On September 13, the Rotary Club of Colombo Centennial marked a significant milestone as it elected its 19th Charter President, Rotarian Crysantha Perera, during a ceremony held at the Courtyard of Cinnamon Grand Hotel
Rotary Club of Colombo Centennial elected its new President Rotarian Crysantha Perera at the 19th Charter President’s Installation Ceremony, held on September 13
District Governor for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, PHF Rotarian Sushena Ranathunga, was the Chief Guest of the ceremony
This year, the Centennials celebrate not only the lives they’ve touched but also the lasting partnerships they’ve built; their community service initiatives continue to grow, guided by creativity and compassion
The Rotary Club of Colombo Centennial marked a significant milestone in its Rotary journey with the 19th Charter President’s Installation Ceremony, held on September 13, 2024 at the Courtyard of Cinnamon Grand Hotel. In a statement, Rotary Club of Colombo Centennial noted that the event saw the newly elected President, Rotarian Crysantha Perera, and other club officials pledge their commitment to upholding the core values and mission of Rotary.
District Governor for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, PHF Rotarian Sushena Ranathunga, was the Chief Guest, lending prestige to the occasion. The ceremony was further graced by distinguished guests, including Past Rotary International President K.R. Ravindran, and prominent Rotarians’ Past District Governors such as Dushan Soysa, Gowri Rajan, and Jerome Rajendram. The presence of their spouses added a touch of elegance to the evening. Key district officials Rtn Gamini Madanayake District Secretary, and Additional District Governor Rtn Ian Idamalgoda also attended the event.
The Installation Ceremony was preceded by the District Governor’s Official Visit (DGOV), during which the club’s records and performance exceeded expectations.
The new President, Rotarian Crysantha Perera, formally welcomed the official party and led the proceedings following Rotary’s traditional protocols, showcasing the club’s achievements and contributions.
This year, the Centennials celebrate not only the lives they’ve touched but also the lasting partnerships they’ve built. Their community service initiatives continue to grow, guided by creativity and compassion. Among the key initiatives for the year are:
- Books for Brighter Futures: A book distribution program for underprivileged children.
- Rotary for Environment: Participating in a Galle Face cleanup project and installing five plastic collection points in Colombo and Kandy.
- Nawodya Center at the National Institute of Mental Health: Facility upgrading.
- Waves of Hope: A microwave ablation (MWA) cancer treatment initiative.
Additionally, ongoing member-driven projects include the Healing Meals Initiative, Breast Cancer Awareness Programs, and the Distribution of Dry Rations for underprivileged families.
At the district level, it was acknowledged that the Centennials provided solid leadership from Air Chief Marshal Rtn Gagan Bulathsinghala and PP Rtn Shohan Kulasuriya, spearheading the Rotary for Ability and Rotary for Business projects, respectively. Both are innovative initiatives with potential for international recognition.
Rotary for Ability: This project aims to empower differently-abled individuals through a specialized web-based job board that is already in development.
Rotary for Business: A mobile app, launched at the installation by PHF DG Sushena Ranathunaga, provides a platform to connect all parties involved in business ventures.
Another flagship project is the Little Minds Strong Values (LMSV), which focuses on teaching children morals, ethics, and values through animated songs to help build a brighter future for Sri Lanka.
In his address, PHF Rotarian Sushena Ranathunaga commended the Centennials for their performance and the value they bring to the district. He highlighted the club’s contributions to the district’s success and urged members to continue their impactful service.
As the Centennials move forward, their journey is not only about celebrating past achievements, but also about shaping a future that reflects Rotary’s enduring values. With the support and synergy of the district, they are poised to make a significant impact in their community and beyond.
The fellowship took place in a setting of grand ambience, where the warm atmosphere perfectly set the tone for an evening of celebration and camaraderie. Guests enjoyed an array of fine spirits and a selection of gourmet dishes. The combination of good company, excellent food, and a lively yet refined atmosphere made the event a memorable experience, fostering deeper connections among Rotarians and their guests as they celebrated the Rotary Club’s ongoing legacy of service and leadership.
The Centennials embody the belief that “Rotary unites more than a million great minds around a shared purpose.”
Together, there is no limit to the good they can achieve. As they embrace the “Magic of Rotary,” they continue to amplify the organization’s power to save and transform lives.
