A group picture of all the Creative Catalyst Fellowship Cohorts and the Good Life X Team

Good Life X recently concluded the intensive residency programme of the Creative Catalyst Fellowship (CCF), funded through the United States Agency for International Development-supported Promoting Positive Information (PRO-INFO) project, by bringing together ten creatives from across Sri Lanka to collaborate, experiment, and develop creative content under the theme ‘Climate Positive’.

This two-week residency took place at Diyabubula, the Barberyn Art & Jungle Hideaway, the artistic abode of the late Laki Senanayake. The residency at Diyabubula, curated by GLX Founder Randhula de Silva brought together experts from various fields, including science, innovation, art, design thinking, ecology, conservation and regeneration.  The inaugural cohort includes ten diverse creatives from various parts of Sri Lanka. 

“USAID was proud to harness and support Sri Lankan talent,” said Acting USAID Mission Director Maureen Hsia. 

“The United States recognizes the importance of inspiring creativity through science and technology. The artistic content that will result from this program will better inform our citizens about the complexities of climate change and environmental protection and lead to collaborative action to pursue solutions.

“The unique environment of Diyabubula, merging art and nature, was the perfect catalyst for the fellows to develop innovative, climate-positive projects. 

Good Life X and CCF Programme Manager Emma de Silva remarked, “Diyabubula transcends being just a location; it is a sanctuary for creative expression and deep connection to nature.”

Experts such as Florian Manderscheid, Maker/COO, led sessions on the design thinking process. Ismael Abedin Ingelmo, Design Director, discussed circularity and its processes, and Sunela Jayawardene, Environmental Architect, introduced biomimicry and discussed the life and lessons from Laki Senanayake in her session. 

Prof. Devaka Weerakoon, a renowned environmental scientist, explored humanity and nature’s evolution and conservation success stories. Dr. Britt Yamamoto, an international leadership coach, helped redefine leadership perceptions. The fellows also engaged with the Kaludiya Pokuna Research Centre (KPRC), exploring the forest reserve and learning about conservation efforts.