It’s always amazing to see a large group of diverse individuals coming together to raise hope for a good cause. It’s even more amazing to see a bunch of ordinary teenagers who would otherwise be stereotyped as socially unaware and ignorant come together to inspire us all.
Ignite, a concert in aid of the Maharagama cancer hospital held on the 2nd of February at the Police Park grounds is a perfect poster boy to exactly this fact.
Ignite was the result of the collaboration between some interesting stakeholders. Namely; Livewire Productions, One World volunteers, Major General Aruna and the Aruna Jayatilleke Foundation. The concert was also endorsed by Mahela Jayawardena and Youtube sensation Jehan Ratnatunga.
Adding to this list of high profile personalities, the concert also saw the endorsement and performances from various artists in Colombo including Heshan Dassanayake, Magician's Toolbox, Roadkill, The Castaways, CC, Melissa Pereira, Circus Cult, Gayan, The Old Royalists Choir, Maria Soysa, Asela Perera, Angel Down, SEX and Magic Box Mixup.
All of this was topped off by an after party which was accompanied by EDM city's DJ Ruky, Nige, Dash and Deenology. What was great about Ignite was how much all of the above individuals and parties were geared towards promoting the cause of the evening which was raising adequate funds for important renovations at the cancer hospital.
Looking at the turnout, which mind you was on a Saturday night, I am absolutely positive that the fundraising objectives of the concert were more than achieved.
It’s not only inspiring to see such an enthusiastic and large multitude of spectators, but also reassuring to know that today’s youth actually care about the issues that plague the society around them.
But the true stars of the night were none other than the volunteers who had been working for the last 2 to 3 months putting the concert together. This was a concert that was put together purely by the youth for the youth.
All of the volunteers from the One World Volunteers Organization are school students who’ve taken time from their studies and other commitments to see an active change in the community around them.
Speaking to many of the volunteers, I also realized that this was not just about walking the talk and making sure renovations at the cancer hospital take place, but also about raising awareness about the issue; ensuring long-term support to a hospital that provides free medical care to those inflicted by cancer.
Volunteerism is always inspiring, and to see it at work with such passion and commitment through such young volunteers undoubtedly inspired everyone who attended the concert.
The message was clear: That an ordinary bunch of teenagers can pull off something great, and help a lot of people in the process.
It was clear that the crowd was appreciative of this as much as they were enjoying the music at the concert. Everyone I spoke to had a very clear idea of the purpose and message of the concert, which I thought was great.
It was such a positive atmosphere to be in, especially with your friends. It was not only an opportunity to hang out and socialize, but also a chance to give back for a worthy cause which made the experience much more gratifying.
All in all, the entire concert was a great success, not only in terms of raising the adequate funds for the much needed renovations of the cancer hospital, but also in terms of raising awareness, inspiring and entertaining, everyone who attended.
It was an evening that undoubtedly ignited the flames of hope and passion in the hearts of everyone who was part of the experience, to help and empathize for the less fortunate.
Crowd and volunteer comments:
“Simple amazing...Especially what the One World Volunteers can achieve in such a small period of time. It shows that a small group of people can achieve big things. The Bands that are playing are awesome for doing this.” Jithen Silva
“It’s absolutely great that they are doing this, especially for such a good cause. Also the music is awesome.” Harshini & Armeen
“A lot of organizing has gone into making the concert what it is. A lot of running around and a lot of hard work. It’s satisfying to stand here and look at the massive crowd and everything going so well. That’s why we love volunteering!” Hamza
“It’s a really good turnout. Especially for a charity event. Nicely organized and it’s great to see such a big crowd giving back to a worthy cause.” Mustafa
“As you can see, its pretty happening! The best part was when they started skyping Jehan in the middle of the concert. The cause is a very important one. Just look around you, everyone is happy!” Maneesha and Sahani
“Good stalls and great line up. We weren’t bored at all. It’s not really the mainstream kind of music but everyone has put a lot of thought into the concert. It’s always great to see the youth standing up for a worthy cause.” Chrisjit
“We are having a fun time. The hot chocolate stall was awesome! And decent music” Pranavee and Anya
“As a volunteer it was tiring but worth it. Everyone gave their all. And the best part is everyone has such a positive and good mind-set.” Kaavya
“The music is good. Pretty nice. Another social event but with a positive message. I came here with my friends and it’s exciting with great music.” Nishan
“Its nice to see teenagers getting together for a good cause. Usually its only about partying and having fun. So its nice to have such a good turnout.” Thamindri Randula and Manudi
By Maleen Jayasuriya
Pics by Samantha Perera
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