Record-breaking human mosaic

Amalshan GUNERATHNE

Last week was buzzing with stories of the adventurous feat achieved by British Council’s Global Changemakers. Bustling with youthful exuberance and energy, they made their voices heard by bringing 1500 young souls together to form the largest ever human mosaic in the world. The mosaic was formed to demonstrate the word ‘YOUTH’. The grand feat was symbolic of the unity, strength and vigor that fuel Sri Lankan youth.

The feat took Sri Lanka to the Guineas Book of World Records. Sarah Jameel, Lihini Ratwatte, Sulakshana Senanayake, Sikander Shabeer and Mohomed Husni, five young dynamic souls from British Council ‘Global Changemakers’ organised the event in celebration of the International Youth Day. The event also aimed at promoting social activism and volunteerism among youth.

The event was organized within just 9 days, making it an even greater achievement. Speaking at the event Sulakshana Senanayake, a vibrant activist from the Changemakers enthusiastically expressed, “I am extremely delighted to have achieved this extraordinary feat. We set out to make a mark in the history of youth activism in Sri Lanka and I think we achieved this by showing the power, unity and the strength that the youth posses if we work together. We hope this will inspire more youth in Sri Lanka to engage in activism and volunteerism and always know that nothing is impossible. Do not be afraid to dream big.”

The Guinness World Record Committee, headed by Dr Geethanjana Mendis, National Coordinator for the Guinness World Records, announced and adjudicated the event. The previous record belonged to France where they formed a mosaic with 1250 people.

Making a special announcement at the event, Acting Country Director, British Council Sri Lanka, Kishore Roy said, “The British Council is extremely proud of the achievement of these young Global Changemakers. It is indeed remarkable to have witnessed history in the making. I congratulate each and everyone, including the partners, sponsors, and youth organizations who supported us and helped us to make this a reality.”

Many Youth Service Organizations including, National Youth Services Council, Leo Sri Lanka, SLMUN, Rotaract, Interact, AIESEC, IYV+10 and the Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association partnered with British Council to turn the event in to a success.