The British Sri Lankan Association celebrates 10 years of achievement
ESTABLISHED in 2014, BRISLA, a non-profitable and non-political organisation is now recognised as the leading voice for British Sri Lankans in the UK.
The last 10 years has seen much change, with many advancements in technology, healthcare and education. Since its inception, BRISLA has been a champion for social integration, sustainable development and focused partnerships in the fields of business and health. During this time BRISLA has actively focussed on bringing communities together, to foster a cohesive and integrated society working towards achieving the best for all. The focus for 2024 is to foster ‘unity in diversity’.
To celebrate the 10-year anniversary, a lunch was held on June 18th at the Caledonian Club in London. Guests included speakers, Lord Naseby, Lord Hugo Swire, The Sri Lankan High Commissioner, HE Rohitha Bogollagama and Lesley Craig from the FCDO who gave a speech about the British Sri Lankan community.
Special guests included HRH Princess Katarina of Serbia, Lady de Silva, Mei Sim Lai OBE DL, Her Majesty’s The Queen’s Representative for London Borough of Brent since 2007 and Dr Desmond Biddulph CBE, President, The Buddhist Society.
Master of Ceremonies, Mark Jones ensured the celebration lunch ran smoothly as guests listened to the vision for the next ten years and networked with other business leaders and colleagues.
Commenting on the 10-year anniversary celebration, Chair and Founder of BRISLA, Dr Zimar Sivardeen, formerly ophthalmic director of Specsavers New Malden for over 20 years said: ‘We’re delighted that our Guests of Honour were able to attend this celebration, which brings together the British Sri Lankan community and provides a voice to celebrate and recognise achievement.’
‘Our greatest strength lies within our unity. We hold a strong sense of optimism and confidence in our ability to navigate the complexities and challenges of the future.’
‘Thank you to everyone who is here today to celebrate our growing community. We are looking forward to the next 10 years.’
The Rt Hon. the Lord Hugo Swire PC KCMG, Member of the House of Lords, UK
(Left to right) Chair and Founder of BRISLA, Dr Zimar Sivardeen, HE Rohitha Bogollagama, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK and The Rt Hon. the Lord Naseby PC, Member of the House of Lords, UK
Councillor Kamala Kugan, Coombe Vale, Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames Council, UK
Mei Sim Lai OBE DL, Her Majesty’s The Queen’s Representative for London Borough of Brent, UK
HRH Princess Katarina of Serbia, Lady de Silva with HE Rohitha Bogollagama, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK
