Sri Lankan English is a WhatsApp-based language channel created by Riza Jaufer during the first wave of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. In the midst of the lockdown, Riza saw an opportunity to use his spare time to help others.
The initiative was driven by a desire to support his community during an unprecedented time, aiming to improve lives by offering English lessons—completely free of charge.
Over the course of a year, the initiative grew, and hundreds of people actively participated, receiving lessons via WhatsApp in the form of audio messages and presentations. Updates were also shared on the associated Telegram channel, Sri Lankan English.
For many in Sri Lanka, English serves as a key to unlocking opportunities in education, employment, and beyond. Riza’s goal was to provide his community with access to these opportunities, helping individuals improve their future prospects.
However, after the lockdown and COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, Riza found himself overwhelmed with other personal and professional commitments. As much as he wanted to continue, the initiative had run its course and was paused. As of the end of 2024, Sri Lankan English remains on hold. Despite this, the impact of the project remains significant, with hundreds benefiting from the lessons shared during its run.
For Riza, this initiative wasn’t just a rewarding hobby—it was a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of others during a time of need. The project allowed him to connect with his community in a meaningful way, helping others unlock their potential through language.
Lessons were shared via WhatsApp broadcast to ensure accessibility. Anyone interested in joining could simply send a message with the words "Sri Lankan English" to be added to the broadcast list, receiving language tips, lessons, and updates directly on WhatsApp.
While Sri Lankan English remains on hold, Riza reflects on the success and impact of the project. Although its future is uncertain due to ongoing personal and professional commitments, the lessons learned and connections made during its run continue to shape his approach to community-oriented work.
However, after the lockdown and COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, Riza found himself overwhelmed with other personal and professional commitments. As much as he wanted to continue, the initiative had run its course and was paused. As of the end of 2024, Sri Lankan English remains on hold. Despite this, the impact of the project remains significant, with hundreds benefiting from the lessons shared during its run.
For Riza, this initiative wasn’t just a rewarding hobby—it was a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of others during a time of need. The project allowed him to connect with his community in a meaningful way, helping others unlock their potential through language.
Lessons were shared via WhatsApp broadcast to ensure accessibility. Anyone interested in joining could simply send a message with the words "Sri Lankan English" to be added to the broadcast list, receiving language tips, lessons, and updates directly on WhatsApp.
While Sri Lankan English remains on hold, Riza reflects on the success and impact of the project. Although its future is uncertain due to ongoing personal and professional commitments, the lessons learned and connections made during its run continue to shape his approach to community-oriented work.
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Some of the presentations:
