Charnika Imbulana
COLOMBO : The Rotary Club of Colombo South, chartered in October 1978, held the installation ceremony of their 47th President for the year 2024/2025 with District Governor, Rotarian Sushena Ranatunge as the Chief Guest and Prof. J.B. Dissanayaka as the Guest of Honour, at the Granbell Hotel, Colombo 3., last week.
An Attorney- at – law and award winning senior Journalist, Hiran Senewiratna was installed as the 47th President of Rotary Colombo South at the grandly organised event.
The Chief Guest Rotary District Governor, Sushena Ranatunga made a remarkable speech by generating much enthusiasm and motivation by calling out to all to unite under the Rotary International theme “The Magic of Rotary”.
“This theme beautifully captures the essence of our mission- the transformative power of Rotary when we come together as the ‘irresistible team’ to serve our communities and the world” he said.
Articulating the Rotary Action Plan well, he said the focus is on the six impactful projects that address critical needs to create lasting change; “Rotary for Little Hearts” to provide essential care and support for children with congenital heart disease, “Rotary for Business” that will empower businesses and entrepreneurs through networking events, “Rotary for Environment” to champion sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, “Rotary for career guidance” support to young individuals to navigate their careers. “Rotary for differently abled” to promote inclusivity, “Rotary for healing minds” to address mental health issues.
Rotary District Governor Ranatunga called out on all Rotarians to make this year one of remarkable achievements, fellowship and unforgettable service moments. “Your unique talents, passion and dedication are the driving forces behind these initiatives“, he reminded. “Your commitment will help us harness the “Magic of Rotary” to create a meaningful impact and touch countless lives and it is together that we can make that difference” he emphasized.
The newly installed President, Colombo South, Senewiratna addressing the gathering said ; “it is a magnanimous gesture on the part of the Colombo South Rotary members to have bestowed the mantle of leadership on me for the current year to continue the club’s service to the community that holds a record of four decades”.
“Our club is totally committed to render humanitarian services through projects to deserving communities. We, through our club have created an atmosphere for professionals and stakeholders in the community to unite and make a lasting impact on the community so that we serve the Rotary philosophy to the maximum. We have a tremendous amount of work lined up in this sphere, this year too, in accordance with the District and the Rotary International goals.” he said
“As our Rotary International President Stephanie A Urchick always remind us “Rotarians need to be the champions to begin a balance between continuity and change and work for peace and harmony of mankind in keeping with this year’s motto “Magic of rotary”, he added.
“Our District Governor, Rotarian Sushena Ranatunge, is a proactive leader who leads the District from the front constantly emphasizing that as Rotarians we need to support the community in every manner to create a positive impact on the people and their lives”, he said.
“Our Club as in the past will support the District Governor to achieve his District goals and targets”, he added. The newly installed President of the club thanked all members present for participating and supporting the event.
