Philantrophy
“Life is a gift and it offers us the privilege, opportunity and responsibility to give something back by becoming more.” - Anthony Robbins
At Authenticities, the thought resonates with us. We believe we have been accorded the privilege to do good, and the responsibility to action it to the best of our abilities. We do believe that the world can be made a better place if all of us contributed our bit, in however big or small a way. We would like to think that each of us has the potential to do good and give back to society. It is the very least we can do as citizens of the world.
Doing our bit for society in the everyday is a wonderful gesture. But what if you could lend a helping hand in a far away land? What if you could see magic unfold even as you discover new places and embrace new cultures? Imagine the joy of being responsible for the smiles and spreading cheer along the way.
Keeping these thoughts in mind, at Authenticities, we have woven travel experiences with philanthropic initiatives that will add meaning and beauty to your voyage and discoveries. In a world that has been undergoing different periods of turbulence in recent times, it is the economically challenged classes that have borne the brunt the most. As humanity with a common legacy and a future that can be crafted together, we need to stand shoulder to shoulder and hold hands. We need to connect. At Authenticities, we hope to ease the lives of those less fortunate than us, by creating social awareness and having impactful resolutions facilitating hands to help us, and making that difference that we believe in to communities around us.
Let us join hands, connect and create.
The Connect Initiative
At Authenticities, our work centers around making the world a better place through education and travel and through expanding horizons. We believe in celebrating differences, in mitigating our own implicit biases, in identifying our common humanity and in becoming better and stronger individuals while embracing our diversity.
Our company was founded on the belief that travel is fundamentally about connection. We are at our best when we connect with each other. Whether we are travelling or at home, we learn and grow from our inherent diversity. In order for that to happen, we need to embrace each other's humanity and insist that our systems be built on equality.
The core areas of our philanthropic initiatives are;
- Supporting primary educational efforts in rural Sri Lanka. This involves infrastructure and sanitation, and supporting sports and music advancements
- Our “do good and give back” - where we encourage our travellers and partners to engage in sponsoring a child for one full academic year
- Philanthropic leave - dedicate 3 full days of paid leave a year that an employee can use to support a charitable organisation of his or her choice
Supporting Primary Education
We believe strongly in the need to build bridges and connect lives, communities and their futures through the “Connect” initiative. Our approach is to identify communities, engage with them and extend a hand to them in their development and growth. This provides opportunities to enhance their skills.
Our aim is to enable them in such a way as to inculcate self-belief and build confidence, in the long run boosting social and economic stability. The “Connect” initiative cause is the closest to our hearts, as it revolves around children. We believe that in providing support to children, we support strengthen the fabric of society.
Supporting Primary Education
We believe strongly in the need to build bridges and connect lives, communities and their futures through the “Connect” initiative. Our approach is to identify communities, engage with them and extend a hand to them in their development and growth. This provides opportunities to enhance their skills.
Our aim is to enable them in such a way as to inculcate self-belief and build confidence, in the long run boosting social and economic stability. The “Connect” initiative cause is the closest to our hearts, as it revolves around children. We believe that in providing support to children, we support strengthen the fabric of society.
Each project is qualified through a simple, fast-tracked process where our regional experts identify rural schools, which are in urgent need of support. The scope includes any urgent infrastructural requirements such as building classrooms, renovation, providing desks/ chairs, adding a library and sanitation. We encourage extra-curricular activities by providing sports and musical equipment.
We set aside a part of our earnings towards all our philanthropy projects. We provide our partners around the world to participate and contribute to this cause.
Do Good & Give Back
“It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving” - Mother Teresa
One of the best feelings in the world is giving. Positive energy is contagious. One act of kindness can inspire another, in turn several others, to go out and plant seeds of happiness through giving. Your greatest gift is the ability to share your blessings. It is what makes life meaningful.
This assumes an even greater significance when one travels and is able to spread this goodness. Over the last several months, our desire to do good has been further reinforced & when you travel, make it matter.
If you feel that this ethos resonates with you, then the travel ideas that we propose are for you.
Maybe you have thought of giving back to society, and you could do it as you travel. Here are some ideas: working with marginalised communities, conservation of endangered animals, volunteering in local villages, distributing dry rations, Or even the simple thought of ensuring your trip is sustainable, can go a long way in empathising with our cause.
While you're dreaming of your future travels, do not forget to envisage a trip to Sri Lanka with Authenticities. Not only do we deliver curated private experiences that are emotionally rich, conceptually sound and insightful, but we also have a wonderful program for our “Do Good” travellers!!
How Can You Help?
#CONNECT is a private philanthropy initiative by Authenticities, helping to sponsor education in remote parts of rural Sri Lanka. With a one-time donation of US $ 75, you can sponsor a young child for one full academic year. As part of your travel itinerary, Authenticities will take you to meet the child you have sponsored and also visit the rural school they attend.
Do keep in mind that if you haven't selected your travel destination yet, please speak to your travel consultant who will get in touch with Authenticities and we will figure out your own curated itinerary.
Our Proposed Methodology
1. Identify rural primary schools, through our regional staff.
2. Liaise with the Principals and obtain details of the most deserving children. Our regional staff will visit the family to authenticate and select the most deserving children, taking into consideration the income levels of the family.
3. Priority will be given to children with learning disabilities or those who may have lost one or both parents.
4. As part of the selection process, our regional staff goes a step further to verify the information from different sources before finalising the recipient.
