Global Changemakers

I was five when my dad, a Rotarian, organized the National Championships for the Disabled for his Rotary Club in Colombo. This was specifically for soldiers who had lost their limbs in the three decade war that scoured my country. As a five year old, there was little that I could actually do for the Games which were held over two days. But I was actively involved in making badges, sorting tags, transporting the food and in other logistical aspects.  The duty to feel another’s sorrow and empathize with persons less fortunate than I was thus inculcated in me from a very young age.

This was indeed my early wakeup call that sought me into action. Thereafter as I grew into a teen with more responsibility and joined the Interact Club of my school, I was able to organize a range of Community Projects ranging from Christmas parties for orphanages to conduction free health camps treating up to 500 people. It is the satisfaction of seeing a smiling face or a gesture of happiness in its successful conclusion that gives me the adrenaline I need to keep going.

Thus, my inspiration is the people I affect. They give me the reason to stride forward. To date I have never thought of myself as an Activist per se, but as a girl with a goal.