SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka recently earned the title of 1st Runner-Up for Best Digital Advertising Commercial at the 30th Sumathi Awards. The award was given in recognition of the organisation’s Child and Youth Safeguarding Awareness video, “Children aren’t meant to protect themselves alone. Speak up and trusted adults will keep you safe”. The video raises awareness that, even in seemingly safe environments, children may face hidden dangers urging adults to listen, believe, and understand them.
The award validates the organisation’s continued efforts to communicate the importance of ensuring every child grows up in a safe and supportive environment. The video was created, not only for children under the care of SOS Children’s Villages, but for all Sri Lankan children. It also raises public awareness around the rights, protection, and the wellbeing of children and young people across the nation.
Furthermore, the award reflects the organisation’s commitment to creative storytelling and impactful visual communication to spotlight critical issues surrounding child protection.
Divakar Ratnadurai, National Director, SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, commented on the win, saying, “This recognition is more than just an award; it is a win for the children. A win for those left without a voice. As a child welfare organization, our aim is to advocate for every child’s right to grow up in safety, with dignity and protection. We recognise how useful storytelling is in furthering our goal of child and youth safeguarding advocacy. As such, we dedicate this achievement to our children because their safety, their voices, and their futures are what drive everything we do.”
The award reflects the initiative of the entire SOS Children’s Villages team, its creative partners, and all who support its work, from donors and partners to volunteers and community advocates. Their collective efforts form the centre of a powerful coalition committed to a future where no child is left behind, and every young person is empowered to grow up with care and opportunity.
The Sumathi Awards stand as one of Sri Lanka’s oldest television awards ceremonies, honouring excellence in the small screen arts. Since its inception, the platform has grown to recognize a broad spectrum of television artistry, uplifting regional voices and representation across Sri Lankan media.
SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka provides family-based care for children who have lost parental care and are at risk of losing parental care, in 6 locations island-wide through 72 family homes. For more information, visit www.soschildrensvillages.lk.