AIESEC Sri Lanka, blog, Leadership, Uncategorized

The Ripple Effect of Volunteerism: How Small Acts Create Big Change

Every action you do on the path to self-improvement, no matter how tiny, can have a huge impact on your personal development. In this process, volunteerism serves as a potent catalyst by providing people with chances to support both their own growth and the communities in which they live. Let’s explore how the ripple effect appears in actual self-improvement endeavors and how working with AIESEC might magnify its influence.

Making the decision to pursue growth and progress is frequently the first step towards self-development. This initial commitment creates ripples that progressively spread outward, much like a pebble put into water. Every action that follows, such as picking up a new skill, venturing beyond of one’s comfort zone, or thinking back on past events, builds momentum towards personal development. People that participate in self-improvement activities receive good feedback in a variety of ways. Gained self-assurance, broadened understanding, and improved abilities serve as reaffirming waves that propel more investigation and development. The ripple effect is amplified by this positive feedback loop, which gives people more momentum to pursue their objectives.

That being said, the process of self-development is not isolated; rather, it is entwined with the lives of people around us. People inspire and impact others with their changed attitudes, actions, and accomplishments as they mature and change. Similar to how a single pebble’s ripple may impact a pond’s whole surface, human development has an outward effect that shapes the dynamics of relationships, communities, and beyond.

Renowned for its volu  nteerism and young leadership initiatives, AIESEC provides a special platform for people to start life-changing self-improvement journeys. Volunteering with AIESEC exposes people to fresh viewpoints, learning opportunities, and challenges, enhancing their personal development path with insightful knowledge and practical skills. Volunteers develop critical leadership abilities while making significant contributions to their communities through positions in project management, team coordination, and cross-cultural communication. This comprehensive development strengthens the cascading effect, enabling people to set an example for others to follow and motivate others to do the same.

AIESEC’s global network brings together volunteers and like-minded people from all over the world, creating a supportive, collaborative, and learning-sharing community. Volunteers broaden their perspectives, build intercultural competences, and create enduring relationships with different peers and mentors that impact their personal and professional growth even after their volunteer experience has ended. Furthermore, volunteering with AIESEC has a lasting impact that goes well beyond the time spent on specific placements. Volunteers make a lasting difference in the communities they serve by funding sustainable development initiatives that support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Future generations are affected by this legacy of good transformation, which keeps the cycle of societal responsibility and personal growth alive.

Every action has the potential to cause ripples of change that spread widely in the complex web of self-development. By volunteering with AIESEC, people take on life-changing experiences of personal development in addition to making a positive impact on worthwhile causes. Positive change in themselves and the environment around them is sparked by their efforts as they embrace new experiences, develop their leadership abilities, and connect with a worldwide network of changemakers. Thus, let’s celebrate volunteerism’s strength as it holds the key to a better, more empowered future.

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Uncategorized

Embracing the Digital Revolution

Embracing the Digital Revolution: Self-Development with AIESEC in the Era of Crypto, AI, NFTs, and Web3.

In the midst of the seismic evolution propelled by the revolutionary technologies of cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence (AI), Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and Web3, there lies a profound opportunity for self-development, particularly through engagement with organizations like AIESEC. As these transformative technologies redefine our digital landscape, they also offer avenues for personal growth, empowerment, and global citizenship. AIESEC, an international platform for youth leadership and development, stands poised to harness the potential of this digital revolution to foster self-improvement and meaningful impact on a global scale.

Cryptocurrency, often regarded as the cornerstone of this digital revolution, is reshaping the way we perceive and interact with finance. Through initiatives facilitated by AIESEC, youth leaders can delve into the complexities of blockchain technology, understanding its decentralized nature and implications for financial systems worldwide. By engaging with cryptocurrency projects and exploring blockchain’s potential for transparency and inclusivity, individuals can cultivate a deeper understanding of financial literacy and economic empowerment, crucial components of personal development in an increasingly digital economy.

Simultaneously, the integration of AI into various industries presents boundless opportunities for skill enhancement and innovation. AIESEC’s emphasis on practical learning and professional development enables youth to explore AI applications across diverse sectors, from healthcare to finance. Through hands-on experiences and collaborative projects, participants can hone their analytical abilities, critical thinking, and adaptability, essential skills for navigating the complexities of the digital age. By embracing AI-driven solutions and leveraging its capacity for data analysis and problem-solving, individuals can enhance their cognitive capabilities and contribute meaningfully to societal progress.

NFTs, with their transformative potential in the realms of art, media, and ownership, offer a unique avenue for creative expression and entrepreneurial development. AIESEC’s commitment to fostering cultural understanding and creativity provides a fertile ground for exploring the intersection of NFTs with digital art and content creation. By immersing oneself in NFT ecosystems and understanding their implications for intellectual property rights and artistic ownership, individuals can cultivate their artistic talents, entrepreneurial spirit, and appreciation for digital innovation. Through collaboration with global partners and participation in NFT-focused initiatives, youth can harness the power of blockchain technology to amplify their voices and showcase their unique contributions to the digital landscape.

