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"Side by side, hand in hand, we're more alike than different. Happy World Down Syndrome Day! Let's embrace our similarities and spread love and respect for every child, every day. "

Here’s a throwback to our Weligama People’s Market in February 2023. T’was a day full of fun, food, art, crafts, and music!

People’s Market is all about celebrating small entrepreneurs and supporting them to take their products to a wider audience. It was indeed a perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon, filled with flavours, art, crafts, music, and fun! We are excited to meet you all again on 10th December in Weligama and 17th December in Moratuwa, at our Christmas Edition!

392 overjoyed hearts as they receive school bags and other school essentials for the new school year! 🎒🧒👧

The MJF Charitable Foundation joined hands with Tokai Co-Op, our Dilmah partner in Japan, to provide school accessories for the kids from our Child Development Centers who will begin their school journey this year.

Over the years, the Dilmah MJF Foundation has supported 1,000s of children from our plantations to thrive and reach new heights through education, going on to become successful professionals.

Here’s a glimpse of the radiant smiles of these tiny tots as they receive their gift packs!

At Dilmah, every cup of tea made is a cup of kindness served; kindness is at the heart of everything we do. That is why as a family business, we stay true to our Founder’s promise and devote 15% of all pretax profits to serve humanity, with kindness to people & nature.

Million reasons to celebrate!

Throwback to the Cerebral Palsy Day Celebrations at Dilmah’s Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy and other Developmental Disorders (CCCPDD). Initiated 6 years ago, the CCCPDD Centre supports these special-needs kids with therapy and education and provides guidance to families and caregivers for a kinder and better world for everyone.

The MJF Kids Programme was set up in 2006 with the hope of giving children & youth from vulnerable communities an opportunity to gain confidence through education, interaction, inspiration to realise their dreams. Today, we have 10 locations at which this Programme is conducted across Sri Lanka. Thousands of alumni have now grown to become successful individuals, supporting their own communities.

So we thank you, for every cuppa Dilmah you brew. You help us make the world a better tea.

Here's a throwback to when we initiated the Alumni Association of Dilmah's Empower Culinary and Hospitality Schools last September. Empower continues to grow, furthering its opportunities in the industry as well as sharing its expertise in human nutrition, food safety, and waste reduction

How do we make a better tea? A tea isn’t better merely because of its classic taste. A tea isn’t about the grandiose production ideals behind it. A tea is made better when ethics are stirred and poured into every single serving. When every cup, sip and taste delivers on a dream.

This World Cerebral Palsy Day we're reminding you how important early detection is. Visit here to see how to download our disABILITY App - https://bit.ly/3g9qrzW. We thank you today for helping us with every cup, to fulfil our Founder's philosophy of serving humanity with kindness.

This Teacher's Day we salute the 200+ teachers who help us serve humanity with kindness everyday. You touch the lives of 1,000s of children & youth with disabilities, you mold the futures of so many aspiring entrepreneurs. This has always been the purpose of our family business, we thank you for making our ethos come true.</>

As part of our collaboration with Colombo Friend In Need Society, Dilmah Tea's MJF Foundation has provided Small Entrepreneur Grants, Education Scholarships and supported the AIDEX sports meet since 2006.

In its latest extension, we recognised 12 courageous entrepreneurs and 55 students with disabilities who are aspiring to break barriers and pursue their dreams.

Here’s a look at the grants awarding ceremony held at the Colombo Friend In Need Society, Sri Lanka's oldest charity founded in 1831.

Cricket has been the passion that has unites Sri Lankans of all religions, classes, and ethnicity, for decades. In an unique collaboration amongst New Zealand’s Cricket Live Foundation ( @NZC ) and Dilmah’s Merrill J. Fernando (MJF) Foundation, the sport is now empowering hundreds of less fortunate youth across Sri Lanka. The Life through Cricket programme is a joint initiative of Dilmah and the Cricket Live Foundation, (CLF) New Zealand, which supports young girls and boys from underprivileged communities across Sri Lanka, providing them with free cricket coaching, life skills training and academic support for their education. The co-operation was birthed through the efforts of NZ Cricket Mike Dormer, who brought Dilmah Founder, Merrill J. Fernando and CLF Founder Alex Reese together. The work of the Cricket Live Foundation extends beyond cricket. The young students are taught cricket skills, academics as well as life skills such as discipline, health and nutrition, and most importantly, to respect and practice good values. So far, Dilmah together with CLF, has supported nearly 1000 young girls and boys to achieve their dreams on this journey. Meet the best performers of this year CLF programme: Niresh, Paboda, Himindu and Chalani...

Former New Zealand cricket legend Mike Dormer was an integral part of our Cricket Live Foundation in molding young girls and boys of Sri Lanka not only with cricket skills but also with life. Unfortunately, he left us last year and in memory of his life and to honor his services towards the youth of our country, Mike Dormer Awards was introduced to the Cricket Live Foundation students from this year inspiring the confidence in them to dream beyond boundaries.

As the first recipients of Mike Dormer Awards, out of nearly 400 candidates from underprivileged communities, 4 young individuals were selected who are excelling at cricket as well as education.  These kids received cricket equipment, shoes, school bags and gift vouchers as a part of their awards to support their cricket skills and education.

Meet the winners  Chalani Chathurangi and Niresh Chathuranga from Moratuwa & Himidu Warshana , Paboda Sewwandi from Siyambalanduwa

Meet Vishan and Ravindu, Bernd Uber Award winners of the recent graduation of Dilmah's Empower Schools East and West. These young chefs have already beaten the odds during their time at the Empower kitchen and finally, the hard work has paid off.  We cannot wait to see what is in store for them next! Dilmah's Empower Culinary and Hospitality Schools (ECHS) – the only World chefs accredited culinary training institutions in Sri Lanka – offers free culinary education for less fortunate youth in fulfillment of Dilmah Founder’s wish for his business to serve humanity. Over 228 young women and men, including several differently able youth have graduated from our Empower Culinary Schools and gone on to successful careers in hospitality.

Throwback to the graduation ceremony of 30 new ambitious chefs of Dilmah’s Empower Culinary and Hospitality Schools who are ready to take up their first step as professionals in the hospitality industry. Over 5 years Dilmah’s ECHS, the only Worldchefs - World Association of Chefs Societies accredited culinary school in Sri Lanka, has empowered and groomed nearly 250 young men and women to enhance their skill set and molded them into become professionals in the industry and to start their own enterprises. Amongst them are youth from different underprivileged upbringings ranging from absence of guardians, financial difficulties, individuals with disabilities and creative minds from remote corners of the country. At Dilmah, our purpose is formed around our Founder’s wish to serve humanity through business. He set up an unconventional tea company that values kindness to people and nature above all. It is at the heart of everything we do. We are a family business, serving people & nature, and that is the purpose of Dilmah, our MJF Foundation and Dilmah Conservation.

In an extraordinary time, we knew that we needed to work in an extraordinary manner to ensure that plantation communities have better access to facilities in health care.

The Merrill J. Fernando Charitable Foundation High Dependency Unit opened last week at the District General Hospital of Nawalapitya. Representing the Founder and his family, Mrs. Vellaiammah unveiled the plaque which symbolises what can be accomplished together.

Our collaboration went beyond funding thanks to the team of doctors and nurses @DGHN, the Plantation Human Development Trust, Kahawatte Plantations, PCL and the Dilmah-MJFCF Team.

Business is a matter of Human service

The aspiring chefs of Dilmah’s Empower Culinary & Hospitality School who will be graduating soon, were treated to a personalised star class tour of The Hilton Colombo last April. The visit introduced them to all aspects of a hotel and its inner workings in one of the World’s first & finest Global Hospitality Chains. Thank you, The Hilton Colombo for your hospitality and kindness. By seeing through your commitment, you support youth from disadvantaged backgrounds and enable a pathway to a better life.

