Last evening, I had the privilege of attending the Centenary Celebrations of the St. Anthony’s College Kandy Old Boys’ Association, Colombo Branch (SACKOBA Colombo), marking one hundred years since its establishment in 1926. For a few hours, I was transported back to a chapter of my life that shaped me far more than I realised at the time. The Colombo Branch has served generations of Antonians by strengthening the connection between old boys and the College while supporting its development over nearly a century.

As I met former teachers, schoolmates and fellow Antonians, I found myself going down memory lane. Old stories resurfaced. Forgotten experiences returned. Most importantly, I was reminded of a simple yet profound truth:

I am who I am today largely because of the grounding I received at St. Anthony’s College.

One of the highlights of the evening was reconnecting with some of my teachers. Among them was our beloved Mathematics teacher, Mr R. N. A. De Silva. During our conversation, I shared a secret with him. I told him that I had modelled my signature on his signature when I was a student. He laughed and replied that he had modelled his signature on that of Rev. Fr. Dom Aiden De Silva.

I was amazed.

It reminded me that legacy often flows through generations in the most unexpected ways. We tend to think of influence as grand speeches or major achievements. Yet often it is transmitted quietly through example, values and everyday interactions that leave an imprint on those who follow.

The evening also reminded me of the many clergy, teachers, coaches and mentors who invested in our lives. Among them was one of our most respected Principals, Rev. Fr. Stephen Abraham. I was delighted to see a tribute I had written about him included in the Centenary publication.

As sportsmen, we always felt encouraged by Fr. Stephen. He had a remarkable ability to connect with students while maintaining high standards. I still remember the words he shared when I was appointed a prefect. He explained that the word prefect originated from the Latin praefectus and challenged us to become exemplary role models for those we led.

At the time, it seemed like a simple message. Today, I recognise it as one of the earliest leadership lessons I ever received.

Leadership begins with personal example.

Looking back, I realise that many of the most important lessons I learnt at school were never part of the formal curriculum.

The rugby field taught me teamwork, resilience and discipline.

Athletics taught me perseverance and the pursuit of excellence.

The Boy Scouts movement taught me service and self-reliance.

The prefectship taught me responsibility and leadership.

These lessons became invaluable as I entered the corporate world. Although I did not qualify for university through the traditional route, the foundations laid at St. Anthony’s enabled me to navigate challenges, develop confidence and embrace lifelong learning. Those same foundations helped me pursue higher education later in life, culminating in a Master’s Degree in Business and a Doctorate in Organisational Change. Along the way, they contributed to achievements such as winning the CIM Gold Medal for the best results in the world and eventually becoming a Director of the John Keells Group at the age of twenty-seven. Looking back, I realise that my journey is a reminder that success is not always determined by how we begin, but by the values, character and commitment to continuous growth that we develop along the way.

Yesterday’s celebrations also reminded me how fortunate I have been to have had opportunities to give back to the institution that gave me so much. Several years ago, I had the privilege of facilitating a strategic planning process that brought together old boys, parents and other stakeholders to shape a shared vision for the future of the College. I was touched to see that contribution acknowledged in the Centenary publication.

As I reflected on it, I was struck by a sense of coming full circle.

The College had invested in me through its clergy, teachers, coaches and countless others who believed in the potential of their students. Being able to contribute, however modestly, felt like an opportunity to return a small portion of what I had received.

Increasingly, I have come to realise that purposefulness is not simply about achieving success or finding one’s calling. It is about conducting ourselves, and perhaps even dedicating our lives, for the flourishing of life.

That is exactly what so many of our clergy and teachers at St. Anthony’s did. They worked for the flourishing of our lives. They saw possibilities in us before we saw them in ourselves. They challenged us, encouraged us and helped shape the people we would become.

Perhaps the greatest way we can honour their legacy is not merely through remembrance or celebration. It is by paying it forward. By using our talents, experience and influence to help others flourish. By becoming for someone else what our teachers, mentors and leaders were for us.

For me, that is one of the deepest expressions of living purposefully.

Reflection

Who are the people and institutions that helped shape the person you have become?

And how are you paying forward the investment they made in your life?