It takes courage for a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence to share their story with anyone. In the Sri Lankan context this is a very controversial topic to be talked loud, yet it is mandatory to enlighten the future of the country with a safeguarded lifestyle, which is a part in the goal no.03 in SDGs too. It’s huge in amount to be stated the number of school aged children whose right to education has been taken away due to rehabilitation purposes. 

With the fact of the importance of protecting the girl child, Rotaract club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, as a representative of a major youth organization in the country, found that it’s their own responsibility to rise against this pathetic situation which prevails in our very own society. FOR THEM TO BLOSSOM was initiated with the objective of giving helping hands to under 18 survivors of sexual harassment, who are being kept under Probation and Child care Department till they turn 18.

The Salvation Army Co-10 which shelteres 50 sexually harassed girls was selected to implement the project with the guidance of Major Vajira Damayanthi. The project had 2 phases which those survivors lessened the weight of isolation and developed self-confidence. Day 01 was hosted by psychiatrist trainer Ms. Samitha Ethuldoraarachchi through a mentality development and empowerment program on 23rd of March 2018. The girls out there got a platform where they could talk to their heart’s content and express feelings undoubtedly. They were given time to engage in mind relaxing group activities and motivated to have a better future.      

Day 02 was successfully concluded on 06th of April 2018 with a mini aurudu ceremony and some interactive sessions. At the end of the day everyone including infants was given gifts and lunch. Those beautiful souls must see the bright side of their lives regardless of their scars… regardless of the dark pieces in their past. Rotaract club of USJP helped them to think beyond their boundaries and plan their future with what they’re really capable of! With the collective effort of Rotaractors, a wall was built where they can lean on and feel secured and safe.

“For them to blossom” can be regarded as one of the most successful community projects done by rotaractors this year since it focused on the set of the future which is being ignored the most! Rotaract club of USJP guided them to find the right path and put them through the potential they’ve in the outside world in order to have a better future.

FOR THEM TO BLOSSOM shattered the silence of sex violence…Cause every child deserves to be safe.

Rtr. Damithri Wanniarachchi