• AIESEC Sri Lanka, blog, Event

Reflecting on the impact of Project Coast 2.0

Taking a step back to October 21st, the day of Project Coast 2.0, feels like revisiting a crucial

chapter in our collective journey toward environmental responsibility. The second edition of

this impactful CSR event was put out together by AIESEC in NSBM in collaboration with

AIESEC in NIBM, drawing together a formidable force of over 100 dedicated delegates at the

serene Wellawatta Beach.

Project Coast 2.0 went beyond the boundaries of a typical beach cleanup project. It echoed

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 and 14- a firm promise to act on climate change

and the conservation of life below water. Amidst the disheartening scenes of human impact

on our beautiful coastline, which was gifted by Mother Nature, there emerged a hopeful

narrative of responsibility and the potential for positive change.

This day was etched with memorable memories, made even more significant by the

partnerships forged with Altrium, Center for Beach Cleanups, Clean Ocean Force, etc.

Witnessing the active involvement of our esteemed partners from Altrium in the event was

a heartening sight, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving our goals.

Moreover, Clean Ocean Force, who generously provided hand-made bracelets to all the

participants, added a touch of unity and environmental awareness to the event.

As the radiant sun painted the sky above the beautiful sea, delegates immersed themselves

in a unique experience filled with discovery and action. Project Coast 2.0 was an immersive

experience that left a lasting impact on each delegate. The air was filled with enthusiasm as

the volunteers, armed with gloves and trash bags, combed the coastline. The shared

laughter, the sense of accomplishment, and the new connections formed a tapestry of

memories. Delegates not only saw the positive change they were creating but also felt a

deep connection with the environment each other.

The active participation of the PR figure, Menasha Nanayakkara, added a distinct layer to

our cleanup efforts. Her presence, side by side with the volunteers, exemplified the

universality of our cause and emphasized the importance of diverse voices in championing

environmental stewardship.

As an Organizing Committee Vice President, I felt immense pride in witnessing the

enthusiasm of the youth volunteers. Their dedication mirrored the essence of AIESEC’s

mission; fostering change in youth and nurturing a generation mindful of its impact on the

environment. Through events like Project Coast 2.0, AIESEC has played a transformative role

in shaping the perspectives of its youth members. It was indeed a journey of awakening,

growth, and collective responsibility.

The culmination of the cleanup project brought forth a transformed coastline, once marred

by litter and negligence. Standing at the Organizing Committee closing, a sense of

accomplishment enveloped me. Achievement of a pristine beach strengthened bonds

with fellow nature lovers, and a shared commitment to sustaining a positive change.

In bidding farewell to Project Coast 2.0, we stand on the shores accomplishment, a

collective echo of positive change. As the waves of our efforts ripple through the clean

Coastline, let this be a reminder that, together, we can create a sea of transformation. Until

the next tide of change, let’s continue to nurture our shared commitment to safeguarding

our precious shores, fostering a brighter, cleaner future for all.

Sandavi Gunawardana

AIESEC in NSBM Project Coast 2.0

• AIESEC Sri Lanka, blog, Event, Leadership, Lifestyle, Membership, Partnerships, Youth

A like-minded organization in creating value driven leaders

A like-minded organization in creating value driven leaders

“Before you’re a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” – Jack Welch.

LDS 4.0, – Leadership Development Seminar organized by AIESEC in University of Peradeniya, was held on October 28 and 29, 2023, in Oruthota Chalets hotel. The above-stated quote was magnificently showcased and demonstrated at the event, ensuring delegates had full exposure to the notions of leadership and personal development. What added a new color to the conference was the title partnership that AIESEC in University of Peradeniya had with the Thilakawardhana Group of Companies. It was such an honour to keep the bond bolstered for the conference as it assisted AIESEC in University of Peradeniya to deliver an elegant yet productive and fruitful conference in AIESEC history. The partnership patronage they bestowed on the event was immense.

It was not all about assisting to deliver the best conference experience in terms of partnerships. It was about educating young, energetic, and budding leaders to aspire to greater heights. Mr. Ravindu Thilakawardhana, representing Thilakawardhana Group of Companies, conducted a wondrous session inclusive of enhancing critical thinking skills, prowess in decision-making, team handling, etc. The session was interactive and didactic because it inserted a novel and thought-provoking perspective into Kandy AIESEC membership. Specifically, there was an eye-opening session, or rather, a Q&A segment, which was based on practical scenarios, issues, and predicaments a team goes through. As the session progressed in a more engaging and interactive manner, new ideas and innovative solutions to the given pragmatic questions were explored. Indeed, the membership of Kandy AIESEC was motivated and inspired by the phenomenal leadership session that Thilakawardhana Group of Companies delivered.

