About Us
The Impact Center by ZeroPlastic is a craft experience and environmental learning space in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka. It connects visitors with local craftsmanship, plastic alternatives and the work of ZeroPlastic Movement. The center is based in Rotawewa, on Sigiriya Road, and is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
As a Local Craft and Artisan Empowerment Volunteer, you will support the center’s daily operations and help bring greater visibility to products made by 352 local artisans. You’ll work alongside the center team and in-house artists to welcome visitors, support craft workshops and exhibitions, and share the stories behind local products.
The center offers hands-on coconut shell and bamboo craft experiences, displays handmade products, and uses creative activities to introduce visitors to reuse and plastic reduction. Depending on your skills and the team’s priorities, you may also help improve product displays, product descriptions, visitor information and the way artisan stories are presented. Any product feedback or development work will be done in collaboration with the artisans and center team.
No previous craft experience is required. We welcome volunteers who are interested in sustainability, local culture, crafts, tourism, communications or community-based work, and who are ready to learn and help with practical tasks.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Volunteer at a place where local craft, environmental awareness and visitor experiences come together. You’ll work with the Impact Center team and in-house artists, help visitors discover Sri Lankan craftsmanship, and support the promotion of products made by 352 local artisans. You can contribute your skills and ideas to workshops, exhibitions, product displays and the center’s daily activities while learning about craft traditions and practical approaches to reducing plastic. The center is near Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a community-focused way to experience the area beyond its major attractions.
Requirements
- Interest in local crafts, sustainability and Sri Lankan culture
- Reliability, respect and willingness to help with practical tasks
- Friendly communication and comfort welcoming visitors
- Willingness to work with the center team and follow artisans’ guidance
- Craft, tourism, retail, photography, communications or design experience is welcome but not required
- Ask permission before photographing artisans or their work
Volunteer experience
Your day usually begins with a check-in with the Impact Center team and preparation of the visitor and workshop areas. Depending on the day’s activities, you may welcome visitors, introduce them to the center, support in-house artists during a craft workshop, help arrange an exhibition or product display, or share information about local products and artisans. You may also help improve visitor materials and assist with other practical tasks that support the center’s operations. At the end of activities, you’ll help tidy the space and review the day with the team. Tasks vary with visitor numbers and scheduled workshops.
€222 per week
Home Stay / Private Room with Bathroom
Meals & Drinks: Three authentic, village-cooked Sri Lankan meals daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner), fresh Ceylon tea, daily refreshments, and safe filtered drinking water.
During your free time, explore Sigiriya and the surrounding area. Popular options include visiting the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, hiking to the Pidurangala viewpoint, and taking an elephant safari in Minneriya National Park. You can also travel to other parts of Sri Lanka during your stay. Excursions, entrance fees and transport are arranged separately and depend on your schedule.
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