2024 – DABAL Annual General Meeting

2024 – DABAL Annual General Meeting

Reflecting on Our 19th Annual General Meeting

DABAL - AGM 2024 October

Join us as we celebrate the achievements and community spirit showcased at our 19th Annual General Meeting, held at the historic St Michaels Church.

Event Overview

A Successful Gathering

On the 19th of October 2024, the 19th Annual General Meeting of Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka was held at St Michaels Church in Chiswick. The event was marked by a significant turnout and was filled with engaging activities and heartfelt moments. Attendees enjoyed a delightful lunch, musical entertainment, and inspiring speeches that highlighted the progress and future plans of our organisation.

Heartfelt Gratitude

Acknowledging Our Supporters

The 19th Annual General Meeting was a delightful event, filled with joyous moments and engaging activities. Attendees were treated to a delicious lunch prepared by Bilal, whose culinary skills never fail to impress. The atmosphere was further enlivened by Nanda’s musical talents, creating a harmonious backdrop for the day’s proceedings.

Sarath Weerasinghe, a cornerstone of our community, expertly compered the event, ensuring everything ran smoothly. His professionalism shone through, especially during the lively karaoke sessions, where he and Shehan Pinidiya entertained everyone with their spirited performances. We are thrilled to introduce the new members of our committee, who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our organization. Gaz Hameed joins us as the newly elected Secretary, ready to contribute his skills and dedication.

Ruvini Ranatunga steps into the role of Treasurer, bringing her expertise to our financial oversight. We also welcome Leilani Arambepola as our Publicity Officer, Shehan Pinidiya, and Nanda Sandagiri as committee members. Additionally, Bhuminda Karunathilaka has taken on the role of Membership Secretary. Their involvement is eagerly anticipated, and we are confident that their contributions will greatly benefit our mission and community.
Additionally, Rev. Jamiee Summer delivered a beautiful speech about ‘kindness’. Everyone was deeply impressed by her words, adding a heartfelt touch to the event.
The 19th AGM was a true testament to our community’s spirit and dedication, and we look forward to another year of progress and collaboration.

2024 – October – Shanti Jayasekera

2024 – October – Shanti Jayasekera

Honoring a Cherished Life

In Memory of Shanti Jayasekera

Join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Shanti Jayasekera, a devoted advocate for the Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka community.

A Tribute to Shanti Jayasekera

Shanti Jayasekera was a beacon of hope and compassion within the Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka charity. His tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those in need have left an indelible mark on our community. 

Shanti Jayasekera provided essential support and resources to the deaf and blind communities in the UK. His passion for advocacy and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life made his an invaluable member of our organisation.

Funeral Service for Shanti Jayasekera

Friday, 18th October

We invite you to join us in paying respects to Shanti Jayasekera at her funeral service. The service will be held at St Pauls Church, Ruislip, HA4 0BP, at 12:15 pm. Following the service, a gathering will take place at Middlesex Stadium, Breakspear Road, HA4 7SB. Please note that the crematorium will be reserved for immediate family only. We appreciate your understanding and respect for the family’s wishes during this time.

Committee Meeting – Victoria

Committee Meeting – Victoria

DABAL Committee Meeting – 08.06.24

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka trustees had a face to face meeting at the Victoria Place. Discussed future events including below subjects.

  • Donations for Just Giving
  • South London Tamil Church 
  • CAF Cheques
  • 20th Anniversary Concert
  • Other regular Donations
  • Grants to schools

Trustees visited to five schools in Sri Lanka April – May 2024 with grants.

1.Sri Sudarshi Special School for The Deaf & Blind, Ella, Bandarawela
2. Moratuwa
– Sri Chandrasekara School for the Deaf.
3.
School for the Deaf and Blind, Kumbukkana, Saubagya Vidyalaya, Monaragala.
4.
Islamic Centre for the Physically Handicapped
5.
Riyanzie Alagiyawanna Special (Deaf Blind) School, Anuradhapura

 

DABAL 20th Anniversary – 11- 05 – 2024

DABAL 20th Anniversary – 11- 05 – 2024

DABAL-20th anniversary

DABAL 20th Anniversary Musical Event had on Saturday 11th May 2024 at 6.30pm, at St Michael & All Angels Church, Bedford Park, Bath Road, London W4 1TT. The concert started at 7pm. Our Patron, Lord Low of Dalston and newly appointed patron Dr. Chris Nonis presented. The event is organised by Mr Alan Durham who has put together many successful musical events for us and is an experienced musician himself. We have the pleasure of performances by very talented musicians – soprano Gayathrie Peiris Patrick,pianists Chaturika Rajapakse and Elizabeth Jones. Last but not least the stunning Emma Callister Quintet plays jazz.

DABAL Chairman addressing audience at Maharagama Youth Centre

DABAL Chairman addressing audience at Maharagama Youth Centre

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka

Sri Lanka

“The Chairman of Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka attended a graduation ceremony in Sri Lanka and took this opportunity to speak about the UK-registered charity, which supports rural deaf and blind schools in Sri Lanka.”

Lionel with Dr. Besley Welisarage

From Chairman

On behalf of the UK-registered charity Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka, it was a great honor to participate in the Saranganavi Graduation Festival in Sri Lanka. This event provided a unique platform to showcase the charity’s efforts and achievements in supporting schools across the country.
Chairman Lionel Bandara delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting the charity’s mission and the significant impact it has had on Sri Lankan schools. He detailed the various projects completed so far, emphasizing the tangible benefits these initiatives have brought to the educational landscape.