This month Sewalanka will present a pictorial panorama of Sri Lankan women and their roles in the 21st century through its Women of Sri Lanka calendar.

For the past three years the calendar has been published to raise funds for the organisation’s women’s empowerment programs and as a showcase for the grace and beauty that exists in the every day lives of Sri Lankan women. This year’s edition presents a variety of scenes which highlight the breadth and diversity of local women and their roles.

Twelve images in black and white capture the subtleness, vitality and energy that Sri Lankan women manifest in every day life. The scenes depict the contrast and balance of traditional and modern that characterise the women of the island; from the ambition and aspirations of the young, to the timeless tenderness of rural mothers.

While it is a way of conveying the strength and beauty of local women it is also a means to raise funds for projects that specifically focus on empowering and assisting women and girls throughout the island.

This year’s calendar is an exhibition of the work of Canadian-born Sri Lankan resident Patricia Mamelka who, together with Dominic Sansoni worked to provide this unique insight into the villages, homes and lives of local women.

Last year’s calendar raised over Rs.380,000, which made a significant contribution to work that enhances the capacity of women to improve their incomes and livelihoods.

As in previous years the calendar will be available in bookshops throughout Sri Lanka.

For further information on where to purchase a calendar, email steve@sewalanka.org