“This year’s International Day of Democracy emphasizes the critical role of civil society and local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to help social and political challenges,” said U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap. “The United States is proud to help young people in Sri Lanka use their energy and creativity to improve their communities.”

The 16 winning recipients were chosen from an extremely competitive pool of proposals and span important issues such as the environment, youth skills development, cultural exchanges, gender-based violence, and improving educational and economic development.

The projects also impact a diversity of locations in Monaragala, Hambantota, Matale, Anuradhapura, Colombo, Matara, Galle, Horana, Ampara, Jaffna, Seenigama, Tangalle, Anuradhapura, Rathnapura, Batticaloa, Katunayake, and the Koggala Free Trade Zone.

This is the sixth year the Embassy has supported Youth Empowerment Grants, funding a total of $852,588 (nearly LKR 120 million) for 95 projects during this period.