It is with utmost courtesy that AIESEC in University of Peradeniya conveys profound gratitude to Thilakawardhana Group of Companies, not only for being the title partner for Leadership Development Seminar 4.0 but also for being the harbinger of youth empowerment for the membership of Kandy AIESEC under the limelight.

Gimshan Wickramasinghe

AIESEC in University of Peradeniya

visit thilakawardhana.com

The Power of Intention: Shaping Your Life with an Unseen Force

• AIESEC Sri Lanka, Event, Leadership, Youth

Green Force: Hundered plants dedicated to mother nature

‘Trees exhale for us. so, that we can inhale them to stay alive. Let us love trees with every breath we take until we perish.”

Planting trees is a commendable initiative that contributes to the overall well-being of the environment. AIESEC in University of Kelaniya initiated a remarkable project called ‘ Green Force ‘ on the 09th of August 2023 in collaboration with the program ‘Thuru Kepakaru’ focusing on Sapugaskandha Sobhitha Vidyalaya and Dharmaraja Vidyalaya.

Hoping for a positive change.

School students of these two schools planted hundred tree saplings through this project. Also, the project ‘Green Force’ awarded the students with valuable certificates with the hope of motivating them for environmental conservation. Moreover, the mobile app ‘Thuru Kapakaru’ is a good initiative to monitor the planted trees constantly. Hence, this is an authentic step of AIESEC in University of Kelaniya towards a greenery planet for future generations.

Sustainability is Fundamental

The project ‘Green Force’ is committed to make sure that the planted trees live a long time and are healthy. They keep track of each tree’s development using the mobile app ‘Thuru Keparuka’, assuring the correct upkeep and care. This constant dedication represents the all-encompassing sustainability effort of AIESEC in University of Kelaniya.

Community Engagement

AIESEC in University of Kelaniya recognizes the importance of engaging the community in its effort for environmental sustainability. School students are the future who have a crucial role in this green movement. Accordingly, the enthusiasm of students for a sustainable environment can be increased through their involvement in such tree-planting activities and instructional courses on environmental awareness and tree care.

Collaboration

AIESEC in University of Kelaniya partnered with S-lon and News First to further the effect of this effort. These partnerships broaden the program’s influence beyond the organization and reach a broader community.

Hope for the Future

AIESEC in University of Kelaniya hopes to organize more projects and continue engaging a broader community in environmental conservation efforts.

Dedication of hundred plants to mother nature by AIESEC in University of Kelaniya is proof of the value of environmental responsibility, community, and education. By planting hundred trees through the project ‘Green Force’. Consequently, this represents the university’s commitment to building a sustainable future. Accordingly, AIESEC in University of Kelaniya is planting seeds of hope for a greener and healthier planet by fostering the growth of these trees.

Let’s all join together to commend AIESEC in University of Kelaniya and ‘Thuru Kepakaru’ for their outstanding efforts in improving the world through the straightforward act of planting trees.

Written by

Aisha Mumtas

Content Writer

AIESEC in University of Kelaniya

• Event, Leadership, Membership

Winter Induction 2023: The Onset of a novel Leadership

“A leader is a dealer in hope.” — Napoleon Bonaparte

The Winter Induction of AIESEC in University of Kelaniya unfolded an inspiring leadership experience for a new term on the 27th of August 2023. I had my first experience as an Organizing Committee Vice President – Events and Logistics of this grand event. This is a glimpse into my wonderful time from our first plans to the amazing Induction day.

Leading the Induction.

We had our first Organizing Committee Meeting on the 04th of July virtually getting a kick start to everything. I knew very well this would be a milestone in my AIESEC journey, which truly was! The very first weeks were all about planning the theme and partnership raising. I gratefully recall the leadership experience given by our Organizing Committee President and the Event Managers when teaching us every new bit of planning.

Altogether this AIESEC experience taught me many things about team spirit and leadership. Moreover, the partnership raising was a good exposure on managing finance. We never forgot to enjoy the company meetings and cold calling which weren’t always positive. However, we managed to secure the required budget through partnerships.

Afterwards, preparing decorations was an entertaining distraction from the hard work. We pooled all our creativity into it and came up with unique sugar cubes and designs for the decorations. I was amazed to see how my team grew so close and supportive within the time. This gave us bunches of exciting memories which we cherish even now and will do forever.

It was admirable to see how our team instantly resolved certain issues despite the limited time. Our fellow members shared support every time we needed more.

Induction in light

It was finally the most awaited day. The venue kept flowing with newbies for the Winter Term. The registrations revealed an astonishing count of newbies and delegate participation. The morning started with breaking the ice. The Executive Board took the lead to keep the crowd lively with various activities. Afterwards, The Executive Board and Organizing committee members welcomed everyone.