Dilmah’s Empower Culinary & Hospitality School values hands-on practical exposure for its students, ensuring that they are kitchen ready by graduation. Learn more https://www.mjffoundation.org/empower/culinary-and-hospitality-school.html

The first ever Night Market at the MJFCF Centre in Moratuwa featured Street food, and music and gave first-time vendors and entrepreneurs the opportunity to put a value to their passion, engage with consumers, learn how to sell and align their products to meet market demands. Action stations featured a range of food, desserts and snacks and the movie screening for children added to the evening’s fun. Forty-seven stalls primarily run by women sold food, gifts, and clothing, giving new businesses and those impacted by the economic downturn as a result of the pandemic a chance to engage with customers. Its family centred approach ensured that there was something for the entire family. Organised by Dilmah’s MJF Foundation & Dilmah Conservation, the Nightmarket brought together people from all walks of life to experience a fusion of flavours and a celebration of women in small business – a little rain was no hindrance to the team, the vendors or its visitors!

Languages are a part of who we are. Multilingualism fosters inclusion in education & society, enriching our culture and connecting us and our common heritage 

#InternationalMotherLanguageDay Brought to you by the MJF Kids Programme Peliyagoda - one of the oldest initiatives of Dilmah’s MJF Foundation which serves children from some of the poorest urban areas of Colombo. The sessions conducted in Peliyagoda and Maligawatta have a reputation for academic excellence and the teaching of lessons beyond the classroom - for life.

Avaz යනු සන්නිවේදන අපහසුතා සහිත දරුවන් සඳහා නිර්මාණය කරන ලද ඇප් එකකි. ඕටිසම්, ඩවුන් සින්ඩ්‍රම් සහ CP සහිත දරුවන්ට මෙම ඇප් එක භාවිතා කිරීමෙන් පහසුවෙන් සිය අවශ්‍යතා සහ අදහස් ප්‍රකාශ කළ හැකියි. Avaz සිංහල, දෙමළ සහ ඉංග්‍රීසි යන භාෂා තුනෙන්ම ඔබට ලබා ගත හැකි අතර පහසුවෙන්ම smart phone හෝ tab එකක් හරහා නොමිලේ download කර ගත හැකියි.

Avaz is an App that facilitates communication for children with special needs. Developed in partnership with Avaz India, Dilmah's NCCCPDD and the University of Kelaniya, it is the first ever alternative communication app in Sri Lanka which is available in Sinhala & Tamil.

The extra chromosome makes them extra special. Meet Nethmi - a 12 year-old with many talents. Born with Down Syndrome, Nethmi enjoys her childhood, doing what she loves just like anyone else. Here’s how she spends a typical day at her school.

Daily, over 400 children with Down Syndrome, Autism, CP & other disabilities benefit from therapy and education at Dilmah’s National Centre for Children with CP & Other Developmental Disorders & MJF Rainbow Centres. Learn more about what we do : https://youtu.be/bxlzmlT-VTo

Their extra chromosome makes them extra special.

Meet Imesh - our little chef at Dilmah’s NCCCPDD. Imesh was born with Down Syndrome however that doesn’t make him any different. He is loved & supported by his family and teachers who always encourage him to follow his passion.

See what Imesh learned during the lockdown.

Daily, over 400 children with Down Syndrome, Autism, CP & other disabilities benefit from therapy and education at Dilmah’s National Centre for Children with CP & Other Developmental Disorders & MJF Rainbow Centres across Sri Lanka. Learn more about what we do : https://youtu.be/bxlzmlT-VTo

Our 2020 was made possible with the support of our family of Dilmah partners and consumers across the world. Thank you, Tokai Coop - Dilmah’s partner in Japan for your kindness in continuing to support the preschool children of the estates starting school in 2021.

School bags and stationery from the MJF Foundation help equip children of the estate for their education at the closest primary schools and increases their attendance. The school bag project continues to grow every year as we have more involvement by other coops in different regions of Japan.

Get involved through our Ethical Tea Society https://bit.ly/38wApZT to help make a difference in the lives of a less privileged community in Sri Lanka.

The estates and their people lie at the heart of Dilmah’s Purpose. Together with the MJF Foundation & Dilmah Conservation, we recognise the need to adapt; to ensure that we are renewed in our commitment to work through the current and future challenges of the tea industry.

The solution lies in the people of the estates and the development of their community: healthcare, education, skills training, diversification, new technology, gender based initiatives, updated infrastructure and providing eco-livelihood opportunities are some of the on-going initiatives geared towards the estate workers, their families and the communities that revolve around them.

Dilmah’s MJF Centre - West initiated a mobile lending library called ‘Tuk Tuk Poth’ as an outreach programme for vulnerable communities of Moratuwa after the lockdown.

“Tuk Tuk Poth” provides books in Sinhala, Tamil & English catering to all ages as well as toys which can be borrowed and returned after one week. So far, over 700 individuals have benefitted from this project.

We love Tuk Tuk Poth! It opens up children’s imaginations and improves their literacy and knowledge beyond school books.

16 young women & men from Dilmah's Empower Culinary & Hospitality School - East graduated last month, bringing their best to the table with culinary finesse and creativity! The aspiring chefs who successfully completed the Culinary Boot Camp, which was delayed by 3 months due to the lockdown, hosted their parents and special guests for an unforgettable dinner under the stars. The Empower Culinary & Hospitality School is an industry-focused social initiative by Dilmah’s MJF Foundation which supports less-privileged youth to enter the world of culinary arts. Accredited by World Association of Chefs' Societies, the state-of-the-art facility in Kalkudah offers free practical and professional competency training in all aspects of culinary practice to support aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals from Eastern Sri Lanka. #Dilmah #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #Empower #Culinary #Hospitality #CulinaryArts #Skills #Knowledge #Youth #SriLanka

Dilmah MJF Foundation’s roots lie in the estate programme and one of the key message is in giving back to others. This is Vasanthamalar, an Attorney at Law who is now leading the way for change in her community, inspiring countless others to pursue their dreams to graduate secondary school and enter university.

Vasanthamalar was supported by the MJF Scholarship Programme for 3 years. With passion and commitment, she is dedicated to giving back and making a difference in her life as well as others.

There is beauty in understanding that a more equal world enables endless opportunities for everyone.

At Dilmah, all individuals work towards creating a collective environment that is happier, healthier and kinder at heart. On International Women’s Day, we ask individuals to strike a pose for equality with us, and begin your day with a random act of kindness for the common good.

At the 6th Empower Culinary & Hospitality School Graduation, twenty aspiring young chefs hosted a High Tea, bringing flair and creativity to the table. The team crafted a unique gastronomic experience for the guests with dishes made from fresh organic produce and locally sourced ingredients. We were inspired by the incredible talent of these youth who continue to push beyond what is considered possible while dedicating their lives to learn and become the best version of themselves.

Dilmah’s Empower Culinary & Hospitality School is an industry-focused social initiative which provides skills & training for less-privileged youth to enter the growing culinary and hospitality industry. Accredited by World Association of Chefs' Societies, the state-of-the-art facility in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka provides international and local exposure to youth in a demanding practical centred course which prepares them for rewarding careers in the hospitality industry.

Shake it up in style with Tomek Malek! Watch Mixologist extraordinaire - Tomek showing off his flairing skills and talent at Dilmah's MJF Centre, Moratuwa inspiring new apprentices on the way. Cheers to World Bartenders Day! Here's to the ones who shake up delicious blends and serve the magic that it brings with love.

#DilmahTea #BartenderDay #Inspiration #TeaMixologists #TeaInspired #Bartender #TeaMixology #Mixologist #Taste #Goodness #Purpose #NoCompromise #TeaInspiration

Dilmah’s Business Partner in Japan Tokai Coop, along with distributor WALTZ Co. shared a cup of kindness with the children of our tea gardens last December. Representatives of Tokai Coop. received a grand welcome by the children at the Craighead, Kataboola and Queensbury estates, as they provided school supplies for kids who started their first grade in January, bringing smiles to their faces.

