About Light for Learning
Light for Learning is committed to removing the barriers that poverty places between people and possibility. We support children to access education and help rural women build the skills, tools and confidence needed for economic independence.
Who We Are
The initiative was founded by Maryam Naleemudeen, a woman whose journey from rural Sri Lanka to international platforms was made possible through education, determination, and empowerment. Having witnessed firsthand the struggles, limited resources, and barriers faced by many children and women in rural areas, she remains deeply committed to creating opportunities for others to rise.
In many parts of rural Sri Lanka, children dream of education while women strive for independence, yet poverty, limited access to resources, and lack of opportunities continue to hold them back. Light for Learning was created to address these challenges by opening doors to education and empowering women to achieve economic independence with dignity.
Through education initiatives and women’s empowerment programs, we work to remove barriers that prevent children from accessing learning and women from building stable livelihoods. Our focus is on creating practical, sustainable pathways — supporting education, developing skills, and providing the tools and opportunities needed for individuals to build confident and independent futures.
At its heart, Light for Learning is driven by a simple belief: when a child gains access to education and a woman gains economic independence, families grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and future generations are given the chance to thrive.
Our Story and Legacy
Light for Learning was formerly known as A.R. Munsoor Foundation Inc. The new name reflects a clearer and more focused identity while carrying forward the same spirit of service, compassion and commitment to communities in Sri Lanka.
What began as a charitable response to educational hardship grew into a wider commitment to strengthen rural schools, recognise young potential and create practical opportunities for women. The name has changed, but the purpose remains rooted in service and lasting community change.
Our Mission
To ensure that no child is deprived of education because of poverty, and to empower rural women with opportunities for economic independence, dignity, and the ability for their voices to be heard.
Our Vision
A future filled with hope, where poverty never denies a child the right to education, and where women are empowered to rise, live with dignity, balance the scales of opportunity, and lead with confidence.
The Next Chapter
The work continues. Our future priorities are shaped by real needs identified in rural communities — from inclusive and digital education to sustainable livelihood opportunities for women.
Equality
Every child deserves access to education and every woman deserves the opportunity to build an independent future.
Opportunity
We open practical pathways that enable people to build their own futures.
Sustainability
We favour solutions that strengthen people and institutions beyond a single intervention.
Dignity
We support people with respect and sensitivity, protecting their voice, privacy and self-worth.
Community
We listen to local needs and work with schools, families, educators and community partners.
Accountability
We are committed to responsible use of donations and transparent communication with supporters.
Where We Work
Our charitable activities are based in Sri Lanka, with particular attention to rural and remote communities where poverty, limited educational resources, weak infrastructure and restricted livelihood opportunities continue to hold people back. We prioritise needs where focused support can remove a significant barrier and create lasting benefit.
What We Do
Education
Access to learning, school resources, digital support and rural infrastructure.
Women’s Economic Empowerment
Skills, tools and mentoring to build sustainable self-employment and independence.