August 2005 – August 2008

Funded by: HSBC

Beeralu lace-making has been practiced by women living in the south coast of Sri Lanka for centuries, but it was fast becoming a dying art. We joined in partnership with HSBC to revive the industry and help tsunami-affected women from Mirissa rebuild their livelihoods. The project was a huge success. We provided equipment, training and microfinance, and the women shook off the industry’s old-fashioned image, creating innovative products and designs that appealed to a new market. The women’s incomes have increased significantly as a result.

The ‘Paramparaven’ exhibition of 2006 and the ‘Beyond Paramparaven’ exhibition of 2008 showcased showcased the work of these women. Bringing together the corporate sector and these marginalised producers, the event powerfully demonstrated the capacity of poor people.

Building on the success of this project, we have launched a new project to transfer traditional beeralu lace-making skills to 100 young women.

Read MB Priyani’s story. She credits SAPSRI with saving Sri Lanka’s beeralu lace industry.