Aruni Boteju

Aruni Boteju is the founder/Chairman and CEO of the Ceylon International Film Festival in Santa Barbara, California. Widely known for its rich art, culture, and classical dance forms, South Asia has produced an abundance of talent in a variety of sectors. Aruni Botheju is not only known for her grace, poise, and hard work but also for promoting classical dance forms on the international platform, captivating Western audiences, and increasing their interest in exploring the roots of these forms. "If you study dance as a subject, then that is more limited to theoretical concepts. You practice to experience it. But when you dance too freely, it's very spiritual and divine. Learning new types of dancing styles and music helps you to learn about other cultures and doing it you become part of that culture. You just have to embrace it with all your heart".she said. Social service work is second nature for Aruni. She started off with the Santa Barbara Domestic Violence High Tea Committee in 2014. Their goal was to raise funds to help the organization which worked to help abused women and children. "I was a board member to both Spirit of Women Entrepreneurship organization and Women Economic Ventures, where we had many opportunities to help and encourage women and empower them to achieve their dreams. I believe wholeheartedly in empowering women. I also volunteered for the Sri Lanka Foundation in 2003. I conducted the first Sri Lankan traditional dance classes in Southern California to promote the culture among the Sri Lankan -American children," she said. Together with Direct Relief Aruni has shipped thousands of dollars worth of equipment and, Covid-19 medicine to Sri Lanka. She is currently working on a project to construct a Mobile ICU Unit to save lives. November 25, 2021 She's a board member for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Santa Barbara. We focus on community development projects. As a member of Santa Barbara Rotarian, I am focusing on teen involvement in the community. I am looking forward to working with International Rotarians to create a difference. She is an AVP in Banking Sector in Small Business Lending. A California State Director for Sri Lankan American Chamber of Commerce.