MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISM AND SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT COLOMBO

EI Life Skills training team comprises group of young professionals in several fields from different ethnic groups and religions, represent different districts of the country. Also our team consist National and International level Resource persons in practical experience relevant to the developing materials in skill training program especially emotional intelligence, life skills as well as tourism and hospitality.

Asia Mantra is new initiative of EI Team to protect travel tourism and hospitality industry in Asia. We are expecting a youth volunteer with high energy, self-motivated and creative individual to develop contents Asia Mantra website and its promotional social media campaign throughout the world. In this package you will be placed in Colombo.

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka. Colombo has been ranked as Sri Lanka tops 'must-photograph' travel destination of 2019 by daily mail and as the number one fast growing city in 2015 by CNN Travel.

This volunteer program is suitable for singles, couples, groups, families.

Highlights

• Experience the Sri Lankan diverse style of living which is a mixture of village and city life.
• Learn and Practice meditation and Yoga.
• Feel the richness of healthy and authentic food.
• Gain fluency in Sinhala and/ or Tamil.
• Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience.
• Make memories you never forget during weekend excursions with your fellow participants.
• Explore yourself the ancient historical sites and richness of Bio Diversity of the country
• Experience the diverse climate where you can experience the most hot, cold and rainy weather.

MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISM & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT

The perfect project for who love and passionate about tourism, travel around, energetic, creative and outgoing high end social media marketing skilled people.

Volunteer Placement

Practice and further develop your Journalism, Marketing and Social Media skills while experiencing a foreign culture! The primary purpose of this website is to accelerate the declined tourism sector in Sri Lanka.  You will identify tourists’ hotspots, experiences, site seeing and promote our causes through Social Multimedia which includes content published through local media and social media channels. This website aims to attract tourists from all over the world. You will produce short videos, documentaries and radio/television broadcasting content. Volunteers are encouraged to come up with their own ideas since Part of the work consists of keeping track of the foundation´s work with the tourism sector (e.g., taking and editing pictures and videos and editing content).

Requirements

This program is suitable for students with free holiday time, pre-university students, and students taking or planning to take any multimedia related studies, marketing or journalism as well as related professionals. Some previous experience with blog writing, Vlogers, social multimedia, a basic understanding of DSLR cameras and familiarity with editing software (including Photoshop, Adobe Premier Pro, and Final Cut Pro) as well as social media management and/or social media marketing experience are very helpful. But all that is really necessary are enthusiasm, self-reliance, patience and an open mind. However, volunteers with advanced experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Basic English literacy is needed. Language is not a barrier since we will teach you Sinhala/ Tamil language. An ideal volunteer will have a curious personality, and a keen interest in photography, writing, and other forms of creative multimedia, culture and learning new languages. The foundation has a DSLR camera and PC with video and photo editing software installed. We require volunteers to bring their own laptop. Also encourage and you are not limited to bring your own multimedia equipment. As we believe in your own used comfort zone allow you to work better.

Volunteer placement

This program can be booked as volunteer placement or as internship. Most of our participants join as volunteers and are free to commit from between 12 to 40 hours per week. That’s up to you! As an intern however you probably have to fulfil requirements set by your school or university. Please let us know your school or universities internship requirements in advance so that we can work out your personalized work plan together. Also inform us about your personal goals and expectations and we will see how we can help you to achieve them! We expect our volunteers and interns to dedicate a minimum of three hours/ four days per week and a maximum of eight hours/five days per week working in their respective programs.

Time Commitment 

A minimum time commitment of 4 weeks is required. For volunteers and interns with little experience, a five to twelve weeks minimum time commitment is encouraged. 

Availability/Holidays
You can participate in our programs throughout the whole year. Please make sure to arrive on a weekday so that we can arrange everything for your arrival.

Placement Location

‘Asia Mantra’ head office is located in Lake Road, Borelasgamuwa, western province Sri Lanka. Borelasgamuwa town is a safe town area, stay and office is situated adjoining. With wonderful garden view and access to all basic needs such as super markets, wetlands, restaurants, shops etc. Accommodation is sharing basis with maximum 2 persons. If any requirements of individual stay on single rooms can be arranged. Breakfast and Dinner provided by ‘Nimali’s Kitchen’.

