Connect to Care (CTC) Consulting has taken a significant step forward in its organizational development by officially registering as a Voluntary Social Services/Non-Governmental Organisation under the Voluntary Social Services Organisations (Registration & Supervision) Act No. 31 of 1980, as amended. This registration is a pivotal achievement for the organization, enhancing its governance and institutional capabilities to effectively address Sri Lanka’s development priorities through actionable implementation, collaborative efforts across sectors, and measurable outcomes.
In conjunction with this transition, CTC has successfully completed an extensive program aimed at strengthening its governance and institutional framework. This initiative focuses on improving transparency, accountability, financial management, and program execution within the organization.
CTC operates at the nexus of various sectors, including government, development partners, academia, civil society, and the private sector, aiding institutions in transforming policy objectives into tangible programs and sustainable results. The organization’s initiatives cover critical areas of national development such as Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), digital agriculture, health innovation, nutrition, institutional enhancement, and public sector reform.
The timing of this strengthened organizational structure aligns with Sri Lanka’s increasing emphasis on effective implementation, institutional reform, digital advancements, and evidence-based development strategies. With its enhanced governance framework and upgraded operational systems, CTC is positioning itself as a reliable platform for executing and coordinating intricate, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
As part of its governance enhancements, CTC has appointed Rehan Anthonis, Anjali Nayyar, and Dhamitha Cooke to its Board. Rehan Anthonis, who serves as Senior Director of People Operations at Sysco LABS Sri Lanka, brings over 25 years of experience in organizational transformation, talent strategy, and corporate governance from various multinational firms.
Anjali Nayyar, the Executive Vice President at Global Health Strategies, contributes more than 20 years of international experience, particularly in public health, strategic advocacy, partnerships, and program leadership across Asia and Africa.
Dhamitha Cooke, a leader in finance and business transformation with over 45 years in banking, aviation, and capital markets, enhances the organization’s governance and financial management capabilities.
Additionally, Laksiri Abeysekera has been appointed as Strategic Advisor for Governance, Institutional Strengthening, and Financial Management. With over 40 years of international experience, he will oversee governance, financial management, organizational systems, risk management, and institutional efficiency, having held leadership positions in various global organizations, including CGIAR Centres.
Alongside these new appointments, Connect to Care Chairman Chandita Samaranayake and Lakshi Nethicumara will continue their roles on the board. The newly strengthened board and advisory team will provide independent oversight and strategic leadership to support CTC’s growth and national impact.
To further enhance transparency and accountability, CTC has invested in advanced management systems for finance, governance, and program delivery. The organization has implemented Microsoft Dynamics for improved financial management and donor accountability, while Asana has been adopted as its program management platform to monitor deliverables and outcomes effectively.
These systems will facilitate real-time insights into program execution and financial performance, enabling enhanced governance and better coordination to achieve measurable results.
“This milestone signifies more than just a change in our institutional status; it underscores our dedication to creating a more robust, accountable, and trusted organization capable of delivering impactful development initiatives,” stated Emaali Gunasekara, Chief Executive Officer of CTC. “By bolstering our governance, expanding our leadership, modernizing our systems, and enhancing accountability, we are laying the groundwork for translating national priorities into sustainable outcomes for the people of Sri Lanka.”
CTC serves as a vital link between strategic planning and implementation, assisting governments and partners in developing practical programs, aligning stakeholders, coordinating efforts, and strengthening the necessary systems for long-term change. The organization’s focus is on ensuring that national priorities move beyond policy discussions to produce tangible benefits that improve lives and fortify institutions.
With its new NGO registration, fortified governance framework, and enhanced management systems, CTC is committed to acting as a conduit that connects strategy with execution, partnerships with action, and innovation with measurable impact. Furthermore, CTC is in the process of establishing a global Advisory Panel and expert network to support Sri Lanka’s national priorities through the “GiveBack” initiative, which invites accomplished Sri Lankans both domestically and internationally to contribute their expertise to nation-building efforts.
