DHL, SOS Children’s Villages in partnership to increase youth employability

On Jul 14, 2021

DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, has renewed its partnership with SOS Children’s Villages in Sri Lanka for another three years.

The partnership will focus on increasing the employability of young people through an employability skills and competencies training program.

An organization under SOS Children’s Villages International, SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka has for nearly four decades, provided care for children without parental care and children at risk of losing parental care.

Through SOS Children’s Villages located in Piliyandala, Galle, Nuwara Eliya, Anuradhapura, Moneragala, and Jaffna, the organization currently has over 800 children under its care.

Commenting on the partnership, Dimithri Perera, Country Manager, DHL Express Sri Lanka said, “We are pleased to be able to continue our support and improve youth employability during these challenging times, while helping them develop confidence and social skills necessary for when they enter the professional world and interact with others.”

To-date, DHL Sri Lanka has completed training for youth at SOS Children’s Villages located in Galle and Piliyandala, benefitting over 50 youth. Further training will be conducted for youth at Anuradhapura and Nuwara-Eliya SOS Children’s Villages in the coming months.

Divakar Ratnadurai, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, Sri Lanka said, “Young people at our SOS Children’s Villages face significant challenges when they enter the labor market or as they transition into an adult, independent life. With the support of DHL, they will have access to training and mentorship required, and can dream of a better tomorrow.”

These young people also received mentorship by employees of DHL Sri Lanka, who volunteered their time to mentor the young people. Selected industry professionals have also participated to inspire the youth.

Ahamed Ur Rahman, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Marketing and Sales, DHL Global Forwarding Sri Lanka added, “This program is an ideal springboard for these young people to improve their future through the support and experience of DHL employee volunteers. We look forward to making a positive impact on their lives.”