Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders: VOPP Conducts Awareness Workshop at Galle/Talanga Saraswati Tamil Maha Vidyalaya

On May 29th, 2024, the Voice of Plantation People organization (VOPP) embarked on a mission to empower the youth by conducting an enlightening awareness workshop at Galle/Talanga Saraswati Tamil Maha Vidyalaya. The workshop, attended by 49 students above grade 9, aimed to instill essential values of democracy, leadership, decision-making, and communication among the future leaders of tomorrow.

Under the guidance of Program Director Mrs. Lavina Hashanthi, National Program Coordinator Mr. Francis Raajan, and Galle District Coordinator Mr. A. Jesman, the workshop unfolded as an engaging platform for interactive learning and skill-building. The facilitators, along with Mr. Weerasingam as the resource person, led the students through insightful discussions and activities designed to broaden their understanding of vital concepts and enhance their capabilities.

Throughout the workshop, participants were encouraged to actively participate and share their perspectives on democracy, leadership, and effective communication. Interactive sessions, group exercises, and role-playing scenarios provided practical experiences to hone their decision-making abilities and foster teamwork.

One of the highlights of the program was the distribution of school bags to all participating students, symbolizing VOPP's commitment to supporting education and empowering young minds. This gesture not only served as a token of appreciation but also aimed to alleviate some of the burdens faced by students in their academic pursuits.

During the workshop, a student bravely pointed out a pressing issue: the lack of teachers for advanced level science, maths, and commerce subjects in the school. This critical observation shed light on the challenges faced by students aspiring to pursue higher education. Inspired by the spirit of empowerment instilled during the workshop, the student took a proactive stance and announced their decision to draft a petition to the Zone Education Department, demanding the appointment of teachers for these crucial subjects.

The principal of Galle/Thalanga Sarashwathi Tamil Maha Vidyalaya expressed his appreciation for the workshop, hailing it as a significant step towards nurturing the future leaders of the nation. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in shaping well-rounded individuals equipped with the necessary skills and values to contribute meaningfully to society.

The success of the workshop underscores VOPP's dedication to fostering holistic development and empowering marginalized communities. By investing in the education and empowerment of youth, VOPP aims to sow the seeds of positive change and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

As the workshop concluded, participants departed with newfound knowledge, inspiration, and a sense of purpose. Armed with essential skills and values, these young individuals are poised to emerge as catalysts for progress, driving positive change in their communities and beyond.

Reformation of Sikaram District Malaiyaha Women's Federation Marks a Step Forward in Empowering Women in Matara District

In a pivotal move towards advocating for the rights and empowerment of Malaiyaha women in the Matara district, the Voice of Plantation People Organization (VOPP) recently spearheaded the reformation of the Sikaram District Malaiyaha Women's Federation. The initiative, marked by a deep discussion on prevalent issues and future strategies, signifies a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to uplift marginalized communities.

The meeting, convened at the serene ambiance of Chilled Restaurant in Deniyaya on April 23rd, 2024, served as a platform for the vibrant exchange of ideas and concerns regarding the challenges faced by Malaiyaha women in the region. Led by Ms. Lavina Hashanthi, the Program Director of VOPP, and Mr. Anton Wanaththaiya, the Field Manager, the session delved into various socio-economic obstacles obstructing the progress and well-being of these women.

One of the primary focal points of the discussion was the identification and analysis of the multifaceted problems encountered by Malaiyaha women on a daily basis. From inadequate access to education and healthcare to economic disparities and social stigmatization, the dialogue shed light on the intricate web of issues plaguing the community.

However, amidst the acknowledgment of challenges, the atmosphere was charged with optimism and determination as participants collectively brainstormed potential solutions and future course of action. The reformation of the federation symbolizes a renewed commitment to address these issues head-on and work towards tangible change.

A notable highlight of the meeting was the election of new office bearers, who will play a pivotal role in driving the agenda of the federation forward. Their selection underscores a diverse and inclusive leadership approach, aiming to represent the voices and aspirations of Malaiyaha women effectively.

