One Year Without Apsara: How We're Continuing Her Legacy

Words by Hesadi Niruthmi Perera (she/her) 

Aspara Wimalasiri was a PhD student at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington who was tragically killed on a visit to Sri Lanka last year. In this article, Hesadi, friend and peer of Apsara, reflects on her legacy one year on from her passing.  

The past year has been a constant reminder of how much we miss our dear friend Apsara. Though she's no longer with us, her legacy lives on in the memories we cherish and the lessons she taught us.

I first met Apsara at Victoria University of Wellington. From the moment we became friends, I knew she was someone special. She was kind, compassionate, and always willing to lend a listening ear or a helping hand. She was an incredible teacher, inspiring students to think critically and pursue their dreams. Apsara's impact on my life, and the lives of so many others, cannot be overstated.

Grief is a long and winding road, but even though the pain persists, we're finding ways to honor our friend's memory and keep her spirit alive.

Apsara was a dedicated lecturer in Sri Lanka. She went above and beyond to support her students, and her impact was felt far beyond the classroom. In her memory, we organized a fundraiser to raise money for school supplies for students in rural areas. 

Through our fundraising efforts, we were able to raise $3150 NZD. This will go a long way in helping 50 students get the school supplies they need to succeed. Though Apsara is far away from us, her love for teaching and helping others lives on through this fundraiser. We hope that it will inspire others to carry on her legacy. It's a small way to honor Apsara, but we know it's something she would be proud of.

My lifelong friend Amila helped us to organise this project from start to the end, despite being miles away. This project would have been beyond impossible without him. 

Apsara's dedication to her studies was evident and she received a full scholarship from VUW for her higher education. Though she was unable to benefit from it, her mentor, Dr Corinne Seals, who was there with Apsara since the start of her journey in NZ, is now working to establish a scholarship in Apsara's name. We are forever grateful for everything she has done and continues to do in memory of Apsara. She is the true definition of a teacher and a friend. 

The University of Colombo (UOC) in Sri Lanka held a special place in Apsara's heart, and we wanted to honor her memory by giving back to the institution that meant so much to her. I had the pleasure of reconnecting with my fifth grade friend Kavishka Palihena, who now serves as the Sports Director at Leo Club UOC. We partially covered the cost of Leo Club’s upcoming project to construct a long-jump pit for a school in need. Apsara would have been delighted to contribute to a cause that benefits schools. Kavishka, Hasaru, and his team have been invaluable.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to the amazing team who worked selflessly on these projects to continue Apsara's legacy. Special thanks to Rangana and Thushari (Apsara’s sister and mother), and all the donors who helped us. 

Despite the hardships of this past year, one thing remains true: our friend will always hold a special place in our hearts. Her presence may be gone, but her impact on our lives will never fade.