Products: Charming, whimsical, and full of personality, Gaara’s polymer clay jewellery is designed to bring a smile on sight alone. Lovingly handmade with intricate details, the brand has carved a niche for itself among those who appreciate creativity with heart.
Telling me how she began working with polymer clay, Gaara’s lovely creator Kavisha Narangoda recalled how her 9-to-5 job in the travel industry came to a pause during the pandemic: “With time on my hands and creativity tugging at my heart, I finally allowed myself to explore something I had always loved – creating with my hands.”
Entirely self-taught, she learnt through experimentation, observing international artists, and continuous practice, and soon it went beyond being a mere hobby and turned into a calling.
Her entire creation process is done by hand, from shaping to finishing, and polymer clay being a versatile medium allows her to explore detailed sculptural forms while still keeping the pieces lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Kavisha also takes time to ensure each piece is refined to perfection – something that is apparent when you look at her creations – and it’s no wonder that the response has been very encouraging. “The warmth and continued support has been incredibly motivating. People challenge and inspire me with their custom requests, and it truly means a lot to see them happy with my work.”
Recording a meaningful milestone for Gaara, Kavisha recently entered into a partnership with Pendi. “It’s a well-established store that fully supports and showcases local craftsmanship across Sri Lanka, so being part of that space feels very special. The collaboration came together quite naturally and it felt like we shared the same values, especially in how we both really value creativity and handmade work,” she shared.
So what’s the story behind the name? It comes from a character in ‘Naruto,’ her favourite anime series. “I chose it because the name felt unique, symbolic, and strong – just like the jewellery I wanted to create,” she said.
And that’s just what Kavisha’s done, with her creations catching the eye and capturing the heart effortlessly. Check out @brandgaara on Instagram and you are sure to agree.
Purpose: Many speak about making a difference, but few actively do. At Adrenaline Rush, action speaks louder than words – something I’ve personally observed over the last few months.
In its most recent initiative to empower women, Adrenaline Rush – in partnership with the Indira Cancer Trust and the Roshan Mahanama Trust – held a breast cancer awareness programme at the Colombo Colts Cricket Club where the fitness centre is located and also launched the first TLC Zone Wellness Centre, dedicated to raising awareness while offering the support systems women need to stay one step ahead of breast cancer.
Recognising that early detection is not merely medical advice but a life‑saving necessity, and with a clear focus on early detection, the TLC initiative is committed to empowering women to take charge of their health before a late diagnosis becomes a burden.
“For every woman over the age of 20, the message is simple and powerful: Touch, Look, Check (TLC). A monthly self‑examination takes only moments, yet it can make a world of difference. Awareness saves lives; early detection brings hope; and together we can break the silence surrounding breast cancer,” Adrenaline Rush shared on Instagram, advocating for awareness.
Here’s wishing the initiative more strength and hoping the TLC message spreads far and wide!
Poem: On this Mother’s Day, I share this beautiful poem by Rachel Beachy, thinking of my own deeply, fiercely, and wholly loved daughter all the while:
We begin by carrying the car seat,
the diaper bag, the pump parts
and pacifiers.
Then they grow and bring us
collected rocks, Lego blocks,
remains of snacks,
dirty tissues.
All of this
we take in
so they will know:
whatever you hand to me,
I can handle
no matter how heavy it gets.
Remember, I once carried
my whole world
in the crook of my elbow.
There is nothing I cannot hold
for you.