Seylan Bank PLC, in partnership with the Indira Cancer Trust (ICT) and Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka, commemorated the first anniversary of their collaborative initiative on April 29, 2026. This event celebrated a year of offering hope and valuable experiences to children confronting severe health challenges.
The gathering took place at Suwa Arana – A Place For Healing in Maharagama, where children, their families, volunteers, healthcare professionals, and partners came together to reflect on the achievements since Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka became a licensed extension of Make-A-Wish International.
Throughout the past year, Seylan Bank has served as the Official Banking Partner, providing financial assistance, raising awareness through public initiatives, and fostering community involvement. To honor a year filled with joy and positive influence, the bank’s employees contributed LKR 10 million, enhancing hope for numerous families as they embark on the second year of this partnership. This donation represents a renewed commitment to inspiring optimism for children and their families during their recovery journeys. Additionally, Seylan’s Islamic Banking Unit has contributed by enhancing cancer care through support in medication, transportation, and patient welfare, further strengthening the initiative’s overall impact.
Ramesh Jayasekara, Director/CEO of Seylan Bank PLC, remarked, “As a bank with a heart, our focus has always been on creating a significant impact within our communities. Our collaboration with Indira Cancer Trust and Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka over the past year has enabled us to assist children and families during their most challenging times. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Seylan Bank employees for their remarkable generosity and compassion. We remain dedicated to expanding this initiative and encouraging wider participation across our organization and beyond.”
Looking forward, Seylan Bank plans to empower its staff to provide direct support and engage with children and families by establishing structured employee volunteer programs in collaboration with ICT and Suwa Arana.
Since its inception, Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka has successfully granted over 150 wishes to children facing critical illnesses, providing moments of joy, motivation, and emotional support. These wish experiences are part of a comprehensive care strategy led by the Indira Cancer Trust, integrating medical assistance with psychological and emotional enrichment.
Reflecting on the first anniversary of Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka’s mission, Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, Chairperson and Trustee of the Indira Cancer Trust, expressed, “As we celebrate a year of fulfilling wishes for children and families in need, we are reminded of the powerful healing that wishes can bring. In line with our vision of nurturing hope, we are thrilled to grant 70 additional wishes today, bringing smiles and courage to children facing critical illnesses.”
The anniversary event featured stories of children whose wishes had been fulfilled and highlighted the importance of collective support in making these dreams a reality. It also offered stakeholders a chance to engage with ongoing initiatives and future aspirations.
Administered by the Indira Cancer Trust, Make-A-Wish Sri Lanka remains committed to providing transformative wish experiences that complement medical treatments by enhancing emotional well-being and fostering hope among children and their families.
This partnership underscores a mutual dedication to establishing a support network that transcends traditional healthcare, uniting financial institutions, charitable organizations, and communities to create a lasting impact.
