Who We Are
The English Connection, started on May 17, 2023, is the brain child of committed neighbours, living on Bullers Lane, in the heart of the more affluent area in Colombo 7, Sri Lanka’s thriving metropolis.
The economic crisis of 2023/24, in Sri Lanka meant that many daily wage earners lost their income; they could barely afford to feed their families and so buying school supplies or pursuing education, became untenable. Within walking distance of Bullers Lane are five such “wattes,” shanties, which often do not even have running water. Each “watte” has numerous families (fifty to over a hundred), living in makeshift shelters. Many have no electricity and often survive on a single meal a day. By renting the hall of The Cancer Society, these neighbours commit their time and resources to holding elementary English Lessons, for youngsters in these “wattes.” Today, English Connection has evolved. Numerous youth having qualified in English at their OL’s or IG’s commit their time to volunteering at these classes Sixty eight children, from these Wattes and some from the streets of the area, aged 5-14 are on the register; weekly classes, have continued on a term by term basis, following a syllabus of grammar, comprehension and writing skills, together with spoken English. Clothes, books, stationery and all study resources are provided. Buller’s Lane neighbours further enable a free dinner at the end of each class, for each child to take home.
Why Focus on English Education?
Global Language: English is widely recognized as a global language. Proficiency in English can enable children to connect with a vast network of individuals, cultures, and ideas.
Academic Advantages: Many academic resources, books, and courses are available primarily in English. Familiarity with the language enhances learning and opens up access to quality education.Job Opportunities: Many employers prefer or require English proficiency. Children who learn English will be better positioned to secure quality jobs in the future.<
How You Can Make a Difference
Volunteer: Share your time and skills by teaching or assisting in English classes. Your support can inspire children and enhance their learning experiences.
Donate: Financial contributions help us maintain and expand our programs. Every Rupee donated can provide essential resources, materials, stationery and rent for classes. Further, gifts of book vouchers, clothing vouchers, paediatric vitamins all make such a difference..
Spread the Word: Help raise awareness about our mission on social media or within your community. The more people who know about our work, the more students we can reach...
The Power of Language in a Child's Life
Language is more than just a means of communication; it is a key that unlocks opportunities. For children from underprivileged families, mastering English can be life-changing. Not only does it help in education, but it also opens doors to better career prospects and social mobility.
Empower Your Students Through Volunteering
At The English Connection, we provide schools with structured volunteering programs that help students grow personally and academically. Our programs encourage leadership, teamwork, and community engagement, while offering meaningful real-world experience.
Partnering with us allows your students to make a positive impact in the community while developing essential skills and earning recognition for their contributions.
Our OG Volunteers
The Heartbeat of English Connection
Every great journey begins with a courageous first step. Our OG Volunteers are those very pioneers — the original champions who believed in the power of education to change lives and took action to make it happen.
From the earliest days, these dedicated individuals devoted their time, energy, and passion to teaching English in communities where opportunities were scarce. Their commitment not only laid the foundation for The English Connection but also set a standard of hope, resilience, and community spirit that continues to drive us forward.
Their stories are filled with challenges overcome, friendships forged, and lives transformed — proof that a small group of determined people truly can create lasting impact.
We invite you to hear directly from these trailblazers — their reflections, memories, and heartfelt messages that capture the soul of our mission.
Behind every successful lesson and
every confident volunteer stands a Coordinator — the true backbone of The
English Connection.
Our
Coordinators are more than just organizers. They are mentors, motivators,
problem-solvers, and bridges between our volunteers and the communities we
serve. With dedication and compassion, they handle everything from scheduling
and logistics to emotional support and guidance.
Their role
is often unseen, but never unfelt. It is their care, communication, and calm
leadership that ensures every session runs smoothly and every learner feels valued.
By empowering volunteers and fostering strong relationships, our Coordinators
bring consistency and heart to our mission.
Meet our Coordinators – the passionate individuals who keep everything running smoothly.
