At the Gampaha Reconciliation Center, children aged 8 to 11 embark on an exciting journey of learning English, with a special focus on engaging them in practical activities. These sessions are designed not only to teach language skills but also to make learning enjoyable. The approach involves interactive lessons, where children are encouraged to actively participate, making learning an immersive experience. This method helps the children grasp basic English concepts more effectively, while the joy of discovery keeps them motivated throughout the classes.

Special attention is also given to children with special needs, ensuring they receive the support and understanding they require. We ensure that these children are not left behind, offering delicate and thoughtful guidance that helps them learn at their own pace. By focusing on inclusivity, these English classes create an environment where every child feels valued and empowered to grow, making the learning journey a positive and inclusive one for all.

A memorable highlight in October was the Children’s Day celebration. This event brought an extra layer of excitement to the students as they participated in activities that fostered both camaraderie and learning. The celebration was not just a festive moment but also a meaningful time to reflect on the importance of their education. The joy of the day, complete with cake-cutting and fun-filled activities, added to the children’s sense of belonging and made the classroom environment feel like a second home.

The enthusiasm of children for learning continues to grow with each session. As they gain more confidence in expressing themselves in English, the positive impact extends beyond the classroom. Their newfound skills help them better engage with their schoolwork and daily interactions.

The English classes for mothers at the Gampaha Reconciliation Center have become a vital space for personal growth and development. These sessions are designed to enhance the mothers’ language skills through practical reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. Each class is tailored to engage the participants in real-life scenarios, helping them develop confidence in using English in everyday situations. From reading newspaper articles to discussing daily routines, the learning process is dynamic and interactive, providing a solid foundation for their linguistic progress.

The importance of these classes extends beyond language acquisition. For many of these mothers, learning English opens up new opportunities to communicate more effectively within their communities, pursue work opportunities, and assist their children with schoolwork. The classes also foster a sense of self-confidence, as many of these women had limited exposure to formal education in the past. By mastering new language skills, they not only gain practical abilities but also feel more confident in both their personal and family lives.

These English lessons also create a supportive environment where mothers can learn together, share experiences, and form lasting connections. The focus on practical language skills means that each session is relevant and immediately applicable to their lives, whether it’s interacting with their children’s teachers or navigating public services. Ultimately, these classes at the Gampaha Reconciliation Center are about more than just learning English—they are about building confidence, independence, and a brighter future for these women and their families.

On October 21, 2024, Sri Lanka Unites proudly opened the doors to its new head office in Colombo 8, marking a significant milestone in its journey of fostering peace and reconciliation across the country. The relocation ceremony was a meaningful event, attended by partners, supporters, and staff, all gathered to celebrate this exciting new chapter. As a key partner of Sri Lanka Unites, we were honored to be part of the event, strengthening our mutual bonds and looking forward to new opportunities for collaboration. The move to Colombo 8 signals not just a change in location but also a renewed commitment to expanding the impact of reconciliation and youth empowerment initiatives.

The event was a wonderful occasion to reflect on the shared vision and values that bind us together. As we joined in the celebrations, it became clear that this relocation would pave the way for deeper partnerships and innovative projects. The new office provides an excellent foundation for the important work ahead, and we are excited to see how this move will inspire even greater progress in the efforts of Sri Lanka Unites. It was a pleasure to be part of this momentous day and to continue our journey with them.

On October 4, 2024, we had the privilege of visiting Logos College in Colombo 06 to join their vibrant Children’s Day celebration. As part of the event, we were invited to deliver a speech on the important topic of Self Worth to the enthusiastic students. The session was filled with lively interactions as we discussed the value of recognizing one’s own strengths, talents, and potential. The students eagerly engaged with the message, sharing their thoughts and reflecting on how they could apply these lessons in their daily lives.

The warmth and hospitality we received from the Logos College community made the day even more memorable. Following the speech, the students surprised us with handmade thank-you cards, exoressing their gratitude and creativity. These thoughtful gestures, combined with delicious treats shared during the celebration, created an atmosphere of genuine appreciation and joy, making the experience both touching and inspiring. We are glad that we made a positive impact on their self confidence.

The Children’s Day event at Logos College was more than just a celebration—it was an opportunity to connect with students on a personal level and share a meaningful message about the importance of self-worth. Their excitement and positive response to the session showed how much they valued this moment of learning and reflection. It was truly an unforgettable day, filled with heartfelt interactions and the shared goal of inspiring young minds to believe in themselves and their potential.

We had a productive meeting with the Principal of Logos College to discuss the restart of the SLU Club. The Principal was enthusiastic and more than happy to support the initiative, expressing eagerness to provide the necessary backing to reintegrate the club into the school’s activities. This positive response has paved the way for future collaboration, and plans are now underway to relaunch the SLU Club at Logos College, offering students new opportunities for growth and leadership development.

On October 01, 2024, we visited G.B. Senanayake National School in Ekala to meet with the principal and discuss the timelines for English and ICT classes that will be offered to students. This visit aimed to finalize the details of these sessions, ensuring they align with the school’s academic schedule and the needs of its students. The principal was welcoming to work together, showing great interest in these additional classes as a valuable resource for students’ development.

During the discussion, we covered the potential schedule for both English and ICT classes, identifying optimal days and times that would allow students to participate without interfering with their core subjects. The principal expressed his commitment to supporting the program by providing necessary resources and promoting the classes among students, especially for those who could benefit from extra guidance in English language skills and digital literacy. Together, we mapped out a flexible plan, ensuring it would accommodate as many students as possible.

In October, we continued our English language sessions for the children of Thotalanga, building on the foundations laid in the previous month. These classes are part of our commitment to providing young learners with essential language skills in an enjoyable, supportive environment. To better tailor the curriculum, we introduced a pre-evaluation form at the beginning of the month to assess each child’s initial language proficiency, helping us understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This initial assessment provided valuable insights into their needs, allowing us to shape our approach to maximize their learning experience.

Activities this month included interactive storytelling, simple dialogues, and fun exercises that encourage the kids to express themselves in English. The classroom atmosphere has been lively and positive, as the children actively engage in each activity, showcasing their enthusiasm and determination to learn. Our team’s goal is to make these sessions both educational and enjoyable, ensuring that each child leaves with new knowledge and a smile.

As we continue the classes, we are carefully tracking the children’s progress based on the October pre-evaluation results, which will also guide the lessons in the coming months. The feedback from these sessions has been encouraging, and we look forward to seeing the students reach new milestones. By strengthening their language skills, we hope to broaden their future opportunities and give them the confidence to engage with a wider world.

In Project Roots, we have made significant progress by starting with a comprehensive analysis of the market survey. This helped us identify key trends, challenges, and user needs, laying the foundation for the project. We supplemented the survey data with qualitative insights, which were organized on a Mural board to visualize key themes and ideas. Additionally, we conducted an in-depth analysis of user profiles, creating personas to represent the diverse participants we aim to engage. A study of the cultural framework further enriched our understanding of local dynamics, ensuring that the project is both relevant and impactful.

