YNGen Foundation launched to prop youth leaders

Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, Chairperson of Indira Cancer Trust launching the logo of YNGen at the Hilton Colombo on March 23, marking the beginning of the Foundation’s journey (Pics by Kushan Pathiraja)

The Official launch of The Youth Next Gen Foundation (YNGen) was held on March 23 (Monday) at the Hilton Colombo. This newly established organisation is committed to youth empowerment, aiming to drive positive impact both locally and internationally. The event was graced by the High Commissioner of Bangladesh, Ambassador Andalib Elias as Chief Guest, along with several distinguished invitees including Dr. Carsten Rübsaamen, co-founder of the Bookbridge Foundation and Bertal Pinto-Jayawardena, Founder of Unity Mission Trust.

The Foundation is chaired by Janaprith Fernando, Attorney-at-Law, 21st Chief Commissioner of the Sri Lanka Scout Association, and former member of the World Scout Committee. “Over the years, I have witnessed the talent, creativity, and ambition of young people, but I have also seen their potential go unrecognised- not due to a lack of ability, but because of limited opportunities and support systems available. In response to this reality, the YNGen Foundation was established under the theme Youth Leading the Next,” Fernando explained.

He noted that Sri Lanka stands at a pivotal moment where the role of youth is not optional, but essential, and that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the drivers of change today. The Foundation strives to inspire and equip young people with the skills, as well as the cultural and social values needed to become responsible leaders, innovators and change makers. Fernando remarked, “YNGen brings together partners and volunteers, all united by a common vision. This occasion is not merely a formal gathering, but the beginning of a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s youth. Through a range of workshops and youth-led projects, our goal is to nurture the next generation of leaders, with a key focus on leadership development, mental well-being, education, mentorship, and community engagement.”

Fernando further highlighted the negative impact of substance use, stating that it is causing a decline in skills and productivity among youth. “It is crucial to educate young people on these consequences and promote civic responsibility to drive positive change in society,” he said addressing the youth in the audience while also urging them never to underestimate the power they hold, that their voices matter and that their actions, no matter how small, have the ability to create lasting change.

Bertal Pinto-Jayawardena, Founder of Unity Mission Trust spoke about his organisation and its journey to becoming a leading Non-Profit Trust dedicated to fostering national unity and reconciliation among youth across the island. He said, “We have over 18 years of service at the grassroots level, working to enhance leadership skills and self-confidence, while encouraging young people to work as a team irrespective of race or religion. I hope our journey serves as an inspiration for YNGen to not just empower, but to also promote a culture of tolerance and mutual respect for all.”

Chief Guest, Andalib Elias, High Commissioner of Bangladesh emphasised the transformative power of youth. “They are the true drivers of systemic change - constantly challenging social norms, nepotism, and bureaucracy, while demanding transparency and integrity. I believe Sri Lanka and Bangladesh stand as strong examples of this. The young people today are not as ignorant as we once were; they have access to information at their fingertips. However, it is important to ensure that they are not misinformed and are guided along the right path by instilling ethical values and a strong sense of social responsibility, which is why organisations like YNGen play a crucial role,” he concluded. 

Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, Chairperson of Indira Cancer Trust was invited to officially launch the logo of the YNGen Foundation, marking the beginning of the Foundation’s journey. By bringing together diverse voices and fostering dialogue, the launch reinforced the Foundation’s commitment to promoting inclusivity, nurturing leadership, and creating positive impact in Sri Lanka and beyond.