5. They propose a recipient list based on priority.
6. Authenticities will further support them on individual scholarship funds through our "Connect" initiative.
7. A periodic review and a progress report of the child/ children will be sent to the donors.
8. Formulate success stories later on.
9. We will facilitate the opening of bank accounts for the family and donors can transfer funds directly to these accounts.
Philanthropic Leave
Authenticities has always been sensitive to the outpour of voices talking about critical issues such as injustice, inequality and the threats to our environment, animal welfare and social justice. We have helped allow those voices to be heard. As a company we believe in giving back. These dialogues are a part of our charitable programs. We believe in dignity, respect, safety, equality and protecting the environment and we can only begin to make that a reality for everyone when we all do something about it.
Philanthropic Leave
“Philanthropic Leave” is about giving an opportunity to all our staff members to support a charitable program of their choice. No work is small, and volunteers are an extremely valuable resource for any organisation, whether the contribution is on financial, mental or physical terms. Sparing time for causes promoting goodwill can do wonders for one's mental and physical well being. Through these sentiments we hope to inspire those around us to take a leap of kindness.
Projects
For the past 6 years, Authenticities has been actively involved in the field of primary education in the rural parts of Sri Lanka. As part of our 'Connect' initiative and ongoing philanthropy projects, we have been allocating a chunk of our profits toward supporting various projects that help the cause of primary education.
Some of our projects include:
In April 2013, one of the earliest projects we handled was in Mederigiriya, where we identified a rural school where most classrooms required plastering and finishing. Work had halted due to the lack of Government funding and parents of children did most of the work. The donation from Mr. Chris Reiner of USA was used to assist the school to renovate the classrooms. The same year, at the Helboda Estate (Up Country Plantation), we identified a rural school which received donations from the French Marathon Group in the form of 5,000 schoolbooks, pencils, pens and school-bags.
For the past 6 years, Authenticities has been actively involved in the field of primary education in the rural parts of Sri Lanka. As part of our 'Connect' initiative and ongoing philanthropy projects, we have been allocating a chunk of our profits toward supporting various projects that help the cause of primary education.
Some of our projects include:
In April 2013, one of the earliest projects we handled was in Mederigiriya, where we identified a rural school where most classrooms required plastering and finishing. Work had halted due to the lack of Government funding and parents of children did most of the work. The donation from Mr. Chris Reiner of USA was used to assist the school to renovate the classrooms. The same year, at the Helboda Estate (Up Country Plantation), we identified a rural school which received donations from the French Marathon Group in the form of 5,000 schoolbooks, pencils, pens and school-bags.
In 2014, a school from Switzerland collaborated with us to provide stationery and musical instruments to a school in Habarana. The same year we teamed up with one of our premium Italian partner and friends, Ms. Silvia Terreni to rebuild a rustic school into something more solid and long-standing in a village called Sooriyagama, close to Habarana.
These are just a handful of examples. Over the years we have joined hands with various entities, organizations and individuals from countries across the globe, from Japan to France to Poland and several others, and even within our own country Sri Lanka, to build and rebuild school infrastructure (classrooms, toilets, libraries, playgrounds) and furnish material and equipment (books, stationery, etc).
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Rural school renovation in Medirigiriya
Date: 2013, Apr
Location: MedirigiriyaWe identfied this rural school where most classrooms required plastering and finishing. Most work was halted due to lack of Govt funding and parents of children did most of the work. The Donation was to assist the school to renovate the classrooms.Donors
Mr. Chris Reinier
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Donation to rural school in Pussellawa
Date: 2013, Oct
Location: PussellawaAt the HELBODA Estate (Up Country Plantation). We identified a rural school Donated 5,000 School Books, Pencils, Pens and School Bags.Donors
French Marathon Group
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Donation to rural school in Trincomalee
Date: 2014, Jul
Location: TrincomaleeA Montessari School which needed support to the School children. Donation of 50 School Bags and 50 Water Bottles.Donors
Mr and Mrs Vollan
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Donation to rural school in Habarana
Date: 2014, Sep
Location: HabaranaA Group from Switzerland donated Musical Instruments and Stationery to a school in Habarana with Authenticities. Musical instruments and stationery items.Donors
Switzerland
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Rebuilding of the primary section of the rural school
Date: 2015, Feb
Location: HabaranaSooriyagama is a rural village close to HABARANA, a highly popular zone which has close access to four UNESCO world Heritage sites. AUTHENTICITIES identified this project together with one of our friend and premium Italian partner Ms. Silvia Terreni, Product Manager of MISTRAL based in Torino, Italy. Sooriyagama School in Habarana, a government rural school consisting of little over 40 students. After a thorough inspection of the school premises, Silvia identified to re-build the primary section together with AUTHENTICITIES. The primary section building was a wattle and daub structure with a cadjan roof, which leaked whenever it rained..Donors
Ms. Silvia Terreri, MISTRAL
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Building racks and furniture for rural school
Date: 2015, Mar
Location: HabaranaMMA Insurance, France funded a project by supporting a local rural school in Hathareskotuwa, Sigiriya by building school racks and furnitures for the school library. Funding of the project coincided with the group traveling in March to Sri Lanka with 104 of their participants. The building of school racks and furniture were undertaken by staff of Authenticities and coordinated many efforts to ensure that the delivery, installation and arrangements went well. Today the school is proud to have its own furnished library where school children could store and protect books and the chairs and table at the library being very useful. The school principal organized a wonderful welcome by getting the school band to escort the group from the entrance of the school to the college where the band played and the school children sang locals songs to entertain the group. During the visit, the group also funded to provide all children and teachers with a simple snack and fresh juices. Following the school band performance and later, children and teachers indulged themselves to the snacks, over 300 balloons filled with helium were offered to the children to be released into the air..Donors
