RSSL Shines at Ceylona 2024 International Girl Guides Camp
The Radio Society of Sri Lanka (RSSL) proudly participated in the Ceylona 2024 International Girl Guides Camp, held at Ibbagamuwa Central College, Kurunegala, from August 18th to 23rd. This remarkable event brought together 2000 Girl Guides from across all nine provinces of Sri Lanka, alongside 200 leaders, and 450 international Guides and leaders from nine countries.
RSSL was honored to host an exhibition booth, showcasing the fascinating world of amateur radio. Our booth served as a dynamic platform for demonstrating radio operations, educating attendees on the significance of amateur radio, and offering hands-on experiences through interactive sessions.
A dedicated team of RSSL volunteers stepped up to the challenge, showing incredible commitment and passion. Yohan SWL made the journey from Horowpathana, closing his shop for five days to act as the custodian of the station, ensuring everything ran smoothly. Nuwan 4S6NRE, leaving his young family behind, and Varuna 4S6VNN, who paused his daily work, both contributed tirelessly to the exhibition stall. Young enthusiast Ravindu 4S6RVD from Kurunegala also played a key role, assisting with QSOs, equipment installation, and even making contacts via Echolink.
The inaugural day saw Varuna, Nuwan, Ravindu, and Tharanga 4S6TMP setting up the HF and VHF communications equipment, laying the groundwork for a successful event. Throughout the camp, members like Tithira 4S6TKA balanced their professional duties while demonstrating radio operations, and Ranjith 4S5RM provided valuable insights into the Amateur Service to the Girl Guides.
We also had the pleasure of seeing Kamal 4S7AB and his junior engaging with the Guides, while Senevi 4S7MD, coming from Kuliyapitiya, showcased not only amateur radio but also other communication methods, creating a truly enriching experience for the participants.
Jaliya 4S7JL and Mithsukha 4S6MKM were instrumental in both supporting the RSSL station and assisting other stalls, with Jaliya playing a vital role in the event’s overall success. Special thanks go to Prarthana 4S7PL and Nayomi 4S7NL, who, being part of the camp’s organizing committee, ensured that our team had everything they needed to thrive.
A milestone achievement was the securing of an Amateur Radio Club License for the Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association by our Secretary, Victor 4S7VK. This allowed the Guides to operate under the 4S7GGA callsign during the camp, further amplifying the reach and impact of our station.
The RSSL Council of Management extends its heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, operators, and hams who supported the 4S7GGA Station, both locally and internationally. We are confident that our efforts have inspired many to explore the world of amateur radio, and we look forward to welcoming new enthusiasts to the Amateur Service. Special appreciation also goes to Ms. Nadishani Jayarathna and the SLGGA organizers for their seamless coordination and support.
Our tireless volunteering effort has once again kept the RSSL flag flying high. Let’s continue to build on this momentum and inspire the next generation of amateur radio operators!
