, just so they could take some stress out of their mind. Overall, a life of a student in university isn’t easy at all, but it isn’t boring and stressing as we think it is, at university we find long lasting friendships, newfound hobbies, trust and sometimes in some friendships the betrayal which comes up with it, yet with all through that comes the memories for life. More than the modules we learn, we learn more about responsibilities, communication and teamwork. Finally, ending with this quote, “University is where dreams take shape, ideas are born, and passions are pursued with fervor and determination.” – Unknown Rtr. Shainsa De Silva

Life is the adventure of existence. It’s a journey we embark on facing uncountable challenges and experiences along the way. Unfortunately, not everyone will have it the easy way around. One such reason is Cancer. The word itself carries an unbearable weight sending shivers down your spine. Millions of people around the world are struck with nothing but fear and uncertainty. It’s a battle one does not choose to fight alone. According to the latest updates, 19.3 million new cancer cases had been identified globally with an estimate of 10 million people dead worldwide. Within the Sri Lankan context, nearly 32,000 new cancer cases are diagnosed each year. These statistics are not just a few digits, these are the lives of people who did not deserve to undergo such an excruciating pain. Cancer not only affects the patients but also those who are right beside them hoping and praying every single day for the betterment of their loved ones. There is so much we can do to ensure a speedy recovery process for them. In the battle against this relentless disease, charity events contribute as an effective tool to raise funds as well as awareness, supporting a number of patients across the globe. Therefore, once again the Rotaract Club of Colombo Uptown, serving the nation with a passion and purpose, successfully brought together the much awaited charity event “Run For Their Lives” on the 25th of February, 2024 for the 11th consecutive time. In aid of the Apeksha Hospital, the National Cancer Institute in Maharagama, this event comprises of a 5km annual charity run with a generous objective to raise awareness about the helpless souls stricken with cancer in Sri Lanka. Regularly, individuals from the ages below 17, to ages above 35 have been taking part in this sympathetic cause. Essentially, RFTL persuades the public to contribute for charitable causes in an enthusiastic manner. Without failure, the Rotaract Club of Colombo Uptown united over 3500 runners this year as well, in the fight against cancer by providing an entertaining day filled with quick games and photo opportunities along with the access to pre-ordered merchandise inclusive of T-shirts, bottles, mugs and more. RFTL is a highly reputed charity run with over 300 organizations, corporate leaders and celebrities assisting this cause. Moreover, the club has been able to raise over Rs. 40 million in contribution to the Apeksha Cancer Hospital, throughout the years.   Hence, charity events empower advocates to become a part of the change in cancer care. Amidst the frustration of living through this fatal disease, programs such as RFTL serve as a ray of hope and inspiration for affected individuals. The collective power of individuals and the communities brought together sheds light on a burden free future particularly for cancer patients. With the theme of World Cancer Day, 2024 in mind by “uniting our voices and taking action” remind each other to stand together with compassion for events such as RFTL to help navigate relentless lives into a world without cancer. Rtr. Risandi Jayatilleke

JAGUARS, it was a Fantastic RAWR!!! The Rotaract Champions League 2023 – Youth for All edition, marked a significant milestone for the Rotaract Club of NIBM, as they clinched the 2nd runner-up position in this exhilarating event within the Rotary International calendar for 2023-24. The enthusiasm and energy within the Rotaract family were palpable as participants showcased their athletic prowess across a diverse range of sports. The event featured a plethora of sports, including Track and Field, Netball, Tug of War, Table Tennis, Badminton, Carrom, Chess, Swimming, Futsal, Tag Rugby, Basketball, and Cricket, all meticulously organized and spread across four action-packed days. Day 01, initially scheduled for October 7th, 2023, faced a temporary delay due to adverse weather conditions and was rescheduled to November 19th, 2023. Despite the challenges posed by heavy rain the previous day, the Track and Field and Netball games proceeded smoothly at the Torrington grounds, except for the tug-of-war games. Day 02 unfolded on November 5th, 2023, with an impressive display of athleticism across three different locations: Swimming at Thurstan College Swimming pool, Table Tennis at Lumbini College, and Chess, Carrom, and Badminton at St. Thomas’ College premises. The events for Day 03 spanned two days, with Futsal taking place on December 2nd at Club Fusion, and Tag Rugby and Basketball on December 3, 2023, at St. Thomas’ College Grounds. Day 04 brought the curtain down on the Rotaract Champions League 2023-24 with Tug of War and Cricket games held on January 27th, 2024, at the Air Force Grounds, culminating in a successful conclusion of this thrilling competition.   