Moreover, the emergence of Web3 as a decentralized paradigm for internet governance presents an opportunity for youth to engage with digital citizenship and advocate for a more inclusive and transparent online environment. AIESEC’s emphasis on cross-cultural understanding and social impact enables youth leaders to champion digital rights and advocate for ethical uses of technology. By participating in discussions on Web3 principles and decentralized governance models, individuals can cultivate their advocacy skills, digital literacy, and commitment to social responsibility. Through collaborative projects and grassroots initiatives, AIESEC members can contribute to the development of a more equitable and participatory digital ecosystem, fostering global solidarity and collective action.

In conclusion, the revolution of cryptocurrency, AI, NFTs, and Web3 represents not only a technological shift but also an unparalleled opportunity for self-development and global engagement. Through their involvement with AIESEC, youth leaders can navigate this digital landscape with confidence and purpose, leveraging transformative technologies to drive personal growth, innovation, and positive change. By embracing the principles of empowerment, inclusivity, and transparency inherent in this digital revolution, individuals can emerge as catalysts for progress, shaping a future that is dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable for generations to come.

 

Written by :

Someshkar Jagatheesan

AIESEC in SLIIT

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Uncategorized

Unleashing creativity and leadership; My Journey as a Team Leader

In the dynamic realm of AIESEC in Sri Lanka, every journey is a tapestry of growth, learning, and transformation. As I reflect on my voyage as a Team Leader for Brand Marketing in AIESEC in SLIIT, representing the back office, I am awestruck by the profound impact it has had on both my creativity and leadership abilities.

Unveiling the Canvas; From R&D Member to Brand Marketing Leader

My journey with AIESEC began humbly as a member of the Research and Development team for the back office. Little did I know then that this initial step would pave the way for a remarkable evolution. With each task, each project, I found myself drawn deeper into the world of brand marketing. It was not just about promoting a product or service, it was about crafting narratives, igniting emotions, and sparking connections.

The Rise to Leadership; Navigating the Path

As I immersed myself further, opportunities unfolded, and I embraced them wholeheartedly. Stepping into the role of Team Leader for Brand Marketing was a defining moment, an achievement that filled me with both pride and humility. Leading a team of five talented individuals, I embarked on a journey of collaboration, innovation, and collective growth. As the lead copywriter, I found myself at the intersection of creativity and strategy, shaping compelling content that resonated with our audience.

Nurturing Creativity; From Passion to Purpose

What began as a responsibility soon transformed into a passion, a flame that burned brighter with each campaign, each brainstorming session. Crafting content for brand marketing campaigns became more than just a task, it became my creative outlet, a canvas where I could blend words, visuals, and ideas to leave a lasting impression. With the guidance of mentors and the support of my team, I discovered the boundless potential of my creativity, pushing boundaries and challenging norms with every project.

Empowering Leadership; From Guidance to Growth

In the realm of AIESEC, leadership isn’t merely about delegating tasks, it’s about inspiring, empowering, and enabling others to unlock their full potential. As a Team Leader, I found myself navigating uncharted territories, confronting challenges, and making decisions that impacted not just projects but also people. Through mentorship and hands-on experience, I honed my leadership qualities, learning to listen, to empathize, and to lead by example. Every setback was a lesson, every success a celebration of collective effort and resilience.

Evolving from Excellence; From R&D Member of the Month to Leadership Luminary of the month for Brand MKT

My journey within AIESEC in SLIIT has been a testament to the organization’s ethos of recognizing and nurturing talent. From being honored   as the Best R&D Member of the Month to earning the title of Leadership Luminary, the evolution has been both profound and empowering. It was through these accolades that I witnessed not only my capabilities but also the tangible growth and improvement that stemmed from dedication and perseverance. Each recognition served as a reminder of the immense potential within me, a potential that blossomed further as I embraced leadership roles, channeling my passion into purpose and my skills into impact. This journey of transformation isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the growth, the learning, and the evolution that unfold along the way. And I am grateful for every milestone, every challenge, and every opportunity that has shaped me into the leader I am today.

Embracing the Journey, Embracing Growth

My journey as a Team Leader for Brand Marketing in AIESEC in SLIIT has been nothing short of transformative. From a novice in the realm of brand marketing to a confident leader, each step has been a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose. As I continue to tread this path, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities, the challenges, and the experiences that have shaped me. AIESEC isn’t just an organization, it’s a journey- a journey of self-discovery, of growth, and of impact. And I am grateful to be a part of this extraordinary voyage.

This is a testament to the transformative power of AIESEC in Sri Lanka, where passion meets purpose, and leaders are forged. Join us on this journey of growth, exploration, and impact, because together, we can create a world of endless possibilities.

 

Written by,

Ruwani Sachintha

Lead copy writer

AIESEC in SLIIT.

