Hemas Piyawara showcases artistic talents of differently-abled children
View(s):Hemas recently celebrated the New Year in a different manner by hosting – ‘Ape Sihinaya’ – a novel exhibition of paintings and handicrafts by the 46 differently-abled children from the ‘Ape Patawnta Piyawarak’ Pre-School in Alokapura, Hambantota.
Hosted by the Hemas Outreach Foundation (HOF), this exhibition was held at Hemas House in Braybrooke Place, Colombo. Chief Guest on the occasion was ICC match referee and Brand Ambassador for Hemas Outreach Foundation (HOF) Roshan Mahanama and his wife Jeewa. Also present on the occasion were Chairman/CEO of Hemas Holdings Husein Esufally and Incoming CEO Steven Enderby. Several other group directors, corporates and well-wishers were also present.
“This was indeed a very special day in the lives of these children as they showcased their work to an appreciative public. Proceeds from the sale of the paintings which exceeded more than one hundred thousand rupees will be used to maintain their school,” Hemas said in a media release.
Chairman of the Hemas Outreach Foundation Abbas Esufally, said that this was a further extension of the Piyawara project. “We launched Piyawara in 2002 with the principal aim of providing a solid and holistic education to underprivileged children across Sri Lanka. Over the years we also realised that they have skills of their own which are, at times, on par with those of their counterparts in mainstream society. We’re happy to notice that this exercise has also given them a sense of belonging and dignity, in addition to empowering them”.