Building on these insights, we designed the user journey by breaking it into eight major phases to structure participants’ entire experience. These phases are: Pre-departure planning and engagement, Arrival and accommodation, Orientation, Volunteering phase, Cultural learning components, Reflection sessions, Project conclusion and handover, and Final reflection and departure. Each phase outlines the participant’s journey from preparation to wrap-up, ensuring seamless transitions and meaningful engagement at every step. This structure ensures that participants not only contribute to the project but also grow personally through volunteering, cultural learning, and reflection.

To ensure a holistic understanding of each phase, we divided them into focused subsections, including Key Steps, Revenue Drivers, Cost Drivers, Positive and Negative Feelings, Pain Points, and Opportunities. These subsections provide a detailed roadmap of operational aspects and emotional experiences, enabling us to identify challenges and opportunities proactively. With this well-organized journey map, Project Roots is now positioned to proceed with clarity and precision, ensuring that participants’ experiences are enriching while the project delivers sustainable outcomes.

On October 10, 2023, the inauguration of the Indigenous Lepcha Language Class took place in Pudung Village, a significant event aimed at preserving and promoting the Lepcha language and culture. This initiative is a collaborative effort between RLCWS and GFF Helps, reflecting a shared commitment to cultural sustainability within the community. The opening ceremony was attended by the members of RLCWS, GFF Helps India Volunteers Surabhi and Bipasha, Mr. Saom Namchu and community members. Mrs. Jakmit Lepcha has been appointed to teach the Lecpha Language using the “Wangboo Framework” and the Lepcha Language Learning app designed by Mr. Gideon from RLCWS.

Mr. Saom, representing GFF Helps, emphasized the organization’s commitment to promoting and preserving the Lepcha Indigenous language. He called upon all villagers, not just those belonging to the Lepcha community, to engage with this educational opportunity. His message resonated with the theme of inclusivity, underlining that the preservation of language is a communal responsibility that enriches the entire village. To ensure the successful implementation of the language classes, RLCWS has committed to providing all necessary technical support, while GFF Helps will manage logistics, including supplying essential stationary items for students. Both organizations have also pledged to share the financial responsibility for Mrs. Jakmit’s remuneration, ensuring that quality instruction is sustained. This collaborative model highlights the importance of partnership in achieving educational and cultural goals within the community.

On World Elderly Day, which is observed on 1st of October, GFF Helps India celebrated the contributions and well-being of senior citizens by reaching out to elders in the villages of Bong, Chibbo, and Pudung. The event aimed to honor the elderly community and promote their health and happiness. Volunteers from GFF Helps India visited the homes of local elders, offering them Khadaas (traditional scarves) and greeting cards. This gesture not only provided a warm touch but also reinforced the respect and appreciation for the elderly. In addition to the gifts, volunteers Surabhi and Bipasha conducted free blood pressure and blood sugar checkups for the elders. This initiative aimed to promote health awareness and ensure that seniors are monitoring their well-being regularly. The celebration fostered a sense of community and belonging among the elderly, making them feel valued and cared for. The health checkups provided essential insights into their health status, encouraging further medical attention where needed. By combining acts of kindness with health initiatives, the organization contributed positively to the lives of seniors in Bong, Chibbo, and Pudung. DEF Visit to Kalimpong.

Digital empowerment foundation is an NGO that works to bridge the digital divide and empower communities across India. GFF Helps India along with RLCWS aims to collaborate and bring their program to the villages of Kalimpong. On September 26th, the GFF Helps India Volunteers Surabhi Subba and Bipasha, set out for Alipurduar District, joined by the Project Director, Mr Saom and Mr. Zerah from RLCWS. We also met Mr. Atanu, the DEF North Bengal Coordinator, who guided us to the Soochanaprenuer Centres. On the first day we visited Bandapani Tea Estate and Gopalpur tea estate where we met Mrs. Priyanka and Mrs. Oliva. Both of them were successfully running their SP Centres and our team was able to learn a lot about the functioning of these SP Centres. On 27th of September, we travelled to Darjeeling to visit the SP Centre at Dhoteria Balasan Tea Estate where we met Miss Priyanka who is the Soochnapreneur of that place.

The visit to the centres helped us gain a lot of insights on the services that are provided by them such as printing, lamination, computer classes, Aadhar card updates, mobile recharge and payments. All the machines – such as printer, laptop, Wi-Fi, scanner’s etc., are provided at a very minimum fee, and this way the Soochnapreneurs are able to start this business with a minimum capital. We also came to know that the SP Centres also work in collaboration with Post Office, and Banks and come up with very useful programs such as Aadhar Card Correction Camp and have set up CSP (Customer Service Point) as well. GFF Helps have found that this SP Centres not only provide digital literacy and upliftment to the rural areas, but both also help these women learn entrepreneurial skills and earn money through it. Therefore, we aim to bring this Project in the villages of Kalimpong District in order to bring positive upliftment and aid to the villagers.

On September 28, 2023, the Bong SOGG Centre hosted a BP and Sugar Testing Training Program organized by GFF Helps India. There were around 21 participants, all eager to acquire essential health monitoring skills that will significantly benefit their community. The training was led by two facilitators: Mrs. Isha Rani Namchu, the supervisor of Pedong Hospital, and Miss Leechum Lepcha, a former student of the Bong SOGG Centre who is currently pursuing her nursing degree in Bangalore. Their expertise created a productive and engaging atmosphere for learning.

During the program, participants gained valuable insights into the importance of monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels. They practiced measurement techniques and discussed how to interpret the results effectively. This hands-on approach fostered interaction and collaboration among participants, enhancing the overall learning experience. A key benefit of this training is that it addresses a critical healthcare need in the community. Previously, many villagers had to travel long distances for basic health checkups. GFF Helps India is making a significant contribution to the health amongst rural communities, ensuring that vital healthcare services are accessible and within reach for everyone.

On October 21st, representatives from the Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) visited the SOGG Learning & Innovation Centres in Bong, Chibbo, and Pudung for a comprehensive field visit to set up the Soochnapreneur Centres. The team included Mr. Nahid, the Project Head for North India, and Mr. Atanu, the Coordinator for the North Bengal region, who were accompanied by members from the GFF team, including Mr. Saom, Surabhi, and Bipasha, as well as Mr. Abel from RLCWS. The visit began at the Chibbo SOGG Centre, followed by stops at the Bong and Pudung Centres, making it a full day of engaging discussions and observations. Area coordinators, teachers, and managing committee members were present at each location, providing valuable insights into the operations and impact of the SOGG Centres.

Mr. Saom played a key role in facilitating communication between DEF and the SOGG teams, helping both parties understand each other’s projects and visions. The area coordinators shared vital information, including the number of households, community groups, and villages in the region, equipping Mr. Nahid with the necessary context to effectively implement the DEF project. Looking ahead, GFF Helps India plans to conduct adult literacy classes as part of future initiatives, further empowering community members and enhancing their skills for the digital age.

