Social Involvement

As the Chief Guest of the Evening Session of INCO 25th June 2011   

Welcome - INCO Chairman, Mr. Malawaraarachchi, IIESL President, Mr. Upali Gunawardena, Chairperson of Ladies Circle, Ms. Nalinie Amarasinghe and Past President of IIESL, Mr. Anton Peiris 

With Mr. Shantha Senarath, Past President of IIESL

The speech deliverd at INCO 2011, organized by the Ladies Circle of IIESL on 25th June 2011

Good evening everyone, it is with utmost pleasure that I address this gathering, this very special community that is the Ladies Circle of the Institution of Incorporated Engineers. At this moment, my mind runs years back down the memory lane, to the founding moment of this unique section of the IIESL, which even today, shines with novelty within this professional body, acting as its live wire, assisting all its endeavours and giving moral support.

Most of the council members being male, there arose a necessity of forming a separate branch consisting of wives and children of the council members, in the hope of building a community rich in common interests and values, consisting of individuals who could understand each other in a better way. I am proud to say that we have pioneered an organization that helps to bridge the gap between family and profession, creating a healthy environment for interaction and sharing.

Having said that, I consider it as a great honour to be with you all  today, having witnessed the immense success and growth you have enjoyed, since the inception of the Ladie’s circle, through the dedication of you all. I am happy to state that it is your effort that has made the annual INCO exhibition, very much a family event, by conducting programmes that both entertain and educate women, teenagers and children. Therefore, I would be failing in my duty if I did not say a big thank you to all of you who have made this association what it is today.

As a member of the IIESL council holding posts for more than 10 years, combined with all the other professional commitments, it was a challenging task to balance the role of a mother and a professional, shouldering the huge responsibility of running a family as well as the office. Also, it is understood that the modern world with all its economic complexities requires us women to step out and earn, despite the conventional role we have to play in upbringing and nurturing our families. I believe that up to now I have done justice to all who require my service, managing time and identifying priorities. The support given to me by my family members is equally important.

In this context, I would like to urge from all our young aspiring professionals, especially all the young women who are here today to have a balance approach what ever you do. Prioritize your work depending on circumstances and importance.  Understand and assist IIESL members who devote their time for the development of the institution and the society. 

Lastly, I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to the members of the Ladie’s circle, for their untiring efforts, understanding and patient support extended to fellow members of the IIESL, who spend a major portion of their time and energy for the betterment of the IIESL. Thank you again for strengthening the hearts and hands of the IIESL members in this long journey.