Life style

Leaving no woman behind

Published

5 years ago

2021/03/7

As International Women’s Day falls tomorrow (March 8), we spoke to several trendsetting women whose physical disabilities have not dampened their spirits but spurred them to overcome their challenges. These courageous women urge all fellow Lankan women to join hands with them in a journey of empowerment.

by Randima Attygalle

“I gained knowledge with my ‘Head’, skills with my ‘Hands’ and developed good attitudes with my ‘Heart”, says Manique Gunaratne, Manager, Specialized Training and Disability Resource Centre of the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC). The vision impaired internationally renowned advocate’s words echo poet Maya Angelou’s words of inspiration, ‘a wise woman wishes to be no one’s enemy; a wise woman refuses to be anyone’s victim.’ Manique who lost her vision in her late twenties to Retinitis Pigmentosa is today a committed leader improving the lives of persons with disabilities. A highly skilled ICT professional who trains people with disabilities to be IT- savvy, her efforts to enhance the quality of lives of such people have been recognized by various global platforms to be having a significant impact on inclusive economic development as well.

Driving the EFC’s Specialized Training and Disability Resource Centre which rests on the concept of ‘nothing about us without us,’ Manique translates it to all her efforts in empowering women and men with disabilities to be independent in society. “I’m really happy about who I am today. As a woman with a disability I was able to reach the top professionally. Today I’m committed to empower my fellow women, so that they can also enjoy a leadership role.”

Working strongly on the ‘5-Ds’ is her success, says Manique who urges all women to take a cue from her mantra to overcome challenges. “Dream- Desire- Determination-Dedication and Discipline’ can do wonders,” she reflects. Women without disability can play a huge role in joining hands with women with disability to become proactive partners of a journey together, she believes. “Always include women with disabilities in all your agendas because they are part of you.” She goes on to note that women with disabilities should also be included in all policy-making committees and task forces. “Even the National Committee for Women does not have a single woman with a disability. We need to change this trend,” she says.

Self pity is our worst enemy, and if we yield to it, we can never do anything wise in this world,

said Hellen Keller, the American author and disability rights activist. Inspired by these words, Vasantha Padmini from Ambalangoda has turned adversity into opportunity. Vision impaired from birth, Vasantha, 53, a mother of three, is a professional Hindi translator and a gifted musician. She has translated nearly 15 books of reputed Indian authors to Sinhala. A lover of Latha Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle and Mohammed Rafi, Vasantha sings and plays the violin.

With bare minimum resources both as a schoolgirl and later as an undergraduate at the Kelaniya University where she read Hindi, Sinhala and Translation Methods, Vasantha lobbies for wider study material in Braille both at school and university. “Every vision impaired person should be able to access all his/her subjects of choice in Braille,” says Vasantha recounting her student days experience of learning with the help of her mother and friends who used to read the notes out to her. Her determination to master Hindi at the university with just a handful of Braille material offers inspiration to many who would easily abandon their dreams.

Vasantha who became a visiting lecturer of Hindi at the Kelaniya University was fortunate to see her younger daughter following her footsteps. “Although I could not become a full-time lecturer due to my disability, my daughter completed my dream for me by becoming a Hindi lecturer. My elder daughter is a teacher and my son runs his own business,” beams Vasantha.

A woman who believes that learning transcends age, she is now learning the ropes of the ‘virtual world’. She is constantly updating her knowledge with the help of the on-line Braille material. “Keeping one’s mind engaged helps to overcome physical disability,” says this gritty woman who is working on several translations. She met her future husband when she was teaching music at the Batapola Central College and has proven herself a successful wife and a mother. Her husband and three children, all blessed with vision, make her world complete. “However, not everyone with a disability is as fortunate as I,” reflects this multi-talented woman who is vocal about the rights of the less fortunate. “Life is unpredictable, anyone can become disabled at any time, hence women without disability should be more sensitive to the needs of the disabled. What is required is not sympathy but empowerment so that their sisters could become equal partners contributing to national development.”

Time has certainly made watch-mending Nisha Shariff from Kandy a resilient woman. A wheelchair user, Nisha runs her watch repair business in the Kandy town. Having learned the trade at the Ragama Rehabilitation Centre, Nisha strives to share her knowledge by mentoring others. “There is still no other vocational centre which trains people to repair watches despite this being an essential service. If any such centre is willing to use my skills, I’ll be more than happy to share because this is a skill which can easily be acquired by especially those with disability,” smiles Nisha. She has her own loyal customers whose first impressions of her is quite amusing. “First question they ask me is where my husband is, assuming I’m only an assistant. When I say I have no husband and I run the shop, they are quite impressed,” she chuckles.

