Night to Shine Sri Lanka: Expanding Hope, Inclusion, & Empowerment
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
Alliance Development Trust (ADT) and the Engage Disability Network Sri Lanka (EDNSL), in partnership with the Tim Tebow Foundation (TTF), continue to transform lives through the globally celebrated Night to Shine initiative, creating unforgettable experiences for persons with disabilities while promoting inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunities throughout Sri Lanka.
Night to Shine 2025: A Landmark Celebration in Colombo
On February 8, 2025, ADT and EDNSL hosted Night to Shine Sri Lanka at Temple Trees, Colombo, welcoming individuals with disabilities, their families, and supporters to a special prom-style celebration. Held from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the event provided participants with a joyful and empowering experience where they were recognized and celebrated as valued members of society.
The event was graced by Hon. Sugath Wasantha De Silva, Member of Parliament, who attended as the Guest of Honor, while Dr. Asiri Hewamalage, National Program Manager for Child Care Development and Special Needs at the Family Health Bureau, served as the Chief Guest. Several distinguished religious leaders also joined the celebration, highlighting the importance of fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Participants enjoyed a red-carpet welcome, music, dancing, entertainment, and meaningful social interactions. One of the most memorable moments of the day was the crowning ceremony, during which every guest with a disability was crowned as a king or queen, symbolizing their inherent worth, dignity, and value.
Expanding the Vision: Night to Shine 2026 in Batticaloa
Building on the success of the Colombo event, Night to Shine Sri Lanka expanded its reach to the Eastern Province on February 14, 2026, with a celebration held at William Ault Hall in Batticaloa.
The event brought together 75 children and youth with disabilities, along with their caregivers and volunteers, for a day dedicated to joy, inclusion, and empowerment. Held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the celebration marked the first time Night to Shine was hosted in Batticaloa, extending the program's impact to new communities and strengthening its national presence.
Distinguished guests included Rev. Mr. Arulnathan, former Principal of the Theological College, Pilimathalawa, and Dr. Govarthanan representing the Government Teaching Hospital, Batticaloa. Their participation underscored the growing support for disability inclusion and equal opportunities across Sri Lanka.
Like the previous year, participants were welcomed with a red-carpet experience and treated to a day filled with music, dance, entertainment, and celebration. The crowning ceremony once again served as a powerful symbol of recognition, with every participant honored as a king or queen.
A Global Initiative Making a Local Impact
Night to Shine is a worldwide initiative led by the Tim Tebow Foundation, dedicated to celebrating and empowering individuals with disabilities. The program seeks to challenge social stigmas, raise awareness, and promote greater inclusion in communities around the world.
Through the partnership between TTF, ADT, and EDNSL, the initiative has become a powerful platform for advocating the rights, dignity, and potential of persons with disabilities in Sri Lanka. By creating safe and celebratory spaces where participants are recognised and appreciated, Night to Shine helps foster a culture of acceptance and belonging.
A Message of Inclusion and Hope
Speaking at both events, Deena Nanayakkara, Main Coordinator representing ADT and EDNSL, emphasised the importance of building communities where every individual is respected and included.
"This event is more than just a celebration. Together, we are working to ensure that people with disabilities are seen, valued, and included in all aspects of society."
Organisers also highlighted the critical role of the media, community organisations, and public engagement in promoting awareness and amplifying the voices of individuals with disabilities. Their collective efforts contribute to breaking down barriers and creating lasting social change.
Looking Ahead
The success of Night to Shine in both Colombo and Batticaloa demonstrates the growing momentum of the disability inclusion movement in Sri Lanka. By expanding the initiative to different regions of the country, ADT, EDNSL, and the Tim Tebow Foundation continue to reach more individuals and families, ensuring that the message of dignity, acceptance, and empowerment touches communities nationwide.
Night to Shine serves as a powerful reminder that every person deserves recognition, respect, and the opportunity to shine. As the initiative continues to grow, it remains a beacon of hope, inspiring a more inclusive future where persons with disabilities are celebrated for their abilities, contributions, and unique value to society.
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