Don Perera at a gathering

Mr.Don Perera and his family.

The story of a passionate leader in the Sri Lankan Community
Compiled by CAN INDO LANKA-TIMES / CanadaSriLanka.com  

Mr Perera expresses, “It doesn’t matter what race or religion you belong to; It doesn’t matter whether you’re a  Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim , Burgher, Malay or anything in between; It will certainly not matter whether  you’re a Hindu, Buddhist, Christian or a Muslim ; “ What matters is whether you are a GOOD Human Being  or a BAD one.” He was quick to add, “I choose the people around me, based on this principal.

Armed with one of the most unique characteristics, Don has managed to make friends with members in all communities.  The gap that existed, especially during Sri Lanka’s bloody war that ran for 30 long years between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE, did not stop this brave Sri Lankan from reaching out to the Tamils and calling them friends.  This hunger for friendship and unity led Don to be a part of Canada’s Sri Lanka Day Committee. He truly believed that being a part of this organization would help bridge all Sri Lankan communities and pave the way for a united Sri Lanka, at least among those living in Canada..

The Sri Lanka Day program helped Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims , Malays, etc. to showcase their cultural values through music, dance & food.  Although the organization was faced with some serious threats, the people who were clearly disturbed by the Sinhalese &Tamils marching forward to create a united Sri Lanka did not stop the program from moving forward. Along with the support and participation of other communities such as Malays, the extension of solidarity was apparent throughout the program and provided hints that something such as this would continue on an annual basis.

Mr. Perera belongs to a hand full of Sri Lankans, who decided to send their children to Study in Sri Lanka. In 1993 the Perera family decided to send their son, Praveen to Royal College Colombo and their daughter, Manoushi to Ladies College Colombo. Don is seriously committed to placing Sri Lankan values first to his immediate family.  He is a believer that by doing this, it will most definitely set the stage for preparing Sri Lankans in Canada to maintain Sri Lankan cultural values.  The children returned to Canada after being educated in Sri Lanka for 5 years. Don’s sacrifice has paid off as his daughter, Manoushi graduated from the University of Toronto and is currently completing her Bachelor of Education Degree at the University of Windsor. While his son, Praveen is progressing well completing his degree in the Mc Master University Business Program. Even though both children are adults, family values are greatly preserved in keeping with the Sri Lankan culture.

Don who also became the president of the Royal College OBA Canada (2003-2004) explains that life did throw its challenges at him. They decided to make Canada their home (1989) but have being fortunate to work for one of Canada’s leading frozen food manufacture’s,  “Morrison Lamothe Incorporation” for 17 years and was honoured with the company’s most prestigious award the “ Founders Award”  in 2003.

It is remarkable to note Don’s ability to remain with the company for 17 years, especially in the unstable world of business where hiring and firing occurs frequently. Married to a well known track and field athlete who holds several national records to her credit,  Don was quick to acknowledge the support that he receives on an ongoing basis from his beloved wife Dilrukshi (known to all as Dilla). With a steady job in hand and a loving family, Don Perera is a man on a mission. This community leader has understood the importance of having a Sri Lankan community centre and is currently working with a number of people to make this dream come true.

Finally, he passionately shares that, “It’s time we have a community centre of our own. We can have some sports facilities such as a swimming pool, basketball court or even cricket nets, etc. This will also allow us to have our social gatherings and other functions without paying expensive fees for other facilities.  The Sri Lankan community centre will be a place where all Sri Lankans without the tag on race & religion are welcome with a sincere heart and can meet and celebrate the Sri Lankan in us.

CAN INDO LANKA-TIMES &  CanadaSriLanka.com wishes Mr Don Perera and his family well!