Founder’s Story

'Premela Wijemanne'

AMITSU was founded by Premela Wijemanne, a woman whose compassion and determination transformed the lives of vulnerable children in Sri Lanka.

Premela was a Montessori teacher who owned and ran her own school in Kansas City in the United States. Through her work in education, she believed deeply in the power of nurturing environments where children could grow with dignity, love, and opportunity.

The Inspiration

On December 26, 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami struck Sri Lanka, causing immense devastation. Over 30,000 people lost their lives, and thousands of children were left without homes or families. Deeply moved by the suffering caused by the disaster, Premela decided to take action. She envisioned a place where children who had been orphaned, abandoned, abused, or left vulnerable could find safety, stability, and the chance to rebuild their futures.

This vision led to the creation of the AMI Tsunami Children’s House Foundation (AMITSU) in 2006. Her background as a Montessori educator strongly influenced the philosophy of the home. Younger children were able to learn in a Montessori learning environment, while older children attended local schools and were supported in their studies.

Premela’s goal was always to ensure that the children leaving AMITSU would do so with the education, confidence, and skills needed to build independent lives.

A Lasting Legacy

Premela Wijemanne passed away in 2011, but the home she created continues to thrive through the dedication of her family. Today, AMITSU is supported by her brother Dil Wijemanne and managed by his wife Alison Wijemanne, who continue the mission she began, providing a loving home and opportunities for children who need them most. Premela’s vision was simple but powerful: that no child should feel abandoned or without hope.

Through AMITSU, her legacy lives on every day, in the lives of the children who grow up in the home, the opportunities they receive through education, and the compassionate community that continues to support them.

What began as one woman’s response to tragedy has become a lasting commitment to care, dignity, and opportunity for vulnerable children in Sri Lanka.

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Our Leadership

Managing Director

Dil Wijemanne

With decades of experience in the Sri Lankan tea industry, Dil has built a respected business that exports Ceylon tea to international markets while maintaining strong relationships with producers and buyers. Through his work in the tea trade, Dil has been able to support the mission of AMITSU by helping provide resources, logistical support, and financial stability for the organisation. His business experience and entrepreneurial leadership play a key role in ensuring the charity can operate sustainably and continue expanding its programs to support vulnerable children and rescue animals.

Co-Founder & Operations Lead

Alison R. T. Wijemanne

Alison R. T. Wijemanne plays a central role in the daily operations of AMITSU. She oversees the day-to-day management of the children’s home, ensuring the children receive consistent care, structure, and support in a safe and nurturing environment. Her responsibilities include coordinating the running of the household, managing caregivers and staff, overseeing the children’s wellbeing, and ensuring that their educational and personal development needs are met. Through her dedication and hands-on involvement, she has helped create a stable and loving home where the children can grow, learn, and feel supported.

Director

Alison Wijemanne

Alison Wijemanne represents the next generation of leadership within AMITSU. In addition to her role in the charity, she is involved in the family tea business Tea Packs (Pvt) Ltd, helping continue the legacy built by her parents. Her work focuses on expanding awareness of AMITSU’s mission, developing new initiatives, and connecting the charity with supporters both locally and internationally. She is also involved in the development of new programs for the organisation, including the AMITSU Dog Rescue Initiative, which aims to provide a safe sanctuary and adoption opportunities for rescued street dogs on the charity’s four-acre property.

The Principles That Guide Us

A Safe and Loving Home

Providing a secure, caring environment where every child feels protected, valued, and part of a family.

Access to Quality Education

Ensuring every child receives the education they need to build confidence, and independence.

Nurturing Growth and Potential

Supporting each child’s unique talents and guiding them to grow.

Hope for a Better Bright Future

Helping children overcome hardship and preparing them with the skills and opportunities.

About Us