This project focused on adapting two internationally successful youth development programs – PATHS to Adulthood and Parivartan – for Sri Lankan adolescents. PATHS to Adulthood targets 12-14-year-olds and focuses on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral skills, while promoting resilience, bonding, and self-esteem. Globally, it has been proven to reduce delinquency, substance abuse, and violent behaviors.
Parivartan, a community-based sports program originally implemented in India, engages male athletes and coaches to shift attitudes towards gender equity and violence against women. By using cricket as a tool for development, it fosters positive role models in the community.
Our adaptation of these programs was piloted in schools across Colombo and Kilinochchi, as well as a community center in Colombo, with significant improvements in empathetic attitudes and reduced violence among youth.
This ongoing project focuses on empowering young women and girls in low-income urban communities in Colombo to respond to gender-based violence. Through leadership and management training, girls are equipped with the skills to lead GBV prevention initiatives. Simultaneously, boys and men participate in the Parivartan for Boys program, addressing harmful gender norms.
The project also involves working with parents, community leaders, and service providers to create safer environments, making girls feel empowered to take action against violence in their communities.
Our 3-month internship program offers a comprehensive experience for students in psychology and psychosocial studies. Through structured training, participants gain valuable skills in areas like general counseling, gender issues, child protection, drama therapy, suicide prevention, and more.
Interns also take part in field visits to institutions like the National Institute of Mental Health and the Lunawa Addiction Clinic. The program culminates in a group project, encouraging interns to apply their knowledge while gaining hands-on experience in the mental health field.
The Paravi App is our latest innovation aimed at providing Sri Lankan youth with a digital safe space for mental health support and positive behavior development. By incorporating elements from PATHS and Parivartan, along with counseling, meditation, yoga, and engaging games, Paravi offers a comprehensive tool for personal growth.
From emotional well-being to building gender equality awareness, Paravi empowers youth to take charge of their mental health, all from the convenience of their phone. Stay tuned for exciting new features as we continue to expand the app!
Despite being a relatively young organization, Shanthi Maargam has been recognized for its impactful work in creating safe spaces for youth and raising awareness about mental health. In 2020, we were awarded the “Wellbeing” recognition by Good Market Sri Lanka, a platform for social enterprises and changemakers committed to creating a better world.
Account Details
Bank: Hatton National Bank
Account No: 036010315883
Name: Shanthi Maargam
Branch: Rajagiriya
SWIFT Code: HBLILKLX001
Bank Code: 7083