Galadari trains youth in Bibile Wellasaa

Having triumphantly completed Phase 1 of its CSR project named ‘Hospitality Training and Empowerment’ on 19 May 2012, the Galadari Hotel has set the wheels in motion for Phase 2 with tremendous determination. The project which was brought to life by the Hotel’s General Manager, Sampath Siriwardena was highly commended by the poverty stricken town of Bibile Wellassa.

The prime focus of the project was to empower youth of local communities by providing them with training and employment opportunities. Having commenced the initial stage of the project in November 2010 where selected school leavers as well as unemployed youth in the town of Bibile was provided the unique opportunity to train in a Five Star Hotel environment, the project opened doors for youth to make their dreams into realities.

The project was channeled through Venerable Hawelwela Sunanda Chief Incumbent of the Unagolla Purana Rajamaha Viharaya, who played a vital role in assistance and guidance.

Commenting on the commencement of Phase 2, Upali Perera the Financial Controller said: “We are very proud to offer this opportunity to yet another successful new batch of youth from Bibile. The hotel has proudly opened its doors to these youth, now they have the promise of a better tomorrow.”

The hotel had painstakingly taken all the necessary measures to ensure that these youth receive the best in training which include the many facets of hotel management. Combining theory as well as practical exposure these youth will be given all the necessary facilities including food, clothing, health care, library facilities and lodging, etc.

With Phase 2 in progress the Galadari is once again hoping to give life to the dreams and aspirations of yet another batch of trainees in Bibile.

The hotel welcomed in 10 selected youths from Bibile, who represent the Phase 2 new recruits by organising a special inauguration ceremony on 22 October 2012 at Salon Orchid. Siriwardena stated: “As promised these lucky young individuals will have the necessary training and be absorbed into the Hotel’s internal departments of their choice. It is easy to commence any CSR project but to carry it through and sustain it is yet another story. The Galadari however has overcome many obstacles in this regard.

A special mention must be given to Shirani David, the Human Resources Manager whose dedication and devotion has been the main reason for its success.

Today the future looks bright for the small and forgotten village of Bibile which now will have the unique opportunity to educate and offer a new lease of life to its youth.”