Your time at Asia Mantra

Volunteers/interns usually come by themselves or with their partner to our organization. However, we do offer family placements as well. In case a family decides to stay with us, the minimum age of the children is eight. Individual volunteers/interns have to be at least 16 years of age. Volunteers/interns under 18 need to bring a written permission from their parents or guardians.

Special Offer

Free Meditation program

Free yoga Program

Free conference/ Training program participation

Learn Extra Language Sinhala/ Tamil (Spoken) language

Special tour to selected destinations for outstanding performers

Typical day

Activities can include but are not limited to:

• Take photographs and/or video documentation and report, interview, write and edit content related to our social programs and organization activities
• Edit and publish through online social media, the webpage, blog and through local media channels
• Support the day-to-day running of the organization and attend meetings with authorities and community members
• Write blog posts, articles, newsletters and other communication materials which can include a mix of media such as written content, videos, images and podcasts

• Help respond to comments, when appropriate, in order to foster a vibrant community and add value to the user´s experience
• Assist with expanding our online presence improving functionality and SEO for our webpage and social media communication

Details on Arrival

Travel Logistics

The organization will do everything to make sure our volunteers remain safe during their stay in Sri Lanka. We will provide you in house accommodation and meals.

Time Commitment

 A minimum time commitment of 4 weeks is required. For volunteers and interns with    little experience, a five to eight weeks minimum time commitment is encouraged. 

Availability
You can participate in our projects throughout the whole year. Please make sure that you arrive only during weekdays so that we can arrange everything for your arrival.

Continued Commitment
It is possible for volunteers to continue contributing to the organization as a virtual volunteer after returning home.

Free-time activities

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country surrounded with beautiful beaches and historical places. Especially Colombo, Borelesgamuwa is surrounded by wetlands. Also endless site seeing, shopping malls, clubs, restaurants, coffee shops and many more.

We can arrange a Yoga Meditation session on request. Our experienced Yoga practicing teachers are available.

Indoor outdoor sports complex available close by. Including swimming.

Dehiwala national Zoo is close by, 20 min distance by bus.

Beach is 30 min distance by bus. Gale face, most public gathered beach with some street food is 45 min distance.

Program Requirements

• Minimum age

In order to join the program you need to be at least 16 years old on the program start date.

• Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level)

• Required Documents

CV, Passport

• Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

• Other Skills

Some previous experience with Multi Media, basic understanding of DSLR cameras and familiarity with editing software and social media capacities are extremely helpful.

• Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

Included Services

• Extra security layer by Asia Mantra

Asia Mantra is a startup initiative platform for international volunteer opportunities. We guide you from basic. A safe and easy application process, including all necessary payments. Planning your next meaningful trip with Asia Mantra gives you free access to our:

• Quality assurance

High ethical standards & transparent social impact

• Flex Option

Change your reservation at no extra costs

• Refund Guarantee

We refund your fees if organization cancels your trip

• Support & Mediation

We cover your back no matter what happens

• Before your journey

Profound consulting and ongoing support (free)

Asia Mantra provides consulting and is keen to answer all your questions. Once you reserved your spot, you will receive the contact details of your volunteer project.

On-site services

Services by Asia Mantra

The longer you stay, the less you pay!
Asia Mantra works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. We do this to encourage longer stays, recognizing that longer stays lead to more significant volunteer work and more energy contributed in the form of donated time in place of money!

What is included?

• Volunteer or Internship placement 
• Experience sharing workshops with digital marketing experts
• Individual practical guidance session
• Accommodation of your choice
• Welcome Service at the airport and transport to your placement location
• Tuk tuk service to travel to destinations
• Free Wi-Fi
• Placement introduction, training, supervision, briefings and meetings 
• Free Sinhala/ Tamil lessons on regular basis throughout your placement
• Certificate and/or written reference
• Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff
• Information about adventure packages

Airport Pickup at Bandaranayake International Airport

Travel Logistics

The Foundation will do everything to make sure our volunteers remain safe during their arrival and stay. On arrival at the airport you will be welcome by our English speaking driver. On arrival at the placement location, our Staff will welcome you and bring you to your accommodation.