#Dilmah #MJFFoundation #CraigheadEstate #TokaiCoop #WALTZCo #BusinessWorthy #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #ChangingLives #SriLanka #MJFCF #NoCompromise #Taste #Goodness #Purpose #Education #EthicalTea

Moments from Celebrating Differences 2019 - Our appreciation of your cup of kindness.

Children & youth of all abilities and ages from MJF Centres across Sri Lanka gathered with our Settlor, Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando last December to celebrate the differences that make us who we are. It was a joy watching them on stage - capturing our hearts with their own individual charms. Some had Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy, others Autism, some had more while others had less and everyone was definitely unique.

Our focus is on their ability, as we look beyond any disability or ethnicity to everyone’s humanity to celebrate the differences that make us who we are.

#LookBeyondDisability #CelebratingDifferences #BusinessWorthy #TeaInspired #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #MJFFoundation #MerrillJFernando #Dilmah #EthicalTea #Taste #Goodness #Purpose #DifferentIsNotDisabled #Empowerment #Sustainable #EthicalBusiness #CupofKindness #Christmas #SpiritofChristmas #Unity #Diversity #Joy #PurposeOfChristmas #Dignity #Humanitarian #SriLanka #NoCompromise

15 years ago, the Tsunami took the lives of 230,000 people across Asia including 30,000 in Sri Lanka. The waters crippled livelihoods and destroyed the homes of thousands of coastal communities with Fishermen being the most affected. As a family business, formed around the philosophy of service and purpose, Dilmah responded to the cataclysmic event with its Small Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP). It rekindled hope where there was none bringing light into the devastated hamlets and villages of the South supporting fishermen & traders to resume their businesses.

To date the MJF Foundation has supported nearly 2,000 such recipients across Sri Lanka, together with our longest-standing partner the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and others, we renew our dedication to make a positive change in Sri Lanka.

#Dilmah #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #ShareACupofKindness #BusinessIsAMatterOfHumanService #Entrepreneurship #Empowerment #Dignity #RebuildingLives #Humanitarian #SriLanka #Tsunami #Tsunami2004

The Empower Culinary & Hospitality School (ECHS) is an industry-focused social initiative by Dilmah's MJF Charitable Foundation. Accredited by World Association of Chefs' Societies, the state-of-the-art facility located in Western and Eastern Sri Lanka provides international and local exposure to less-privileged youth in a demanding practical centred course which enables access to rewarding careers in the field of culinary, catering or in setting up their own business. Meet Aththanayaka, an aspiring young chef from ECHS Kalkudah who creates dishes by cooking up innovation.

#Dilmah #ChangingLives #Purpose #WorldChefsDay #ChefsDay #Culinary #Hospitality #Skills #Knowledge #Education #Empowerment #Youth #Chefs #SriLanka

Continuing our Celebration of Chefs, here’s a throwback to when we supported the culinary dreams of rural Sri Lankans through the first season of Supreme Chef. Hear what Melonika Raju has to say about her journey; from starting as a juice vendor to now, a Chef De Partie at the Dilmah t-Lounge.

#Dilmah #InternationalChefsDay #WorldChefsDay2019 #Taste #Goodness #Purpose #WorldChefsDay #Chef #ChefLife #TeaInspired #TeaGastronomy #chefschool #Culinary #Hospitality #Skills #Knowledge #Education #Empowerment #Youth #YoungChefs #Chefs #NoCompromise

The Inaugural Graduation of Empower Culinary & Hospitality School in Kalkudah was a celebration of accomplishments and amazing food. Sixteen aspiring young chefs brought their best to the table, dishing out creativity on a plate in a selection of local flavours on the menu. Here's how they prepared for their culinary glory.

The Empower Culinary & Hospitality School in Kalkudah is located at MJF Centre - East. The state of the art facility, accredited by World Association of Chefs' Societies provides practical and professional competency training in all aspects of culinary practice to low-income youth from Eastern Sri Lanka which enables access to rewarding careers in the foodservice industry.

#Dilmah #MJFCF #ECHS #Purpose #ChangingLives #BusinessWorthy #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #Empowerment #Youth #Culinary #Hospitality #FoodService #Chefs #CulinaryArts #Skills #Education #SriLanka

Thank you Blackcaps for inspiring the young cricketers of Cricket Live Foundation (CLF) to achieve their dreams beyond boundaries. You won the hearts of our children with your sportsmanship, humility and words. The Cricket Live Foundation works in partnership with Dilmah's MJF Charitable Foundation with over 496 less-privileged children across Sri Lanka. The programme provides cricket coaching, life skills, education and exposure - paving the pathway for their future through cricket.

#Dilmah #Purpose #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #BlackCaps #Cricket #CricketNZ #NewZealand #Kiwis #LifeThroughCricket #CLF #Inspiration #Greatness #Sports #Srilanka

A year ago, the MJF Centre - East commenced its work with communities in the area to help in sharing knowledge and skills that will help the beneficiaries align with opportunities. Here’s what we have achieved over the last 12 months.

#MJFCentreEast #Dilmah #MJFCF #DilmahConservation #Empower #BusinessWorthy #MakingADifference #businessisamatterofhumanservice #ChangingLives #SriLanka #Sustainability #NoCompromise

We were honoured to have Bocuse d'Or Silver Medalist, Chef Roland Debuyst prepare a meal with the young chefs of Dilmah’s Empower Culinary and Hospitality School in Moratuwa. Beyond showcasing his culinary skills with organic, local and sustainable produce from our very own DCSARC (Dilmah Conservation Sustainable Agriculture Research Centre), much inspiration was shared with the budding chefs, highlighting the importance of always cooking with a passion.

#Dilmah #MJFCF #SustainableGastronomyDay #BusinessWorthy #Sustainability #TeaGastronomy #Gourmet #Culinary #BocusedOr #Chef #RolandDebuyst #Education #Youth #Empowerment #ECHS #Taste #Goodness #Purpose #NoCompromise #SriLanka

Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando established the MJF Charitable Foundation, fulfilling his vision to make business a matter of human service. From humble beginnings, the MJF Charitable Foundation has expanded far beyond what its Founder could ever have imagined. Today, through its work, vulnerable women, men, girls and boys are given the opportunity to control their future and give back to their communities.

Dilmah’s Cricket Live Foundation inspires and supports vulnerable children in Sri Lanka by providing them with a pathway for their future through Cricket. The Founder of CLF, Alex Reese shares his love for the game and spirit of Cricket with more than 400 children from marginalised communities in Sri Lanka. This inspirational Kiwi Cricketer takes us through his journey with CLF that has touched the lives of many children by empowering them to master their way through both the pitch and life.

Mankada - MJF Centre for Empowerment through Arts & Crafts is an artisanal pottery centre which provides employment to women living along the periphery of Udawalawe National Park. Inspired by nature, these artisans mould beautiful works of art from clay, keeping a traditional Sri Lankan art form alive and breathing new life into it.

#Dilmah #MJFCF #Purpose #ChangingLives #Empowerment #Women #Arts #Crafts #Pottery #Nature #SriLanka

"See the ability in disability"
At the Annual Sports Meet of NCCCPDD, every child was given the chance to play, participate and showcase their ability through sports and active recreation. Defying the barriers, they pushed their boundaries proving that if the opportunity is given, anyone can be their best.

#Dilmah #BusinessWorthy #Purpose #SeeTheAbility #LeaveNoOneBehind #DifferentNotDisabled #Inclusion #CPWarrior #DownSyndrome #Autism#DisabilityRights #DisabilityAwareness #Sports #Recreation

Around The Pearl is an annual cycling challenge where riders embark on a journey around the coast of Sri Lanka raising funds of wheelchairs for children with Cerebral Palsy – over 2,000 wheelchairs have been distributed since the partnership commenced. The 8th Wheelchair Campaign for around The Pearl was held at MJF Centre - East in Kalkudah last year, providing life-changing freedom of mobility to children with disabilities from Batticaloa District.

