President's Message

Our patroness Mrs Deepika Dassanayake, Vice patroness, Mrs Ranmalee Balasooriya, Manager of our school, Mrs Leonie Seneviratne, The OGA representative on the governing body, Mrs Anila dias bandaranaike, immediate past president, Mrs Chantal de saram, colleagues on the committee and fellow members,

I thank God for giving me this opportunity to serve in our association, It is truly an honour to stand before you today as I take on the role of President of the OGA of our esteemed school.
I am deeply humbled by the trust and confidence you have placed in me, and I step into this position with gratitude, pride, and a profound sense of responsibility.

Our Association exists with clear and meaningful objectives — and they are more relevant today than ever before. We are here to promote goodwill and fellowship, to unite old girls across generations, across borders, across every difference that might divide us. No matter where we live or what we do, LC remains our common thread.

And we are here to lend a helping hand — through trusts, foundations, and funds — especially to those of our members who are in need or in vulnerable situations.

We are blessed with an extraordinary alumni network — a powerhouse of talent, skill, wisdom, and experience. I see this as one of our greatest strengths. Together, we have the ability to make a real difference — to support one another not just in times of celebration, but also in times of struggle.

To our members, this is a journey we must take together. My committee and i most certainly will depend on your support, encouragement, your enthusiasm and cooperation to complete the work we must do in this tenure. Your spirited participation in all OGA events will be the key to success and it will be greatly appreciated.

Today, we also acknowledge two very special women who have served our school and this association with distinction.

First, our Patron, Deepika, who retires.

After a year that will forever be etched in the memory of every LCite. The 125th anniversary celebrations were nothing short of spectacular — a dazzling display of unity, tradition, and pride. It was a year that reminded us why Ladies’ College continues to lead the way, setting trends and inspiring others to follow. Deepika, you taught us that celebrating our legacy is not just about looking back, but about carrying forward the spirit of LC into everything we do.

We also pay tribute to our Vice Patron, Ranmalee, who will be retiring after giving an incredible 28 years of teaching service to Ladies’ College. She is not only one of the finest teachers of GRC and English in the country but also a beloved mentor who has shaped generations of students with her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering dedication. Her quiet strength, deep commitment to her students, and passion for teaching have left an indelible mark on our school community. As she steps down, we celebrate her immense contribution to education and to the spirit of Ladies’ College — a true embodiment of service, excellence, and grace.

My sincere thanks to our outgoing President, Chantal De saram, Your dedication, your tireless commitment, and your unwavering love for Ladies’ College have guided this association with strength and grace. You have steered us through challenges and triumphs, and you leave behind a legacy that inspires us to do even more. On behalf of all of us, thank you for your remarkable service — you have set the bar high, and I hope to build on all that you have achieved.

To the outgoing committee i thank you sincerely on behalf of myself and the association, for the countless hours of work, and for the passion and energy you all poured into every initiative.

I also want to take a moment to remember our past Presidents of the OGA, since its inception in 1909. Each one of them gave their time, energy, and love to this Association. Their commitment and hard work have shaped the OGA into what it is today — a vibrant and respected organisation that continues to grow with every passing year. We stand on the shoulders of these women, and it is because of their vision and perseverance that we are able to dream even bigger dreams  for the future.

I am especially grateful to the wonderful group of women who will be joining me on my committee. I know that saying ‘yes’ to this role is no small thing — it is a commitment of time, energy, and heart. Over the next two years, we will work hard, side by side, but we will also work with joy. We will work as one team, in true camaraderie, supporting one another through challenges and celebrating our successes together. Most of all, I hope we will enjoy ourselves, because this is not just work — it is an opportunity to create memories, build friendships, and leave our own mark on the history of the OGA

As I take on this new chapter, my vision is simple: to ensure that every old girl knows she belongs, that she is seen, and that she is supported. To deepen the bond we share as LCites. To make this association not just a name, but a living, breathing community that uplifts each one of us.

One line in our school hymn reminds us that we are One Family, Unbroken. Today, as I look at all of you, I feel the truth of those words. We may be separated by age, profession, geography, and circumstance — but we are bound together by something powerful, something enduring the spirit of Ladies College.

Let us take that spirit forward with loyalty, with service, with dignity and with love - for our school, for each other, and for generations to come.

In closing, I would like to leave you with a quote that has inspired me and one that I believe encapsulates the essence of our association: "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Let us work together, support one another, and make a difference in the lives of our members and our community.
Thank you once again and God bless you all.

Anjali Karunaratne
President