Accommodation

Colombo EI Life Skills Training Team’s guest house is located in the heart of the city. Close to supermarkets, Banks, National Hospital and schools, restaurants. The city and their surroundings are very safe and have lovely neighbors who constantly look after us. All important locations are only minutes away and it’s safe to walk at night. Annex beside the office, includes 2 beds which can accommodate 4 people. But we accommodate only 2 volunteers at a time. This room also includes, hot water geezer, international channel TV, Iron board, tea makers, free WiFi and many more to come.

Living together with volunteers from all over the world is a unique chance for cultural exchange and can be an exciting and new way of living compared to anything you’ve ever experienced before. It has certainly been a key experience in the lives of many past volunteers! Volunteers work and live together and learn how to be empathetic and considerate of others’ needs. They share their free time, house cleaning tasks. It means they also become close, develop lifelong friendships and have immense fun along the way! We feel that it is important to highlight that we have created an environment of respect and consideration. If you wish a single room upgrade add $50 per week and an all in Host Family homestay upgrade is $175 per week, including a private bedroom and two meals per day.

Internet Access

Good access at the office and room.

What's NOT included?

Visa, flights, travel insurance or vaccinations are NOT included in the program fees. Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Bandaranayake International Airport.

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for security and is a plus to have.

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Sri Lanka you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey.

Program Fees

*Costs: Prices in USD

What's Included in Your Placement Fee?

• Homestay accommodation & meals

You'll "live like a local" with a trusted Sri Lankan family, and up to 2 to 8 of your teammates, during the work week. You'll share a room and facilities with your teammates and get the chance to really get to know your homestay family as they serve you up with breakfast and traditional Sri Lankan dinner during the working week.

• Support

Our incredible, experienced team will be there to support you the whole time and are on call 24/7.

• Training, trips & talks

All placements come with additional training, trips and talks given by local and international professionals and practitioners. This is your chance to really get to understand and practice multimedia, journalism and social marketing management in a different culture.

• Certificate of Learning & farewell party!

To acknowledge your hard work and commitment throughout your placement we'll give you a certificate and throw you a farewell party. You've worked hard, time to celebrate your achievements.

• Jungle Break

This will take place during your training week. Think white water rafting, rock sliding and a BBQ under the stars.

• Visa extensions

All volunteers staying over 30 days will need to extend their visa to a Residence visa. We will apply for, and pay, on your behalf and the cost should be covered by yourself.

• Transport & Session Resources

Transport is included from the airport to your homestay or Colombo EI team’s guest house, to EI Life Skills Training Team’s organized workshops, field visits and to the Jungle Break!

What's Not Included?

• Flights

Approximately £450 - £750 (depending on country of origin)

• Entry visa

The cost of the Entry Visa is $30 (depending on country of origin). You'll apply for this yourself directly from the Sri Lankan High Commission. Before any application, please make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date.

• Travel insurance

Please check at your country of origin a travel insurance cover. Generally it costs less than $100. Your safety is important to us.

• Weekend & free time spending money

Volunteers find their own and accommodation for Friday & Saturday nights, and this is an amazing chance to explore the island! Hostels in Sri Lanka can be very reasonably priced - sometimes as little as $25 a night. It is also volunteers' responsibility to cover their travel at the weekends. You may also want to just pick up a few souvenirs or check into a stunning spa for the weekend, but whatever your budget, Sri Lanka remains incredibly affordable.

• Payments

After reviewing your application, if awarded a place on our team, a non-refundable Placement Acceptance Fee is required to secure your place, which is payable within a week of your placement offer. 

• START CROWDFUNDING 

Generally, volunteering abroad involves certain costs. In case you need financial support, we will assist you to fundraise your volunteer program in Sri Lanka. We will offer you a letter of confirmation after the interviews and on recruitment confirmation by Asia Mantra.