Around the Pearl 2019 kicked off last week. A Wheelchair camp was held in Kalmunai on 13^th April and the next wheelchair donation camp will be held in Mannar. அடுத்த சக்கர நாற்காலி நன்கொடை முகாம் மன்னார் மாவட்டத்தில் நடத்தப்படும்.

After reaching out to Dilmah's NCCCPDD and educating herself about early intervention, Karen's attitude towards her daughter’s extra chromosome changed. Following her daughter’s birth last year, and having spent a couple of months parenting her, Karen shares some of the heartfelt moments of her baby and what it really means to parent a child with Down syndrome.

#Dilmah #Purpose #BusinessWorthy #WorldDownSyndromeDay #DownSyndrome #DisabilityAwareness #SeeTheAbility #LeaveNoOneBehind #Inclusion #DifferentNotDisabled #YesICan #MoreLikeThanDifferent #ChooseKindness

Balance drives a better world. Dilmah continues our pledge to share the stage and to help create a more inclusive and diverse world. Support us in our efforts - #BalanceForBetter International Women’s Day 2019.

#IWD2019 #InternationalWomensDay #Dilmah #TeaInspired #Taste #Goodness #Purpose #NoCompromise #SriLanka

When tragic circumstances forced Rashmi's family to move from their village, their lives fell apart. But Rashmi did not give up. With her mother's perseverance, she mustered up the courage to work her way up to be the accomplished person - she is today. Here's a look at the inspiring journeys of the next generation of emerging young people from MJF Kids and Youth Programmes.

#Dilmah #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #Taste #Goodness #Purpose#BusinessIsAMatterOfHumanService #Education #Youth #Empowerment#SriLanka #NoCompromise

It takes passion and grit to fight against life’s adversities.

Dananjaya is a young achiever from the MJF Kids programme who worked relentlessly toward his goals despite hardship. Here's a look at the inspiring journeys of the next generation of emerging young people from MJF Kids and Youth Programmes.

#Dilmah #BusinessWorthy #Purpose #ChangingLives #Education #Youth #Empowerment #SriLanka

Celebrating Differences is the biggest and the most colourful concert that all MJF kids, youth, parents and staff look forward to every year. Last month’s Celebrating Differences stayed true to its name by having MJF Kids from across Sri Lanka displaying their cultural and creative flair on stage, making it a truly memorable night for all.

#CelebratingDifferences #DifferentNotDisabled #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #DilmahFounder #MerrillJFernando #OpportunityForAll #Taste #Goodness #Purpose #Dilmah #MJFCF #NoCompromise #30YearsofDilmah

When you enjoy your cup of Dilmah Tea, you know you are contributing to the smiles of hundreds of children in need. Tokai Coop - Consumers Cooperative, along with Dilmah distributor in Japan Waltz & Co. donated school bags to the children from the communities at Craighead estate last month. The tiny tots’ faces lit up with happiness as they wore their backpacks, getting ready to embark on a path to a promising future.

#InternationalDayofEducation #educationday #CraigheadEstate #Dilmah #TokaiCoop #WALTZCo #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #SriLanka #MJFCF #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #NoCompromise

In celebration of their culinary excellence, the aspiring young chefs from the 4th intake of Empower Culinary & Hospitality School, hosted an Afternoon Tea at MJF Centre, Moratuwa - creating an exceptional tea-inspired menu, featuring some of their signature dishes.

#ECHSGraduation #Dilmah #MJFCF #BusinessWorthy #ECHS #Empower #Culinary #Hospitality #ChangingLives #TeaInspired #ATF21 #Businessisamatterofhumanservice #NoCompromise #30YearsOfDilmah

Supreme Chef is a Reality TV competition where residents of the Eastern Province and Polonnaruwa compete for culinary glory. Dilmah & MJFCF are pleased to support culinary excellence in Eastern Sri Lanka where novices are trained on a quick path to learn the basics of culinary arts.

#SupremeChef #MJFCentreEast #Culinary #Empower #ChangingLives #BusinessWorthy #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #Dilmah #MJFCF #NoCompromise #30YearsofDilmah #SriLanka

Performing arts can give children with Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome and Autism the chance to enjoy, engage and achieve self-expression. At their annual concert, children of NCCCPDD displayed their talents to a live audience. Everyone got a moment to shine on stage, proving that participation alone is a huge achievement for them.

Music is a universal language which transcends all borders and brings everyone together. Last October, MJF Centre in Moratuwa celebrated Music and Life with Country Roads concert for children - South Asia’s longest-running charity concert with a cause. The music had both young and old - tapping their toes and clapping to the beats of some of the greatest country, western and folk music hits.

An enthusiastic bunch of Rainbow kids, MJF kids, youth, parents and staff took the stage, joining Mavericks from Germany, UK’s Astrid Brook and local favourites like Sunil Perera to follow the pursuit of music and melody. The whole experience made everyone's day better and brighter. For kids with disabilities, it was a moment to unleash their creative expression through music and movements. They sang, danced and pranced around with so much energy and excitement, making it a day to remember. Dilmah has been a part of Country Roads for many years. This year, we celebrated 30 years of fundraising for local children’s charities across Sri Lanka.
#CountryRoadsConcertForChildren #infusedinmelody #symphonyinT #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #Dilmah #MJFCF #NoCompromise #30YearsofDilmah

Chefs come in different shapes and sizes. At MJF Charitable Foundation’s Empower Culinary and Hospitality School in Moratuwa, youth, women and people with disabilities are given a renewed purpose in life - to become the best chefs and young cooks that they aspire to be. This year, we celebrate by emphasising the importance of educating children around the world about the importance of eating healthy, promoting the career of chefs and helping to change local communities on the abilities of people with disabilities.
#WorldChefsDay #Inspiration #TeaInspired #KnowledgeInspiresPassion #Chefs #Culinary #Empower #ChangingLives #BusinessWorthy #BusinessIsAMatterofHumanService #Dilmah #MJFCF #NoCompromise #30YearsofDilmah #PeterKuruvita

Fishing is an essential part of the livelihoods of people living on the East Coast, but daily life struggles have undermined the fishing sector in the region since the tsunami. This is the story of Rajan. He is one of the recipients of Dilmah's MJF Foundation Small Entrepreneurship Programme. As with Rajan, we remain committed to ensuring that no one is left behind and that efforts to end poverty defend human rights and the dignity of all.

World Cerebral Palsy Day is about acceptance, awareness and understanding of one of the most common global developmental disorders. This year’s theme “We are here” recognises the urgency of delivering skills and resources to ensuring that children with CP become contributing members of society.

We want to give the same opportunity to children in Sri Lanka creating a powerful voice for those with CP to help change their world. At NCCCPDD - children and youth with CP or other developmental disorders, their families and therapists receive the skills, resources and awareness/outreach programmes to lead a fulfilling and dignified life.

The National Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy and other Developmental Disorders is a joint venture between Cerebral Palsy Lanka Foundation and the MJF Charitable Foundation. All services offered are free to children and at a cost to professionals and families.

#WorldCerebralPalsyDay #MJFCF #Dilmah #NCCCPDD #MJFFoundation #CerebralPalsy #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #MakingADifference #differentisnotdisabled #businessisamatterofhumanservice

Daco is a French urban artist whose geometry-inspired Graffiti has been featured all around the world. He was in Sri Lanka for the month-long French Spring Festival organized by the French Embassy and Alliance Francaise de Kotte. Take a look at how figures of a horse and a butterfly emerge from a kinetic flurry of spray paints and geometric forms as he brings colour and life to the walls of MJF Charitable Foundation, Moratuwa with his latest Graffaune.

With his expertise in carpentry and the support provided by Dilmah’s Small Entrepreneurship programme, Sheron was able to transform his small workshop into a fully-fledged business. Today, Sheron maintains a steady source of income with woodworking. It’s truly inspiring.

#Dilmah #MJFCF #Empower #BusinessWorthy #MakingADifference #businessisamatterofhumanservice #ChangingLives #SriLanka #Empowerment #Entrepreneurs #SmallEntreprises #NoCompromise

The stories of victory, support and sportsmanship that came out of Aidex are of legend. Take a look at some of the most memorable moments from Aidex 2018 - The Annual Sports Day, organised by The Colombo Friend In Need Society and Dilmah Tea to inspire and motivate amputees who are users of the Jaipur Limb.

A Journey of 12 Years in Eastern Sri Lanka - MJF Centre for Dignified Empowerment and Sustainable Development was inaugurated by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe, Dilmah Founder and Chairman Merrill J. Fernando in Kalkudah, today. The centre was established to fulfil its founder’s pledge to make business - a matter of human service a reality in Eastern Sri Lanka. Come join us in our journey.

#MJFCentreEast #Dilmah #MJFCF #DilmahConservation #Empower #BusinessWorthy #MakingADifference #businessisamatterofhumanservice #ChangingLives #SriLanka #Sustainability #NoCompromise

Dilmah Conservation’s Greening Batticaloa is planting 1 million cashew trees to improve the green cover while economically empowering the local communities in the region. Under this initiative, 300 cashew plants were given to a proprietor of a private estate in Kalkudah. After 6 years, the trees are in their bearing age and had a yield of around 15, 000 nuts this year.

#MJFCentreEast #Dilmah #MJFCF #DilmahConservation #Empower #BusinessWorthy #MakingADifference #ChangingLives #SriLanka #Sustainability #NoCompromise

World Vision Lanka collaborates with MJF Charitable Foundation to support community mobilisation projects in the Batticaloa District - by advocating the incoming centre in the East which will be opened on the 1st September 2018. Hinthu Kumaraswami - Programme Manager of World Vision Lanka, Koralaipattu South, Batticaloa talks about our shared commitment to encourage and engage the community in the Batticaloa District.

#MJFCentreEast #Dilmah #MJFCF #DilmahConservation #WorldVisionLanka #Empower #BusinessWorthy #MakingADifference #ChangingLives #SriLanka #Sustainability #NoCompromise

Ms. Nirupa Pirunthan - Assitant Division Secretary, Koralaipattu tells us why it is important to have a Centre - equipped with state of the art facilities and vocational training for the most vulnerable communities in the divisions surrounding Kalkudah, including children and youth with disabilities.

#MJFCentreEast #Dilmah #MJFCF #DilmahConservation #Empower #BusinessWorthy #MakingADifference #ChangingLives #SriLanka #Sustainability #NoCompromise

#DifferentIsNotDisabled - Dilmah's Small Entrepreneurship Programme enhances the dignity and self-worth of disabled men & women by providing self-sufficiency through productive work. Our series feature SEP beneficiaries participating in AIDEX 2018- for Amputees fitted with the Jaipur Limb. The Annual Sports Festival is organised by the Colombo Friend-in-Need Society & Dilmah.

Story#1 Hope: Upali - a gas cooker repairer’s struggle and survival.

#MakingADifference #Dilmah #MJFCF #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #Empowerment #Entrepreneurs #SmallEntreprises #SriLanka #Aidex2018

Dilmah's Small Entrepreneurship Programme enhances the dignity and self-worth of disabled men & women by providing self-sufficiency through productive work. Our series feature SEP beneficiaries participating in AIDEX 2018- for Amputees fitted with the Jaipur Limb. The Annual Sports Festival is organised by the Colombo Friend-in-Need Society & Dilmah.

#MakingADifference #Dilmah #MJFCF #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #Empowerment #Entrepreneurs #SmallEntreprises #SriLanka #Aidex2018

Story#3 - Sujani: An unfortunate case of medical malpractice left Sujani wheelchair-bound at a very young age. This is her inspiring story - a celebration of positivity, bravery and human possibility.

Dilmah's Small Entrepreneurship Programme enhances the dignity and self-worth of disabled men & women by providing self-sufficiency through productive work. Our series feature SEP beneficiaries participating in AIDEX 2018- for Amputees fitted with the Jaipur Limb. The Annual Sports Festival is organised by the Colombo Friend-in-Need Society & Dilmah.

#MakingADifference #Dilmah #MJFCF #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #Empowerment #Entrepreneurs #SmallEntreprises #SriLanka #Aidex2018

#DifferentIsNotDisabled - Story#5 - Supun Nishantha’s story gives us a glimpse of what is possible when it seems like the odds are against you. He is determined to live up to his potential and works consistently with his wife to make his business a profitable one.

Dilmah's Small Entrepreneurship Programme enhances the dignity and self-worth of disabled men & women by providing self-sufficiency through productive work. Our series feature SEP beneficiaries participating in AIDEX 2018- for Amputees fitted with the Jaipur Limb. The Annual Sports Festival is organised by the Colombo Friend-in-Need Society & Dilmah.

#MakingADifference #Dilmah #MJFCF #BusinessWorthy #ChangingLives #Empowerment #Entrepreneurs #SmallEntreprises #SriLanka #Aidex2018

BUSINESS IS A MATTER OF HUMAN SERVICE

Dilmah is the world’s first ethically made tea; earnings from its global sales remain in Sri Lanka and are shared with workers, and the community and re-invested in the industry to make tea sustainable. The success of this family business has been in caring for the workers who produce Dilmah as much as it cares for its customers. The MJF Charitable Foundation established by the Dilmah Founder Merrill J. Fernando, implements over 150 different projects which touch the lives of over 10,000 underprivileged Sri Lankans each year.

Join Dilmah & Kumar Sangakkara to wish Sri Lankan National team for the Blind Cricket World Cup 2018. Lets bring it home boys.

#DifferentIsNotDisabled #CricketingHeroes #BusinessWorthy

Dilmah and MJF Charitable Foundation continues to support the development of Blind Cricket in Sri Lanka and will remain the primary sponsor for the National Blind Cricket Team participating in the Blind Cricket World Cup held in Dubai from the 7th to the 25th of January 2018. Let’s bring it home boys.

#CricketingHeroes #DifferentIsNotDisabled #MJFFoundation #MerrillJFernando #BusinessIsaMatterofHumanService #BusinessWorthy #Cricket #SriLanka #BCW18 #BlindWC18 #LetSee

We hoped to inspire them. Instead, we were inspired by them.
With smiles that never faded and willpower that never faltered, our Ironkids pushed past the finish line with all their might. They refused to let anything get in their way, proving again that different is not disabled. This is exactly what the MJF Charitable Foundation's National Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy and other Developmental Disorders strives to achieve. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who volunteered and supported us to make this an unforgettable day for our kids. There is no doubt that you will find this video to be more than rewarding for your commitment.

#DailyInspiration #Differentisnotdisabled #IronKids2018 #TeaInspiringIronman #IronmanCMBDilmah #DilmahTea #NoCompromise #TeaInspired #IronmanTri #Ironman703 #iamIRONMANCMB #srilanka #IronKids

"A boy from a tea plantation … winning the Best Commis in Sri Lanka and going into the Asia Pacific Competition - and probably to the World Finals is a HUGE achievement” - Rohan Fernandopulle (President – Bocuse d' Or Sri Lanka)
Meet the ambitious and talented Dinesh; a graduate from the Dilmah Empower Culinary and Hospitality School.

We invite young culinary enthusiasts from Sri Lanka to join our school. Applications for the next intake are ongoing, for further information please call Manil Perera at 011 4888323.

#NoCompromise #NoCompromiseonIntegrity #businessisamatterofhumanservice #Dilmah #DilmahTea #TeaInspired #BocuseDor #BocuseDor2018

Chef Adam Gount was impressed by Bocuse d' Or Sri Lanka team’s dish and its expression of the island flavours. This is what he has to say about using tea as a gastronomic ingredient.

#Dilmah #DilmahTea #TeaInspired #BocuseDor #BocuseDor2018

Here’s what Bocuse d' Or Sri Lanka – President, Rohan Fernandopulle has to say about Team Sri Lanka’s Commis – Dinesh, whose roots stem from being brought up among tea plantations and factories to now serving tea, beyond a beverage. Watch to see how!

#Dilmah #DilmahTea #TeaInspired #BocuseDor #BocuseDor2018

Parallel to the reawakening taking place in the north; post war, K.Sivaranjini feels a revival within; a revival brought about by the sense of satisfaction she derives from the livelihood activity she started with the MJF Charitable Foundation’s support.

Among the multifaceted projects that the MJF Charitable Foundation has initiated in terms of post war rebuilding in the north, the Small Entrepreneur Programme (SEP) provides livelihood support for those traumatized and battered by the three decade long ethnic conflict. Edward Shanthi; a hardworking and capable individual, when supported by the Foundation became a productive small entrepreneur who could in turn translate her individual success for the benefit of many others.

For M. Kamaleshwary, a war widow, livelihood support of the MJF Foundation came at a time when she was coping with a personal loss while the wounds of the three decade long ethnic conflict she experienced, first hand, were still fresh upon her mind. Foundation’s livelihood support, to some level, healed her aching wounds, she echoes.

The MJF Kids programme was established in the belief that every child has inherent and outstanding ability, requiring only the means to nurture that ability. The MJF Kids and their parents benefit from art, life skills, supplementary conventional education and a caring environment. The educational and nutritional programmes of the “Anjali Aham” Psychosocial Counselling Centre in Jaffna, North of Sri Lanka commenced in 2011 as a part of the educational and livelihood support. Today, the programme benefits around 250 children- mostly those from poor and marginalised backgrounds, and the war affected- who come to the Centre, on weekday afternoons to receive guidance in their school curriculum. Here they also get exposure to develop their socialm life skills through the leadership development, outreach programmes and other social/cultural activities organised from time to time. Since its commencement, three batches of students have completed their studies up to Ordinary Level while 14 other students receive further assistance in their Advanced Level studies under the educational scholarship scheme of the MJFCF.

This is the story of H.A Premaratne who was assisted by the Merrill J. Fernando Charitable Foundation (MJFCF) in 2011 to rebuild his life after he lost his income following an accident. Today, he has been able to turn the small garden compound of his humble home into a fruity and vegetable haven. The prosthesis he wears make his physical injury still plain to see; yet the smile that adorns his face indicates that he has been able to rise above the hardships he faced in the aftermath of his tragedy. Premaratne, along with 400 other such differently-abled will gather at the annual AIDEX sports day to be held tomorrow at the Prison’s Ground Welikada, Colombo 8.

MJF Kids and their parents joined the Settlor of the MJF Charitable Foundation Merrill J. Fernando and the extended Dilmah family to celebrate their differences on World Down Syndrome Day at the MJF Centre Moratuwa on 16th March 2013. The event was an extra special day for kids attending the Cerebral Palsy and Rainbow Centres, also located at the MJF Centre Moratuwa. For some kids, the carnival like atmosphere was a first time experience. The MJF Kids were joined by other special children from the neighbourhood who were welcomed into the Dilmah family by everyone present. The idea behind organising a day to celebrate these special children stemmed from the success of the Celebrating Differences Christmas extravagansa held last December.  The day showcased that people with special needs are capable of living normal lives and being happy, just like us, when given a chance. This was the reason why Merrill J. Fernando’s MJF Charitable Foundation organised this event where children with special needs could mingle and enjoy the life often taken for granted by other children.

The MJF Kids programme was initially set up as part of the efforts to improve the living standards and overall wellbeing of children from mariginalised communities living in and around Dilmah factories in the Colombo District. What started in 2006 has now spread to MJF Centres across the country in Siyambalanduwa, Monaragala, Pallansena, Point Pedro, Peliyagoda, Maligawatta and Moratuwa. The MJF Kids programme initially commenced with mainstream children who were given educational support, development and nurturing of their aesthetic abilities, character building and an overall approach to support them overcome the poverty and depravity of their surroundings. In 2011, the MJF Kids programme was further developed to include children with special needs, who often lack support and care through the available welfare systems in the country.

The MJF Kids were treated to a special 'Country Roads' performance last evening at the Moratuwa MJF Centre. The evening was celebrated with the music of Texas Cowboy Bob Livingston, singer and songwriter Astrid Booke from Britain and Dirk the Maverick and his band from Germany. The performances included classics by John Denver, Johnny Cash, Carol King and Tracy Chapman. Over 200 MJF Kids from the MJF Centres in Peliyagaoda, Dematagoda and Moratuwa as well as children from the Cerebral Palsy and Rainbow Centres joined the Founder of the MJF Charitable Foundation Merrill J. Fernando, his family, Dilmah staff and a host invitees who couldn’t resist a bit of toe tapping.

Country Roads was initiated 25 years ago by the Business Editor of the Sunday Times Feizal Samath and a group of music lovers who wanted to raise funds to support underprivileged children in the country. Over the next 25 years, artistes as Bob Livingston would keep returning to Sri Lanka every time the concert was held, the last Country Roads concert being held in 2010.

Feizal explained that he conceived the idea to have a special Country Roads performance for MJF Kids after he saw the MJF Kids perform during the Celebrating Differences concert held last December at the Moratuwa Centre. I was touched by their performance and I thought it would be great to actually bring a group of performers to encourage these kids and show them how stars perform. The Celebrating Differences concert is held at the end of each year to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and to recap the wonderful year gone by. This year, the show was made even more special by the inclusion of performances by ‘special’ MJF Kids from the Rainbow Centre and the Cerebral Palsy Centre.

The musicians gave special emphasis to the MJF Kids present and sang children’s songs as Old McDonald, Hole in the bottom of the sea and You are my sunshine, with the kids joining in. The evening also included a cameo performance by veteran Country Roads participant Thilan Wijesinghe and Faizal who sang two Sri Lankan ‘baila’ numbers. The evening ended with a joint performance with everyone singing ‘Country Roads take me home’ in true country style.

A team of doctors and other medical staff from AuSLMAT (Australia Sri Lanka Medical Assistance Team) were in Sri Lanka recently to carry out a series of medical camps across the country. They spent their Christmas holidays attending to the welfare of a large group of poor and the underprivileged people in remote corners of the island. In Dilmah’s Kataboola Estate in Nawalapitiya, part of the Kahawatte Plantation, the team headed by consultant pediatrician Dr. Sian Hughes, screened and treated over one thousand patients for various ailments from 4th to 6th January 2013.

Held for the second consecutive year in the plantations, the programme covered a range of activities, including a diabetes awareness and education programme, random blood sugar testing and treatment, eye care and oral hygiene programme for adults and children alike. A dedicated pediatrics clinic for treating children from the plantations was one of the highlights of this programme. Additionally, echocardiogram testing was carried out for selected patients with a history of heart ailments and during the eye clinic, nearly one hundred individuals, including children, received eyeglasses. Overall, estate workers and their families in seven plantations of the Kahawatte Plantation Group benefitted from the medical camp.

The AuSLMAT is made up of Australian citizens including Sri Lankans who are domiciled in Australia. The programme was initially set up in the aftermath of the December 2004 tsunami to treat patients in tsunami affected areas. The programme evolved thereafter to include other areas in Sri Lanka that are often disadvantaged due their remoteness and lack of infra-structure. The AuSLMAT team has been working with the MJF Charitable Foundation since 2011 to provide not just medical assistance but also much needed health education for disadvantaged and underprivileged communities in the plantations.

