Appreciations
View(s):Precious memories of my Nana
Violet Lorna Fernando
Today I am honouring the life of my grandmother, Violet Lorna Fernando nee Nelson, my beloved Nana. Born in 1927 in Ceylon, she left us just two months short of her 98th birthday, closing a long and remarkable chapter that began in Nelson Place, Wellawatte.
In 1962, Nana and my grandfather, Berty Fernando of Fernando Road, Wellawatte, set out on a life-changing journey to England. With five children in hand, and later a sixth daughter born there, she embraced the challenges of migration with courage and determination. Together with my grandfather, she built a new life, while never losing touch with her roots.
Nana was a woman of beauty and grace. She was proud of her Burgher heritage and despite marrying a Sinhala Buddhist she ensured her six daughters followed her own Christian faith. She carried herself with elegance throughout her life, always taking pride in her appearance, even in her later years. She was also an avid traveller, her career with an airline opening the doors to the wider world, which she and Grandpa explored together.
Life brought her both triumphs and hardships. One of the most difficult chapters was witnessing the passing of her second daughter Christine, my mother. Yet even through that loss, she remained composed and strong.
As one of her ten grandchildren, for me, Nana held a special place. We shared a unique bond through our interest in family history. Whenever she visited Sri Lanka, I would take her to meet the few remaining relatives here. These visits gave her a quiet sense of connection to the past. In 2022, I had the privilege of living with her for six months. During that time, I was able to care for her, to share her stories, and to make her laugh with my acerbic sense of humour – a gift I will always cherish.
She was an alumni of
St. Clare’s in Wellawatte and delighted that I attended Methodist College as she too was a Methodist. She was also proud of the fact that I am a writer and would often comment that I may have taken after her mother who was also good with words. A year ago, after much research through her mother’s Bible and old letters, I managed to trace her first cousin who had been repatriated from India to London where her father - my nana’s uncle – was serving as a surgeon in the British Army during the Second World War. Nana knew of this cousin but had no idea if she was dead or alive. It had always been my wish to locate this first cousin which I was able to do. I dearly regret my inability to reunite them, even by phone due to various reasons.
In her lifetime, she witnessed much change and travelled widely, more than many of her generation. She lived with dignity, carried herself with grace, and left an impression that will not be forgotten.
Nana was a generous host and always made sure we were well fed and insisted we took food home. I also had the privilege of giving Nana her first great grandson and she delighted in his antics when he was younger. Nana was also a great grandmother to 12. She was also a kind mother-in-law to my father Shirley and they too shared a great relationship.
As we bid her farewell, I imagine her reunited with Grandpa, with my mother, and with all those who went before her.
Farewell, Nana. May your soul sing with the angels. Rest now, in peace and freedom.
Tina Edward Gunawardhana
He embodied the true Zahirian spirit both on and off the field
M.M.K. Namiz
On October 8, 2025—his eighth death anniversary—we paid tribute to M.M.K. Namiz, a name that continues to inspire generations of sportsmen and Zahirians alike. Renowned for his leadership, discipline, and sporting excellence, Namiz embodied the true Zahirian spirit both on and off the field.
In 1988, he achieved what few athletes in school history ever had, captaining the 1st XI cricket team, the football team and the athletics team in the same year, while also representing Zahira in the 1st XV rugby team and the hockey team. His extraordinary commitment and natural leadership made him one of Zahira’s most celebrated all-rounders. That same year, he was appointed as Head Prefect, earning the respect of teachers, peers, and fellow sportsmen alike.
A top-class wicketkeeper-batsman, Namiz represented Zahira for three consecutive seasons, scoring over 1,000 runs in two successive years, a remarkable achievement that placed him among the top school cricketers of his era. His outstanding performances earned him national recognition as the runner-up for Sri Lanka’s Most Popular Schoolboy Cricketer in 1988.
His sporting excellence extended far beyond the boundaries of school. Namiz represented the Sri Lanka youth football team and was part of the Sri Lanka Rugby 7s Pool. In one of his most memorable moments, he became the first Sri Lankan player to score two goals in a winning match against the Austrian youth team, marking a proud milestone for the nation.
Namiz also represented some of Sri Lanka’s most prestigious clubs, including Moors Sports Club, Malay Sports Club, Wattala CC, Havelocks Sports Club (rugby), Java Lane SC, and Ratnam SC, showcasing his multi-sport mastery.
Beyond his achievements as an athlete, Namiz was deeply committed to serving his alma mater and community. He was a respected member of the College Board of Governors, contributing to the school’s growth and development. He also served as President of the Zahira Veterans, President of the Zahira Old Boys’ Rugby Association, President of the Group of 90s, and as an active member of the Parent-Teacher Association, continuing to strengthen the bonds within the Zahira community.
His coaching journey reflected his lifelong commitment to nurturing the next generation. Namiz proudly served as Zahira’s first Under-15 and Under-13 rugby coach, playing a vital role in shaping the college’s junior rugby structure. Later, as coach of the Darussalam College football team, he laid a strong foundation that led the school to remarkable victories, defeating elite schools like Zahira, Hameed al Hussainie, and St Joseph’s to clinch the Central Colombo Divisional U15 Football Championship in 2016. He also guided the Thihary Youth Football Team, continuing his mission of inspiring young athletes to believe in their potential.
M.M.K. Namiz was more than an athlete; he was a leader, mentor, and inspiration whose legacy continues to influence Zahira College and the wider sporting community. His life stands as a lasting reminder that true greatness is defined not just by talent, but by humility, service, and heart.
Gone but never forgotten, M.M.K. Namiz will forever be remembered as a true Zahira legend.
Mahdi Namiz
We remember you every day
Nihal C.I. de Silva
It’s been two years since you left us, dearest Nihal and Dada! We remember you every day, in every fleeting smile, every favourite song, every funny story and your innate kindness and generosity to all!
We can only take comfort in the words of Mary Elizabeth Frye, who says:
“Don’t stand at my grave & cry
I’m not there, I did not die
I’m a thousand winds that blow
I’m the diamond glints on snow
I’m the sunlight on ripened grain
I’m the gentle autumn rain
When you awaken in the morning hush
I’m the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight
I’m the soft stars that shine at night
Do not stand at my grave & cry
I’m not there I didn’t die!”
May you be happy and free from pain wherever you are! We miss you every day.
Your beloved wife, three girls, sons-in-law & grandson
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