20th AGM on the SLHC 25.10.2025

by Lionel Bandara | Oct 25, 2025 | Annual-General-Meeting

🎉 20th AGM Celebrated at the Sri Lankan High Commissioner’s Office

We are proud to announce the successful completion of our 20th Annual General Meeting, held at the prestigious Sri Lankan High Commissioner’s Office in London. The event was graced by our Chief Guest, His Excellency Mr. Nimal Senadeehara, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK, who was warmly invited to address the gathering by our esteemed patron, Dr. Chris Nonis.
Our Chairman, Mr. Lionel Bandara, led the proceedings and presented a comprehensive review of the past year’s projects and achievements. A key highlight was the announcement of a major educational initiative: the purchase of SMART Technology Boards for four schools supporting deaf children, located in Ragama, Matara, Kurunegala, and Kandy. This impactful project was inspired by Hon. MP Sugath De Silva and coordinated by his secretary, Ms. Rasanjalie Pathirage, aiming to enhance inclusive education through technology. Additionally, a new school in Mathale Koswana was identified for future support under this initiative.
The AGM was a vibrant celebration of community spirit, featuring a raffle draw, a delicious buffet, and the welcoming of many new members to our charity. We were also delighted to see strong attendance from our existing members, many of whom contributed generously through donations.
Thanks to the publicity generated through our social media platforms, we were thrilled to welcome new faces who joined DABAL for the first time, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to our mission.
In addition to the celebrations, the AGM marked an important milestone with the election of new committee members.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to making this milestone AGM a memorable success. Here’s to another year of meaningful work and community impact!

Committee - From left to right – Shiroma Peiris, Nanda Sandagiri, Gaz Ahemed, Bhuminda Karunatilake, Lionel Bandara, Ruvini Ranatunga, Shehan Pinidiya, Nadani Welikala, Bernard Arambepola, Leilani Arambepola, Indra Arulrajah, Ranjith Chandrasena.

13th July 2025 – DABAL presents a Musical Evening

by Lionel Bandara | Jul 13, 2025 | Events

DABAL Musical Event

13.07.2025

Feast your senses with Sri Lankan flavours and Melody !. Join us for a delightful afternoon of hoppers and kottu, serenaded by the enchanting tunes of Chamara and Suneth Front Line, Every bite helps support DABAL’s incredible work for deaf and blind children in Sri Lanka. Come savour the joy for a worthy cause! Limited tickets only so grab yours quickly!

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Photos to be updated

Hats

2025 – June – Teri Welikala – Obituary notice

by Lionel Bandara | Jun 3, 2025 | Obotuary-Notices

In Loving Memory of Teri Welikala

Former Treasurer of Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka

We come together with heavy hearts and deep gratitude to honour the life of Teri Welikala, a remarkable woman whose legacy continues to inspire all of us at Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka.

Teri was the beloved daughter of Nadani Welikala and the late Priya Welikala, a devoted sister to Ossi Welikala and Eddi Welikala, a loving wife to Andrew Ashfield, and a proud mother to Francesca Ashfield.

As our Treasurer, Teri brought unmatched dedication, versatility, and compassion to her role. She was not only a steward of our finances but also a guiding light in our mission, always ready to lend her talents, her heart, and her time to help others. Her presence uplifted everyone around her—trustees, members, friends, and families alike.

Teri’s absence has left a space that no one else can fill. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support are deeply missed. Yet, her spirit lives on in the work we continue to do, inspired by her example.

We believe she is now in a place of peace and love, watching over her family and the community she cared for so deeply.

Teri, you are forever in our hearts.
We miss you more than words can say.

With love and remembrance,
All of us at Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka

Dedication

Teri was deeply committed to the mission of the charity. Her tireless efforts, attention to detail, and unwavering support helped the organisation grow and serve the community with integrity and compassion.

Versatility

A truly multi-talented individual, Teri contributed far beyond her role as Treasurer. Whether it was organising events, offering creative ideas, or supporting others emotionally, she wore many hats with grace and skill.

Warmth and Compassion

Teri had a heart full of kindness. She made everyone feel valued and heard—trustees, members, friends, and families alike. Her empathy and warmth created a sense of unity and belonging that will never be forgotten.

Our memories with teri

Kadambari Jewellery Sale

by Lionel Bandara | May 30, 2025 | kadambari-jewellery-sales

The Annual Kadambari Jewellery Sale was held yesterday and proved to be a resounding success.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our longstanding donors, Shervanthi and Rashantha, for their continued generosity and unwavering support. Additionally, we are deeply grateful for the provision of a venue for Arjun and all participants, which contributed significantly to the event’s smooth execution.

This generous donation will undoubtedly be well received by the schools we support, helping to enrich the lives of the children who benefit from our initiatives. We remain profoundly thankful for the kindness and commitment that make such progress possible.

2025 – April Kandy Senkadagala School Visit

by Lionel Bandara | Apr 22, 2025 | Schools-Visits

Kandy School Visit

Report on the School Visit by Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL)

Date: 22nd April 2025 Location: Kandy Dodamwala, Senkadagala Deaf and Blind School

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL) representatives visited Kandy Dodamwala Deaf and Blind School for the fourth time on 22nd April 2025, continuing its mission to support students with visual and hearing impairments. This visit was particularly special, as DABAL allocated funds to provide a smart board technology for deaf students, aiming to enhance their learning experience through interactive and accessible educational tools.

The school’s principal, management and students warmly welcomed the DABAL team with a traditional dance performance, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and hospitality of the institution. Following this warm reception, attendees were provided with a delicious lunch, further strengthening the bonds between the charity and the school community.

Through continued support and engagement, DABAL reaffirms its commitment to improving educational resources for students with disabilities. The introduction of smart board technology marks a significant step towards inclusive and modern learning methods, ensuring that students receive the best possible education and opportunities for growth.

This visit underscores the ongoing partnership between DABAL and Kandy Dodamwala Special School, and we look forward to witnessing the positive impact of this initiative on the students’ learning experience.

The traditional dance performed by deaf students, beautifully synchronised with the rhythm of the drums, must have been a powerful and moving experience. It highlights the incredible ways in which individuals can express themselves through movement and music, even without relying on hearing.

This inspiring school offers vocational training in Baking, Sewing, Cactus Planting, Batik, and more—helping students develop valuable skills for their future. They’ve also taken an exciting step forward by opening a five-star-style shop in front of the school, where they sell these handmade items, especially catering to foreign visitors.

A huge appreciation to the talented students and the dedicated educators shaping lives every day. Together, we build a more inclusive world! 💙