Rotary in Sri Lanka today launched the next phase of its landmark mental health initiative, Rotary for Healing Minds Matter (HMM). Unveiled at Elevate by Jetwing, Colombo, the event marks a defining new chapter in Rotary’s flagship mental wellness program with the official introduction of the Healing Minds Matter mobile app—a groundbreaking digital platform set to deliver lifesaving mental health support across the nation.
A National Crisis Demands Collective Action- Sri Lanka currently faces a deepening mental health emergency, with 3,285 suicides in 2024—10 to 12 lives lost every day, and victims as young as eight. With resources scarce and stigma entrenched, too many suffer in silence. Rotary is bridging this gap through a community-driven model that builds awareness, strengthens prevention, and provides lasting support.
Launched in 2024–25 under the leadership of IPDG Rtn. Sushena Ranatunga, Healing Minds Matter has rapidly grown into a nationally recognized movement. Today, it thrives under the stewardship of District Governor Rtn. Delvin Pereira, Rotary International District 3220 (Sri Lanka & Maldives). At its core, the initiative was brought to life by the Rotary Clubs of Colombo Mid Town and Colombo Port City, co-chaired by Rtn. IPP Rasini Bandara and Rtn. IPP Michael Jayawardana. Blending Rasini’s clinical expertise in psychology with Micheals strategic business insight, they shaped what is now celebrated as a dynamic and impactful service project.
Impact Achieved – In just one year, Healing Minds Matter has touched the lives of over 11,000 individuals through wide-ranging awareness programs conducted in schools, universities, factories, workplaces, and rural communities—helping normalize conversations around mental health and dismantle stigma. In parallel, the initiative has trained more than 310 QPR-certified Gatekeepers—teachers, HR professionals, youth leaders, and community volunteers—equipping them with the skills to recognize warning signs, intervene effectively, and act as first responders in moments of suicidal crisis.
The Next Chapter-The 29th September press launch marks the beginning of a bold new phase for Healing Minds Matter, anchored on four pillars: the launch of a mobile app developed with Xigenix (Pvt) Ltd to connect users with helplines, referral networks, and vital resources; Partnership with Lanka Life Line 1375, Sri Lanka’s 24/7 mental health hotline, ensuring immediate professional support is available for those in distress and: an expanded awareness drive aiming to reach 20,000 participants in schools, universities, and workplaces over the next year; the certification of 500 additional QPR Gatekeepers to build a nationwide safety net of trained responders; and the refurbishment of the 10,000 sq. ft. Mental Health Wing at the University of Colombo’s Faculty of Medicine, which will house Sri Lanka’s first Rotary Mental Wellness Center—a permanent hub for therapy, training, and community outreach.
Voices of Leadership – Speaking on the project and it’s overall missionRtn. IPP Rasini Bandara, Co-Chair, explained : “Suicide prevention requires awareness, but also action. By training QPR Gatekeepers, we are ensuring that every school, workplace, and village has someone ready to respond and save a life.”
Rtn. IPP Michael Jayawardana, Co-Chair, added:“Our ambition has always been to take Healing Minds Matter beyond a project—to make it a national movement. With the app launch and expanded partnerships, we are entering a new chapter of sustainability and scale.”
Rtn. Delvin Pereira, District Governor, emphasized “This initiative exemplifies Rotary’s purpose—service that touches lives where the need is greatest. Mental health is a challenge we cannot ignore, and Rotary will continue to lead where leadership is required.”
Photo Caption
Rasini Bandara, Co-Chair, explaining the outcome of the project and future plans