The team comprised of two pediatricians, a dentist, an optometrist, two general physicians, echo cardiologist and several medical interns from Australia. We thank Dr Hughes and her team for their dedication.

The conflict which lasted for nearly three decades saw many people losing their limbs to land mines. The AIDEX (Aid to the Ex-Abled) Annual Sports Festival, now in its 18th year, has been sponsored by Dilmah, from its inception, to help such individuals realise their potential and to encourage them to live non-dependent lives with dignity. This event brings together over 350 participants from across the island and give them the opportunity to overcome their disabilities and regain confidence in their own resourcefulness.

In addition to the sponsorship, Dilmah also makes special grants to select individuals so as to empower them to become more productive citizens of the community.

The 6th annual Merrill J. Fernando Challenge Trophy for Excellence in Blind Cricket concluded at the Wesley College Grounds recently. The winners, Monaragala Subhagya Vidyalaya -- School for the Hearing & Visual Impaired beat the CEI Sport Club, Piliyandala team in an impressive display of sportsmanship while the Ratmalana School for the Visually Impaired 'A' team and the team from the Sri Lanka Council for the Visually Handicapped were placed 3rd and 4th respectively.

The MJF Rainbow Centre Moratuwa held its annual concert on 1 December 2013, bringing together all children from the MJF Charitable Foundation for an evening of artistic and creative expression. This year's stage featured touching performances from both underprivileged and differently-abled children from the Moratuwa Centre, MJF Centre Peliyagoda and the Rainbow Centre in Moratuwa whose talent and flair were applauded and praised by an encouraging audience. The concert was aimed at looking beyond social, cultural, economic and religious differences while celebrating the individuality of every child. These children showed us that we are all different, That our differences - whether Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy or any other -- can be celebrated, Through understanding, and focusing on what we can do, and not what we cannot.

The graduation ceremony of students who completed the Graphic Design course and MS Office Course at the Curtiss Centre for Design at the MJF Centre Moratuwa was held on January 19, 2013. A 'special' fashion show by MJF Kids was a highlight of the evening.

A special person visited the Rainbow Centre at the Moratuwa MJF Centre recently with his parents to speak and encourage the parents of children attending the Rainbow Centre. This is the story of Stefan Deen and what his visit meant to our Rainbow Kids.

The first crop of pineapples from the Orange and Pineapple project in Pahalalanda Ampara was handed over to Settlor of the MJF Charitable Foundation, Merrill J. Fernando in June this year. The fruits were handed over by Samantha, the President of the Gemi Aruna community organisation and SEP recipient of the Foundation.

22 March 2014, Moratuwa, Sri Lanka – World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated on 21 March each year to recognize and celebrate the vital role played by individuals with Down Syndrome in our lives and communities. This year marked the 9th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day focussing on ‘Health and Wellbeing – Access and Equality for All’. The theme stressed on the right to access healthcare without discrimination and with proper assessment of the specific health needs by all individuals including those diagnosed with Down Syndrome.

In celebration of this special day, the Rainbow Centre of the MJF Charitable Foundation also hosted a unique and colourful event on 22 March 2014 at the MJF Centre, Moratuwa. The event, aimed at commemorating the lives of those with different abilities saw guests and volunteers joining together to raise awareness amongst the public about the abilities of individuals with special needs. MJF Kids, their parents, teachers and invitees joined the Founder of the MJF Charitable Foundation, Merrill J. Fernando, and the extended Dilmah family to celebrate children and adults with special needs. The event affirmed the unique abilities of these individuals who are capable of living productive, happy and fulfilling lives, when given the chance.

It was a vibrant and exiting day for all children and adults attending the Cerebral Palsy and Rainbow Centres at Moratuwa. The entertaining line-up of events was a thrilling experience that saw many MJF Kids showcase their talent and creativity. Dance performances by children currently receiving aesthetic and educational support through the MJF Charitable Foundation, a fashion show presented by children with special needs, interactive mural painting and finger painting, and an entertaining talent show were all part of the World Down Syndrome Day activities at the MJF Centre in Moratuwa. Children and invitees alike had lots of fun, with the evening coming to an end with lively music and dancing enjoyed by our special children.

The MJF Charitable Foundation was set up to fulfil the Dilmah Founders wish to make business a matter of human service and share with the community the fruits of his success. The MJF Kids programme was initially set up as part of the efforts to improve the living standards and overall wellbeing of children from marginalised communities. What started in 2006 has now spread to MJF Centres across the country in Point Pedro, Siyambalanduwa, Pallansena, Maligawatte, Peliyagoda and Moratuwa. In 2011, the MJF Kids programme was further developed to include children with special needs, who often lack support and care through the available welfare systems in the country.

The MJF Centre in Moratuwa provides educational support for disadvantaged children and care for differently-abled individuals through a comprehensive programme of entertainment, care and attention. The Rainbow unit located within this centre specially caters to the needs of young adults with Down Syndrome so that they can live independent and productive lives well into adulthood despite their different physical and intellectual abilities.

Additionally, the MJF Charitable Foundation manages and supports Sithijaya, a centre that provides care, training and upliftment for special needs children in Ambalantota, in the South of Sri Lanka.

Living in an agricultural village in rural Athimale in Monaragala Lal Rupasinghe had no choice but to become a woodcarver. Due to the scarcity of livelihood options and pressure of trying circumstances he had to continue in his father’s footsteps creating basic woodcrafts using simple tools. Because his resources were limited Lal could only manage a very few pieces at a time.

Even though he was interested in creating intricate pieces and elaborate designs, the lack of specialised tools and equipment limited Lal’s scope. It was during this time that the MJF Charitable Foundation, recognizing his talent and potential, intervened and provided Lal with a multi-purpose woodworking machine.

Lal was elated and continued to work hard to create sought-after original woodcarvings and trained a number of youth in the area in woodcraft. He has even employed five youngsters from within the community in order to offer them a stable source of income. Today, Lal has become a role model to the youth of Athimale.

Having started as a simple potter handcrafting oil lamps at home to support her family, R.M. Chandralatha found work time consuming and laborious. However, she was determined to make her business a success and worked hard to accomplish this task.

With time, the young potter became known as an industrious and reliable provider of basic earthenware lamps. Later, she began receiving orders to make pots to store curd and longed to streamline her work and expand production. Sadly, she did not have sufficient funds to purchase machinery or labour.

Chandralatha’s wishes was fulfilled when she became a recipient of the SEP, MJF Charitable Foundation’s Small Entrepreneur Programme. She received her first pottery machine along with a workshop space and kiln and, being a productive and resourceful entrepreneur, quickly established herself.

Today, this potter from Hindikula, Monaragala owns three machines, a lorry and three-wheeler to transport her ware and runs a successful pottery venture with her husband. She also employees 12 workers -mostly relatives from her neighbourhood- and helps them empower themselves and improve their quality of life.

Nihal Subasinghe, an agriculture graduate from Monaragala, dreams of one day owning a modern, fully-equipped farm. With only a small plot of papaya to generate income, Nihal began a home based agricultural project in rural Monaragala 10 years ago. Soon, he began to realize that resources were scarce and costly, and his operations began faltering.

It was during this time that the MJF Charitable Foundation, recognizing his hard work and determination, came to Nihal’s rescue and provided the young farmer with an Organic Composting Machine. This, together with the support from the community and his expertise in agrarian studies helped Nihal expand the venture further.

Today, Nihal is the proud owner of a 25 acre plantation growing papaya and banana. He also operates a dairy farm comprising 25 cows. Utilizing his practical knowledge Nihal has also begun harvesting rainwater and has created a small irrigation system to ensure a constant supply of water, in an otherwise dry region. Nihal plans to develop the growing farm further by purchasing a certified machine to extract milk from the cows in order to avoid wastage.

Nihal’s journey of success has inspired many and continues to set an example to those in his community.

A housewife and mother in rural Monaragala, Leela struggled to make ends meet. Because she didn’t have the expertise or funds to embark on a business venture of her own, Leela felt disheartened and discouraged. However, having seen her plight and determination to care for her family, the MJF Charitable Foundation (MJFCF) stepped in to help Leela.

As a beneficiary of the MJFCF’s Small Entrepreneur Programme, Leela received a grinding machine and was supported through a loan scheme and soon setup a small workshop at home. She began selling ground whole wheat flour at the local market which quickly grew into a successful enterprise.

With the income generated through her work, Leela built a part of her home and continued to educate her children. She is a true example to other women of her community and her story is one of hope and inspiration.

For many years D.M. Sunil Bandara ran a small carpentry operation in Siyambalanduwa. His hired woodworking machine was only able to produce very basic furniture and did not suffice in making contemporary products. As a result, Sunil was constantly struggling to maintain a consistent source of income.

His determination to expand the workshop and purchase his own machinery let the MJFCF to nominate him as an SEP (Small Entrepreneur Programme) recipient. Through the initiative, Sunil received a multi-purpose woodworking machine that helped him develop his operations and create new designs in furniture and woodworks.

Today, young Sunil is a prominent furniture manufacturer in the area and has employed seven individuals and supports them in empowering their own lives.

When officials from the MJF Charitable Foundation met Anura Dissanayake, he was struggling to develop a rural lathe workshop in Siyambalanduwa. His operation was based on manufacturing basic farm equipment to the agrarian community of the neighbouring locality. Although there was a constant demand for such tools, Anura did not have enough resources or the necessary support to expand his operation.

The MJF Charitable Foundation (MJFCF) helped Anura realize this dream by providing him with a welding plant, drill and compressor. Through the Small Entrepreneur Programme of the MJFCF he was able to establish his business as a thriving enterprise while helping many others in his neighbourhood obtain employment opportunities. Today, eight fulltime employees and 12 individuals working on part time basis are able to benefit through a steady income. Anura too has become a successful manufacturer of farming equipment and a figurehead of his own community.

Dr. Balakrishnan Sathyaraj from Dilmah's Somerset Estate and Dr. Kuppusami Kanageswari from Dilmah's Dunsinane Estate were the children of tea pickers and plantation workers. Their determination and courage to better their lives and those around them were rewarded by the scholarship programme of the MJF Charitable Foundation (MJFCF). The MJFCF supported their Advanced Level and University education, and provided much needed financial assistance during their time as medical students. Today Sathyaraj and Kanageswari are qualified MBBS professionals and one of the very first doctors from the plantation community.

Working With The Differently Abled To Improve Their Living Standards Through The MJF Charitable Foundation.

Making A Difference In The Lives Of A Group Of Marginalised Community Members In Udawalawe Through The Mankada Pottery Centre.

Dilmah Gives Kids From Marginalised Backgrounds A Second Chance At A Better Life At The MJF Centres In Moratuwa, Peliyagoda And Dematagoda.

Providing Plantation Communities With Better Health Care, Housing, Sanitation Facilities, Care And Nutrition For Their Children Is Dilmah's Way Of Taking Care Of Its Workers.

Thushara Madushanka From Siyambalanduwa In The Moneragala District Of Sri Lanka Is A Former Soldier Of The Sri Lanka Army. After Losing Both His Legs In A Mortar Attack, During The Conflict That Prevailed, His Dreams Of A Better Life Were Shattered. All This Changed Once The Sri Lanka Army Gave Him Prosthetic Legs And The MJF Charitable Foundation Provided Assistance To Thushara Which Enabled Him To Drive A Three Wheeler.

Sachitha is a student at the MJF Centre in Moratuwa who has a great love for music and a passion for cricket. The MJF Kids programme works towards nurturing children who are differently abled like Sacitha to face life with dignity. This is the story of Sachitha, a child who is different but very able.

The MJF Centre in Ambalantota helps over 35 kids who are differently abled to learn skills such as sewing, arts and handicrafts, music and most importantly life skills. The center works towards nurturing in Chamila and her peers the ability to face life with dignity. Watch her story here.

The Asirimath Iskole, of ‘School of Inspiration’, is a newly renovated pre-school for the children of the Koul Ara area. A gift to the present and future generations of Koul Ara by the MJF Charitable Foundation, so that they may face life with strength and dignity.

Listen to Indunil Aruna as he looks back on his journey with the MJF Kids Programme.

Over 300 extraordinarily abled individuals; talented, brave, resilient and committed, on a common platform. Participating in track and field events with much gusto to prove their prowess and celebrate their diversity. Here are some of those inspirational moments from AIDEX 2016.

As the ‘First Decade of MJF Kids’ celebrated the inspirational journey of the MJF Kids Programme, Nurul Fatima recalls the lessons that transformed her life.

Over the past decade, MJF Kids Programme has nurtured and empowered many children like Devak Prasanna by giving them educational opportunities and skills training required to progress in life.

As a kid who was growing up in the care of old grandparents, the biggest problem faced by Madushan Mithun was lack of proper direction and guidance in terms of education and career. Mithun spent much of his time idling with the children in his neighbourhood without any focus on education or on his future. Joining the MJF Kids programme in 2010 was a turning point in his life as he was inspired to work with an ambition by the teachers. Today, this young man is attached to the Engineering Department at Dilmah as a machine operator upon completion of his Ordinary Level examination with the assistance provided by MJF Kids programme.

For both Nipuna Fernando (aged 21) and Gayeshan Lakshitha (aged 24) doing their ‘shift’ at the MJF Centre’s Swashakthi bakery would be the highlight of the day.

Brimming with excitement, they put on their neatly pressed black aprons; tell everyone around them, with a sense of pride, that they will soon be “going for their shift” at the bakery.

Nipuna and Gayeshan – participants of MJFCF’s Rainbow Centre initiative, a programme that provides holistic development for children with special needs- have recently been recruited at the MJF Centre’s Swashakthi bakery which was set up with the primary objective to provide sustainable and dignified empowerment, especially for the mothers of MJF Kids, and participants of various other programmes. Nipuna and Gayeshan being put in charge of a half day shift at the bakery marks a milestone development for MJF Centre in Moratuwa as the enthusiasm with which these two kids engage in the tasks allotted to them is indicative of their desire to be integrated in to mainstream society as productive individuals.

Gayeshan, despite his Cerebral Palsy condition, is extremely hardworking although his physical impairment restricts him to a certain degree. He executes the daily tasks at the bakery with much vigour. He greets those who walk into the bakery with a beautiful smile; runs to them with the ketch up bottle or the order they placed. Gayeshan is unable to get into a long conversation with the customers he serves, but shows his affectionate nature often with a smile. His colleague Nipuna who is more articulated despite being a Downs Syndrome child, says he finds the work at the bakery extremely fascinating. Explaining his daily routine Nipuna says, “I wake up around 7 am. every day and soon after I finish my morning exercises, I start getting ready because I have to come to the bakery to do the morning shift. Around 8.30, I come here. Then I go to the kitchen to make buns, patties and submarines. I also do various other activities at the classes here until my morning shift starts. My job is to serve the customers who come to the bakery. I am so happy I have a job and I earn money now. When I leave home every morning, my neighbours know that I am going for a job. It makes me happy when they ask me what I do. I must thank Dilhan Sir for giving me this job. All I want is to wear a tie and go to work someday,” says Nipuna who has even promised to give his friends at the MJF Centre his first salary treat. Both Gayeshan and Nipuna epitomize what differently abled can achieve when they are given the much needed opportunity and space; and that is the difference your cup of Dilmah tries to make.