Every month, the mobile library is conducted at the Bong, Chibbo, and Pudung SOGG Centres. New books were brought for the children, and a reading session was conducted. The children eagerly gathered, and were excited to dive into new stories. They took turns reading aloud, sharing their favorite passages, and discovering new adventures together. Their enthusiasm and joy for reading create a lively and engaging atmosphere. These sessions promote literacy and foster a sense of community and a love for learning. It provides a wonderful opportunity for children to develop their reading skills while enjoying the magic of books.

On October 24th, a pivotal meeting was held at Komfort Inn to discuss the establishment of a cooperative society aimed at empowering local villagers. Organized by GFF Helps India, the event gathered residents from Chibbo, Bong, and Pudung, fostering a spirit of collaboration and entrepreneurship. Mr. Rajen, the Cooperative Society Officer from Kalimpong, shared valuable insights on the benefits of forming a cooperative. His guidance focused on how such an organization could enable villagers to produce and sell local items, thereby enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and boosting the local economy.

The meeting emphasized the importance of community cooperation in promoting sustainable livelihoods. With active participation from the residents, this gathering marked a crucial step towards creating a vibrant cooperative that supports local production and sales, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

As part of GFF Helps India’s ongoing health project, free blood pressure and sugar testing was conducted for the villagers of Bong, Chibbo, and Pudung. This initiative, which has been active since 2020, aims to improve community health and raise awareness about the importance of regular health check-ups. The program provides vital health services to residents, helping to identify and manage potential health issues such as hypertension and diabetes. Early detection is crucial, as it allows individuals to take preventive measures and seek appropriate treatment, significantly reducing health risks. The benefits of this initiative extend beyond individual health. By fostering a culture of health awareness, as regular health chekups encourages villagers to prioritize their well-being and make informed lifestyle choices.

In a heartfelt gesture, Mr. Sommiah, a former GFF member now studying in Australia, donated stationery items and sports equipment to the Bong SOGG Centre in memory of his grandfather. His mother and sister facilitated the donation, ensuring that his thoughtful contributions reached the students. These donations play a crucial role in enhancing the educational experience and promoting active lifestyles among the children. The new whiteboard will facilitate better learning, while the sports equipment will encourage teamwork, physical fitness, and a sense of fun. Overall, this generosity significantly benefits the children, fostering both their academic and personal growth.

The first quarterly meeting of the SOGG Centres in partnership with Darjeeling Hills Bible School (DHBS) was held on, 19th October bringing together key stakeholders to discuss collaborative efforts and future plans. The meeting was attended by all board members of DHBS, including Pastor Kushal and Pastor Kinchong, along with management committee members, teachers, and coordinators from the Bong, Chibbo, and Pudung SOGG Centres. Representatives from the GFF office, including Mr. Sanjok and Mr. Sisir, joined the meeting, alongside GFF Helps India Project Director Mr. Saom Namchu and volunteers Surabhi and Bipasha, who were invited as guests. The meeting commenced with introductions, allowing members from both SOGG and DHBS to familiarize themselves with each other’s roles and contributions. The attendees were then presented with a video showcasing the work being done at the SOGG Learning and Innovation Centres, highlighting the positive impact on the community. Surabhi and Bipasha assisted in documenting the meeting minutes, ensuring that all discussions and insights were accurately captured for future reference. This collaborative gathering set the stage for continued partnership and effective programming in support of local communities.

On October 1st, GFF Helps Nepal celebrated the “International Day of Older Persons” by hosting a special session for the mothers in our Adult Literacy Class. This event was a collaboration with our local partner organization, CDS (Child Development Society), and FHEAL.

During our team meeting, Mr. Saom Namchu suggested this celebration, and Mrs. Samjhana Dhakal, CDS’s Admin and Finance Manager proposed a mental health session. We were introduced to Ms. Angelica Khatri, co-founder of FHEAL, a startup focused on mental health education and counseling.

The session began at 11:30 AM, with 23 mothers participating. Given the cultural stigma surrounding mental health in Nepal, it was important for the mothers to gain insights into this important topic. To create a safe environment, we established norms for confidentiality right at the start. The mothers were encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings. The session was interactive, featuring activities that helped enhance their understanding of mental health and boost their confidence.

The mothers appreciated having a platform to express their inner concerns freely and gave feedback that they finally felt heard. They learned about the significance of mental health, self-love, and self-care. Many mothers opened up about mental health issues that they’ve observed in their communities and families.

Due to the positive feedback, a follow-up session was also held on 27th October, as requested by the mothers.

Our local partner organization “CDS” (Child Development Society) is established to enhance the lives of children in Nepal by promoting their rights and responsibilities. Since the very beginning of this partnership between “CDS” and GFF Helps Nepal, the GFF Helps Nepal representatives have been continuously supporting the daycare center and health clinic run by “CDS”.

In October GFF Helps Nepal supported looking after the children at the daycare center and assisted Mrs. Samikshya Tiwari, (Health in charge) at the health clinic. We encouraged the children to participate in interactive learning activities that foster creativity, recreation through various games, and the development of their social skills.

Dashain is the most important festival here in Nepal. It represents the victory of good over evil and pays tribute to the goddess Durga, who conquered the demon Mahishasura. This festival is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and lasts for 15 days, with the main celebrations taking place during the final days.

Dashain begins with Ghatasthapana (Day 1) when families sow Jamara, a sacred grass (seedling of wheat, barley, and maize) symbolizing prosperity in a small pot with holy water and sand bed. On Fulpati (Day 7), homes are decorated with flowers as families prepare for the upcoming celebrations. Maha Ashtami & Maha Navami (Days 8 & 9) are celebrated by intense worship and rituals dedicated to goddess Durga, often involving animal sacrifices. Dashami (Day 10) is the festival’s most important day when families gather together to receive “tika” (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermillion) from elders, get blessings for health and prosperity, exchange gifts, and feast. Finally, Kojagrat Purnima (Day 15) wraps up the festival with various rituals and celebrations.

Dashain is not just a religious festival; it’s also a time for families to come together and strengthen their bonds. People travel long distances to return home, showing the importance of family unity. During the festival, younger members seek blessings from their elders by putting on “tika”. People fly kites, play cards, play traditional bamboo swing, sing and dance during Dashain. So Dashain is also considered as the festival of unity spreading happiness among all Nepalese.

We also celebrated Dashain with the mothers from Adult Literacy Class on 7th October before the national holidays of Dashain began. The holidays at “CDS” began from 10th October and the office resumed from 20th October.

On 21st October after the Adult Literacy Class, GFF Helps Nepal representatives had a small session of BP check-ups for mothers who were presented in class. Both representatives had been learning to measure BP as well as sugar levels from Mrs. Samikshya Tiwari, health in charge at “CDS”.

The idea of weekly BP measurement was provided by Mr. Saom Namchu. The mothers will have their BP checked weekly by the GFF Helps Nepal representatives. This will help the mothers become more aware of their health. Regular BP checks can catch problems like high blood pressure early, allowing for better management and treatment. Healthy mothers can take better care of their families and can also focus toward learning in the Adult Literacy Class.