MMA Insurance
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Toilets with water facilities and school books
Date: 2015, Feb
Location: HabaranaWe undertook the 2nd project supporting this rural school located in Habarana primarily funded by BMW Poland and supported by funds from CONNECT Authenticities. The school children didnt adequate toilet facilities and water supplies which caught our attention when we visited the school with Ms Paulina Jaworska Brand Manager of BMW, Mr Kris Pobozniak President of Haxel accompanied by Dilshad Sadiq Vice President of Authenticities Sri Lanka.We identified that building a new school toilet was a priority, which would be a great benefit to the school children. The funding and contribution came from the directors and representatives who visited Sri Lanka as a group in March 2015. They subsequently visited the school to meet the teachers and children and also to inspect the progress of the toilets they were funding. The BMW representatives also donated hundreds of schoolbooks to each and every children of the school. They also donated sports goods such as footballs, volleyballs with nets to the principal of the school to be used for recreational activities. Anthem and a touching local Poem and the clients joined in and sang the Polish National Anthem. Parents and Teachers of the school were kind enough to prepare local herbal tea and offer seasonal fruits to clients as a gesture of gratitude..Donors
BMW(Poland)
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Resurrecting the abandoned building to facilitate graduating students
Date: 2015, Jul
Location: KurunegalaWith the assistance of LAMA MITHURU NO KAI, Japan, we funded an amount of Rs. 154,000 to completely resurrect the abandoned building to facilitate graduating students of the rural school Siri Parakum Vidyalaya Udugama in Kununegala. The project is expected to complete by the end of August 2015..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai
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Musical equipment for the Yahalatenna Primary School
Date: 2016, Jun
Location: KandyYahalatenna primary school is based in the Central Province in the Kandy district. This project was identified by the LAMA MITHURU NO KAI foundation in Japan to provide musical equipment. The regional representative of Authenticities coordinated the efforts of budgeting, sourcing and providing musical equipment whilst installation of playground facilities to the school..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai
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Playground equipment for the Thalkote Primary School
Date: 2016, Jun
Location: SigiriyaThalkote is a small village off Sigiriya, which is also a dominant farming community set against picturesque paddy fields. The main schools in Dambulla and in Sigiriya are too far for the children in theseareas to attend and have to settle for the small schools in the village. The requirement for this school is mainly playground facilities (including sea-saw, slides and swing) so that children of this primary school have activities apart from their educational efforts. This project was funded totally by the Connect Initiative, a philanthropic effort mainly focusing in uplifting educational efforts in the rural areas of the Island. Regional representatives of Authenticities coordinated efforts including liaising with school authorities, sourcing and installation of playground equipment.Donors
Authenticities
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School equipment for rural village school in Kap-Ela Dambulla
Date: 2016, Jun
Location: DambullaKap-Ela is rural village in Dambulla bordering part of the Kandalama Tank. Predominantly a farming community, the village school required 2 desks and 6 chairs for the children and in addition another 2 chairs for the teachers to facilitate the requirement. This project was funded totally by the Connect Initiative, a philanthropic effort mainly focusing in uplifting educational efforts in the rural areas of the Island. The regional representatives from Authenticities coordinated all efforts including budgeting, sourcing and providing the required items to the school..Donors
Authenticities
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School equipment for the Eralodai Valluvar Vidyalam
Date: 2016, Jun
Location: PassikudahThe Eastern Province requires greater attention in respect to educational development efforts. Based on an initiative by the Lama Mithuru No Kai foundation from Japan, this project was identified. The funding was urgently required for the water pump, water filter, white boards and cupboards for the classroom and sports equipment for this rural school. The regional representatives of Authenticities coordinated efforts between the school and the donor and we sourced the required materials and equipment based on the budgets and handed over to the school authorities..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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School equipment for the Ambanpitiya Primary school
Date: 2016, Jun
Location: KegalleAmbanpitiya Primary school is based in the Sabaragamuwa Province in the Kegalle District. Supporting of this school project was identified and funded by LAMA MITHURU NO KAI based in Japan. The requirement of the school included mattresses, blender, steel cupboards, desks and chairs. The regional representative of Authenticities facilitated all coordination and handed over the required materials to the school authorities..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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Installing Iron Mesh around Classroom of Grade 4 and 5 for Palatuwa Primary, Kimbissa
Date: 2017, Mar
Location: KimbissaAuthenticities joined forces with NPO Lamamithuru No Kai to support Palatuwa Primary School situated in Kimbissa. The requirement of the school was to improve the safety of the Grade 4 and 5 classrooms by fixing an iron mesh to the windows. The relevant materials to carry out the construction were purchased and checks until the completion were carried out by our regional expertise. Total Cost LKR 149500.00 (USD 997.00).Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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Construction of children park and class room for Alakolawewa Primary, Dambulla
Date: 2023, Aug
Location: DambullaAuthenticities joined forces with NPO Lama Mithuru No Kai to help Alakolawewa Primary School, which is located in Dambulla. The requirement of the school was as follows, repairing some classrooms, fixing an iron mesh and construction of a playground for the children. The regional representative of Authenticities facilitated all coordination and handed over the required materials to the school authorities. Total cost LKR 218850.00 (USD 1458.00).Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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Full playground renovation for the rural school Nagalawewa Primary
Date: 2017, May
