Nandasiri Wanninayaka

In rural areas plagued by unemployment, isolation, and fractured schools, Wanni makes rural youth competitive in the global marketplace. Wanni found a way to bring modern technology to isolated communities, link villagers to outside networks through email, and use alternative education (with an emphasis on the English language) to foster teamwork, creativity and self-esteem amongst students. Wanni’s plans include contracting an outsourcing venture that will employ 1,000 young people, creating access to a free English satellite TV station, and establishing e-commerce so farmers can avoid middlemen and sell their products at market prices. Horizon Lanka Foundation’s innovative methods have attracted international interest and the Sri Lankan government which has committed to replicate his model in many parts of the country.