This October we mostly focused on learning conjunctions and sentence-making.

Many mothers were traveling to get back to their villages to celebrate the Dashain festival so the classes were closed from 7th October. During this, the mothers were also provided home assignments. Our Adult Literacy class resumed on 21st October after Dashain’s vacation.

After the classes started, we continued first with the revision to make sure that mothers hadn’t forgotten the previously learned topics. Then as per requests from mothers simple conjunctions were taught to mothers along with sentence-making using those conjunctions. The mothers shared that they are really happy to get back to class and continue learning after a long holiday.

On 7th October, we had a meeting with the mothers from “SEEP” about the cooperative that GFF Helps Nepal is trying to create and the membership forms that the mothers have to fill up before the registration process. The forms are being collected from the mothers who are interested in being part of the cooperative.

Similarly, we also had a meeting with Mr. Tashi on 20th October about domain registration and we took part in website training on 21st October. Apart from that more product research is being done and more products are being added for the sustainable project “Aarambha”.

It is a distinct honor to be recognized as one of the Stakeholders and Partner Agencies of the Department of Education, Region VI-Western Visayas, Division of Aklan, at the Stakeholders’ Appreciation and Recognition of Schools 2023 held on October 30, 2024.

Since 2018, GFF HELPS Philippines has proudly served the Aklan community through impactful projects, programs, seminars, workshops, and other services that bring together time, dedication, compassion, and resources. This recognition by the Department of Education, Division of Aklan, is a testament to the meaningful work we have carried out with schools and villages under the GFF HELPS banner.

Banga Elementary School, as the central school in the town of Banga, offers both Special Education (SPED) classes for students with special needs and the Alternative Learning System (ALS) for out-of-school youth. As advocates of inclusive learning, we believe that collaborating with the school, particularly in these two programs, will greatly expand our reach and impact.

The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is a parallel education system designed to provide alternative pathways for learners who are unable to access formal education. Primarily aimed at out-of-school youth and adults, ALS serves those who have dropped out or never attended school due to various socioeconomic challenges. The program enables these individuals to complete their basic education, either at the elementary or secondary level, and equips them with skills for lifelong learning.

On the other hand, Special Education (SPED) classes cater to the unique needs of learners with disabilities, impairments, or exceptional abilities. The goal is to provide tailored educational opportunities that support their development in academic, social, and life skills, helping them reach their full potential.

Our visit to Banga Elementary School began at the Banga Community Learning Center, where ALS classes are held. We met with Ma’am Czarina Cezar Cipriano, the ALS class adviser, who shared valuable insights into recent changes in the system and the ongoing challenges in teaching her students. She expressed that our remedial English lessons would greatly benefit the learners, offering much-needed support.

Following this productive discussion, we proceeded to the classrooms where the SPED program is conducted. We had the opportunity to meet with several teachers, including Ma’am Carla Semitara, one of the SPED teachers. She shared that her students often require assistance with daily tasks and expressed an interest in organizing a Table Setting Workshop to help them develop important life skills. While we did not make any immediate commitments, we are in discussions for a potential collaboration to support this initiative.

Our initial visit to the school was insightful and provided a strong foundation for future partnerships, with a shared goal of promoting inclusive education and supporting learners in both the ALS and SPED programs.

We have visited schools and made data survey for partnership. As our schedule are getting tighter, we arranged alternate schedules for our long time school partners. We did not take out Sigcay Elementary School on our list because the grade level that joins our activities only have a smaller population. We continue conducting our Remedial Lessons and Sports Project for the students and receives positive feedback from their teacher, Mr, Ronnie Armenio.

Estancia Elementary School, our new partner, has been sending more than 15 students during weekly sessions. Usually, there are new students because some of the previous students were absent. We can’t maintain a steady number of students and have the same students in each session. We understand the situation and always make a review of the past lessons so new students can catch up. Our Remedial Lessons are anticipated by students every week and the teachers are very supportive.

During each school visit and activity, we consistently carry out our Health Project, which includes blood pressure and oxygen level check-ups. To maintain practicality, we conduct these assessments ourselves. Both teachers and parents are actively involved in the project, and we are always happy to provide this service and support their health needs.

On October 3, 2024, we successfully received our Accreditation Certificate from the Municipal Council of Kalibo. This marks a great start to the month, as we can now conduct legal business. With the website ready, we are planning a grand launch for the project. There is much to prepare, including the venue, food, technical setup, presentations, and more. During the event, we will proudly present the certificate to the attendees, especially to the members of the association.

On October 8, 2024, we successfully purchased the Theme for the website for $ 62.00 (Actual Amount $ 59.00 + Handling Fee $ 3.00) for 6 months only. Mr. Tashi sent us a link and assisted us through chat. After purchasing, we downloaded the Unzipped Theme file and Documentation as well as the License and Certificate Text and upload on tulaypinas Google Drive. Mr. Tashi said that he will start building the website and message us if he has questions. A website theme is important because it controls how the site looks and works. It helps create a consistent, attractive design, makes it easy for users to navigate, and ensures the site works well on all devices. It also improves visibility in search engines and allows for easy customization.

The product survey of farms continues as we collect detailed information about agricultural products, farming practices, and market conditions. We will maintain this effort even after the website is launched and the sustainable project is underway. This ongoing process is crucial for adding more products to our website and expanding partnerships with other entrepreneurs.

Recently, we visited De Jose’s Fishpond in Polocate, a village in the town of Banga. We met with the caretaker and the owner’s brother, Mr. Jose Salvador Jr. Some of the farm’s products include tilapia, eggs, coconut vinegar, and pineapples (though the pineapples have yet to bear fruit). Mr. Salvador shared that, in the past, tilapia was sold for ₱100.00 per kilo when customers would catch the fish themselves, but they no longer sell it. Nowadays, visitors—particularly friends and family—can still catch fish and take it home. The farm primarily serves as a place for relaxation and family events.

We planned another product survey to Ms. Roselle Opalyn’s House. She conducted the Crochet and Calligraphy workshop that we organized before and she’s not a stranger to our activities. She is a dialysis patient and her small handicraft business supports her medication and her family. Unfortunately, our scheduled visit was also her dialysis schedule. She suggested to do an online meeting instead. We meet through a Messenger video call. We talked about the reason why we do product survey and that we are interested to include her products in our website. She expressed her interest and sent us pictures of her products with descriptions and prices.

Mr. Tashi Bhutia, an Indian web developer, in collaboration with the Philippines team, recently conducted a Zoom meeting focused on website management and product uploading. The session was attended by teams from India, Nepal, and the Philippines. During the meeting, Mr. Tashi used the Philippines team’s website, tulaypinas.com, as a practical example to demonstrate key processes, such as how to place and process orders, as well as how to upload and organize products effectively. The hands-on training was highly productive, with all teams gaining a clear understanding of managing their respective websites. Mr. Tashi reassured the teams that he remains available to assist with any questions or technical issues in the future, ensuring ongoing support and smooth operations for all teams.