Location: SigiriyaThis is a charming little rural school located close to the World UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya. It has a student population of 55 currently supported by a dedicated bunch of teachers and its Principal. The school badly required playground facilities for its primary students and this was indeed a much important requirement identified by Authenticities. Our management and regional staff in the area visited the school several times and undertook this project which was completed in June 2017. Total CostLKR 234000.00 (USD 1560.00) Playground renovation for the rural school Nagalawewa Primary.Donors
Authenticities
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Donation to Jaffna Public Library
Date: 2018, Mar
Location: JaffnaLama Mithuru No Kai (NPO) together with Authenticities, donated books to the Jaffna Public Library in order to enrich the collection of bookings. The books were handed over to Mrs. Suganthy Sathasivamoorthy, Chief Librarian of the Jaffna Public Library (left) by Kabilan, our regional representative..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai
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Completion of School Classroom at Dabagolla Primary School
Date: 2018, Mar
Location: GalenbindunuwewaDabagolla Primary School is situated in a very rural village North of Habarana, in the Anuradhapura district. The school was in need of new classroom, which was identified by Authenticities, and together with the students of Stafford International School, Authenticities managed to successfully construct the new classroom which would allow the school to continue the classroom sessions without any interruptions from weather. The new classroom enables the school to conduct classes without interuptions from the weather.Donors
Stafford International School and Authenticities
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Playground for Polattewa Primary School
Date: 2018, Oct
Location: SigiriyaAuthenticities joined forces with Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO) to help Polattewa Primary School which is located in Sigiriya. The requirement of the school was to build the school playground for the children. The regional representative of Authenticities facilitated all coordination and handed over the required materials to the school authorities..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO
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Playground for Polattewa Primary School
Date: 2018, Oct
Location: SigiriyaAuthenticities joined forces with Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO) to help Polattewa Primary School which is located in Sigiriya. The requirement of the school was to build the school playground for the children. The regional representative of Authenticities facilitated all coordination and handed over the required materials to the school authorities..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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Installation of a safety mesh for Galthambarawa Primary School
Date: 2018, Oct
Location: PollonnaruwaThe requirement of the school was to fix an iron mesh around the classrooms of grade 1, 2 and 3. As this an open building, there had been several attacks by monkeys on students as well as parents..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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Construction of Desks and chairs for Dhamma School at Wewala Temple
Date: 2018, Dec
Location: DambullaWewala Temple is a very historic Temple and Monastery situated in the outskirts of Dambulla, in the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. The temple also conducts a Dhamma school for the children from the nearby villages and novice Monks, and Authenticities, through its Connect fund constructed desks and chairs for the Dhamma School Construction of desks and chairs for the Dhamma School at a cost of LKR 200,000.00.Donors
Authenticities Sri Lanka
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Renovation of Rural School
Date: 2019, Feb
Location: PanaduraPinwatte Primary School with history of 112 years, currently there are 204 students, 7 teachers including a principal with classes from grade 1-5.The last time it was renovated was in 2004, just after the Tsunami. The employees at The Colt Technologies which is a multinational company, organized a renovation campaign at Pinwatte Primary school during their Annual Awards Ceremony in Colombo. There were around 80 COLT employees participated this event..Donors
United Kingdom
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Installing a Water purification plant at Kaithady Navatkuli G.T.M. School, Kaithady
Date: 2019, Jul
Location: JaffnaLama Mithuru No Kai together with Authenticities donated a mini water purification plant to Kaithady Navatkuli Government Tamil Mixed School with the aim of providing the school with cleaner drinking water. The school is situated in a village known as Kaithady in the Jaffna district..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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Covid Relief for Safari Jeep Drivers
Date: 2020, May
Location: Habarana, Yala & UdawalaweIn keeping with our Purpose, Values & Culture of the organisation, we helped 130 daily income Earners – This time Safari jeep drivers of Habarana, Yala & Udawalawe who were deprived of their incomes in the absence of Tourism. We provided them with 13 KG dry ration packs each to see through the difficult months – a cause that resonates with our Ethos. Another FIRST reaction to the Crisis from Authenticities..Donors
Authenticities Sri Lanka
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Renovating Washroom facilities at Needwood No 1 Tamil Vidyalaya
Date: 2023, Aug
Location: HaldummullaLama Mithuru No Kai together with Authenticities donated a mini water purification plant to Kaithady Navatkuli Government Tamil Mixed School with the aim of providing the school with cleaner drinking water. The school is situated in a village known as Kaithady in the Jaffna district..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai (NPO)
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Improvements on school building at Katuwattewela Primary School
Date: 2023, Aug
Location: KatuwattewelaLama Mithuru Nokai with the help of Authenticities worked on improving the school building at Katuwattewela Primary School. The necessary material was bought and all the work around the school was carried out with the help of the parents. The floors of the building were damaged and were cemented again. The pavement around the main hall was in bad shape and it was re-constructed. The Grade 5 classroom walls were plastered and painted too. The teachers and students were very appreciative of the support and kindness that was extended..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai(NPO)
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Class room partitions and a Tube Well for Wagollakada Jayantohi Primary School in Kapugollewa
Date: 2023, Aug