Having set up We for Rights, an organization dedicated to the cause of those with disabilities, Nisha’s ultimate dream is to see it expanding across the island. Having learnt the alphabet only at 18, she reads and writes Sinhala well. She is also fluent in Tamil. A woman ever willing to challenge herself, Nisha is self-studying English with the help of online teaching material. Her latest challenge is teaching watch mending to a young boy with an intellectual disability. “He has progressed considerably,” beams Nisha.

An activist who labours to galvanize like-minded men and women to empower those with disabilities and help them to stand on their own feet, Nisha is critical about discrimination at every level. “Very often women with disabilities are treated only as exhibits; policies are made for us without our voices being heard. It is very sad that even on Women’s Day, there is hardly national level representation of women in our predicament. We are confined largely to Social Services which should not be the case because we are active partners in the economy and our expertise should be made use of at every level.”

An accident in Germany where she worked 17 years ago paralyzed Nelum Perera. Wheelchair bound, she sought refuge in art. “I’ve always been good at drawing but I never pursued it seriously. It was only after my accident, and when I was 50, that I started learning art professionally,” recollects Nelum who works with both acrylic on canvas and water colours. Lack of disable-friendly toilet facilities is one of the main bottlenecks which prevents her from exhibiting her work at leading art exhibitions in the country. “I’m often pushed to become only a spectator at these exhibitions as there is no suitable infrastructure for people like us to sell our work at open fairs,” says Nelum. She also finds it difficult to source her art material due to high prices. “I’d be grateful to anyone who can visit me and purchase my work or help find potential buyers,” adds the artist.

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Life style

Beauty of Sri Lanka in focus: Global showcase blends art, diplomacy and conservation

Published

5 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

Ambassador Jovita Neliupsiene, Head of the EU Delegation to the US, and Mahinda Samarasinghe, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the US, joined a special viewing of the exhibition

By Ifham Nizam

The sixth edition of the “Beauty of Sri Lanka” Photography Exhibition is set to unfold across North America this April, transforming the power of visual storytelling into a compelling platform for cultural diplomacy, environmental advocacy and nation branding.

Organised by the America Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society in collaboration with key diplomatic and institutional partners, including the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C., the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Los Angeles and Toronto, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, the exhibition will run from April 22 to May 4 across Los Angeles, Toronto, New York and Washington, D.C.

Held in conjunction with Earth Day, the exhibition continues to evolve as a globally recognised initiative that brings together art, conservation and international engagement. What began as a photography showcase has now matured into a dynamic soft-power platform that tells Sri Lanka’s story to the world—through its landscapes, biodiversity, and deeply rooted cultural heritage.

Photographers from Sri Lanka at Nigara State Park

The 2026 tour will feature prestigious venues that reflect its growing international stature. These include the iconic Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International, Metro Hall in Toronto—marking the exhibition’s debut in Canada—the Permanent Mission in New York, and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., as part of the widely celebrated Passport D.C. event. Each venue represents not only a geographic expansion but also a widening of the exhibition’s global audience and influence.

Exhibition

At its heart, “Beauty of Sri Lanka” is a vivid narrative of a nation’s natural and cultural wealth. From the mist-covered central highlands and pristine coastal belts to dense rainforests teeming with endemic wildlife, the exhibition captures Sri Lanka’s ecological richness through the lenses of talented photographers. These images serve as both an invitation to explore and a reminder of the urgent need to protect fragile ecosystems.

This year’s programme takes a significant step further by integrating real-world environmental action. The “ReTree Los Angeles” initiative, launched in line with Earth Day, focuses on tree planting, urban restoration and community engagement. It also includes a children’s painting competition aimed at fostering environmental awareness among the younger generation. Organisers believe that nurturing creativity at an early age can instil a lifelong commitment to conservation.

Adding a scientific dimension to the event, Dr. Sarath Gunapala will deliver the keynote address on “The Journey of Infrared Photography,” exploring how advanced imaging techniques can reveal unseen dimensions of the natural world. His participation highlights the exhibition’s interdisciplinary approach, where art meets science to deepen understanding and appreciation.

The exhibition will also feature a vibrant cultural segment designed to immerse international audiences in Sri Lanka’s living traditions. A carefully curated lineup of performances—including the sacred Wes Pooja, the dramatic Naga Raksha mask dance, the rhythmic Thelme ritual dance and the light-hearted Salu Paliya—will bring to life the island’s folklore, rituals and performing arts heritage. These performances are expected to add colour, rhythm and emotional depth to the visual experience offered by the photographic displays.

ASPAS President Suria Perera emphasised that the exhibition is more than a display of images. “It is a celebration of Sri Lanka’s identity—its natural beauty, its cultural vibrancy, and its responsibility to future generations,” she said. “Through photography and community engagement, we aim to inspire a deeper connection between people and the environment.”

Over the years, the exhibition has drawn a diverse audience, including diplomats, policymakers, conservationists, art collectors and members of the Sri Lankan diaspora. Its ability to connect these varied groups underscores its role as a bridge between cultures, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding while strengthening Sri Lanka’s global presence.

