News & Events

Young men and women from less fortunate communities in the area are offered free culinary training as a part of Dilmah Tea Founder, Merrill J. Fernando’s wish to replicate his story in the lives of others. The schools in the East and West have nurtured 250 plus chefs who are now working as professionals in the hospitality industry in Sri Lanka and overseas. Their food tastes twice as good because there is nothing more fulfilling than making life better for someone else and their family. The Chefs are taught discipline, respect for ingredients, and each other’s and asked to give back by showing kindness to others. Many of the graduates returned to initiate the Empower Alumni Association at their first General Meeting.

Empower continues to grow in a new chapter and helps communities with the knowledge and skills on human nutrition, food safety, and reducing waste.