Message from BOD

Message from the Board of Directors

Rotary Club of Colombo – The First Club of District 3220
(Sri Lanka & Maldives)

The Rotary Club of Colombo holds a proud place in history as the very first Rotary club established in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Our story began on a landmark evening in July, when the charter was signed by our founding leaders — Colonel T.Y. Wright, the Club’s first President and a prominent figure in Ceylon’s European community, together with Hon. Secretary A.B. Woolsam and three other pioneering members. Their signatures marked the beginning of Rotary in our country and set in motion a legacy of fellowship and service that has endured for generations.

As the custodians of this legacy, we, the current Board of Directors, are committed to carrying forward their vision with renewed energy and relevance. Guided by this year’s theme, “Unite for Good,” we seek to strengthen bonds of friendship, promote integrity, and deliver meaningful service projects that uplift communities across Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

From our historic beginnings to our vibrant present, the Rotary Club of Colombo continues to stand as a beacon of leadership and service — uniting people of goodwill to make a lasting difference.

2025 - Logos

About Rotary

Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, problem-solvers represented in over 200 countries across the globe that unite and take action to create lasting change in their communities and beyond.

Rotary-Club-of-Colombo

Who we are?

Our club is one out of 70 Rotary clubs in the Rotary International District 3220 (Sri Lanka & Maldives). The club which was chartered in 1929 as the first club in Ceylon (as it was then known) currently has an active membership of 109 leading businessman and professionals who are engaged in serving the community. The membership also consists of honorary members who are Ambassadors and High Commissioners representing different countries.

What we do?

Through the seven focus areas set by Rotary International namely: Water & Sanitation, Maternal & Child Health, Peace & Conflict Prevention/Resolution; Disease Prevention & Treatment; Basic Education & Literacy; Economic & Community Development and Supporting the Environment – we strive to recognize a need and work towards mobilising solutions to fulfil it.

How can you get involved?

The club is engaged in various humanitarian projects. If you wish to be involved in any of these projects you may get in touch with us to volunteer your time, expertise or your contribution in cash or kind.

What we do

Our club members are champions of hope with a strong passion to serving the community and building fellowship. The following permanent committees meet on a monthly basis to discuss projects and engage in fellowship.

Community Service

This drives the core purpose of the club through projects dedicated to the upliftment of the community at large.

International Service

Fostering friendship throughout the Rotary world and its international partners and helping to bring better understanding across cultures.

Youth Service

Interact and Rotaract are the youth arms of Rotary International. Nurturing these future leaders to become responsible change agents of tomorrow.

Vocational Service

Providing opportunities to those needing a helping hand to improve their vocation or to learn a new one and recognizing exemplary public service.

We have helped tens of thousands of people over the years

119
Members
2374
Projects
600000
Beneficiaries
50
Million USD Value of projects