The continued support of diplomatic missions, cultural institutions and tourism authorities has been instrumental in elevating the exhibition’s profile. Their collaboration reinforces the role of art as a powerful tool in shaping perceptions, building partnerships and promoting sustainable tourism.

As the 2026 edition prepares to open its doors, “Beauty of Sri Lanka” stands as a testament to the island nation’s enduring appeal and its commitment to conservation. It is not merely an exhibition, but a movement—one that celebrates beauty, inspires responsibility and connects Sri Lanka to the world through the universal language of art.

Life style

Vibrant celebration of tradition and togetherness

Published

5 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

This holiday season, City of Dreams Sri Lanka invites guests to step into the heart of a truly Sri Lankan celebration with Signature Avurudu—a four-day cultural experience taking place.

Blending time-honoured traditions with contemporary flair, the festivities promise to capture the spirit of the Aluth Avurudda (Sinhala and Tamil New Year) in all its colour, rhythm, and warmth. From the moment guests arrive, they will be welcomed into a space transformed with festive décor, echoing the charm of a village celebrations brought to life in the city.

At the centre of the celebration is the Pahan Pujava, a symbolic lamp lighting ceremony led by the management, setting a tone of unity, prosperity, and new beginnings. This meaningful ritual reflects the essence of the New Year—a time to pause, reflect, and step into the new year with hope and positivity.

Throughout the four days, guests can experience the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka through a series of traditional performances. The rhythmic beats of raban and drums, alongside vibrant dance acts, will fill the air, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and celebratory. Adding to the experience are elegantly dressed Sri Lankan hostesses, offering a warm, authentic welcome that embodies the island’s renowned hospitality.

No Avurudu celebration is complete without its flavours, and City of Dreams Sri Lanka delivers a feast to remember. Guests can indulge in an array of traditional sweets and savouries, alongside curated Avurudu-themed buffets and creative beverages inspired by local ingredients. Passing canapés and festive treats ensure there is something to enjoy at every turn—whether you’re reminiscing over childhood favourites or discovering new twists on beloved classics.

Designed as a celebration for all, Signature Avurudu brings together families, friends, and visitors from around the world to share in the joy of the season. It is a reminder that Avurudu is more than a festival—it is a feeling of togetherness, renewal, and shared happiness.

This April, celebrate the sights, sounds, and tastes of Avurudu at City of Dreams Sri Lanka—where tradition meets modern celebration, and every moment feels like home.

Life style

Thomian sailors secure many medals in India

Published

5 days ago

2026/04/12

Thilina Walpola

Thomian sailors witj official

Students of S. Thomas’ College recently demonstrated commendable performance at two international sailing events held in India: the inaugural Indian Sailing Regatta and the 4th North-East Regatta. Both events featured participation from foreign teams, including Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Malaysia, Russia, Great Britain, South Korea, Singapore, and India.

The inaugural Indian Sailing League (ISL), held at Umiam Lake, Shillong, India, marked a significant milestone in the sport and was prominently featured in The Times of India. The ISL is a first-of-its-kind franchise-based sailing league, bringing together 14 teams, 182 sailors, and 58 international participants from eight countries.

The ISL follows a concept similar to the Cricket Indian Premier League, where top sailors are “bid” and selected into franchise teams representing different regions. The competition introduced an innovative team-based format in which the best sailor from each team in each category competed, combining multiple race formats such as fleet racing, team racing, marathon races, and rig-and-race challenges. This pioneering structure, widely regarded as a first in global sailing history, has significantly enhanced the spectator appeal and competitive depth of the sport, while promoting youth, women, and high-performance sailing on a single platform.

At the first Indian Sailing Regatta, in the Boys’ Optimist category, Haren Wickramatillake secured 3rd place and was also awarded a special medal for his courage during the rig and race event. Dhiren Perera achieved 3rd place in the rig and race event alongside his team member.

At the 4th North-East Regatta, performances continued to be noteworthy. In the Main Optimist Boys category, Haren Wickramatillake was placed 6th, while Shem Fernando secured 19th place out of 32 participants. In the Junior Green Fleet Optimist Boys category, Anuruth Tennakoon achieved 2nd place and Dhiren Perera was placed 4th out of 10 participants. In the ILCA 4 Boys category, Akaine Ubayasiri was placed 11th out of 22 participants.

These achievements highlight the high level of skill, determination, and sportsmanship demonstrated by the young sailors, while also reflecting Sri Lanka’s strong presence in an emerging and globally significant sailing platform.

Upcoming international sailing events, featuring students of S. Thomas’ College, include the Asian Beach Games 2026, to be held in China ,in April 2026, and the International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) competition, scheduled to take place at Port City, in Sri Lanka, in December 2026. These events will provide valuable international exposure and further opportunities for the young college sailors to compete at a high level.