Monday Dec 29, 2025
Monday Dec 29, 2025
Monday, 29 December 2025 04:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
By Amira Cader
The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Wellawatte and JCI Kitakyushu of Japan marked a historic milestone as the two sister chapters celebrated their 50th anniversary of partnership ceremony held at the Radisson Colombo recently .The event brought together officials, members, past presidents and a six-member delegation from Japan, led by the President of JCI Kitakyushu Akinori Masatomi.
The celebration began with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, symbolising unity and continued cooperation. This was followed by a recitation of the JCI Creed, Mission and Vision, reaffirming the global organisation’s commitment to positive change.
In her welcome speech, JCI Wellawatte President JCI Inshira Isphahani, highlighted the significance of the half-century relationship:
“Today we celebrate not only 50 years of partnership but 50 years of trust, shared values and tireless work for our communities. The bond between Wellawatte and Kitakyushu has stood strong across generations, enriched by friendship, cultural exchange and service to humanity.”
She extended warm gratitude to the visiting delegation and acknowledged the tremendous support JCI Kitakyushu has provided Sri Lanka over the decades.
JCI Kitakyushu President Akinori Masatomi reflected on the longstanding cooperation.
“Our sister chapter relationship is a model of what international friendship can achieve. From humanitarian donations to educational development, our chapters have grown together with a shared sense of duty. As we celebrate five decades, we reaffirm our commitment to continue supporting Sri Lanka and strengthening the bridge between our nations.”
A special video message was delivered by President of JCI Kitakyushu in 1975 JCI Senator Ryutaro Fukamachi, who played a key role during the founding years of the sister chapter relationship. He reflected on the growth of the partnership and commended both chapters for preserving the legacy.
Former JCI Kitakyushu (2015) President Toshihiro Komori also conveyed his congratulations and appreciation for the enduring relationship.
An important moment of the evening was the presentation of the Certificate of Provisional Membership of JCI Sri Lanka to the National President JC Sandun Weerasinghe.
JCI Sri Lanka National President Sandun Weerasinghe noted, “This milestone is not only about the past 50 years. It is about renewing our promise for the next 50. The collaboration between our chapters stands as a beacon of international unity and youth leadership.”
The event also revisited key contributions made by JCI Kitakyushu over the years, including:
These contributions were acknowledged during the speeches as examples of the tangible impact created through the sister chapter relationship.
World President of JCI (1989) and President of JCI Wellawatte (1975) JCI Senator Isfahani Sameen delivered a heartfelt message:
“When we signed this sister chapter agreement five decades ago, we envisioned a partnership rooted in service and understanding. Today, seeing how it has flourished, I am deeply proud. The younger generations now carry this torch forward with renewed strength and purpose.”
Sameen also recalled a memorable moment from his tenure when he met the Japanese Prime Minister of the time regarding Sri Lanka’s gift of two elephants to Kitakyushu.
He highlighted how this gesture, made purely out of friendship and goodwill, continues to be cherished by the people of Kitakyushu even today. “No money was involved it was an exchange of respect, trust and mutual understanding between our two chapters and our two nations,” he said, reminding the audience of the depth of the relationship built over decades.
The ceremony also recognised and honoured the past Presidents of JCI Wellawatte, acknowledging their unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions throughout the years. Each leader was thanked for shaping the chapter’s legacy and strengthening the foundation upon which the 50-year partnership stands.
Symbolic gifts were exchanged between the two chapters, marking mutual respect and appreciation. As the evening came to a close, attendees celebrated not only the memory of 50 years of unity but also the beginning of a new chapter of cooperation, goodwill and shared vision between Sri Lanka and Japan.
