COLOMBO – Rotaract in RID 3220 – Sri Lanka & Maldives has successfully wrapped up the South-East Asia Rotaract Information Centre (SEARIC) Summit 2026, held from September 11 to 13 at the Pegasus Reef Hotel, Colombo. The milestone three-day gathering made history by welcoming over 550 delegates and youth leaders representing 09 Member Countries and 25 + Rotary International Districts, making this the largest SEARIC Summit to date. Over the weekend, the conference served as a powerful platform for cross-border collaboration, leadership development, technological exploration, and regional fellowship.
Commenting on the event, PHF Rtn. Rtr. PP Dr Jude Shannon Lucian said, “SEARIC Summit Sri Lanka 2026 represents over a year of dedicated collaboration across our District. Hosting an international Rotaract event in Sri Lanka has been a long-standing dream for all of us to see it come to life during our tenure was truly humbling. We welcomed over 500 delegates from South and East Asia and beyond to our shores this September, a powerful reflection of the trust our region placed in Sri Lanka to host this milestone gathering. This summit wasn’t just an event; it was a testament to what young leaders can build when we work with purpose and unity.”
The conference opened on Friday, September 11, with team-building activities designed to foster connections among international participants. The official opening ceremony later that evening featured traditional welcome dances, regional leadership processions, and ceremonial proceedings. Attendees observed a moment of reflection dedicated to Nepal before hearing from key speakers, including Walkers Tours CEO Nalaka Amaratunga, representatives from the Nepal Embassy, MDIO leaders, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau Chairman Dheera Hettiarachchi, and Rotary District Governor of RID 3220 Kumar Sundararaj.
“Events like the SEARIC Summit remind us that the future of our region is in incredibly capable hands. I am continually inspired by the energy, innovation, and unwavering dedication to service demonstrated by our Rotaractors. Together, we are bridging borders and ‘creating lasting impact,’ Dr Jude Shannon Lucian added.
The evening included a panel discussion on post-crisis tourism resilience and hospitality, followed by the preliminary stage of the Mr and Ms SEARIC pageant and a formal welcome dinner.
Saturday’s (September 12) programming highlighted forward-looking innovation and cultural heritage. Participating districts delivered showcases featuring regional music, dance, and cultural presentations. Interactive educational sessions explored the practical applications of artificial intelligence in future careers and social impact initiatives.
The platform also hosted Rotaract Disrupt, a feature showcasing novel, tech-driven solutions designed by young innovators. Following regional leadership discussions, the day concluded with a Grand Finale Gala Night where the final Mr and Ms SEARIC titles were awarded.
The final day, Sunday, September 13, opened with a session led by former Sri Lankan cricketer Jehan Mubarak. The summit then moved into its valedictory and awards ceremony, recognizing exceptional contributions across categories such as district engagement, performance quality, project innovation, and individual leadership. Following official closing remarks from district leadership, delegates concluded the weekend with a guided tour of Colombo and a local shopping excursion.
-Rotaract in RID 3220
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