Location: KapugollewaThe Wagollakada Jayantohi Primary School in Kapugollewa was in need of support with the development of the current facilities available for their students. Lama Mithuru Nokai, with the help of Authenticities worked with the parents of the pupils to separate the main hall of the school into separate classrooms. Partition walls were put to divide the hall into three classrooms and this will help the teachers conduct their classes without any disturbances. The school was also in need of a basic water supply, and a deep well was dug at the school premises. This tube well will also be a source of clean water to the families living in the close vicinity too. The school staff as well as the community were very thankful for the assistance and generosity extended by the two organizations. Donors.Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai(NPO)
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A Meaningful Tomorrow For The Children At Kandurata Lama Niwasa
Date: 2022, Jan
Location: BadullaNote: To ensure the privacy of individuals and children, we have been requested by the Administrator not to post any images of the children Authenticities is proud to come forward for Kandurata Lama Niwasa – a refuge and home for girls in need located in the countryside of Sri Lanka. Kandurata Lama Niwasa is home to thirty-three girls aged between 6 to 21 years who are currently receiving their education at a nearby Tamil school in Badulla. The children coming from perpetually challenged environments such as poverty, sexual abuse, child labour and domestic violence, this home is dedicated to caring for the abused, neglected, and abandoned children, thus finding ways to maintain day-to-day normalcy with the society, and their way of life, in the safest manner possible. At Authenticities, we understand during this time of uncertainty, at-risk children require our help. Despite being under the supervision of the Department of Probation and Child Care Services of the Uva Provincial Council, we discovered that the home is inadequately funded, and the support offered from the community is under strength for their daily sustenance. By financially supporting them to move to a permanent home and bearing 1/3 of their monthly expenses, our mission is to extend help on their necessary infrastructure and daily sustenance to boost morale and build hope. By doing so, we’re confident in witnessing their amazing transformation into confident and secure young ladies in society. At Authenticities we are very clear Success is achieved with the participation of many. Therefore, it is logical and morally correct to ensure that success is also shared with those in our communities who need help..Donors
Authenticities
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Donating computers for rural schools in Kandy and Galle
Date: 2022, Nov
Location: Kandy and GalleDespite living in a world that’s advancing in the era of science and technology, in Sri Lanka, there is still a multitude of rural schools scattered around the island lagging in terms of innovation and technology. At Authenticities, we are driven to close the digital segregation among rural schools by donating computers thus improving their academic skills, while school teachers will also gain skills and knowledge in computer literacy and internet usage. Lama Mithuru No Kai together with Authenticities – The Connect Initiative, has donated 10 computers to Dharmapala Vidyalaya & Vidyarathana Vidyalaya in Galle and Giragama primary school & Ketapitiya primary school in Kandy. The regional representatives of Authenticities coordinated efforts between the schools and the company and handed over the purchased computers to the school authorities..Donors
Lama Mithuru No Kai & Authenticities
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Travel Insights
Careers @ Authenticities
Authenticities Sri Lanka is a privately held DMC, focusing on inbound Travel to Sri Lanka. Founded in 2013, the firm creates and operates intellectually stimulating premium travel programs within the boundaries of Sri Lanka. Our clients are experience travelers; our goal is to offer the highest caliber of travel experiences and quality to our clients characterized by logistical elegance combined with private access and special visits.
Our Culture
The culture we have built empowers our people to look for something unique and special. This helps us to transform our business. Our people are at the heart of everything we do from design aspects to how we could improve efficiencies and improve service quality.
We are a true believer in investing in our people through meaningful activities and programmes which invoke new thinking. The health and wellbeing in the workplace is as important and we understand the importance of exposing our people to elements of art, architecture and attention to detail.
Our workplace
The “La Forteresse” provides a healthy workplace and an environment in which our people can enjoy elements art and architecture. Technology plays a pivotal role in the way we advance and we re-invest in technology to leapfrog into the future.
We offer a salary and full benefits package, including medical insurance programs and a bonus program. We are an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to promoting a diverse workforce. .Please send resumes via email to hr@authenticitiessrilanka.com. If your qualifications and competencies meet our current need we will contact you shortly.
Current positions
Sorry, there are no positions available at this time.
Apprenticeships
We believe that meaningful short-term placement programmes and apprenticeships are a future investment for our company. We are really excited to have the opportunity to teach and guide young people about the DNA of Authenticities and the manner in which we see luxury travel.
We look for energetic and ambitious young people who can relate to our culture. Our training programmes are designed in a manner in which you are exposed to practical learning and careful mentoring to ensure your potential is maximized.
However due to the current Covid19 situation, this programme is kept on hold.
Privacy Policy
We refer to the European Union regulations on data protection (GDPR/ General Data Protection Regulation), which has come into effect from the 25 th of May 2018. We understand the importance of securing data and privacy of clients traveling through AUTHENTICITIES.As such, we are pleased to respect the regulations and agree to comply.
Diversity & Inclusion Policy
Here at Authenticities, our approach to diversity is simple and based on the Golden Rule 'Treat others the way you want to be treated'. We want all of our employees to feel valued, appreciated, and free to be who they are whether at home or at work, in the office or on the road. We recognize that an inclusive and diverse work environment respects Gender Identity, Gender Expression, unique characteristics, skills and experiences of all employees. In the competitive world of travel and hospitality, it is more important than ever to foster an environment of inclusion and growth among all our staff which we know will translate to excellence at all levels of our organization. Creating a successful business and work-life balance requires that every employee deserves respect and support, regardless of their race, colour, gender identity, religion, ancestry, physical abilities, age, and sexual orientation.
