Today is not just an event; it’s a celebration of exceptional individuals — our youth leaders. Each of you represents the essence of commitment and dedication, not only to our nation but to the global pursuit of positive change, said Leo Lion Binuja Amaranayaka.
He was speaking at the ceremony to recognise youth leaders at the Presidential Secretariat on December 20. Chief of Staff of the President’s Office and Senior Advisor to the President Sagala Ratnayake was also present.
Presidential Chief of Staff Sagala Ratnayake addressing the gathering
Leo Amaranayake said, “Our gratitude extends to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, for his tireless efforts in revitalizing our great nation. In contemplating the words of the great John C. Maxwell, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way,” we are reminded of the transformative power of leadership.
You serve as an inspiration to each one of us. Your unwavering commitment, whether as the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader, Member of Parliament, or as the esteemed President, has strengthened our nation.
Leadership, experience, and opportunity — these three pillars embody LEO, transcending beyond mere concepts to uplift our nation. As a Leo and a youth leader, I passionately believe in our collective power to foster positive change and contribute to the recovery and upliftment of our nation. Our role is central in this journey, bringing forth innovation, resilience, and a fresh perspective.
In the face of challenges, our determination becomes the driving force behind progress. Together, we infuse vitality into our national spirit, fostering collaboration, ambition, and social responsibility. Our ideas and initiatives are the lifeblood of recovery efforts, guiding us toward a brighter future. Let us embrace our role as youth leaders, recognizing that our commitment is not just an option but a crucial force for sustainable upliftment.
Today, as we gather amidst the challenges faced by our fellow countrymen, especially the youth grappling with economic uncertainties, I draw from my experiences as a deputy head Prefect of Royal College in 2020/2021 and as an active Leo for many years.
It is evident that individuals can shape their destinies and leave behind a legacy better than what was inherited. Achieving this requires persistent effort, unwavering dedication, and, most importantly, teamwork. As a united group, our collective potential transcends any one individual, allowing us to cultivate fresh ideas among us. My experiences have illuminated the possibilities within the enthusiasm of our youth. If we harness their energy effectively, we can pave the way for a promising future for our nation through the transformative power of youth.
As a young leader, one of the greatest gifts you can offer those you lead is inspiration. Inspire confidence in a brighter tomorrow, instill the belief that the youth hold a promising future in this nation, and foster optimism for parents that their children will encounter opportunities to thrive in this nation.
Reflecting on the wisdom of the ages, it is said that “Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” As people envision a brighter future, their commitment to working today for the betterment of our nation intensifies.
In acknowledging the importance of today’s gathering, let us extend our gratitude to the elders who have guided and supported our youth leaders.It is their support that has paved the way for me to stand before you today, delivering this speech. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without their invaluable encouragement and guidance.
As we seek the next wave of leadership for our nation, I encourage all youth leaders to embrace the challenge and responsibility of rekindling “inspiration” for our youth and communities, leveraging our collective strengths to rebuild more robustly. When the chance to contribute and serve arises, as it does today, let us be courageous and not hesitate. Let us, in essence, “be the change” we aspire to witness in this country and the world.
Finally, I congratulate all those receiving recognition today. Specially I would like to recognise the Presidential Leadership Award winners Senula Deelana of Royal College, Suran Senanayake of Ananda College, 3. Floriginton Dianstith, Kelvin Kisha and Dian Frido of St Michael’s College Batticaloa, Sunera Lanarolle of Colombo Griffins, Geeth Vimanthana Hathurusinghe of Colombo Knights, Melissa Handapangoda of University of Sri Jayawardenapura, Shenuka Dasanayaka of Royal College, Vishalya Weerasinghe of Gothami Balika Vidyalaya,
Indeera Weerasinghe of Mahanama College, Chenuka Elvitigala of Royal College, Thisaru Karunaratne of Colombo Hogwarts, Yewin Sassiru of Thurstan College, Janidu Induwara of Isipathana College, Panthaka Mewan of Colombo Knights, Aaran Sharwa of Hindu College Colombo, Malina Kalupahana of Mahanama College, Kavindu Dehiwala of Ananda College, Kavishka Wijayawardhana of Nawala Metro, S. Harishnthan of Batticaloa, Binuja Umayanga Amaranayaka of Colombo.”
