High in the mist-laced hills of central Sri Lanka, before the first rays of dawn reach the emerald slopes, women begin their daily journey into the tea fields.
They wrap their sarees tightly against the morning chill, secure woven baskets to their backs, and step into rows of tea bushes that stretch beyond the horizon. With practised hands, they pluck the youngest, tenderest leaves that will become the world’s finest teas; renowned in London, Dubai, and beyond.
Yet behind this image of quiet productivity lies a harsher reality: most plantation workers in Sri Lanka are women who live in poverty despite their critical role in the national economy.
Breaking the Cycle
For generations, plantation life has meant limited options. Girls often leave school early to join their mothers in the fields. Wages remain low, healthcare is basic, and social mobility seems out of reach.
At CJF Sri Lanka, we believe change is possible.
Our Women’s Empowerment Initiatives are designed to break this cycle by equipping women with the tools to build better futures for themselves and their families.
What We Do
Education & Literacy Programs We provide scholarships for girls to remain in school, adult literacy classes for mothers, and evening language lessons to improve employability beyond the plantations. Vocational & Microenterprise Training Women gain skills in sewing, tailoring, handicrafts, food preparation, and small business management, enabling them to start income-generating activities from home or through cooperatives. Health & Wellness Outreach Our community health teams run maternal health clinics, nutrition workshops, and mental health support groups within tea estate housing settlements. Leadership Development We identify potential women leaders within plantation communities and train them in advocacy, financial literacy, and community organising to raise their collective voice for better working conditions and rights.
Stories of Change
Roshini’s Journey
Roshini, age 36, spent two decades plucking tea under the hot sun. After joining CJF’s evening English classes, she gained the confidence to apply as a hospitality trainee in nearby Kandy. Today, she earns double her plantation income working as a guesthouse receptionist and dreams of opening her own homestay one day.
“I never thought I could do anything else. Now my daughters see that we can be more than tea pluckers. I want them to finish school and stand on their own feet.”
Why This Matters
Empowering women is not just an act of charity – it is a catalyst for community transformation.
When a woman gains education and income, she reinvests in her children’s schooling, nutrition, and health. Her confidence inspires neighbours. Her financial independence challenges oppressive norms. Her progress becomes her community’s progress.
Join Us
At CJF Sri Lanka, we are committed to walking alongside these women as they journey from survival to dignity to leadership.
“The hands that pluck tea leaves can also build businesses, write letters, teach daughters, and lift communities – when given the chance.”
