Sustaining civic momentum in Sri Lanka
We are SPHERE — Society for the Progress, Human Rights, Empowerment & Equity. We bridge the gap between human rights advocacy and sustainable community action across Sri Lanka.
Our Story
From Momentum to Institutional Impact
SPHERE was established to transform peak moments of civic energy into long-term institutional progress. We believe that collective power is most effective when supported by consistent coordination and advocacy.
We connect human rights protection with community-level action—defending freedom of expression, association, and privacy while strengthening democratic practices throughout Sri Lanka.
What We Do
Research
Delivering data-driven assessments and field research to identify systemic barriers and track human rights progress to deliver targeted, equitable solutions for affected communities.
Advocacy
Driving systemic reform through strategic policy engagement and mobilization to secure lasting legal protections.
Training
Building capacity and empowering defenders with specialized skills to challenge injustice and lead community-driven change.
Vision, Mission & Values
Our guiding principles and purpose
Vision
"A world where human rights are universally upheld through active public participation, ensuring all individuals, groups and people can exercise their fundamental freedoms with safety, and dignity across an inclusive and non-discriminatory physical and digital frontier."
Mission
"To empower diverse communities to defend and advance human rights by providing the tools, knowledge, and platforms necessary for active participation. We bridge the gap between physical and digital freedoms through inclusive advocacy, non-discriminatory technology standards, and grassroots mobilization. By striving for continuous progress, driving systemic policy reforms, and holding institutional powers accountable, we ensure safety, dignity, and justice for all."
Our Core Values
Inclusivity
Ensuring all voices are heard and valued within the community.
Progressivism
Advocating for social reform and continuous improvement of human conditions.
Transparency and Accountability
Operating with openness while taking full responsibility for every action.
Dignity and Tolerance
Respecting individual worth while accepting diverse beliefs and practices.
Equality and Equity
Providing identical rights while ensuring fair access based on needs.
Integrity and Empathy
Maintaining high moral standards while understanding others' unique lived experiences.
Meritocracy and Technocracy
Rewarding individual talent while utilizing expert knowledge for effective governance.
Our Team
Passionate advocates for justice and digital rights
Anuruddha Bandara
BSc (Hons) graduate reading Attorney-At-Law at Sri Lanka Law College. A passionate digital rights advocate with extensive field experience.
Kasun Benthara
Experienced software engineer and co-founder of the Internet Freedom Movement – Sri Lanka. Dedicated to defending online rights and cybersecurity education.
Tharushi Dishara
Attorney At Law and a fierce human rights defender. Specializing in casework concerning police brutality, labor rights violations, and access to justice.
Nathali Rangajeewa
Social activist holding a BSc in Psychology and Counseling. Bridging mental well-being support and broader societal development initiatives.
Angela Nanayakkara
Human rights enthusiast and dedicated volunteer at the Kandy Human Rights Office. Amplifying marginalized voices and connecting local struggles to national advocacy.
Sathya Charith
Marketing professional with a CIM (UK) PG Diploma and MBA. Specialist in high-impact social media campaigns for social equity and digital rights.
Lahiru Lakmina Fernando
Business Information Systems undergraduate at USJP. Leveraging emerging technology to champion online freedoms and ethical digital practices.
Sherene Dias
Information Systems undergraduate at UCSC and AAT Passed Finalist, currently pursuing CA. Passionate about human rights and technology-driven solutions.
Pubudu Viduranga
Mass Media graduate and holds a Master's Degree in Sociology. Specializes in grassroots community mobilization and youth empowerment frameworks.
Praveen D Fernando
Praveen is a dynamic professional and advocate dedicated to Disability Rights, Digital Rights, and RTI. Navigating life with Arthrogryposis, he utilizes a wheelchair for mobility and lived experience to champion Disability Inclusion.