BUDS visit 2025 Annual Event.

by Lionel Bandara | Dec 13, 2025 | Events

DABAL Representatives Attend the BUDS Annual Event

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL) is pleased to share that our Vice Chairman Mr. Ranjith Chandrasena and our Chairman Mr. Lionel Bandara attended the annual event organised by the Batticaloa Underprivileged Development Society (BUDS).

Following the event, Mr. Ranjith conveyed warm congratulations to the BUDS Chair, Mrs. Muriet, and the organising committee for hosting a truly exceptional evening. Although several other DABAL members had planned to attend, many were called at short notice to support another important fundraising initiative in London on the same night, aimed at contributing to Sri Lanka’s national recovery following the recent devastation.

In his message, Mr. Ranjith highlighted several elements that made the BUDS event particularly impressive:

🌟 Splendid Venue & Excellent Arrangements

The hall was beautifully prepared, with smooth logistics and ample parking facilities that made the occasion welcoming for all attendees.

🍽️ Exceptional Culinary Experience

The food selection and presentation were described as “exceptionally good,” with special appreciation for the thoughtful variety provided for vegetarian guests. DABAL extends sincere thanks to the caterers, commending their outstanding service and recommending them for future events.

💃 Outstanding Bharatha Natyam Performances

The evening featured high‑quality Bharatha Natyam performances delivered by talented young dancers. Their dedication and artistry were recognised with great admiration, and DABAL conveys heartfelt congratulations to the performers.

🤝 Strengthening Partnership Between DABAL and BUDS

DABAL has long supported the Dharsanam School for the Visually Handicapped in the Batticaloa District and remains committed to addressing its ongoing needs, especially during this challenging period.

Mr. Ranjith also emphasised the importance of exploring collaborative opportunities between DABAL, BUDS, and other humanitarian organisations such as LETUSHELPNOW, which share strong global connections and have successfully delivered impactful projects in Batticaloa.

👏 Appreciation & Acknowledgement

DABAL extends sincere appreciation to the BUDS leadership and volunteers for organising a wonderful event at such a modest cost, demonstrating their dedication and commitment to the communities they serve.

We look forward to continued partnership and shared efforts in uplifting underprivileged communities across Sri Lanka.

£500 – A Heartfelt Donation to Kandy Senkadagala Special School — In Loving Memory.

by Lionel Bandara | Nov 7, 2025 | School-Projects

🌼 A Heartfelt Donation to Kandy Senkadagala Special School — In Loving Memory

We are honoured to share the wonderful news of a deeply meaningful donation made by Ms. Amanda Giles to the Kandy Senkadagala Special School.

This generous contribution has been made to commemorate 80 years since the marriage of Amanda’s beloved parents, who were married at Scots Kirk, Kandy, on 6th October 1945. Their wedding reception took place at the iconic Queens Hotel, followed by a honeymoon spent in the cool and scenic hills of Nuwara Eliya — memories cherished across generations.

Amanda has been a long‑standing and dedicated donor, with a special place in her heart for the children of Kandy. Her continued support has made a real difference to the lives of students at the Senkadagala Special School, and her kindness is felt each year through her quiet but impactful generosity.

On behalf of DABAL, we extend our deepest gratitude to Amanda. We offer our prayers and blessings for this noble cause, and in remembrance of her dear parents whose love story continues to inspire compassion even eight decades later.

May this act of giving bring comfort, joy, and blessings to all who are touched by it. 🌼

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