Rukshan Lovell

National Director of CERI Sri Lanka

How It Started: 

When the 2004 tsunami struck Sri Lanka, it left many children without families and caused a huge disruption across the country. There was a big need for people to support the country’s recovery efforts. Having just finished school, I felt compelled to help those in need. That calling drew me into this field, where I’ve spent the past 20 years supporting different kinds of people and helping them strengthen their lives. 

Why CERI? 

I chose CERI because it is a global institute with opportunities to grow and support children with love and compassion. 

Behind the Scenes

I enjoy playing basketball and tennis. Whenever I can, I love traveling to explore new places and trying different foods. 

What Protecting Childhood Means: 

To me, it’s about safeguarding a child’s right to grow at their own pace—to learn, feel, imagine, and make mistakes without being rushed into adult fears, pressures, or responsibilities. 

Favorite Childhood Memory:  

My childhood was deeply affected by my country’s 30-year civil war, so the only opportunity I had to see nice places and try fancy food was when I got the chance to travel to the capital to play basketball. Those moments were unforgettable.