Global Workshop Strengthens Persons Affected by Leprosy

Learning, Leadership and Hope: Global Workshop Strengthens Organisations of Persons Affected by Leprosy

Leaders of organisations run by people affected by leprosy came together in Sri Lanka in February 2026 for a week of learning, collaboration and inspiration.

From 2–6 February, The Leprosy Mission Great Britain (TLMGB), in partnership with the Leprosy People’s Association of Sri Lanka (LPA) and Kaveri Kala Manram (KKM), hosted a Global Learning Workshop for Organisations of Persons Affected by Leprosy (OPLs).

The workshop brought together leaders from multiple countries to share experiences, strengthen organisational capacity and develop practical plans to expand their work.

Learning From Each Other

Two representatives from each participating country attended the workshop, accompanied by a translator from their TLM partner organisation. To encourage inclusive leadership, each delegation included one woman and one man, with at least one participant attending an international event for the first time.

Participants took part in a range of activities including peer presentations, safeguarding and advocacy workshops, funding training sessions and field visits to community projects.

By the end of the week, each organisation had developed a practical action plan to strengthen their work over the next five years.

A highlight of the workshop was the launch of a new funding call specifically for Organisations of Persons Affected by Leprosy, with sessions designed to help participants prepare strong applications.

Inspiration From Sri Lanka

Field visits gave participants the opportunity to learn directly from the work of the Leprosy People’s Association of Sri Lanka.

One approach that particularly inspired participants was the use of community drama and street theatre to raise awareness about leprosy and challenge stigma. These performances engage communities in open conversations while also creating livelihood opportunities for the performers.

Participants were also impressed by how community groups and trade associations, including barbers, beauty salons and transport workers, are trained as ambassadors who help raise awareness and encourage people with symptoms to seek diagnosis and treatment.

Livelihood initiatives such as poultry farming, seed banks, pottery and small restaurant enterprises demonstrated how economic empowerment can support dignity, confidence and social reintegration.

Looking Ahead

Throughout the workshop, participants emphasised the importance of building connections with peers facing similar challenges in different countries.

One participant from Ethiopia reflected:

“We realised there is still much more to do. The workshop expanded our vision.”

With new ideas, stronger networks and clear action plans, participants returned home ready to transform learning into action and strengthen organisations led by people affected by leprosy.