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Cementing a better life

By United Nations Development Programme

August 28^th, 2024

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Entrepreneurs can rise from any walk of life, often emerging from the most daunting circumstances. This is the story of Vathsala Thevankaran, a remarkable young woman whose entrepreneurial spirit and determination helped her overcome life in a refugee camp and the turmoil of civil conflict. At 26, Vathsala lives in Kinnayadi with her husband and their five-year-old son. Her journey began in Kinnayadi, on Sri Lanka’s east coast but in 1994, her family was displaced due to the outbreak of fighting. Her mother was injured during the conflict, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

"We had to depend on everyone for everything, which I was not accustomed to as my parents had provided for me before the conflict." - Vathsala Thevankaran

Cementing a better life

In 2014, the family returned to Kinnayadi, ready to rebuild their lives. Three years later, Vathsala married a mason whose small business of making cement poles for fences provided a stable income.

Drawn to the world of cement and construction, Vathsala didn't just join her husband's business, she immersed herself in it. Her innovative ideas and relentless drive soon transformed their modest operation. They shifted their focus from simple cement poles to the more lucrative production of cement blocks, paving the way for a thriving family business.

The economic crisis that hit the country also affected Vathsala’s family. Her husband decided to move to the Middle East for higher paid employment to provide a better life for the family. She stayed behind to continue their business.

Vathsala benefited from the Support for Durable Resettlement project which aims to support the rebuilding of lives of those affected by the civil conflict and bring societal peace. The project is implemented by UNDP and the International Organization for Migration together with the government ,with funding from the Sri Lanka SDG Fund, in the Batticaloa and Trincomalee districts.

A comprehensive evaluation was conducted by UNDP and Vathsala was offered essential support A five day training programme provided her with valuable insights, helping her formulate a strategic plan to expand her business.

Cementing a better life

Cementing a better life

Cementing a better life

"When we began our business by producing cement poles, which earned us a decent income. However, thanks to UNDP's involvement, we started to produce cement blocks, which were much more profitable than cement poles. The cement blocks sell at a higher rate, which gives us more revenue."

Today, Vathsala’s business produces more than 300 cement blocks per day, earning her over 75,000 rupees, about US$250, per month. The increased income has allowed her to support both her immediate and extended family.

Vathsala also employs two young people full-time. By doing so, she is, in a small capacity, enabling those within her community to be self-sustaining.

Vathsala is grateful to the UNDP team, the Divisional Secretariat office members, and the Kaviya team for helping her achieve her goals. And after being displaced, she’s glad to be back amongst family and friends.

"I am very happy to be back in my hometown of Kinnayadi. There is no place like home."

Her message to those who share her experiences is powerful:

"Push yourself to the limit, live your life to the fullest, and create your own destiny."

These inspiring words from a young female entrepreneur encapsulate her vision of a brighter future and her unwavering belief in the power of determination and resilience. As she continues to build her life and business after resettlement, Vathsala's journey stands as a testament to the strength and potential within us all.

Cementing a better life

Cementing a better life

Cementing a better life

Cementing a better life

Cementing a better life

Cementing a better life

© 2026 United Nations Development Programme

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