Ms. Lavina Hashanthi, assuming the role of Program Director, brings with her a wealth of experience in community development and advocacy. Her leadership promises to infuse the federation with fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to navigate the complex landscape of women's empowerment.

Mr. Anton Wanaththaiya, stepping into the position of Field Manager, brings to the table a deep-rooted understanding of the grassroots realities faced by Malaiyaha women. His hands-on approach and grassroots-level insights are expected to catalyze impactful change at the local level.

As the meeting concluded, Ms. Lavina and Mr. Anton emphasized the importance of collective action and sustained effort in achieving the goals set forth by the federation. They outlined a comprehensive action plan, encompassing advocacy campaigns, skill-building workshops, and community outreach initiatives, aimed at addressing the identified challenges and fostering holistic empowerment.

The reformation of the Sikaram District Malaiyaha Women's Federation stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of Malaiyaha women in Matara district. Through concerted efforts and unwavering solidarity, the federation is poised to carve a path towards a future where every woman, regardless of her background, enjoys equal rights, opportunities, and dignity.

VOPP Holds Crucial Meetings with Government Officials to Address Land, Housing, and Education Issues

May 15, 2024 – The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) took significant strides towards addressing key issues affecting the Southern Malaiyaha Community through constructive dialogues with high-ranking government officials. On this date, VOPP representatives met with officials from the Ministry of Land, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Plantation Development, President Public Unit, and the National Housing Development Authority to discuss pressing concerns regarding land and housing, as well as education challenges faced by the community.

The meetings provided a platform for open and productive discussions aimed at finding sustainable solutions to the complex issues affecting the Southern Malaiyaha Community. Representatives from VOPP presented comprehensive data and firsthand accounts highlighting the urgent need for action in these areas.

One of the primary issues addressed was the scarcity of land and the challenges faced by the community in accessing and securing land rights. VOPP underscored the importance of equitable land distribution and the implementation of policies that safeguard the land rights of the Southern Malaiyaha Community, ensuring their socio-economic stability and well-being.

Furthermore, discussions centered on the critical issue of housing, particularly the inadequate housing conditions experienced by many members of the community. VOPP emphasized the need for concerted efforts to improve housing infrastructure and expand access to affordable housing options, thereby enhancing the quality of life for community members.

In addition to land and housing issues, the meetings also delved into education challenges faced by the Southern Malaiyaha Community. VOPP highlighted disparities in access to quality education and called for targeted interventions to address these disparities and ensure equal educational opportunities for all members of the community.

The engagement with government officials was characterized by a spirit of collaboration and a shared commitment to addressing the needs of the Southern Malaiyaha Community. Both VOPP and the government recognized the importance of working together to effect positive change and improve the lives of those most affected by these issues.

As a result of these meetings, concrete action plans were formulated, outlining specific steps to be taken to address the identified challenges. This collaborative approach is expected to pave the way for tangible progress in addressing land, housing, and education issues in the Southern Malaiyaha Community, ultimately contributing to their socio-economic empowerment and overall well-being.

VOPP remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of the Southern Malaiyaha Community and will continue to engage with stakeholders at all levels to drive meaningful change and create a brighter future for generations to come.

Special Dialogue on Family-Friendly Tea Industry Organized by The Centre for Child Rights and Business

Colombo, Sri Lanka - May 21, 2024 – The Centre for Child Rights and Business successfully organized a pivotal dialogue aimed at fostering a family-friendly tea industry. This event brought together representatives from small tea holders, private tea estate owners, government officials, civil society organizations, and moderated by Mr. Gawthaman, an activist, and lawyer. The gathering took place at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute (SLFI) and focused on collaborative efforts to improve the working and living conditions within the tea industry.

Key participants in this important dialogue included selected members working at private tea estates and staff from the Voice of the Plantation People (VOPP) organization. Anthony Jesudasan, Executive Director of VOPP, and Lavina Hasanthi, Program Director of VOPP, were part of the panel discussion. They shared valuable insights and experiences regarding the conditions of people residing in private and small tea holding estates in the Southern Province.

