Who We Are

Grounded Impact

Bridging Lanka is a small organisation with big vision. Although our resources are limited, we strive towards developing holistic, harmonious and healthy individuals and communities within our sphere of influence through eight integrated development platforms:

Livelihood support for vulnerable groups
Environmental health to safeguard our rich biodiversity
Nurturing youth preparation for a positive life path
Holistic education through the generations
Urban improvement for a more liveable Mannar
Social cohesion to bridge historic divides
Animal welfare for all creatures great and small
Responsible tourism that showcases a unique part of Sri Lanka.

Who we are

Principles in Practice

We’re here for the longterm – more like marathon runners than sprinters, incorporating an alternative approach to development work. We embrace…

Solidarity with vulnerable groups – empowering those considered “least” to achieve meaningful, secure, and prosperous lives
Mindset change – transitioning from aid dependency to self-reliance and kick-starting personal initiative; moving away from a victim mentality to being authors of one’s own destiny
Place-based cooperation – encompassing a coordinated, area-based, multi-stakeholder approach to uplifting districts by harnessing the skills and resources of local people together with the private and public sectors
Informed compassion– pursuing critical analysis that leads to deeper understanding and truth, and avoiding black-and-white perspectives on complex issues
Grounded action – recognising that hands-on participation in local projects, knowledge transfer, and skill-capacity building will nurture the desired future
‘No enemies’ approach – encouraging Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, Sinhala, and other communities to play a constructive role in post-conflict Sri Lanka, recognising that all parties are part of the solution
Value for money – adopting cost-saving measures to ensure projects are undertaken at a fraction of the usual market price.