Showing posts with label Community Development. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Community Development. Show all posts

Monday, December 9, 2013

The Future of the Kitesurfing scene in Sri Lanka

I have been lucky enough to be Kitesurfing in Sri Lanka since inception. I have been blogging about it at first without giving out locations just to keep it a secret but as time went on, the secret was out - the Kitesurfing Scene is Sri Lanka will develop. 
The community is very close knit. We may have businesses but we all have one vision - to see Sri Lanka developed as a world class kiting destination. A place where spots are managed well - not crowded, safe and legal. 
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We work with the local communities on a win win partnership. 
At the moment we have two key spots; Kappalady Lagoon which has room for two schools, Elements (Pvt) Limited & Kite Kuda Camp.
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The Kalpitiya Lagoon which was discovered later on has room for four schools, Kitesurfing Lanka, De Silva's, Rascals and Sri Lanka Kite. 
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There is no room for other schools to set up on these spots due to limited space. However it's not that there is no room for development in Sri Lanka for Kiting. We have another 150 KM of coastline North of Sri Lanka with same or even better conditions. The North, East and deep South of Sri Lanka is virtually undiscovered.
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For those who want to develop something, we urge you to go north, east or south - you might find a gem of a place. Yes its not easy putting a place on the map. It was not easy for us as well - but no one has a short cut. However whatever you do, do the right thing: develop a place with sensitivity to local culture and traditions. This is not your home so respect those who were there. 
Sri Lanka will be a Kiting hotspot with a difference. It will be properly managed and developed. We will not let it be another Boracay or Vietnam. We want it to be a pleasant place with pleasant people. So far it is and we will ensure it develops like that. 

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Kiting to transform Communities!

Kiting in Sri Lanka will be more than just kiting. Kiting helps transform communities. Money starts to flow in, local businesses thrive. KSL also aspires to focus on three aspects namely Education, Kiting and Environment in 2012. If you wish to support do get in touch with us via e mail.
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It does not have to be financial or material donations, you can just give off your time and expertise as well. Hope to see you in Sri Lanka in 2012. Visit KSL Community for inspiration.
The amazing people of Kalpitiya!

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Sri Lanka - Unblemished Kiting Destination (Lets keep it that way)

We all know and will hear more about the kiting scene in Sri Lanka. With major events like the KTA (Kiteboard Tour Asia) coming, its important for us to work together to ensure that this paradise is not lost.
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The innocence of the people in the places we kite are amazing. They will not steal, they will not rip you off, they will be your friend and a genuine one at that, they will launch your kites and not expect anything in return.
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We dont want this Paradise to become like a Bali or Phuket. We want it to remain as it is. More than that I dont want the innocent kids in the area to be led astray. Things you should keep in mind;
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1. Kids will follow your example - if you swear and use foul language in front of them they will pick it up
2. If you smoke pot or do drugs in front of them they will be tempted to try it one day
3. If you are a drunk, please try not to do so in front of the kids. They might think its the cool thing to do
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Instead, set the example. Let's all work together to ensure that the course of this nation and kitesurfing is managed well and developed in a proper manner. Let's also set the example.
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Next time you come to Sri Lanka;
1. Do provide some reading books in English for the kids
2. Stationary items also do come in handy
3. Spend time with them and encourage them to continue with their studies
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Ps. Thanks Mike for the inspiration and setting the example.