Registering an association with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in the Philippines is essential for legal compliance and to secure a Tax Identification Number (TIN). This allows the association to meet tax obligations, even if it qualifies for tax exemptions. Registration also legitimizes the association, enabling it to issue official receipts, handle donations, and enter into contracts with partners or government agencies. Additionally, it provides access to tax incentives and ensures transparency, while helping the association avoid legal penalties. The team started to process the registration of application and the registration for the book of accounts. The Bureau of Internal Revenue gave us a list of requirements to comply to proceed with the process.

A launching event is important for introducing a website because it creates excitement and draws attention to the new platform. It allows us to showcase the website’s features, purpose, and benefits to a targeted audience, including stakeholders, customers, and partners. The event will generate buzz, increase engagement, and provide opportunities for live demonstrations, feedback, and networking. By formally presenting the website, we can strengthen our credibility and make a lasting impression, boosting traffic and interest right from the start. The team is preparing throughout October for the grand launch of our website, starting by forming committees responsible for specific tasks.

Buwan ng Wika, or National Language Month, is celebrated in the Philippines each August to honor and promote the use of the Filipino language. This celebration is crucial for students as it helps them develop a deeper appreciation for their national language and cultural heritage. For our activities in schools, the team prepared a coloring poster featuring Filipino themes and a list of Filipino words. Younger students enjoyed coloring the posters, while older students practiced spelling Filipino words.

We observed that many students struggled with spelling Filipino words and often wrote English words instead. This difficulty is partly due to the influence of English in their entertainment and daily life. We see Buwan ng Wika as an excellent opportunity to highlight the beauty and importance of the Filipino language, reinforcing its value and encouraging students to embrace and use it more actively.

Estancia Elementary School, our new partner, has selected 15 students from Grades 1 to 3. During our first meeting, we introduced ourselves and presented our projects. At our second meeting, we provided name-tracing worksheets for Remedial Lessons and introduced Chess and Scrabble for our Sports Project. This marks a successful beginning for our collaboration.

August is the last month of the rainy season here in Nepal. During the rainy season, there are floods and landslides in suburban and remote areas along with increment in urban flooding. The Kapan area where Balkumari School and our local partner organization “CDS” are located is also prone to urban flooding. Mostly the children are at risk. So, we planned a session for the students of grade 4 of Balkumari School regarding the water cycle, urban flooding, and safety measures to follow during urban flooding around their areas.

On the day of the event, there were 47 students in total. and we were assisted by Ms. Sushila Shrestha; a science teacher at Balkumari School. We had prepared a 3D water cycle model. The session started with interaction with the children. Then the 3D model was shown and an explanation of the water cycle was given. The session was very interactive because of the curious students.

In the second half, a story related to urban flooding was shared, along with the safety measures that the students can apply in case of emergency. Then an animated video related to the water cycle was shown to the students and the session ended with a distribution of candies to the students.

On 20th September GFF Helps Nepal reps went on a mission of spreading happiness through coloring books to the children at Srijanshil School which is located in Naikap. The school provides educational facilities to the children with special needs. The idea to distribute coloring books came during our previous visit at the school. The teachers at Srijanshil School shared with us that the children enjoy coloring which will also assist in hand mobilization of the children.

So we distributed coloring books, colors and story books at Srijanshil School after getting approval from Mr. Saom Namchu. The students were really happy to see the drawings and being able to color them. The students followed our and their teachers guidelines while coloring. We could see pure joy and laughter in their faces which proved that the initiative of providing them color books was really fruitful for the students. We had wonderful interaction with the students about their favorite vegetables, fruits and favorite colors. At the end of the session candies were provided to the children. We went there to support children’s learning, but we came away with a powerful moral lesson: no matter how tough life gets, we can find joy in the smallest things.

Adult Literacy class was initially started for the mothers of “SEEP” which stands for “Self-employment Education Program” initiated by the Child Development Society “CDS”. Later, when GFF Helps partnered with “CDS”, the Adult Literacy Class was handed over to GFF Helps Nepal Representatives; Ms. Aarakshya and Ms. Namrata on September 2023. In this Adult literacy class, the mothers learn the English language and Ms. Pramila and Mrs. Sanam are taking the class.

The popularity of Adult literacy classes is increasing and mothers from the local community are also joining the class. In the August month, five new mothers joined the Adult Literacy class. Currently, the 40th week of Adult Literacy class is running. The timing of the class is as usual from 11 AM to 1 PM every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

In August, the mothers learned about the colors and vegetables in English. They also learned to make sentences using those words. They were given class assignments as well as home assignments. Mothers were also given a turn each to read the learned topics from the board during every class. Mothers also wrote those words on the board all by themselves. Along with that mothers were also provided with colorful worksheets. These worksheets were used for evaluating the understanding of mothers and the mothers were also provided with copy and pencil as a gift appreciating their effort.

Mothers also have a Facebook group where the study materials, videos, and photos of the learned topics are uploaded daily. The concept of making a Facebook group emerged when the mothers expressed that no one assisted them in studying at home after the Adult literacy class since every family member gets busy with their work. The mothers also expressed that even if they wanted to study they would forget how to pronounce the words correctly. After being provided with study materials on the Facebook group, mothers were able to learn whenever they want and they gave positive feedbacks as well.

This September mothers learned about the names of fruits and sentence making using those names. They also learned about WH questions and learned about self introduction. The mothers are provided with worksheets, home assignments and class assignments. The assignments are checked and regular feedbacks are provided. Apart from that mothers are also practicing dialogues with their classmates. They also read out the learned topics aloud in every class. All these activities have boosted the self-confidence among the mothers.

GFF Helps India conducted a successful Mobile Library session at the SOGG Learning & Information Centres located in Bong, Chibbo, and Pudung. This initiative was part of a broader effort to foster a love for reading and enhance literacy skills among children in these communities. A highlight of the session was the “Read-Aloud Challenge,” where children took turns reading passages from their chosen books. This activity not only improved their reading fluency but also built confidence as they spoke in front of their peers. The Mobile Library session has had a significant impact on the children at the SOGG Learning & Information Centers. The fresh set of books and the engaging activities provided a unique opportunity for the children to immerse themselves in reading and storytelling.

Sign Language Day, or the International Day of Sign Languages, is celebrated on September 23 as part of the International Week of the Deaf. This observance highlights the importance of sign languages and the rights of deaf individuals worldwide. To celebrate this day, we visited Lapnag Primary School and Estancia Elementary School, where we engaged with the students. We prepared handouts of the Sign Language Alphabet and taught them how to sign each letter, say their names, and use simple greetings. We also emphasized the importance of respecting deaf individuals and helping them in any way possible. The students were enthusiastic about learning the hand signs and introducing themselves using sign language.

