WHO WE ARE
Venasa Transgender Network (VTN) is a community-led organization dedicated to empower transgender individuals in Sri Lanka.
We work to ensure dignity, safety, equal rights, and meaningful representation for the transgender community through support services, advocacy, and awareness programs.
Our Story
2021 — Major contribution to gender rights policy discussions
VTN became actively involved in national-level conversations about gender recognition, human rights, and legal protection for transgender Sri Lankans. The organization provided lived-experience insights, research, and advocacy that helped shape and influence policy reforms.
2024 — Community outreach programs expanded nationwide
VTN broadened its reach by conducting workshops, legal awareness sessions, leadership training, and health outreach in multiple districts across Sri Lanka. This ensured that support and empowerment were accessible not only in urban areas but also in rural and underserved regions.
2015 — VTN founded as a community-led support initiative
VTN originated as a grassroots movement founded by transgender individuals who identified a critical need for safe and supportive spaces within their community. The organization was established to address the challenges faced by transgender people, including discrimination, family rejection, and social exclusion. Through community care, peer support, solidarity, and guidance, VTN aimed to strengthen resilience and improve the well-being of transgender individuals. Over time, the organization has grown into a recognized community-led initiative committed to advancing inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunities for transgender people.
2016 — Advancing Legal Gender Recognition
VTN took part in the initial discussions on legal gender recognition, representing the voices and experiences of the transsexual community. This was a historic milestone, as the ability to change legal documents is a crucial aspect of the gender transition process and legal recognition. VTN’s participation helped bring community perspectives into these early discussions and contributed to advancing the recognition of transgender rights in Sri Lanka.
2017 — Healthcare training program launched
Recognizing the critical gaps in healthcare access experienced by transgender people, VTN initiated specialized training programs for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. These programs aimed to increase awareness of transgender identities, address stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings, and promote the provision of safe, respectful, and inclusive care. As one of the first initiatives of its kind in the country, these trainings marked a significant step toward integrating transgender health issues into the healthcare sector and fostering more equitable access to services for transgender communities.
2018 — Safe House support expanded
As increasing numbers of individuals sought safety and support during times of crisis, VTN expanded its Safe House program to respond to the urgent protection needs of vulnerable community members. The program provides emergency shelter, food, psychosocial support, and temporary protection for individuals facing violence, homelessness, family rejection, or discrimination. While initially established to support transgender individuals, these services have also been extended to members of the broader LGBQ+ community, ensuring that those at risk have access to safe and affirming spaces during periods of crisis.
Our Core Intent & Vision
Venasa Transgender Network was set up in 2015 by the 4 group of transgender persons in Sri Lanka to working for the social and legal acceptance, human rights, and well-being of transgender persons (persons who identify with a gender identity other than the one they were assigned at birth).
Vision
To protect and enable rights of transgender communities to live in a dignified and equal life.
Mission
To advance and protect the rights of transgender persons by promoting safety, equality, and inclusion, ensuring access to health, legal, economic, and social opportunities, and fostering recognition, acceptance, and human dignity so that all transgender people can live free from discrimination, violence, and fear.
Our Core Values
Dignity
We honor the identity and worth of every transgender person.
Community Support
We work together to build safe, connected, and supportive communities.
Equality
We advocate for equal rights, fair treatment, and inclusive systems.
Compassion
We provide support with empathy, understanding, and respect.
Human Rights Protection
We stand for justice, safety, and the protection of transgender rights.
MESSAGE OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As the founder of transgender movement in Sri Lanka have over a decade of experience in the human rights field and at a time when there was not any dedicated organization for the transgender community, Venasa Transgender Network first opened the doors for the them in 2015. We had a clear vision to protect and enable rights of transgender communities to live in a dignified and equal life. Also, we are gratified to continue fulfilling our mission to protect their rights to live without fear of any kind of harassment and threats. On behalf of our Board of Directors, Advisory Board Members, Employees and volunteer team, I am pleased to present our 2015-2023 Impact report that reflects our commitment to serving as a community-based organization to the community who needed support.
Since its inception, VTN has implemented a number of diverse projects for Sri Lanka’s transgender community. Some of these activities – such as community gatherings and awareness raising workshops – are funded by local and international funders, while certain activities– especially services such as counselling and safe house services – remain a part of VTN’s everyday operations and are continued regardless of the funding situation. Majority of these activities are supported by VTN’s allies, volunteers, and other LGBT organizations, in addition to its staff members.
We greatly appreciate the support given by all the stakeholders and the confidence you all have shown in our journey to support vulnerable, marginalized community members of LGBTIQ community specially in Transgender community.
Thenu Ranketh
Executive Director
People Behind VTN
Partners & Supporters
Nuwan Jayasuriya Program Coordinator