We are working with 9 youth groups located in nine different villages in the Jaffna District in Northern Sri Lanka as a research case study to explore the local needs in each youth group especially unemployment in a post conflict situation and to compare the similarities and difference in each one. Three field visits were made: - the first was held in August 2018, the second in November 2018, and the third in January 2019.
We met and interviewed the youth leaders and local community leaders from each village. A community profile survey was undertaken. We drew some analysis from the demographic details, facilities available at the neighborhood level, local issues and needs as well as the programs being undertaken. The data was first compiled after the November 2018 visit and had been updated after the January 2019 visit. The visits successfully explored the local needs in depth, and we offered training and equipment required to resolve the local problems. Local communities are now organizing themselves into focus groups and addressing local concerns. We continue to visit and will fund the employment of a youth worker through a local NGO partner. In June 2019, we commence a “Youth Project” in Sri Lanka and employ a project coordinator to co-operate with us and provide supporting service for youth in Sri Lanka for the long run.

Growth Groups

Since Jan 2019, we have more than 60 local churches and 5500 members in Sri Lanka joining the life building project. We serve over 500 cell groups through Victorious Life Book Series. We provide supports to the local community, equipping their church leaders and community leaders for serving people. Study and training materials are translated in Tamil and Sinhalese languages for use in local life building cell groups. All materials are complimentary.

Professional Training On Community Building And Religious Harmony

In Jan 2018, we held trainings on community building and religious harmony with Lanka Bible College–Centre for Graduate Studies, Sri Lanka, serving Sinhalese and Tamil community leaders. Trainings were conducted in English, Sinhalese and Tamil in Jaffna, Hambantota & Kandy. Through the enhancement of team building, local leaders created a stronger connection and were encouraging to collaboration in pursuit of harmony.