On September 15, we had a “First aid training” workshop for the mothers of “SEEP” (Self Employment and Education Program) and for the mothers of Adult Literacy class. This suggestion was given to us by Mr. Saom Namchu. There were 39 participants in the workshop. The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Keshav Makaju who works as director of Highway Community Hospital and has seven years of experience as first aid trainer.

This workshop provided a golden opportunity for mothers looking to create a safe environment for their families. Mr. Keshav created a very interactive environment where the mothers were sharing about their home remedies, learning correct ways of treating in case of emergencies and doing practical.

This workshop taught participants with vital skills, such as CPR, choking relief, and basic wound care, empowering them to confidently respond to emergencies. Mothers learned important skills from this workshop to help their children feel safe. This workshop is a great way to keep their families healthy and secure.

Mr. Keshav also provided important toll free numbers to the mothers. He also gave information about keeping first aid kit at home.

All the mothers were provided snacks during daytime. Mothers were happy to clear their misconceptions about many home remedies and also to learn the first aid techniques practically.

Whilst living in a community, we cannot avoid the unavoidable. However, we can train and arm ourselves with the right kind of knowledge so that even when the worst scenario happens, we are know of the right actions that can be taken. With the same aim in mind, GFF Helps India Representatives organized The First Aid and Disaster Management Training Program at Pudung SOGG Centre on the 6th of September. The program was facilitated by Mr Rakesh Singh, a certified First Aid trainer. The training aimed to empower community members with vital skills to respond to emergencies. Participants learnt essential first aid techniques including how to perform CPRs, emergency response protocols, and disaster preparedness strategies, including creating emergency kits. Through practical simulations, they gained confidence in their abilities and were encouraged to share their knowledge with others.GFF Helps India gave away certificates signed by the facilitator to all 14 participants at the end of the program which fostered a culture of preparedness within the community, ultimately enhancing safety and resilience during emergencies.

GFF Helps India organized a sausage making training in Soondung, Lower Pudung on the 7th of September. This training provided local residents with valuable skills for potential income generation. Led by Mrs Lakmit Lepcha, a knowledgeable expert from the village itself, participants engaged in hands-on activities that covered various methods, ingredient selection, and hygiene in food preparation. The training emphasized traditional recipes while introducing innovative approaches to meet market demands, equipping villagers to produce high-quality sausages. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants excited about establishing a local sausage business to supply markets and events. This initiative not only enhanced culinary skills but also fostered community spirit and entrepreneurship, leaving villagers optimistic about creating a sustainable income-generating venture in the future.

On the 12th of September, a mobile library session was conducted at the Debanjan Girls Football Academy. The mobile library project which aims to improve the reading skills amongst the children by providing them with books suitable for their age to read, is conducted every month in all the three centres of our partner Glenn Project, the SOGG Centres as well as in Debanjan Girls Football Academy.

This month, we also collaborated with Himalayan Stores and renewed the newspaper project at Debanjan, ensuring that the children can not only improve their reading skills but also stay updated with all the current affairs that is happening around the world.

The accreditation process for the GFF HELPS Aklan Workers’ Association is currently underway with the Municipal Council of Kalibo Town. This step is crucial for the association to be officially recognized as a business entity. We have submitted all required documents except for the certification from the Philippine National Police (PNP). While we await the PNP certification, the Municipal Council of Kalibo Town has reviewed our documents and instructed us to make the necessary payment for the certification. We are now awaiting the issuance of the certificate. Although this accreditation is not the final step in the legal process, it represents significant progress towards completion.

The GFF HELPS Aklan Workers’ Association is officially registered under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). To initiate a sustainable project, it is essential to register the association with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kalibo Town, where the GFF HELPS office is located. This registration will allow the association to legally commence business operations.

This month, we are actively processing the accreditation of the association with the LGU. As part of the accreditation process, we need to secure the signatures of all Board Members and Elected Officers. To facilitate this, we have begun visiting association members at their homes to collect their signatures, ensuring that all necessary documentation is in order for submission.

One of the requirements for accreditation is obtaining a certificate from the Regional Police Office. To fulfill this, we returned to CAMP PASTOR MARTELINO at the Aklan Police Provincial Office located in New Buswang Village, Kalibo. While we initially submitted the profiles of the association members and the Letter of Request via email, we were instructed to also submit these documents in person at their office.

The issuance of the certificate will take some time, as it requires a thorough background check of all members. We have reassured the association members that their personal information is securely handled and protected throughout this process.

After completing the collection of signatures from the Board Members and Elected Officials, we had the documents notarized at a law office. Once notarized, all the documents were submitted to the Planning Department of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kalibo Town. The submitted documents will now be reviewed by the members of the Sangguniang Bayan (Municipal Council), and we are awaiting their update on the results.

While this is not yet the end of the legalization process, and there is still a long way to go, it is encouraging that we are already well underway. We remain optimistic about the outcome.

In addition to collecting signatures, we also conducted a product survey of the association members who own farms. This survey is crucial as it helps us better understand the range of products being cultivated by our members, enabling us to identify potential markets, collaboration opportunities, and areas where the association can provide additional support or resources.

One of our visits was to La Granja Farm in Lapnag Village, where we met with Mr. Edgar Rebaño, a member of the association. Mr. Rebaño signed the necessary documents for accreditation, and we took the opportunity to survey his farm. His farm is quite diverse, producing African catfish fingerlings, tilapia, duckweeds, mushrooms, pineapples, and various other fruits.

We also visited Ugsod Village to meet with two key members of the association, Mr. Roger Villanueva and Mr. Vicente Villanueva, who are relatives with complementary skills that are invaluable to our community. Mr. Roger is an experienced farmer who manages a farm where he grows a variety of plants and raises pigs, contributing significantly to our agricultural projects. Mr. Vicente, a skilled technician, balances his full-time job with maintaining a backyard farm where he occasionally raises pigs, bringing both technical expertise and farming experience to the table.

During our visit, both signed the necessary accreditation documents, reinforcing their commitment to the association’s goals. Their combined expertise in farming and technical work is crucial as we continue to develop and support sustainable projects within the community.

Another key member of our association is Ms. Herminia Banihit, who serves as the Treasurer. She, along with her family, manages a diverse farm that contributes significantly to the local agricultural landscape. Their farm is home to cows and calves, chickens, and a variety of crops, including bok choy, sponge gourds, soursops, and other vegetables.

Ms. Banihit’s dedication to both her role as Treasurer and her responsibilities on the farm exemplifies the commitment and resourcefulness that our association values. Her farm’s diverse production adds valuable resources to our community’s sustainable projects and helps to strengthen our collective efforts.

The purpose of a product survey of farms is to collect detailed information about agricultural products, farming practices, and market conditions. This helps in understanding the types of crops or livestock being produced, assessing their quality and yield, identifying market trends and demands, and discovering potential areas for improvement or innovation. This information supports better decision-making for farm management, product development, and strategic planning. Meanwhile, our team continues to conduct weekly visits to various farms while the legal processes are underway.

