24/02/2026
Meet Sajana Helanjith — an example of creativity, heritage, and American innovation coming together through the partnership.
A proud Youth Forum alumnus of American Corner Kandy, Sajana’s journey reflects how U.S.-supported educational and cultural initiatives empower young Sri Lankans to preserve heritage while employing essential skills gained from Corner programs. As a Design Engineer and Fashion Designer (B.Des Hons, University of Moratuwa), he was entrusted with the prestigious task of recreating ancient elite Kandyan jewelry for the Ehelepola Walawwa Wax Museum, Kandy.
This historically significant project involved extensive research across Sri Lanka, close academic collaboration with the University of Moratuwa and University of Peradeniya, and rare access to inherited sacred jewelry to ensure authenticity and cultural integrity. Sajana used skills he honed at the American Corner to design jewelry for over 30 wax characters, preserving Kandyan royal heritage for future generations.
Sajana’s journey with American Corner Kandy includes being a Makerspace & Product Designing Course graduate, Main Coordinator of Maker Faire 2018, and a participant of the YSALI exchange program. His success highlights how U.S. values of freedom, education, creativity, and innovation continue to inspire global impact.
At American Corner Kandy, we are immensely proud to showcase how U.S. excellence empowers youth to create meaningful contributions to Sri Lanka’s living history. 🇺🇸🇱🇰✨
👏 Isn’t this an inspiring journey?
