කොරෝනා සහ තාරුණ්‍ය.

 

Miles of Smiles 7.0 – Pathways to Growth

Phase 1 - Empowered to Shine

On 26^th of October 2025, Leo Club of University of Colombo proudly completed the ‘Empowered to shine’, the first phase of the project Miles of Smiles 7.0 at Viharamahadevi Child Development Center, Biyagama. Empowering Dreams: Entrepreneurial Workshop Sparks at the Heart of a Child Development Center, Statying true to our mission of empowering little minds, this phase focused on developing entrepreneurial and creative skills of children under probationary care, providing them with the resources needed and donating essential stationary items useful for their educational activities. In collaboration with the National Youth Services Council, our dedicated members of the project, driven by a passion for supporting little ones, embarked on this meaningful mission. Their meticulous efforts contributed immensely to the success of the project.

A small yet significant ceremony was held before commencing the workshop. Mr. Dhammika Sampayo, the Provincial Director (Western) of National Youth Services Council witnessed this occasion as the Chief Guest. He appreciates our club and this initiative. Mr. Menaka Balasooriya, the Assistant Director of National Youth Service Council, Gampaha, Mr. Chanaka Nuwan Youth Service Officer, Biyagama, Kushmith Charith Dayananda, the President of Federation of District Youth Club,Gampaha and Sathyanganee Vithanage, the Treasurer of Federation of District Youth Club, Gampaha also attended the event, extending their support and encouragement to the project. The principle of Viharamahadevi Child Development Center expressed her heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the project’s impact. Their unwavering support throughout the process played a pivotal role in its success. The little girls actively participated in the workshop, showcasing their creativity, enthusiasm and eagerness to learn new things. They created beautiful birthday cards, crocheted items and beaded jewelry under the guidance of our resource person, Mrs. Anoma Subhasinghe, a Retired Sewing Instructor of the Western Provincial Council.

The core purpose of Miles of Smiles 7.0 is to create sustainable opportunities for children who are

under institutional care. Once these children reach the age of 18, they are released from child development centers as they attain the age of majority. However, many of them encounter significant challenges in transitioning to independent life, often lacking the financial stability or employable skills needed to thrive. Recognizing this reality, we believe true empowerment must extend beyond temporary support, it should equip them with the mindset and tools to build their own future. Through this workshop, our goal is to build an entrepreneurial mindset.

We also donated essential equipment and materials needed to produce crafts, handmade jewelry, invitation cards and crochet products. These tools will not only support their learning during the workshop but also provide them with the means to continue practicing and improving their skills independently. By engaging in these creative activities, the children will have an opportunity to discover their talents, boost their confidence and explore potential income-generating avenues. We strongly believe that these skills will play a crucial role in helping them lead independent and empowered lives once they are reintegrated into society. Our ultimate hope is to inspire long-term self-sufficiency and open doors to brighter futures.

 

Leo Thisari Rekha