Ms. Chethana Wickrama Arachchi of CodeGen International PVT LTD

The inaugural session of the Volunteer Training Series, titled "Introduction to Program Team," provided a comprehensive overview of the roles and responsibilities of a program team within an event's organizational structure. The session was designed to equip volunteers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively contribute to the success of any event.

The speaker began by defining the program team and its crucial role in the event planning and execution process. Emphasis was placed on the specific skills expected from program team members, including organizational abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail.

The session covered a wide range of topics, including:

• High-Level Planning: Understanding the importance of setting a high-level agenda and how it serves as the backbone of any event.
• Extended Planning: Delving into the detailed planning process, including the finalization of plans through discussions and collaboration.
• Engaging with Speakers and Invitees: Best practices for reaching out to and managing communication with event speakers and invitees.
• Execution Plans: Developing a detailed execution plan, breaking down tasks, and assigning responsibilities to ensure a smooth event flow.
• Event Day Management: Tips on managing day-of-event activities, including risk management strategies to address unforeseen challenges.
• Post-Event Discussions: Conducting effective post-event discussions to reflect on the event's success and identify areas for improvement.

To enhance understanding, the session included a practical exercise where participants planned an event—a magazine launch ceremony—using Google Jamboard. This hands-on activity allowed participants to apply the concepts discussed and gain a deeper understanding of the planning process.

The speaker also shared insights from her experience in planning a large-scale event, the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Congress, to inspire and motivate the participants. Her real-world examples highlighted the importance of meticulous planning and teamwork in executing successful events.

Overall, the session provided valuable knowledge and practical skills to the volunteers, laying a strong foundation for their future roles in organizing IEEE events.

Biography:

Ms. Chethana Wickrama Arachchi is an exemplary leader whose journey in IEEE volunteering began as the Event Coordinator of the Women in Engineering Affinity Group at IEEE Uva Wellassa University. Her dedication and leadership were pivotal to the success of numerous initiatives, most notably the 5th edition of Sri Lanka’s first girls-only hackathon, SHECODERess v5.0. This landmark event stands as a testament to her ability to manage and execute large-scale projects with precision and passion.

In 2022, Ms. Chethana Wickrama Arachchi took on the role of Program Lead for the 3rd edition of IMPETUS magazine. Under her leadership, the team navigated significant challenges, including the production of the magazine's first physical edition and the successful organization of two all-island competitions—both of which were first-time achievements for the magazine. Her ability to steer the team through these obstacles with grace and efficiency speaks volumes about her leadership and problem-solving skills.

Ms. Chethana Wickrama Arachchi's influence extended beyond IEEE. During her university years, she played a key role in revitalizing AIESEC at Uva Wellassa University and led the Mozilla Club as Club Lead, further demonstrating her commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaging student community. Her multifaceted contributions did not go unnoticed, and she was aptly chosen as the Program Lead for the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Student | Young Professionals | Women in Engineering Congress 2023—the largest event organized by the IEEE Sri Lanka Section. Her leadership in this role solidified her reputation as a driving force within the IEEE community.

Despite her extensive involvement in extracurricular activities, Ms. Chethana Wickrama Arachchi maintained an exceptional academic record, emerging as one of the highest GPA achievers in her class. Her academic excellence, coupled with her outstanding leadership and organizational skills, paved the way for her current position as a Software Engineer at the prestigious software company, CodeGen International PVT LTD.

Ms. Chethana Wickrama Arachchi is a shining example of how dedication, hard work, and a passion for volunteering can lead to both personal and professional success. Her journey continues to inspire many, and her contributions to the IEEE and broader student community are truly commendable.

Email:

Address:Colombo, Sri Lanka, 00100