Crisis Management and Incident Reporting Policy
Authenticities (Pvt) Ltd will immediately notify the relevant partner/ customer concerned of any crisis and emergency situation via the emergency lines/emails provided by our partners and customers.
In the event of serious accident, illness or death of any person, Authenticities or its representative will;
- Verify this with our guides and hotels we work with
- Make all necessary arrangements and provide all necessary assistance and support
- Liaise with all relevant third parties, emergency services and insurance companies
- Contact our partner/ customer immediately and provide all relevant details
- Seek clarification of the clients insurance policy/ and act as per instructions
We consider the safety and wellbeing of our guests as our top priority. Authenticities as a brand will stand for its values in being responsible for everything we do and be transparent in our actions.
We have a dedicated team consisting of a committed, dynamic and those who can take decisions in the best interest of our guests. Once the emergency situation is verified, our team will immediately notify the relevant partner/ customer concerned via the emergency lines/emails provided by our partners and customers.
In the event of serious accident, illness or death of any person, Authenticities and/or its representative will;
- Immediately verify the nature of emergency with our guides, venders or hotels who are closest to our guests
- Establish communication with our guests and immediately evacuate or make arrangements to take them to safety
- Depending on the nature of the emergency, shall liaise with all relevant parties, emergency services, insurance companies, law enforcements etc
- Will contact our “Regional Staff” who represent us in key geo-locations in the Island who will assist the “Emergency Task Force”
- Contact our partner/ families of our guests immediately and update with relevant details
- Provide assistance in terms of medical support, insurance, recommencing their holidays, providing temporary accommodation or even assist guests to return back to their country
EMERGENCY TASK FORCE
| Shanitha Fernando/ CEO | Dilshad Sadiq/ Vice President | Wilhelm Van Dort/ Director |
| Amila Amunupura/ Director | Dulith Divigalpitiya/ Manager | Gayan Gunasekera. Manager |
| P. Prabha/ Manager | Akitha Kulasena/ Asst. Manager | Anuruddha Pieris/ Manager |
Apart from the above, Authenticities will produce an interim report to the Company within 24 hours of the incident and a final report subsequently. We shall provide the Company regular updates with a maximum of 4-hour intervals between updates in the event of an ongoing crises situation and/or aftermath.
Responsible And Ethical Travel
Animal Encounters:
We have constantly believed in respecting nature, natural environs and wildlife in its purest form, a subject and an area we are passionate about and truly believe in protecting. Ever since our inception, Authenticities has challenged ourselves to be more cautious and responsible when curating experiences which involves the subject of wildlife and nature.
A greener, cleaner environment is something we believe is necessary to demonstrate the art of tourism. And to be consciously respectful to the living beings and animals is something we care to share with our employees, our vendors as well as our partners and guests. Our approach to this sensitive subject starts with baby steps as we select the experiences through careful deliberations, train and educate the vendors whom we believe who share our emotions and thinking before we offer this as an experience to our partners and guests.
We believe nature and wildlife could be part of a wonderful travel experience which can be managed through building awareness, enhancing the knowledge of the vendors, making them more responsible and committed to the actual cause. By promoting such responsible organizations could help us salvage the potential threats and harm to wildlife.
We are happy to mention that this is pretty much a part of our DNA “within our concept of “TravSafe” where we encourage responsible and ethical travel.
The following examples would define our commitment;
- We encourage travel with responsibility, to minimize the use of plastics and polythene
- Discourage our guests to ride on elephants which is an optional activity in certain areas of the country
- Encourage animal-friendly travel. This would mean maintaining a respectful distance between jeeps and animals in a National Park or the distance between boats and marine life/whales etc.
- Travel with responsibility would also mean, avoiding feeding animals on the roadside
- We do not encourage and work with suppliers who promote animal shows, zoos and promote places where animals are chained or caged
- We do not encourage experiences which involve swimming with marine life or feeding them
- We do not work with suppliers who use boats which damage corals, flora and pose dangers to marine life
- We do not work with suppliers who use animals to pose for pictures and photographs
- Not work with suppliers who encourage manhandling turtles at any conservation establishment
- We work with suppliers who keep the environment and surroundings clean and minimize the use of plastics and polythene
- We encourage suppliers to adapt proper garbage disposal system through regular inspections, educating them and assisting them to care for nature and cleanliness
- Discourage our guests from purchasing souvenirs made from wild animals such as ivory, shells, teeth, turtle shells etc.
- We encourage to only visit and support sanctuaries and shelters involving wild animals in captivity if the objectives of the organization are in the animals' best interests (e.g. re-homing, rehabilitation or release into the wild). We do not promote the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage
- We encourage our guests to speak up and inform the tour guides/chauffeurs (they're travelling with) if they see an animal in distress. Request them to take a note of the date, time and location as well as the type and number of animals involved. Take photos/or videos as proof. Alternatively, if they see an animal that is well looked after, offer praise to the owner and tell him/her why the guests have chosen to visit them.
FAQ
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Is it necessary to get a Visa when traveling to Sri Lanka
All nationalities except those from Singapore and Maldives will need to apply for Visas. This is how it works. There are several types of Visa for which different costs apply - If you happen to visit Sri Lanka on transit (up to 48hrs) and this is offered free at the moment - 7 days Visa which is cheaper - 30 days visa
The Visa procedure is pretty much simple and straightforward. All you need to do is visit the website www.eta.gov.lk which is a secure website maintained by the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka.