Day 01 – Athletics Maleesha Gamage 800m – Women’s 3rd Place       Day 02 – Badminton Shamindi Edirisinghe Sara Doubles – Women’s 3rd Place       Day 02 – Swimming Medani Panangoda 50m Backstroke – Women’s 100m Backstroke – Women’s 1st Place 1st Place       Rasindu Jayathilake 50m Backstroke – Men’s 100m Backstroke – Men’s 1st Place 1st Place       Shihab Riyaj 50m Butterfly – Men’s 100m Butterfly – Men’s 2nd Place 2nd Place       Maleesha Gamage 100m Backstroke – Women’s 3rd Place       Nisal Dulneth 100m Butterfly – Men’s 3rd Place       Oshadi Navodya 100m Breaststroke – Women’s 3rd Place       Medani Panangoda Maleesha Gamage Oshadi Navodya Mirasha Borham 50m Medley Relay – Women’s 1st Runners-up       Rasindhu Jayathilake Shihab Riyaj Nisal Dulneth AmrishDev 50m Medley Relay – Men’s 1st Runners-up       Day 03 – Tag Rugby Tanika Rahim Maleesha Gamage Kaviya Shanmuganathan Dinuvi Kumaratunge Sanadhi Shiyam Shenoli Wijegoonewardena Zafla Hisan Tag Rugby – Women’s Winners       Day 04 – Cricket Anthea Sherry Duminda Wickramasinghe Maleesha Gamage Sanadhi Shiyam Sharenya Wageesha Cricket – Women’s 2nd Runners-up       Day 04 – Tug of War Tanika Rahim Sanuthi Rodrigo Shainsa De Silva Dinuvi Kumaratunge Manthi Yasara Shenoli Wijegoonewardena Tug-of-War – Women’s Winners       Heartfelt congratulations are extended to all the winners, and sincere gratitude is expressed to all the enthusiastic participants. Special appreciation goes out to the spirited cheering squad whose unwavering support reverberated with the loudest cheers. To those who may have missed out on participating or winning, the message is clear: there’s always a next time. A resounding shoutout is reserved for our very own Sports and Recreational Directors, Rtr. Sadew Yasas and Rtr. Saritha Themiyadasa, as well as the entire Executive Committee. Their steadfast support and guidance played a pivotal role in propelling RACNIBM to this remarkable achievement. Indeed, history has been made, and it’s all thanks to the collective efforts and dedication of each participant and supporter. Let the celebration begin! Basketball – Men Saishankar Pushpakumar Amrith Shavon Fernando Paramanathan Sharukeshan Azeer Rajendran Abdul Rahman Masitha Dewapriya Nudam Vihansith Hettiarachchi   Futsal – Women   Dulakshi Jayamaha Shashi Perera Janithi Pathirana Sawandi Wageesha Sanuthi rodrigo Sangavi Sabesan   Futsal Men   Shimal sadakath Mohamed Rasmy Rusaik Ahamed Hunayn Hussain Safni yoonus Mohammed Nazir Abdul Raheem   Cricket Men   Sadew yasas Kulindu senura Arquam Roshan Chamara Piumantha Lochana Malaweera Dhurgesh Vigneshwaran Bhanuka Shehan Suneth Rathsara   Tag Rugby Men   Deekala Dissanayake Geemitha Senanayake Shihar Ahamed Andrew Aloysius Rasindu Jayathilaka Dhurgesh Vigneshwaran Rizlan Rizwan   Tug of War – Men Rizlan Rizwan Brandon Leon Ajmal Rafque Shihar Ahamed Seniya Minul perera Amrih Shavon Amrih Shavon   Carrom Team Saritha Themiyadasa Yusuf Sufi Kaviya Shanmuganathan   Chess Team Adheeb Ahamed Nabeel Hamidon   Badminton Rashen Navodya Sadew Yasas P Sharukeshan Rozzane Perera Shamindi Edirisinghe Sara Hiranya Dissanayake Dinuvi Kumaratunge   Athletics Team Kaviya Shanmuganathan Shenoli Wijegoonewardena  

5 years ago a vision took place – a vision of Service, leadership, and community impact, thus the Rotaract Club of NIBM was created. On the 24th of December 2019, as the first student-initiated club of the National Institute of Business Management, The Rotaract Club of NIBM was created under the leadership of our Charter President Rtr. Ravindu Welgama and his board. From a few members of 50 to almost 230 members, RACNIBM has come a long way in the Rotaract Journey. The Club consists of eleven (11) avenues, namely: Community Service, International Service, Professional Development, Environmental Service, Finance, Public Relations, Sports & Recreational Activities, Digital Communications, Membership Development, and Regional Engagement.  These avenues have given rise to a whole host of projects that have also made it a point to abide by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) proposed by the UN. Over the course of the journey, Rotaract Club of NIBM has established a wider platform to their passionate individuals to bring in their ideas, and their leadership skills to enhance the performance and improve the capabilities of the Club. From the Chartered year to 2021, the theme for the year was “Breakthrough to Excellence” The RI year 2021 – 2022 the theme for the year was “Together towards tomorrow” The Ri year 2022 – 2023 theme was “Opportunity through service” and the Ri Year of 2023 – 2024 the Theme for the year is “Self Above service” The Club obtained its Rotary Citation during the charter year. Iin the year 2021 – 22 the Gold Citation was obtained in Rotaract International District 3220. In the 32nd District Training Assembly, A certificate of appreciation was given to Rtr. Melisha Ranasinghe for hosting the sustainability Summit’ 22 and District Council Meeting, and the Project Century hitters were nominated for the most outstanding club service initiative – Fellowship under specific audience. In Century Hitters which was organized by the Rotaract Club of NIBM we managed to win many awards. From the chartered year 2019 till this year , Rotaract Club of NIBM have completed more than 60+ Projects. Some of the Signature projects RACNIBM have done under the 11 avenues are “Thaale” under Club Service, “Sihina Dakina Sinahawan” under Community Service, “Bale” under Environmental Service, “Century Hitters” Under Sports and Recreational. The first ever sports Jersey” Was designed under the Finance Avenue in 2022 – 23, through which the  “Ignite Magazine” which was done for the Sports Jersey project reached the most engagement rates, with it reaching 846 accounts, 220 accounts engaging and 1,244 impressions on Instagram under the PR Avenue. Digital Communications Avenue also successfully launched the first ever RACNIBM website in 2022 – 2023, and lastly the International Service successfully hosted international delegates around Sri Lanka.  As we completed our 5th Charter day in 24th of December, 2023 we find ourselves immersed in gratitude and inspiration. These five years have been a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community spirit. They’ve been a journey marked by triumphs, learnings, and the unwavering commitment of each member who has contributed to the legacy of the Rotaract Club of NIBM. As we look at our past, we also eagerly look ahead in the future. The road ahead is paved with opportunities to further our impact, innovate our approaches, and amplify our reach. Our commitment to service remains steadfast, our enthusiasm undiminished. Finally, to remind ourselves that this isn’t just a task, a responsibility nor a personal commitment but rather a service to the society which we give with our heads held high, which is encapsulate in“Self Above Service” Viva la Rotaract 💜 Rtr. Shainsa De Silva

Cricket is like a force that unites people regardless of age or gender because they are fans and friends at the same time. It is a great connector with areas of concerns which should be addressed. However, it attracts critics in many areas. These include unjust activities, like match fixing, doping, discriminating against players, abusing them, management issues, bullying, mental problems, gender inequity, etc. In spite of protests by the citizens, there is a constant report of corruptness in Sri Lanka’s cricket matches. Films are always keen on pointing at the possibility of a misleading edge being given by performance-enhancing substances and thus posing for the necessity of fairness in sports. The latest discourse came after the ICC prohibited Transwomen and Transmen from participating and a Canadian athlete retired shortly after embarking on their global mission. It was designed to preserve the spirit of womens’ cricket, however it has been criticised on the basis that it may be discriminatory. Exploitations have been revealed in such investigations like bribe, abuse, or corruption inside of cricket. The game has been touched by racism also, whereby Kapil Dev experienced serious racism as the leader of Indian cricket team 1983. It is not only concerning cricket’s standards, but cricket fan and their behaviors and ethics as well. Sadly, at the ICC Cricket World Cup final in 2023 between India and Australia, many Indian supporters behaved unacceptably in protest against their team’s defeat, provoking a number of cases of rioting in India and harassment of Australians. As a result, the sadness-driven behavior of this kind should have been met with the right sportive behaviour. Aware of these pros and cons, cricket could aim to become a sport that applauds ability, honesty and equal opportunity among other things. Rtr Shainsa De Silva

   On December 24, 2019, a remarkable journey of service and community impact began with the chartering of the Rotaract club at NIBM. Fast forward to October 22nd 2023, the club celebrated its fifth consecutive year of dedicated service with the grandeur of the 5th Installation ceremony, held at the Disaster Management Auditorium.    The event kicked off in style with the arrival of the esteemed chief guest, Rtn. Russell Dandeniya, the President of the Rotary Club of Capital City. A symbolic act of lighting the oil lamp marked the start of an exciting new chapter in the club’s journey.    Distinguished guests took their places at the head table, while Rtr. Lochana Malaweera, the incoming Sergeant-at-Arms, set the stage by calling the house to order. Rtr. Tanika Rahim, the Joint Director of the Club Service Avenue, extended a warm welcome to all attendees. This was followed by the Rotaract formalities delivered by Rtr. Sheromi Paulraj, setting the stage for an eventful evening.    To reflect on the club’s accomplishment on the previous year, the outgoing secretary, Rtr. Melisha Ranasinghe, took the stage to present the secretary’s report for the year 2022/23, offering a glimpse into the club’s accomplishments. A captivating memory lane video of the Rotaract journey was screened, evoking nostalgia and pride among the audience.    