To every single person who has made our work possible,
I am very excited to be leading this new chapter of Emerge in Sri Lanka. Working with children, especially girls, has always been something that is very close to my heart. At Emerge, our dedicated staff are our greatest asset. I have now seen their passion to change the lives of our participants first hand; it never ends, instead strengthening day by day.
Since I joined the team in July, we have received the support of many who have strengthened Emerge as an organization, our programmes, and our sustainability. We have engaged individuals, social groups, corporate entities and other philanthropic organizations here on the ground in Sri Lanka. The interest and awareness generated through our jewelry is ever-growing, with more and more people wanting to contribute through in kind support and donations. We’ve engaged the American Embassy in Sri Lanka, a special delegation from South Africa representing the Ministry of Trade and Industries, and the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewelry Association. We’ve showcased our jewelry at Sri Lanka’s annual international gem and jewelry show, FACETS. And, we were recently featured in the Life Times Sri Lanka.
As we move into 2014, our goals include formally registering as an NGO (Emerge Lanka is currently a ‘charitable company’), introduction of a local product with the support of a local jewelry designer, formal placement programmes with private sector companies for past participants, curriculum development, staff capacity-building, increasing local jewelry sales, and increasing our funding base to expand into more shelters.
I want to take this opportunity to thank every single donor, sponsor, volunteer and supporter who have been with us this far. You have encouraged and trusted us and made our work possible. We could not change lives, touch so many hearts, make a difference and provide a better future for these amazing girls without you. Thank you for all you have done. I am excited to get to know all of you as we continue our amazing work. We at Emerge Lanka Foundation wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2014.
Mumtaz Faleel, National Coordinator