You will need to apply online and make payments using your Credit Card details. Costs depend on the type of visa you apply for. You will get a confirmation within 36 hrs with a reference and you need to print this out and bring it along when traveling to Sri Lanka. Visa is valid for a period of 30 days from the date of arrival. The other option is to obtain your visa on arrival but we dont recommend this, as there can be delays.
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What does Sri Lanka offer to a tourist
We at Authenticities believe Sri Lanka has 4 unique features. Our rich culture and history, Buddhism, Ceylon Tea and Elephants.
Within these verticals we bring you a range of experiences and emotions, depending on your profile and expectations. This is the essence of Authenticities.
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What do you recommend that I bring along with me when I travel to Sri Lanka
Bring along comfortable clothing preferably cotton, linen clothes. Scarves for ladies, which can be used when visiting religious sites. Comfortable shoes are required especially when climbing sites such as Sigiriya, Mihinthale, and Dambulla etc. Mosquito repellents, sunshades, sun blocks if you are staying at the beach.
Pack for humidity, as it can be quite hot during the day especially during the months of April, July and August. Dont forget to bring along your swimwear and cameras.
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How about changing currencies
The easiest is to change your currencies at the arrival lounge when you arrive at the Airport. There are many local banks offering this service. Most Hotels and restaurants too offer this service but the rates at the Airport and at banks would be slightly favourable.
ATMs are located at all major cities and many tourist destinations around the country.Guest also can use the ATM machines to withdraw cash.All major credit cards (Visa, Master, American Express) are accepted at all hotels, restaurants and tourist shops.
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How can I get a mobile connection when I arrive in Sri Lanka
This too is possible at the arrival lounge at the Airport.There are many service providers offering attractive rates and packages which you can choose from depending on your preferences and usage.
SIM cards are also available for iPads and table PCs along with the data packages
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How do visitors usually manage transport and traveling within the country
We describe traveling within the country as adventurous and the best way to experience the destination. Public transport is very affordable but timing can be a challenge. Train rides in Sri Lanka through the hill country offers an amazing experience and the Tuk Tuk rides in any part of the Island is simply exciting and is sure to put a smile on your face.
Concerning train rides, few sectors such as Colombo - (Kandy,Nuwara Eliya,Ella,Galle), needs prior reservations on first class and observations coach.Tickets can be purchased only 14 days prior to travel dates.It is also possible to purchase tickets online.Second class travel needs no prior reservations or cannot book seats in advance.Please note that trains can be crowded on some sectors or experience slight delays.
Sri Lankas road infrastructure has seen a significant improvement since 2009, the government is spending on infrastructure to improve productivity and reduce travel times. The southern and the Airport expressway has surely helped tourist to reach their destination is shorter times.
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Should I be conscious when I visit Cultural and religious sites
Sri Lanka could be described as a conservative country when it comes to visiting religious and cultural sites. It is important that you respect the formalities when entering temples and other religious sites
Covering your elbows and knees is important and white/ light coloured clothing is preferred. You will also need to take off your shoes when entering temples. There are always shoe care services which is dependable
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I hear that Srilankan food is pretty spicy, any tips
Srilankan food is rich with spices and sometimes can be real dynamite. Dont panic, this only happens in local restaurants serving spicy food to locals. But restaurants serving food to tourists are pretty much accustomed to the palate of Westerners and not so spicy even though they serve rice and curry.
Most restaurants do serve a western menu and also offer a la carte menu from which you can choose from if you feel that the hot stuff outweighs the western choices
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What about tipping in Sri Lanka
When using restaurants, transport services, staff serving you will expect a decent tip, which is usually 10% of the billing value. A subject topic but this is appreciated especially when are satisfied with the level of service
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What if I decide on optional activities
The most reliable mode would be to contact your Chauffeur Guide or Tour guide who will accompany you. Avoid those who offer services on the beaches
GDPR
We refer to the "European Union" (EU) regulations on data protection (GDPR/ General Data Protection Regulation), which came into effect from the 25th of May 2018.
We understand the importance of securing data and privacy of guests traveling through Authenticities and will not share nor publish data relating to our guests without prior permission. Hence, we shall safeguard all data and information and respect the sensitivity and privacy of all our guests.
Terms of Use
This website www.authenticitiessrilanka.com is hosted through a hosting provider from the United States and is owned and operated by Autheticities Sri Lanka (Private) Limited of Sri Lanka.
Acceptance of terms and conditions
Your access and use of the Website is conditional upon your acceptance and compliance with these terms and conditions.
Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited may amend the Terms of Use from time to time and without notice. By continuing to use the Website you accept and are bound by the Terms of Use as they apply from time to time.
Material on the website
The material on the Website, including all text, graphics, images and other material is provided by Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited for general guidance and is intended to offer the user general information of interest only. The Material is not legal, financial or other professional advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for such advice. Neither the transmission of Material on the Website nor your receipt of any material is intended to create any professional or fiduciary relationship between you and Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited.
Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited makes no warranties or representations regarding the quality, accuracy, completeness, merchantability or fitness for purpose of any of the Material. We endeavour to take care in compiling the Material, however the Material may contain inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Any use and/or reliance on the Material is at your own risk.
It is your responsibility to carry out an appropriate virus check to ensure that the Website and the Material is free from viruses and other harmful code before using and/or accessing the Website and any Material.