The outgoing Board of Officials received well-deserved recognition, with service appreciation letters and tokens of appreciations, honoring their dedication and commitment to the cause. Immediate Past President Rtr. Seniya Perera shared his reflections with the gathered members.    The moment everyone awaited for arrived when Rtr. Dulan Samarawickrama was introduced as the incoming President for the year 2023/24, and the outgoing President; Rtr. Seniya Perera, performed the collaring ceremony, passing the torch to the new leader.    In an inspiring speech, President Rtr. Dulan Samarawickrama shared his thoughts on the Rotaract journey and the bright prospects of the new year. The event continued with the introduction to the new Board of Officials for 2023/24, a dynamic team ready to take on their roles with enthusiasm.    The District Rotaract Representative, Rtr. Past President Sathma Jayasinghe, took the stage to motivate the new Board with her passionate words. Guest of honor, Past District Rotaract Representative Rotarian Kasun Sigera, delivered an uplifting speech that resonated with the audience.    To add a touch of entertainment, a captivating dance performance was presented by the students of NIBM, offering a refreshing break for attendees.      President Rtr. Dulan Samarawickrama recognized the outstanding club members with Service Letters, acknowledging their contributions to the club’s growth and success.    Guest of honor, Rtn. Russell Dandeniya, the chief guest of the event, addressed the gathering and instilled fresh hope and determination in the hearts of young Rotaractors.    As the ceremony was gradually reaching to its end, tokens of appreciation were presented to express heartfelt gratitude to the special guests for gracing the event with their presence.    Once all the Felicitations came to the end as the invited Rotaractors, Interactors and guests gave their valuable feedback about the event the Joint Secretary, Rtr. Anthea Christopher, delivered the vote of thanks, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Rotaractors at NIBM as they embark on a promising year of community service. Here’s to the Rotaract spirit, keeping the flame of service burning bright! Viva la Rotaract! Rtr. Sonal Punchihewa

  The Rotaract Club of NIBM, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Capital City, was established on the 24th of December 2019, under the able leadership of its Charter President, Rtr. Ravindu Welgama and his Board. Notably, the Club takes immense pride in being the very first student-initiated Club at the National Institute of Business Management, that has grown from its humble roots of a few members to a massive organization with more than 150 active members.    The Club consists of eleven (11) avenues, namely: Community Service, International Service, Professional Development, Environmental Service, Finance, Public Relations, Sports & Recreational Activities, Digital Communications, Membership Development, and Regional Engagement.  These avenues have given rise to a whole host of projects that have also made it a point to abide by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) proposed by the UN. What makes this fact even more special is that to date, the Club has done over 90+ projects over the past five years, since its inception.    Over the course of its journey, the Club has moulded a diverse set of passionate individuals into giving back to their community, developing their leadership and professional skills and fostering responsible citizenship among themselves, all while inculcating a sense of friendship, fellowship and camaraderie in members’ pursuit of a common purpose; that of changing the lives of others and the world at large.    It is, therefore, clear, that one of the key values our Club’s Rotarians believe in, is that of being selfless while serving others, and hence “Service Above Self” is an apt theme for the Rotary year 2023/2024, with RACNIBM being led by its current President, Rtr. Dulan Samarawickrama. This theme is a reminder of our firm belief, as undergraduates, in giving back to both our local and global communities, through our volunteering, with the ultimate goal of being changemakers that make a collective difference towards a brighter, happier and more wholesome future in Sri Lanka and the world around us.    Thus, the Rotaract Club of NIBM prides itself on achieving numerous milestones throughout its illustrious history by encouraging fellowship, professional development and community involvement with all its initiatives. Like a galaxy that contains individual stars collectively forming a breathtaking tapestry of light, our Club is a universe unto its own, comprised of diverse individuals bound together by a shared purpose and a passion for service, illuminating the world with compassion, leadership and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the society we serve. Rtr. Samiha Anzary & Rtr. Shainsa De Silva