Circle of Hope

Mr. Manik Jayakumar: A Lifelong Pillar of Support for Winrose and Sri Lanka’s Tea Plantation Youth

Mr. Manik Jayakumar, a former Sri Lankan tea planter and the esteemed founder of Qtrade Teas in the USA, has become a beacon of hope for the tea plantation youth of Sri Lanka. Over the last five years, his unwavering commitment to Winrose International Campus has brought transformative support to our community, rooted in his lifelong compassion and empathy for the hardships endured by the plantation community. Through his mission-driven organization, Two Leaves Trust, Mr. Jayakumar has continually found ways to uplift the lives of underprivileged youth in Sri Lanka, keeping close ties with his homeland and a profound sense of duty toward its people.

With decades of firsthand experience witnessing the often challenging lives of plantation workers, Mr. Jayakumar remains dedicated to changing the narrative for future generations. Under the leadership of Mr. R. Gnanasekaran, Chairman of Two Leaves Trust Sri Lanka, and with the committed execution by Mr. Mariano Godwin, Two Leaves Trust has become a crucial partner for Winrose. Mr. Jayakumar’s support extends directly to strengthening our human resources; he generously funds the salaries of staff members, allowing us to sustain a nurturing environment for youth education and skill development.

His compassion has fueled a mission to offer a brighter future to Sri Lanka’s tea plantation youth—a mission that now binds Two Leaves Trust and Winrose in an inseparable partnership of growth, opportunity, and change. Mr. Jayakumar’s journey from a tea planter to a distinguished philanthropist in the United States embodies the spirit of giving back, and we at Winrose are deeply grateful for his steadfast support and his lifelong dedication to creating brighter pathways for Sri Lanka’s future generation.

In the serene hills of Haputale, where the cool breeze whispers tales of resilience and growth, Mr. S. Skandakumar, former Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, dedicates his retirement years to fostering social development and nurturing the potential of the local youth. His commitment to the community extends beyond mere presence; it is a profound engagement with the hearts and minds of those he mentors at Winrose International Campus.

With a life rich in diplomatic service, Mr. Skandakumar now channels his extensive experience towards teaching conversational English and imparting crucial skills in self-confidence and personality development. His classes are more than just lessons; they are sessions filled with empathy, encouragement, and empowerment. By enhancing their language skills and personal development, he equips the students of Winrose with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of a global environment.

Beyond education, Mr. Skandakumar is a pillar of support for Winrose, leveraging his valuable contacts to bring resources that enrich the learning experience and infrastructure of the campus. His efforts ensure that the institution remains a beacon of hope for many, offering subsidized education and alleviating financial burdens that might otherwise hinder the students' educational journeys.

Mr. Skandakumar’s impact in Haputale is a testament to the powerful role that dedicated individuals can play in transforming communities. His life after diplomacy is a vivid illustration of how retirement can be turned into a renaissance of service, where the seeds of knowledge and growth are sown in the fertile minds of the future. Through his dedication, Winrose International Campus continues to thrive, shaping leaders who are not only skilled but also socially conscious and ready to contribute meaningfully to society.

 Nestled in the lush landscapes of Haputale, where ambition and hope rise like the morning mist, Mr. Sean Nathan, an esteemed international businessman and engineer from the USA, dedicates his expertise to shaping a brighter future for Winrose International Campus. His commitment transcends geographical boundaries, bringing a global perspective to local challenges.

With a rich background in business and engineering, Mr. Nathan channels his passion into guiding Winrose towards professional excellence and sustainability. His vision is clear—to establish a sturdy foundation that not only supports the current educational endeavors but also ensures a robust future for the institution. Through his efforts, Winrose is embracing systematic changes that enhance its operational efficiencies and educational impact.

More than just a mentor, Mr. Nathan is a beacon of dedication, often seen working alongside the staff, brainstorming strategies, and laying down plans for a permanent campus. His goal is not merely to build a structure of bricks and mortar but to create a sanctuary of learning that will stand as a testament to the potential within the community. His involvement is a powerful catalyst for change, fostering a sense of confidence and direction among everyone at Winrose.

As Winrose strides towards acquiring a permanent shelter, Mr. Nathan’s role becomes ever more critical. His guidance in navigating the complexities of development and his unwavering support are invaluable assets that empower the campus to move forward with certainty and ambition. Through his tireless efforts, Winrose is not just planning for a sustainable future but is actively constructing it, one step at a time.

In every community, there are those who spark change and those who sustain it. Mr. Sean Nathan does both, his passion and professionalism weaving a new narrative for Winrose, where education is the cornerstone of community development and personal growth. His legacy will undoubtedly be one of transformation and enduring support, inspiring generations to come.