Symphony for a child

By Senashia Ekanayake

The AIDS Foundation of Lanka (AFL) and Educate a Child Trust (EACT) would host “Symphony for a Child” for the first time in Sri Lanka. Held for 13 consecutive years in London, the event would take place at Kularatne Hall, Ananda College, on 20 May.

The event brainchild, former concert pianist and music teacher Srima Jayasekera was inspired to begin this mission nearly 15 years ago. One of the primary reasons for AIDS to be the selected beneficiary is that despite the country officially recording relatively low statistics, the number of unofficial cases reported could be greater. In this regard raising awareness and minimising the impact is vital. However positive responses from AFL officials noted that the country would eventually be able to eradicate AIDS among children.

EACT was launched to give to provide for the underprivileged children in Kalutara by providing education and health and assisting tsunami victims. Founder Chairperson Dr. Pramilla Senanayake stated at the press conference held in this regard as she is a firm believer of the fact that children being a crucial part of the development of society. The Trust that began nearly three decades ago by providing education opportunities and supplies to a handful of children has constructed 48 houses, a community centre and provided 17,500 local children with school supplies.

Present at the press briefing was John Keells Holdings Business for AIDS Chairperson Ranil Ramanayake who explained that it was important for corporates to come forward in the name of social responsibility.

The company has six areas of CSR activities: health, education, arts and crafts, culture, community development and disaster relief management. He too was a firm believer of the eradication of AIDS as a result of the country being low-prevalent in AIDS.

The concert would include renowned local artists such as Lanerolle Brothers, Voiceprint, Ananda Dabare, Ricky Bahar, Shyanne Bahar, Suleetha Nanayakkara and a number of international artists from London who would perform in the name of charity. Tickets are available at the Sri Lanka Medical Association on 06, Wijerama Road, Colombo 07. All funds would be given towards the benefit of AFL.

Pic by Kithsiri de Mel