The discussions, moderated by Mr. Gawthaman, highlighted the challenges faced by tea plantation workers, particularly in ensuring a family-friendly environment that supports both the workers and their families. The dialogue served as a platform for diverse stakeholders to share their perspectives and collaboratively identify strategies to create a more supportive and sustainable tea industry.

Anthony Jesudasan emphasized the need for comprehensive policies that address the welfare of plantation workers, noting that "Improving the conditions for workers in both private and small tea holdings is not just a moral imperative but also essential for the sustainability of the industry."

Lavina Hasanthi added, "Our goal is to create a blueprint for a family-friendly tea industry where the rights and well-being of workers are prioritized. This initiative is a crucial step towards achieving that goal."

Government officials present at the event reiterated their commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the welfare of tea plantation workers. The collaboration between the government, private sector, civil society, and moderated discussions by Mr. Gawthaman were recognized as vital for driving meaningful change.

The Centre for Child Rights and Business expressed optimism that the outcomes of this dialogue would lead to actionable steps and policies that significantly improve the living and working conditions in the tea industry. The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to continue working together towards a more equitable and family-friendly tea industry in Sri Lanka.

Theology Students Engage with Voice of the Plantation People Organization in Negombo

Negombo, May 15, 2024 — A group of theology students from several Christian congregations visited the premises of the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) today. The visit was part of an exposure program aimed at understanding the socio-economic challenges faced by the Malaiyaha community and the local fishing industry.

The students were warmly welcomed by the VOPP staff, who provided an in-depth briefing on the current situation of the Malaiyaha community. This community, historically marginalized and primarily involved in the plantation sector, faces a myriad of issues including inadequate living conditions, lack of educational opportunities, and limited access to healthcare services.

During the discussion, the VOPP staff highlighted the organization's ongoing efforts to improve the lives of the Malaiyaha people. Initiatives such as educational programs, health camps, and advocacy for workers' rights were discussed. The staff emphasized the importance of these initiatives in empowering the community and promoting social justice.

In addition to the Malaiyaha community, the conversation also touched on the pressing issues faced by local fishermen. The students learned about the challenges in the fishing industry, including declining fish stocks, environmental degradation, and economic hardships exacerbated by market fluctuations. The VOPP staff shared their experiences working with the fishermen, detailing efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices and support the fishermen's livelihoods.

The theology students expressed their solidarity with both the Malaiyaha community and the fishermen, acknowledging the significance of VOPP's work. They discussed the potential role of the Church in supporting such initiatives, emphasizing the need for community engagement and social responsibility.

This visit provided the theology students with a valuable perspective on the real-life challenges faced by marginalized communities in Sri Lanka. It also underscored the critical role of grassroots organizations like VOPP in advocating for and implementing positive change.

The exposure visit concluded with a commitment from the students to raise awareness about these issues within their congregations and to explore ways in which they can contribute to the ongoing efforts of VOPP. The dialogue between the students and the VOPP staff marked an important step in fostering a collaborative approach to addressing social inequities and supporting vulnerable communities.

Empowering Plantation Leaders: VOPP’s Advocacy and Lobbying Workshop Inspires Action

The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) is delighted to announce the successful completion of a transformative workshop on Advocacy and Lobbying for leaders of the Southern province plantations. This pivotal event was held at the picturesque Oruthota Chalet in Digana on the 27th and 28th of April, 2024, bringing together a diverse cohort of 25 leaders, including youth and women, for an immersive experience in strategic dialogue and skill-building.

The workshop was expertly facilitated by Mr. Lalith Abeysinghe, whose interactive approach engaged participants in meaningful and impactful learning. Mr. Abeysinghe's guidance ensured that each attendee left with practical knowledge and enhanced capabilities in advocacy and lobbying. The sessions were designed to foster a collaborative environment, encouraging leaders to share their experiences and insights, thereby enriching the collective understanding of the group.

