Completion of Girls’ Hostel Toilet Facility – Anuradhapura (Riyanzi’s School Project)

by Lionel Bandara | Jan 19, 2026 | Events

Project Update: Completion of Girls’ Hostel Toilet Facility – Anuradhapura (Riyanzi’s School Project)

Completion of Girls’ Hostel Toilet Facility – Anuradhapura (Riyanzi’s School)

We are delighted to announce the successful completion of the girls’ hostel toilet facility at Riyanzi’s school project in Anuradhapura.
This important work was made possible through the generous contributions received in loving memory of Teri Welikala, and from long‑standing supporters of our charity:

SLR 104,000.00 + SLR 100,000.00 were donated from Teri Welikala’s memorial fund, kindly contributed by Teri’s daughter Francesca and her husband Andrew.
An additional SLR 100,000.00 was generously donated by Romie and Ranil.

A total of SLR 204,000.00 was utilised to complete the construction work.
All receipts, payment records, and communications related to the project have been fully shared and the project has now been successfully completed.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Francesca, Andrew, Romie, and Ranil for making this meaningful project possible. Their kindness has directly improved the well‑being and dignity of the girls staying at the hostel.

Before and After Pictures

Trustees Meet to Plan Events and Projects

by Lionel Bandara | Jan 10, 2026 | Committee Meetings

Trustees Meet to Plan Events and Projects

The trustees of DABAL gathered at the residence of our Treasurer, Ruvini Ranatunga, for an important planning meeting to discuss upcoming event preparations, ongoing Ditwa flood relief support, and several new projects aimed at enhancing facilities and opportunities for deaf and blind schools in Sri Lanka. This collaborative meeting not only helped align our goals and strengthen our commitment to the community, but also provided a joyful opportunity to celebrate the birthday of one of our founding members and our Event Secretary, Nadani Welikala, making the evening both productive and memorable.

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