On the final Sunday of June (29th), Colombo witnessed an inspiring and energetic morning as over 60 cyclists from Team NKAR took to the streets for a 20 km cycling parade. Dressed in NKAR T-shirts, the participants cycled through key parts of the city covering main attractions, proudly representing Sri Lanka’s leading cycling tour DMC. This meaningful initiative also saw participation from a few tourism industry peers and an international supporter who joined to champion the cause.
What was it about?
The “Charity Challenge by Team NKAR” was organized by NKAR Travels and Tours (Pvt) Ltd., as a signature event to mark the company’s 45th anniversary. The concept was initiated by the company’s Chairman & Managing Director, Mr. Nilmin Nanayakkara, and brought to life by the passionate NKAR team.
While the event celebrated a key company milestone, it was also designed to achieve multiple sustainable and social objectives:
Objectives of the Charity Challenge:
- Celebrate NKAR’s 45th anniversary
- Reinforce NKAR’s identity as Sri Lanka’s leading cycling tour DMC
- Promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation
- Raise funds to donate wheelchairs to those in need
- Advocate for accessible tourism and NKAR’s efforts in promoting inclusive travel experiences
- Support local businesses through on-ground activations
- Build team spirit among staff
- Encourage a healthy lifestyle within the workplace
The 20 km trail was split into two segments, with a refreshment break at the halfway point. Rather than partnering with a mainstream brand, NKAR chose to support small local vendors, further highlighting their commitment to empowering communities and promoting authentic local experiences, just as they do on their tours.
Through this event, NKAR successfully raised funds for four wheelchairs with the contributions from NKAR Staff . The company then doubled the contribution and donated a total of eight wheelchairs to those in need.
With over 120 participants in total, the event was a remarkable success. Addressing the closing ceremony, both Chairman – Managing Director Mr. Nilmin Nanayakkara and Head of Marketing, Mr. Brian Wimalasinghe, reiterated NKAR’s position as an industry trendsetter, one that doesn’t follow trends, but creates them. They also extended their heartfelt gratitude to every individual who supported and participated in making the event impactful.
More to come:
As part of NKAR’s 45th anniversary celebrations, this is just the beginning. Stay tuned for more exciting initiatives that blend purpose, passion, and innovation.