A key highlight of the workshop was the emergence of a unified voice among the participants. Together, they declared, “It is time to claim our land and other rights.” This rallying cry underscored the collective determination to overcome historical and systemic challenges. The sentiment of unity and shared purpose was a recurring theme, reflecting the strength and resilience of the community leaders present.

The knowledge and strategies developed during the workshop are poised to serve as a catalyst for empowering the Malaiyaga community. Participants are now equipped to address critical issues such as access to better education, fair wages, improved sanitation, and basic healthcare. These areas are fundamental to the well-being and progress of the community, and the leaders are committed to advocating for these essential rights with renewed vigor and confidence.

The workshop concluded with a strong sense of commitment and resolve among the leaders. They are now better prepared to elevate their community's voice and ensure that the concerns of the plantation people are heard and addressed. This workshop represents a significant step forward in the ongoing effort to achieve equity and justice for the Malaiyaga community.

VOPP remains steadfast in its support of these leaders and their initiatives. The organization is dedicated to fostering an environment where the voices of the plantation people are amplified and their rights secured. Together, we will continue to advocate for a future where every member of the community can thrive, free from the barriers that have historically impeded their progress.

This workshop not only highlighted the immediate needs of the community but also laid the groundwork for sustained advocacy and lobbying efforts. VOPP, in collaboration with these empowered leaders, is committed to driving systemic change and ensuring that the Malaiyaga community’s aspirations for a better future are realized.

 

Catalyzing Change: Community Peace Dialogue in Deniyaya Inspires Hope and Action

On April 21, 2024, the serene town of Deniyaya in Matara District became a hub of transformative discussions as the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) orchestrated the sixth Community Peace Dialogue. Funded by the US Embassy, this event was held at the Chilled Reception Hall from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM and brought together 44 women and 5 male youths from various social groups to engage in meaningful conversations, explore their rights, and strategize for positive change.

The primary objective of the dialogue was to foster peaceful coexistence among diverse communities through constructive dialogue and conflict resolution. The event commenced with Anton Wanaththaiya emphasizing the importance of fostering peaceful coexistence and understanding among youth and women from diverse backgrounds.

Mr. Anthony Jesudasan, Executive Director of VOPP, led the facilitator's session. He educated participants on Sri Lanka’s constitution and their rights as citizens, underscoring the significance of democratic processes. Insights from previous workshops were shared, fostering mutual understanding and facilitating group discussions that allowed for an exchange of issues and perspectives between women and youth.

A significant portion of the dialogue focused on the Malaiyaga ethnicity, highlighting its importance within Sri Lanka and the need to rectify the historical miscategorization of Malaiyaga Tamils as Indian migrant workers. Women participants raised concerns regarding access to education and employment opportunities, advocating for gender equality and empowerment initiatives. They also discussed healthcare access, emphasizing the importance of affordable reproductive health services and maternal care, and highlighted challenges related to gender-based violence and discrimination, calling for stronger legal protections and support systems.

Male youth participants voiced concerns about limited job prospects and economic opportunities, particularly within the plantation sector, and stressed the need for skills training programs and vocational initiatives. They also discussed the challenges of youth engagement in community decision-making processes and expressed a desire for greater representation in local governance structures. Social issues such as substance abuse, harmful drug usage, and youth delinquency were addressed, prompting discussions on preventative measures and community-based interventions.

The Youth Action Plan saw the drafting of a declaration for a public rally, to be incorporated into the Matara district Declaration. However, the difficulty in engaging male youth participation was acknowledged, indicating a need for more effective strategies in future events.

Participant feedback was gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the dialogue and identify areas for improvement. The session concluded with a distribution of sanitary pads, addressing concerns raised by women participants about access to affordable and available menstrual hygiene products. This initiative aimed to alleviate the burden on women and ensure access to essential hygiene products for menstrual health management.

The Community Peace Dialogue in Deniyaya, funded by the US Embassy, provided a platform for youth and women to engage in constructive dialogue, address pertinent issues, and strategize for positive change. VOPP remains committed to supporting these initiatives, fostering understanding, and promoting peace and harmony within the community.