Picture our bodies like puzzle pieces, made up of tiny parts called cells. Sometimes, when a special cell called a chromosome doesn’t look exactly the way it should, it can create something called Down's syndrome. This is like having a unique pattern that makes people who have it wonderfully special in their own way. 



Let’s hear the inspiring story of Sandhali Sewmini, a young girl who loves to dance and doesn’t let anything hold her back. Even though Sandhali has Down’s syndrome, she’s proven that with determination and a big heart, we can achieve amazing things.

In our chat with Sandhali, she talked about her love for dancing, her dreams, and what makes her happy. She’s a wonderful example of how we can follow our dreams no matter what challenges we face. Sandhali’s story reminds us that support and hard work can help us reach for the stars. 

In the 42nd National Youth Award Festival of 2020, Sandali achieved a remarkable feat by winning first place in the All Island Creative Dance Solo category for people with disabilities. Her outstanding performance earned her this prestigious recognition at the National Youth Awards competition. She has been nominated for the same award this year too. 

Keep reading to learn about Sandhali Sewmini, a true superstar who brings her unique talents to the stage and teaches us that dreams are limitless.

Can you introduce yourself?

I’m Sandhali Sewmini. I attended Kottawa Dharmapala Vidyalaya for five years, where I was a part of the special needs unit.

What are you currently learning?

I’ve been learning how to dance. I’ve also started to read and write.

What is your ambition?

I aspire to become a dancing teacher. Additionally, I want to take care of my parents when they grow older. I also have a dream of becoming a teacher of reading.

What’s your favourite colour?

I really like the colour pink. For my birthday, I even got a pink dress this year.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I love watching cartoons, and my favourite one is ‘Garfield’.

Who supports you in your endeavours?

My parents, ammi and thaththi, are my biggest supporters. I also had wonderful friends at school who loved me a lot. I used to look forward to going to school every day. My dancing class friends are also very fond of me.

Who teaches you how to dance?

I’ve had the opportunity to learn different styles of dance. Miss. Nilakshi Alwis teaches me Pahatharata dancing, Miss. Sudarma teaches me Udarata dancing, and Sir Sanchana Mawela guides me in Western dancing. I also took Kathak classes for a while. I’ve even tried the Bharatanatyam style.

Tell us about the awards you’ve received.

I received an award at the 2020 Youth Awards organised by the National Youth Council – first place for solo dancing in the people with disability category. In 2023, I’ve been nominated for another award. I have earned a total of 23 certificates from various events, including sports meets, dancing performances, and singing competitions.

When did you start dancing?

I began dancing around the age of 10 or 12 during the New Year celebrations. My dancing journey started with the Daddys Lanka organisation, and from there, I began attending dancing classes.

What dreams do you have for your future?

I dream of becoming an actress one day. I’ve even attended teledrama workshops to pursue this dream. It would be amazing to star in a teledrama someday.

Do you have any advice for the readers of The Sunday Morning Little Stars?

I always aim to be a good person and I work hard towards that goal. I try to help others to the best of my abilities. Remember, when you commit to something, there’s nothing you can’t achieve.