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AIESEC Sri Lanka, blog, iGV, Leadership

Voyage of a Team Leader in Incoming Global Volunteer

If I were told I would’ve led a team that would change the course of iGV in AIESEC in SLIIT from the start, I would’ve not believed it. The start of something great comes at the most unexpected times; whether you reach for it or whether it reaches you, everything has a reason for happening, and it’s your choice to take it or not.

iGV (Incoming Global Volunteer), being one of the prime products of AIESEC, provides the platform for foreign volunteers to participate in various exciting projects. I was fortunate enough to become a member of the CXP (Customer Experience) team in the early stages of my AIESEC journey. Being appointed to “Project on the Map” provided me with much needed exposure to being with Exchange Participants (EPs). With so many EPs landing in Sri Lanka, going out for Airport Pickups to Colombo City Tours to Religious Place Visits to even, and the most exciting part, long trips to Famous Sri Lanka Places. Whether it be Sigiriya, Galle, or Kandy, every single part of the journey brought a special essence to my story.

As we know, every person has a different personality. When I was appointed as the Team Leader for CXP in iGV, I was flabbergasted, and I knew I held a huge responsibility on my shoulders. It was not just to take care of the EPs that had arrived, but also to take care of my team. It was not easy, and I took the responsibility knowing that it wouldn’t be as well. Faced many challenges, from Accommodation problems to Project Activity Problems and maybe even the dissatisfaction of certain EPs after arriving here. It felt like I was handed over to a sunken ship to make it float back again. Back against the wall and have a short time period to solve all these problems alone to not make my team feel demotivated.

What did I do? Step in and show what I can do, and that is me. With the support of my LCVPs at the time, I upheld the responsibility of fixing things that were said to be impossible to fix at the time. To build bonds that were broken and was said it would be impossible to be built back. I did this, but not alone. I had a team, and I was privileged enough to guide this team in lifting back the ship that was sunk to a place where it could float with a few damages. Yet, problems never stopped coming, but that was anyway expected.

To handle 25+ EPs at the time, it felt like I was living a nightmare with the number of problems that came with it. But I was determined to get the job done, and no matter what the outcome would be, I would give it my best and have the satisfaction to say ,“I made it with my team,” and we did so.

A journey would not be a journey without highs and lows. A story would be incomplete without failing, and a leader would not be one if it weren’t for the struggles. That is what makes iGV special, the stories made and memories that will be cherished forever. Leaving behind a legacy to look up to and forging a future with limitless potential leaders to come upfront to the battlefield and unleash their creativity for their stories to be told.

I will end it off with a quote I feel suits the most in my journey as a TL in iGV.

“Great leaders are not defined by the absence of weakness, but rather by the presence of clear strengths.”

 

Eranga  Bowatte

Team Leader CXP iGV

AIESEC in SLIIT

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Uncategorized

Benchmark 2.0, Journey as an Organizing Committee President

What a ride, what a journey, and what an experience it was. To say the least, this was the best timeline I ever spent in AIESEC. Benchmark 2.0 was a UI/UX Designathon aimed at “Unleash the Creativity.” I had a dream of organizing a hackathon since the day I stepped foot on SLIIT, and knowing now that I have done it feels amazing. This chapter of my life enlightened me with many lifetime experiences, and this is how it went down.

 

Benchmark 2.0, subtitled Idea-Forged Hackathon, consisted of a bootcamp and a competition, which were held on the 10th and 17th of January 2024 at Curtin University, Colombo. I’m sure this event fostered a lot of unforgettable memories, innovative thinking, and a formidable platform to challenge the skills of the delegates. The change that impacted the previous Benchmark was that it introduced a whole new concept of what a battlefield in design really looks like. I was fortunate enough to be accompanied by smart individuals from the industry who helped me pave a new path of competition known as an “Idea-forged Hackathon,” which comprises three different competition phases.

 

Six weeks of dedication, passion, and bonding made this event what it was. It wasn’t ever a sole effort toward success. As the OCP, I had the privilege of introducing new talents, new hearts, and new leaders to the warfront with me. Sleepless nights manifested into an arena that converted an idea into a full-fledged hackathon. I’ve said this a hundred times, and if I had the chance to change the 19 people who accompanied me on this ride, I wouldn’t ever do it as they are more than just a committee, they are a family.

 

 

There were multiple memories I made during and before Benchmark that ushered in satisfaction and happiness, but above all, what made me overjoyed to this day was the feedback of the delegates and the people who were present. They offered me the assurance that Benchmark 2.0 was held prestigiously and touched the pinnacle of success. I had sacrifices to make for this, relentless work and multiple rethinking decisions, but I believe all of it was worth it in the end, and it helped me check off my definite bucket list.

 

I definitely believe I took the expedient and right decision to be the organizing committee president to deliver an event because it taught me how to work under pressure, turbulence, and hardships and yet keep going no matter what happened. Apart from the operations, the quality time and pleasant memories I have collected with my organizing committee on this journey are worth having a discussion about. It would take days to talk about it with giggles.

 

This is what AIESEC offers, and it’s better to grab opportunities like these than repent and not take them. If I had the chance to retwine the strings of time and go back to the day of applying as the OCP of Benchmark 2.0, I would take it in a heartbeat. I will end it off with a quote I learned throughout Benchmark 2.0.

 

“It always seems impossible until it is done.”

 

Eranga Bowatte

Organizing Committee President of Benchmark 2.0

AIESEC in SLIIT

 

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