Saturday Jan 11, 2025
Saturday Jan 11, 2025
Saturday, 11 January 2025 00:13 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
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| Dilmah Tea Chairman and CEO Dilhan C. Fernando |
Dilmah partners with HSBC Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival for the “Future Writers Program” for the second consecutive year
Dilmah Ceylon Tea announced its partnership for the second consecutive year with the Future Writers Program under the HSBC Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to nurturing creative talent and fostering youth development.
The Future Writers Program is a transformative initiative dedicated to building literacy and creativity among youth, equipping the next generation of writers with the tools to explore their literary potential. This time, the program includes an engaging workshop led by renowned local and international authors, alongside the creative writing competition aimed at enhancing participants’ skills and confidence in writing.
Talking about the significance of the program, Tea Grower and Dilmah Chairman/CEO Dilhan C. Fernando said: “Sri Lanka has an abundance of stories waiting to be told. Stories of elephants, leopards, stories of artisanship and stories of goodness. Everyone should write, as storytelling connected to authenticity, taste, wellness, biodiversity and more, encourage conservation, support artisans of cinnamon, tea, cashew, and bring visitors to our beautiful island. Dilmah is formed around the stories my father told the world, of tea that is handpicked, made with love and kindness to people and nature. We are really glad to be supporting future writers as they craft their own stories.”
The workshop and competition are a tribute to the art of storytelling, a wonder through imaginative worlds and a desire to write with purpose. This year’s workshop will take place on 18 January 2025 at the Colombo Public Library and is open to individuals aged 16-29, free of charge. Interested participants can register online at www.ceylonliteraryfestival.com before 12 January 2025.
HSBC Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival Director Ajai Vir Singh highlights: “The Future Writers Program, introduced in the previous edition, received an overwhelming response and will continue to be a cornerstone of the festival. This initiative opens doors for aspiring writers and fosters creative entrepreneurship, contributing to the future of Sri Lanka’s creative industries. We are so happy to partner with Dilmah yet again to further nurture the future of the country.”
Inaugurated in Kandy last year, the Future Writers Program marked a significant milestone by creating a platform for young literary enthusiasts. There were over 130 participants shortlisted for the inaugural competition. Being a part of this program offers a unique opportunity to unlock creativity, shape compelling narratives and transform everyday moments into extraordinary stories that captivate and inspire.
Dilmah’s involvement reflects the company’s vision of cultivating vibrant, creative cultures and empowering future generations. Through this partnership, Dilmah and the HSBC Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival reaffirm their dedication to shaping a brighter, more inspired future for Sri Lanka’s literary community. Beyond honing writing and communication skills, this initiative fosters a sense of purpose, cultivates creative entrepreneurial pursuits and enriches the cultural fabric of society.
