The SLANSW Community Mentoring Network
The Sri Lanka Association of New South Wales (SLANSW) is proud to launch Serendib, a new community mentoring network designed to connect, support, and empower Sri Lankans across Australia.
The name of the network is derived from the Arab reference to Sri Lanka as Serendib, and from which the English word serendipity was derived. The network embodies the spirit of meaningful connections and unexpected opportunities that can transform lives and careers.
Serendib brings together experienced professionals, academics, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members with students, young professionals, new migrants, and emerging leaders seeking guidance and support. Through these connections, the network aims to strengthen intergenerational and community ties while fostering personal and professional growth.
Guided by the mission “To support and empower Sri Lankans through mentoring, professional development, education, cultural connection, and leadership growth,” Serendib will focus on five key areas: career mentoring and entrepreneurship, new migrant settlement, women’s leadership, youth and community development, and academic and research careers.
The program will operate through small mentoring groups, pairing one mentor with up to three mentees. Participants will engage in quarterly online meetings over a nine-month period, complemented by opportunities to connect through SLANSW community events and related initiatives.
SLANSW will facilitate mentor and mentee recruitment, matching, and program coordination, while participants take shared responsibility for building productive and meaningful mentoring relationships. All mentors and mentees will be members of SLANSW, aged 18+, and committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive environment.
More than a mentoring program, Serendib is an investment in the future of the Sri Lankan community. By sharing knowledge, experience, culture, and leadership, participants will help create pathways for success while preserving the values, heritage, and connections that unite Sri Lankans across generations and the seas.
Expressions of Interest for mentors and mentees for Serendib’s Cohort 1 are open until COB Monday 21st September 2026.
Mentors – Please register your interest here.
Mentees – Please register your interest here.
Information regarding the network’s code of conduct is found here.
This network is coordinated by the Education and Engagement portfolio of SLANSW and any queries about this initiative can be directed to SLANSW Serendib Program Lead, Sheyana La Brooy via secretary.slansw@gmail.com
Join us in uplifting and empowering Sri Lankans to build a stronger, more connected community through Serendib!