Calamansi, also known as Philippine lime or calamondin, is a small citrus fruit that is widely used in the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries. It can be squeezed for its juice, which is often used as a condiment, marinade, or ingredient in beverages, sauces, and desserts. Mrs. Anita De Tomas (not a member of the association) is a widow and a tenant in the land where these Calamansi Trees were planted. She’s looking after the farm for many years already and the products supported her family until now that she’s a widow already. She said that Calamansi can produce fruit year-round under the right conditions. However, the peak fruiting season typically occurs during the warmer months. The price per kilo of Calamansi ranges from ₱ 30.00 – ₱ 50.00. Her farm can produce 50 kilos of Calamansi during off season and 60-80 kilos during the peak season.

The purpose of a product survey of farms is to collect detailed information about agricultural products, farming practices, and market conditions. This helps in understanding the types of crops or livestock being produced, assessing their quality and yield, identifying market trends and demands, and discovering potential areas for improvement or innovation. This information supports better decision-making for farm management, product development, and strategic planning. Meanwhile, our team continues to conduct weekly visits to various farms while the legal processes are underway.

Mrs. Emevelyn Miel is a member and Business Manager of the GFF HELPS AKLAN WORKERS’ ASSOCIATION living in Agbanawan Village in the town of Banga. She manages a sari-sari store (neighborhood convenience store) in her home. She sells variety of things such as school supplies, household items, clothes, shoes, and some candies. The supplier is her daughter living in Manila and supplies are transported as cargos. She also makes dishwashing soaps and fabric conditioner. She sells it ₱ 25.00 for 500 ml bottle and ₱ 50.00 for 1000 ml bottle. for The ingredients are also supplied by her daughter. She also looks after a rice farm owned by her family.

The Libacao Public Market, located in Poblacion Village, Libacao, Aklan, serves as a key drop-off point for products from various surrounding villages. One of Libacao’s renowned products is pineapple fiber, which is highly sought after for its quality. Buyers frequently visit Libacao to purchase threaded pineapple fibers from locals at ₱75.00 per kilo. Additionally, unthreaded pineapple fibers are sold at ₱20.00 per bunch, which locals buy to thread and later resell at a profit.

The market is also known for its abundance of lanzones (also called langsat), a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. Known for its sweet and slightly tangy flavor, this fruit is sold by vendors at ₱50.00 per pack.

We conducted a survey at the Agri-Aqua Training Center located in Nalook Village, New Washington Town. The center is dedicated to offering hands-on education and training in both agriculture and aquaculture. Currently, they sell lettuce in cups for ₱25.00 and grown lettuce for ₱200.00 per kilo. They also offer a variety of fruit-bearing tree seedlings priced between ₱100.00 and ₱250.00. The soil they use is primarily made from coconut husk fiber enriched with vitamins. In the future, they plan to expand their offerings by introducing dairy products from carabao.

Mr. Saom emphasized the necessity of creating a website to effectively market our products. While we were familiar with platforms like Amazon and Etsy, we initially didn’t see the need for a dedicated website, especially since Facebook dominates marketing in the Philippines. However, recognizing that our products could potentially reach international markets, we understand that having a website will be essential.

On September 20, 2024, we met with Mr. Tashi Bhutia, an Indian web developer and close friend of Mr. Saom. He guided us through the process of purchasing a domain on GoDaddy.com. By September 24, 2024, we successfully acquired the domain tulaypinas.com. Following the purchase, Mr. Tashi advised us to store all documents related to the sustainable project in the Google Drive associated with our new Gmail account. On September 25, 2024, Mr. Tashi happily announced on our WhatsApp group chat that the server and the domain were already configured.

Currently, we are working on product photography and creating an Excel sheet to detail each product. Our goal is to complete these tasks by the end of September. We also plan to purchase a theme to enhance the overall look and feel of our website.

After Sir Owen’s visit here in Nepal we’ve been working to establish a sustainable project here in Nepal involving the mothers from “SEEP”. “SEEP” was established by our partner organization “CDS” to empower women through education and self-employment. The members of “SEEP” are women from underprivileged families. Some women are laborers at carpet factories, daily wagers, and single mothers. “CDS” provides them with opportunities for education and various skillful training.

GFF Helps Nepal also assists the mothers by providing them with classes in the English language, pickle-making training, leaf plate-making training, masks, cushion-making, bags-making training, etc. Currently the sustainable project “Aarambha” is also for the mothers for their sustainability.

In August we had a meeting with our partner organization “CDS” where we shared all the research that we had been doing for the past two months related to project “Aarambha” and we also took their feedback to proceed further with the project.

Similarly, we had a meeting with the mothers from “SEEP” and shared the details about project “Aarambha” with them. The mothers present seemed to be very happy about the project.

On September 13, we had a meeting with mothers from “SEEP”. The meeting was about sustainable project “Aarambha” where we provided information to the mothers about the project. We also prepared presentation slides so that the mothers can understand better. We also discussed about the roles of GFF Helps Reps for the project. The mothers provided positive feedbacks related to the progress of the project and showed their interest to be part of the project.

We also had meeting with our local partner organization “CDS” regarding the progress of project “Aarambha.”

Some of the mothers are really hopeful regarding this project and few of them have already signed the membership forms as well.

On the 10th of September, GFF Helps Representatives along with Mr Sanjok, the GFF Helps India Office Assistant, sat down for an online meeting with Mr Tashi, a professional web designer.

After thorough discussions and scrutiny, the domain name “ Himalayanhaat.in” for our sustainable project has been bought by the Project Director.

A logo for our sustainable project has also been created by the web designer.

GFF Helps India has been working towards their Sustainable Development Project called the Himalayan Haat. The representatives have been continuing with their in-depth market surveys of various product. This month the representatives first visited the Local Bisu Handkerchief factory which is one of the most famous products sold in Kalimpong. They also visited the Handmade paper factory which is the last remaining handmade paper factory in Kalimpong. The representatives also visited the tasty Local Lollipop factory located in 7th Mile. The handkerchief, handmade paper and lollipop as not only local products but they also carry a lot of cultural and historical significance and are products which are very high in demand.

Mr. Rishi Raj Pradhan from Kalimpong grows local coffee and so the representatives visited his coffee farm and factory where the Himali Highland Organic Coffee are produced. The visit was very interesting as he delved deep into the way coffee is produced in the Himalayan town of Kalimpong and the types of varieties that he has been growing. During the visit the representatives deeply learned the making process of these unique products and gathered information about the various factory prices and selling prices. They also explained the vision of Himalayan Haat and were able to successfully secure partnership with them.

GFF Helps India representatives Surabhi and Bipasha visited the Na-choz food factory along with the interns Ms Veronica and Ms Shannon to conduct a product survey for our sustainable project. We came across a variety of products made by the food factory and checked for the prices and the other specific details for each one of them,

We met Mr Sonam, the owner and after conducting the survey and explaining our upcoming project to him, we were able to foster a business network with him. Mr Sonam wishes our project the best and looks forward to collaborating with us in the near future.

Ms Rebekah Namchu is a hardworking local entrepreneur who has a lot of expertise in preparing traditional local snacks. She has been selling them at the local market and also prepares them on order.

Surabhi and Bipasha visited her residence on the 13th of September and conducted a thorough product survey of all the available local snacks there. Ms Rebekah has positively agreed to collaborate with us in our sustainable project.

Nirmal Farms, located at Bada Mangwa, is a brand synonymous with fruit juice and jams in the Kalimpong and Darjeeling Districts.

GFF Helps representatives along with the interns Veronica and Shannon visited the Nirmal Farms on the 14th of September under the guidance of Mr Satyaki Lopchan.

Not only were the GFF Helps India team able to find out the prices of the products but after discussions with Mr Prawesh Gurung, the proprietor of Nirmal Farms, we were able to fester a good usiness network bond there. Nirmal Farms looks forward to collaborating with Himalayan Haat in the future.

Sri Lanka Unites (SLU) is a Non-Profit Organisation (“NPO”) that operates Sri Lanka’s largest youth movement. The vision is to unite the youth of Sri Lanka from all ethnic and religious groups in a movement which provides hope and facilitates reconciliation, paving the way for a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka for future generations. The organisation is active across all 25 districts, and there are currently 30,000 strong members. SLU has engaged over 1million youth over the last 15 years. The grassroots movement has scaled globally to 15 countries.

Moreover, Sri Lanka Unites is sustained with a chain of initiatives namely, Beats of One Nation, Champions of Change, Counter Hate Unit, Dream Team & School Relations Tour, Guide Book, Reconciliation Centers, Shark’s Tank, SHOW, SLU TV, SM Special Ops Unit, The Future Leaders Conference, THINK Campaign and Sustainability Initiative.

Project Roots can be denoted as an initiative / subsidiary run through the Glenn Family Foundation (GFF) HELPS programme. The idea has sprouted from Tharaka’s (GFF SL lead) lived experience volunteering and establishing the GFF SL programme back in 2019.

The vision is to lower the barriers for people to gain cultural intelligence and awareness while empowering local communities.

The mission is to facilitate the opportunity to learn about the roots of culture and support local NGOs. We will offer a cultural immersion programme for volunteers to deeply connect with language, arts, cultural practices, wellness and land — led by locals.

Project Roots target audience will be Sri Lankan diaspora who want to come back to the motherland to learn about their culture and/or give back.

Next steps involve finalising the business case for stage 1 gate review with Sir Owen, designing the programme and identifying volunteers for the pilot programme in December 2024.

Project Roots, an initiative of GFF, recently collaborated with Sri Lanka Unites to conduct a workshop in the Ampara-Kalmunai region. The workshop focused on empowering young women, especially those who had not excelled in their O-Level and A-level exams, by providing them with valuable sewing skills. In a region where societal constraints often limit opportunities for women, particularly with issues like early marriage and lack of technical training, this workshop aimed to demonstrate that sewing is a viable career path.

Participants were introduced to the basics of sewing, including how to create items like bags that could later be sold in local markets. The workshop not only provided technical skills but also highlighted the entrepreneurial potential of this craft, encouraging the women to see it as a means of future income generation. The initiative focused on breaking the stigma that sewing is not a worthwhile career and showed how it could lead to meaningful job opportunities.

Loav, a volunteer who facilitated the Project Roots workshop, shared her enriching experience during her time with Sri Lanka Unites (SLU). She felt an immediate sense of belonging, thanks to the warmth and inclusivity of the SLU staff, other volunteers, and the local children. Her connection with the participants, particularly the women in the sewing workshop, was strong due to their shared interest in sewing. She remarked how this community, despite challenges, demonstrated incredible resilience and eagerness to learn, which made her feel like she was among future colleagues rather than students.

Reflecting on her personal growth, Loav noted how the experience in Sri Lanka contrasted with her structured life in Germany. She learned to embrace a slower pace, understanding that different cultures have unique ways of learning and working. She found it particularly eye-opening to adapt her teaching style, realizing that many of the women were visual learners rather than following step-by-step instructions. This helped her develop a deeper understanding of cultural diversity in learning methods, and she felt a profound connection with the local community, something that resonated with her personal diaspora background.

Loav was deeply moved by the women’s desire to learn a skill like sewing, which could provide them with financial independence. She admired the efforts of SLU and Project Roots in breaking down societal barriers and offering young women the chance to pursue entrepreneurship. Loav felt that while her time was brief, it was a valuable and authentic experience, and she expressed her interest in supporting the initiative digitally from her home in Germany.

After having a detailed meeting regarding field work logistics with Mr. Dasun, a Center Manager of Sri Lanka Unites, and Ms. Dhananjani, teacher from SLU’s Gampaha Reconciliation Center, the GFF Helps Sri Lanka team visited the Thotalanga flats in Colombo 15. This visit was aimed at understanding the local context and meeting the children who will be part of GFF’s upcoming English classes. The team engaged warmly with the children, discussing their future aspirations and gauging their interest in learning English. The response was overwhelmingly positive, as many of the children expressed a strong desire to improve their English skills. The living conditions in Thotalanga are challenging, with issues such as drug activity, improper waste management, and general untidiness affecting the community. Despite these hardships, the children remain eager to learn and better their prospects. Understanding the needs and background of these children, the GFF Helps Sri Lanka team is committed to providing them with quality English language education, offering a pathway to brighter futures amidst their difficult circumstances.

Regarding my academic background, I completed BA(Hons) in Political Science from University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka and will be graduating this year with first class honors. Since I had been selected as an exchange student for University of Agder, Norway, I received the opportunity to accomplish an international internship at the Center for Gender and Equality, Kristiansand. I have engaged in qualitative researching for more than two years and crowned 3 research publications with first hand data. I have worked with scholars from diverse countries and practically involved in fieldworks. I was able to absorb more knowledge and experience in the field of international development since I have worked as the research assistant for UiA during their fieldwork in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, I have been volunteering for the wellbeing of down syndrome and autistic children in Sri Lanka.

I feel honored to perform the role, GFF Sri Lanka Representative since it comes with a plethora of opportunities to empower people through a vast array of projects that I am truly looking forward to commit. I am glad that GFF HELPS is enriched with such an energy brought forward by people who authentically interested about community development and it is such a brilliant opportunity to be a part of GFF.

I am from Gampaha, a buzzing city right next to Colombo District. I am 27 years old and, I am an IT graduate making a meaningful transition into the field of International Development. I am driven by a deep desire to enhance lives and contribute to positive change and I like to engage with people from different backgrounds. So, I am sincerely looking forward for our interactions together!

My academic background in technology equips me with problem-solving skills and a systematic approach, while my passion for sociological research

and literature enriches my understanding of human experiences and cultures. But in all seriousness, I like board games when I am not annoying my doggie, and movie nights with my friends.

I hope to improve my inner self as a volunteer at GFF HELPS and have loads of fun *_* Let’s keep dreaming and living! CHEERS!!