Modification of these terms of use
Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited reserves the right to change the terms, conditions, and notices under which the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Website is offered, including but not limited to the charges associated with the use of the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Website.
Restrictions on use
You may only access, use and/or print the Material for non-commercial or personal uses provided that any copyright notice on such page is not removed. All other use, copying, reproduction, republication, uploading, transmission, distribution and/or modification of the Material is prohibited unless provided for in the Terms of Use or on the Website or expressly authorised in writing by Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited or as permitted by applicable copyright legislation.
No unlawful or prohibited use
As a condition of your use of the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Website, you warrant to Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited that you will not use the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Website for any purpose that is unlawful or prohibited by these terms, conditions, and notices. You may not use the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Site in any manner which could damage, disable, overburden, or impair the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Web Site or interfere with any other party's use and enjoyment of the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Website. You may not obtain or attempt to obtain any materials or information through any means not intentionally made available or provided for through the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Websites.
Links to or from other sites
The Website may contain links to other websites. Unless expressly stated, Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited is not responsible for, nor does it sponsor, endorse or approve any Linked Sites or any content on them, nor does Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited provide any warranty or take any responsibility for any aspect of those Linked Sites or their content. You must not create or maintain any link from another website to this Website without the written consent of Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited
Privacy
This Website does not use cookies nor does it collect personal information from people who use the Website unless expressly stated. Our Internet server may record details about any computer used to access the Website (e.g., the domain from which you access the Internet, the date, time and duration of visits and the Internet address of the website from which you linked to this Website) and details of the information downloaded. The information we collect is used for internal statistical purposes and to improve this Website.
Limitation of liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law, Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited excludes completely all liability to any person for loss or damage of any kind (however caused, including by negligence) arising from or relating in any way to the Material and/or use of the Website (Services). Where any law implies a warranty into these Terms of Use which may not be lawfully excluded, then to the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability for breach of the warranty will at our option be limited to the supply of the Services again, or the payment of the cost of having them supplied again.
Jurisdiction
These conditions and all other terms of the contract shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of Sri Lanka. Acceptance of the terms herein and all other terms of the contract is a necessary condition of any work entered into with Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited and is not subject to approval or examination.
Copyright and trademark notices
All contents of the Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited Web Site are its. All rights reserved
Trademarks
All names, logos and trademarks are owned by Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited or the third parties who have contributed to the Website. Nothing on the Website should be interpreted as granting any rights or any license to use or distribute any names, logos or trademarks, without express written authorization of Authenticities Sri Lanka Private Limited or the relevant third parties
As if the colourful tapestry of culture, dramatic landscapes and awe-inspiring history weren't enough, with its own version of the Big 5 and over 20 national parks, Sri Lanka is also an exciting year-round choice for an unforgettable wildlife experience for any traveller.
We consider curating bespoke holiday plans with a fascinating amalgamation of culture, scenery, nature, pristine beaches and gobsmacking wildlife a speciality of our own, just as well as we take pride in showcasing Sri Lanka's abundant biodiversity through ethical and responsible wildlife tours across the island. With plenty of experiences that centre around wildlife and primitive nature can easily be experienced in many biomes around the little island, no wonder Sri Lanka was the subject of interest for many jungle-type movies in the past; Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, The Second Jungle Book: Mowgli & Baloo, and who can forget Elizabeth Taylor facing the stampede of tuskers in the unnerving finale of the 1954's film Elephant Walk? However, the best film made on the island is still The Bridge on the River Kwai. If we piqued your interest in a vicarious trip to old Ceylon, dear reader, revisit David Lean's masterpiece next time it comes around.
At Authenticities, we work with a network of seasoned local suppliers with a similar flair of passion, knowledge and commitment to sustainable wildlife tourism so that our guests can enjoy their encounters with a clear conscience. We work with recognized wildlife enthusiasts and naturalists around the island to curate a unique wildlife experience based on your interests be it photography, videography, birding, mammals or marine life. Whether you're in the mountains or the wetlands, the amazing flora and fauna and the plentiful wildlife of the pearl of the Indian Ocean will take your breath away. Just remember to pack your camera and binoculars for all the bird watching!
There aren't many places on earth where a traveller can delve deeper into a concoction of charms combining culture, lifestyle, nature, tropical beaches and wildlife within just a few hours' drive. Sri Lanka is truly a small universe on its own, fascinating you with everything it has to offer and leaves you wanting for more.
- Nuwan Amarasuriya 'Wildlife Conservationist & Photographer at Authenticities'
From dream to reality: 10 years of emotion, novelty, design, finesse & goodness
Celebrating a remarkable milestone in the history of Authenticities Sri Lanka, here's the story of our 10-year triumph of authenticity, ingenuity and indomitable spirit.
Authenticities Sri Lanka was a dream that started with just a handful of devoted individuals, and over the years, that dream has grown into a thriving reality. Today, we stand tall as a symbol of emotion, novelty, design, finesse, goodness and excellence in our industry.
Together we have overcome numerous challenges, weathered storms, and embraced change. Our journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of greatness, commitment to quality, and a passion for delivering the best to our partners and travellers. Our success story wouldn't have been possible without the collective efforts of our talented team and their families, suppliers, and, of course, our partners and friends.
So, here's to looking back on a spirited journey and setting our sights on a brighter, more promising future. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we renew our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and corporate responsibility. As fellow travellers and green advocates, we are determined to make a positive impact on society and the environment.
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