Our research into blue zones and the secret to the incredible vitality of the centurions uncovered being of service as a key contributor to physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
In a world that often feels rushed, disconnected, and overwhelmed, the act of volunteering emerges not just as a service to others but as a profound remedy for our own well-being. At its heart, volunteering is a two-way street — a bridge that connects compassion with community, and selflessness with self-discovery.
We were lucky to have been introduced to an inspiring volunteer-based initiative in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Yahaguna Padanama, a food kitchen born from love, resilience, and a deep desire to make a difference.
A Legacy of Love: The Story Behind Yahaguna Padanama
The story begins with a heartfelt phone call between Suresh Mendis and Sabrina Yusoof, the daughter of Expolanka Holdings’ founder, Hanif Yusoof. Sabrina, driven by a passion for service and a desire to continue her father’s legacy, expressed her dream: “I want to feed people.” Tragically, just ten days after this conversation, Sabrina passed away at the age of 33 from dengue. Her vision, however, took root and blossomed into Yahaguna Padanama, a place where dignity meets nourishment, and every meal is served with love.
Today, the initiative serves over 300 wholesome meals daily to patients from nearby hospitals and clinics. It operates with a simple yet powerful purpose: to provide a space where people can eat with dignity, where their self-esteem remains intact, and where their struggles are momentarily eased by a warm plate of food
The Healing Power of Volunteering
At the heart of Yahaguna Padanama is an extraordinary group of volunteers — staff from Expolanka Holdings who dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to ensure every meal is served with care. With a team of 10 volunteers per day, five days a week, the initiative runs like clockwork. But what makes this effort even more impactful is the reciprocal nature of volunteering. Research consistently shows that volunteering is not just good for the community; it’s also transformative for the volunteer.
Emotional Well-being:
Volunteers often report lower stress levels and increased happiness. Acts of kindness trigger the release of dopamine — the brain’s “feel-good” chemical — creating what psychologists call the “helper’s high.”
Connection and Belonging:
In a world where loneliness is on the rise, volunteering fosters genuine connections. Whether it’s through serving food, sharing a smile, or listening to someone’s story, these small acts build bonds that matter.
Sense of Purpose:
When volunteers witness the gratitude in the eyes of someone like Upul Mahindra, who hadn’t eaten a full meal in 24 hours, it reinforces a profound sense of purpose — a reminder that even small actions can have ripple effects.
Purpose Meets Sustainability
The genius of Yahaguna Padanama lies in its self-sustaining model. The initiative is partly funded through the company’s internal meal programme, which serves around 800 meals daily to Expolanka staff. This revenue offsets the cost of the free meals served to patients, creating a financial model that ensures longevity and impact. But sustainability here isn’t just financial; it’s also emotional and cultural. Every meal served represents Sabrina’s legacy — a continuous act of love that transcends time and space.
Why Volunteering is Essential for Mental Health
The link between volunteering and mental health is not just anecdotal; it’s backed by science. Studies show that people who volunteer regularly are at lower risk of depression and anxiety. This is especially significant in today’s fast-paced world, where burnout and overstress have become all too common. At Yahaguna Padanama, volunteers don’t just serve food, they remind us that every act of kindness, no matter how small, carries the potential to change a life.
“They come up after the meal and say ‘thank you,’ and you know it comes from the bottom of their hearts. It is so satisfying to see this,” shares Suresh. This sentiment captures the essence of why volunteering matters. It’s not just about filling empty stomachs; it’s about nourishing spirits
A Call to Action: The Ripple Effect of Kindness
The beauty of volunteering is that it’s accessible to everyone. You don’t need grand gestures or endless resources — just a willingness to show up and make a difference. Yahaguna Padanama serves as a shining example of what happens when compassion meets action. It’s a reminder that behind every plate of food is a story, behind every story is a heart, and behind every heart is a chance to heal — both for the giver and the receiver.
As we navigate our own paths, let us remember that in giving, we receive. In serving others, we heal ourselves. And in showing up with compassion, we build communities where everyone can thrive. In the words of Brené Brown: “Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.”
At Yahaguna Padanama, every meal served is a testament to this truth.
Make your visit to Sri Lanka truly meaningful by volunteering at Yahaguna Padanama — an initiative where every meal served is a story of hope and compassion. Experience the profound impact of giving back firsthand.
Learn more here:
https://youtu.be/o-9hQUbvy-U?feature=shared
