The Right Guidance Defeats Doubts

Introduction

Hello, I’m Sandali Gunawardena, and my journey with AIESEC began around a year ago. “WIWILIS” marked my second experience as an Organizing Committee Vice President for External Relations. Looking back, applying for this role was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my AIESEC journey.

The Beginning of the Journey

Starting as an Organizing Committee Vice President – External Relations for an event of this scale without much prior experience was quite intimidating. The fear and uncertainty initially held me back, but these emotions eventually transformed into a stepping stone for my personal and professional growth. The expectations placed on us and the pressure we put on ourselves pushed me to reach my highest potential.

Challenges and Triumphs

This journey was a rollercoaster of experiences, filled with successes and failures, moments of joy, and times of despair. We faced significant financial challenges throughout the preparation process. However, with determination and creative solutions, we managed to make the event financially sustainable while ensuring a remarkable delegate count and a positive delegate experience.

One of the most gratifying aspects of overcoming these challenges was the personal growth I experienced. Every day, I could feel improvements in my skills, both hard and soft. I became adept at adapting to new situations, taking initiative, and learning through trial and error. It was a journey where I truly took ownership of my role and responsibilities.

The Power of Teamwork

I was never alone on this journey. The entire Organizing Committee, a close-knit team, had each other’s backs. Even when I doubted myself, their unwavering belief in me motivated me to keep pushing forward. We embarked on a transformational journey together, achieving so much more as a team. The support from our Event Managers (EMs) and the Executive Board (EB) was also invaluable in our success.

A Lasting Impact

Reflecting on my journey with WIWILIS, I can confidently say that it has significantly contributed to my growth as a leader and as an individual. It remains one of the most cherished memories and experiences of my life, serving as a testament to the power of determination and teamwork.

Embrace Challenges and Grow

If you find yourself hesitating to take on a new challenge, I encourage you to go for it. It’s through challenges that we learn, adapt, and grow. By the end of the journey, you’ll emerge as a better and more capable version of yourself.

Sandali Gunawardena
AIESEC in the University of Colombo