The opening plenary and chair reveal certainly gave a kick start for the excitement of the day. The Chair of the Winter Induction was Thamindu Dilhara – Local Committee Vice President of AIESEC in University of Kelaniya for the term 22.23. The Chair inspired the audience with his own successful AIESEC journey.

Thirdly, the agenda led the day bringing in AIESEC essence and history of our local committee in Colombo North. The Executive Board did an amazing presentation which truly ran deep into our hearts.

The newbies were explained about the Front and Back office functions. The Human Library session was a valuable time to listen and learn from inspiring AIESEC stories of our own Alumni. The true value of leadership and fulfilling humankind’s potential were spotlighted.

The roll calls entertained the event. Additionally some motivational sessions on leadership continued the agenda. Eventually, writing up sugar cubes by the end of the event was a new experience for the newbies.

Finally, the grand event reached the closing plenary, completing an energetic day for everyone.

I heartily thank every soul who poured in their best efforts and evidently made the Winter Induction a remarkable day. My Organizing Committee gifted me with glamorous memories of unity, love and most importantly leadership.

By Schenelle Lavinia

Organizing Committee Vice President

Winter Induction 2023

AIESEC in University of Kelaniya.

• AIESEC Sri Lanka, Event, Youth

Sound Up 2.0 rewind! A night of music, togetherness, and endless fun

Reflecting on the memorable evening of July 15, 2023, it’s impossible not to be happy when thinking about Sound Up 2.0. Hosted by AIESEC in NSBM, this musical extravaganza was not just a concert; it was a spectacular journey through the incredible talents of our youth, a unity-building experience, and a night filled with fun and music that will be etched in my memory forever.

Sound Up 2.0 was more than just an event; it was a haven where people from all walks of life could come together and forget their worries for a while. In the midst of challenging times, this event served as the perfect getaway to release our tensions and immerse ourselves in the magic of music.

The evening commenced at 4:00 p.m. at the Trace Expert City Colombo, where the atmosphere was charged with excitement. With over 300 delegates in attendance, it was clear that Sound Up 2.0 had struck a chord with the young and the young-at-heart.

What truly made this evening extraordinary were the exceptional performances by some of the most talented young and upcoming artists and performers. Each act was a testament to the incredible potential of youth in our society. From the soulful melodies of Sanuli Perera to the high-energy performance by the ETERNITY band, every moment was a treat for the senses.

The guest artists; Sanuli, Perera, Amila Sahan, Radhini Mendis, Shehan Kaushalya, Andrew Sebastian, Sonel Silva, Poornima Lakshani, Hashen Dulanjana, Shaveen Umendra, and the performers Heshini Hettiarachchi and Leftovers, left the audience in awe with their incredible talent and passion for music. It was heartwarming to see such a variety of performers come together under one roof to keep everyone entertained.

But the magic of Sound Up 2.0 didn’t stop at the performances. The Organizing Committee deserves applause of its own for putting together such an incredible event with meticulous attention to detail. From the stage setup to the lighting, every aspect was carefully crafted to create a mesmerizing atmosphere that perfectly complemented the music.

What stood out the most was the inclusivity and unity fostered by Sound Up 2.0. It was a platform that embraced diversity and celebrated the power of young voices. In this inclusive environment, there were no bounds to the potential of our youth, and it was evident in the electric energy that filled the venue.

As I left Sound Up 2.0 that evening, my heart was full of joy, my spirit was lifted, and my appreciation for the talents of our youth and the dedication of the Organizing Committee knew no bounds. Kudos to the Organizing Committee of Sound Up 2.0 for creating an event that not only entertained but also inspired and united us all.

I also want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our partners who played a significant role in making Sound Up 2.0 a resounding success. A big thank you to Nestle, Hayleys Aventura, Janatha Steel, Taco Bell, Ceylon Today and all our other sponsors for their support and contribution to this incredible event.

Special mention goes to the ETERNITY band, whose electrifying beats

added an extra layer of excitement to the evening. Their energy was contagious, and they truly set the stage on fire, keeping the audience captivated throughout the night. A big thank you once again for amplifying the evening!

Last but not least, a shout out to our compere, Kavini Perera, who did an amazing job keeping the audience engaged and the energy high. Kavini’s charm and enthusiasm added to the overall experience of Sound Up 2.0, making it even more memorable.

It was, without a doubt, a lovely evening filled with amazing performances and unforgettable memories. Sound Up 2.0, you will be cherished in our hearts for years to come!

By Shavinka Jayamaha
AIESEC in NSBM

Event