Yenula Liyadipita, a cheerful seven-year-old from Nattandiya, Sri Lanka is a grade two student at Dhammissara National School. Since grade one, he’s been passionately practising voice training and playing the piano and recently, he made waves at the Sri Lanka Festival of Music, proudly clinching two gold medals – one for a solo performance and another for a group song.

Yenula loves diving into the world of English through his favourite movies like ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Home Alone’. He’s a big fan of practising English conversations with his younger brother, Thinula. With a love for cricket, swimming, and storytelling, Yenula’s world is filled with music, learning, and joyful moments.

Tell me about yourself Yenula.

I’m L. A. M. Yenula Nethsilu Liyadipita. I’m seven years old and in grade two at Dhammissara National School in Nattandiya. Both my parents are doctors, and I have a younger brother, Thinula Dithsilu, who’s six years old. 

What are your hobbies?

I love playing cricket, swimming, singing, and reading storybooks.

What kind of books do you read?

I enjoy storybooks. Lately, I’ve read ‘Pinocchio’ and ‘Puss in Boots’.

Did you learn anything from reading ‘Pinocchio’?

Yes, I learned that telling lies isn’t a good thing.

Do you have any pets?

No, I don’t have any pets, but I really like rabbits.

Would you like a pet like ‘Puss in Boots’?

Yes, that’d be nice, but I’d prefer a rabbit.

Who do you play cricket with? 

I play with my dad and my brother, Thinula. He’s in the same school as me.

Where do you go for swimming?

I go to swimming classes. I really enjoy it.

What about singing practice?

I take lessons from teacher Hiruni Perera and practice at home too.

What happened at the international music festival held recently in Colombo?

I won in the category of popular songs for English solo (six years). I also got a gold medal in the semifinals for English musical songs (choir). We made it to the finals.

How did you feel singing and winning at the music festival?

I felt really happy and proud. My parents were thrilled too.

What was your winning song?

It was, ‘I Go My Merry Way’.

Do you play any instruments?

I play the organ and piano. I’d like to learn the guitar and sing while playing it.

Do you watch cartoons?

I watch CBeeBies, and my favourite is ‘Thomas and Friends’.

Do you like trains?

Yes, I love trains. I’ve been on one to Badulla when I was younger.

Does your brother sing too?

Yes, he does. He won a gold medal too. We sing together at home.

What’s your favourite song to sing together?

We like singing, ‘I Go My Merry Way’ and songs from ‘The Lion King’.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

I want to be a pilot because I love flying.

What’s your favourite subject in school?

English is my favourite subject.

How do you improve your language?

I read books, watch movies, and practise talking with my father to improve my English. I also teach my brother the language, so I can practise with him too. 

Anything you want to say about learning music?

I love music. It makes me happy and helps me relax.

Anyone you want to thank?

I want to thank my Montessori teacher, Carmen, who discovered my singing talent and directed me to teacher Hiruni. And of course, teacher Hiruni too.