Velaa Private Island donates MVR 500,000 to 2 organisations

Velaa Private Island Maldives, renowned for its unparalleled luxury, once again demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by making a donation totalling MVR 500,000 to two noteworthy non-profit organisations in Malé. This act of philanthropy, made on May 16, marks a continuation of the resort’s annual donation initiative and serves as a celebration of the promising start to the year.

The Cancer Society of Maldives (CSM) and the Maldives Autism Association each received MVR 250,000 as part of Velaa’s ongoing charity programme, underscoring the resort’s dedication to enhancing the lives of Maldivians on a national scale. Additionally, Velaa intends to extended its support to the Manadhoo Amaan Veshi Centre, a home providing care for 13 girls under state guardianship since 2022.

The donation allocated to the Manadhoo Amaan Veshi Centre will be allocated to two distinct projects aimed at improving the comfort and development of the children. Firstly, enhancements will be made to the conference room, transforming it into a multifunctional space where the girls can engage in homework, attend online medical appointments, and explore their creativity through activities such as music and art. Secondly, plans are underway to revitalise the landscape and establish an outdoor library complete with benches and sofas, fostering a conducive learning environment. Additionally, a garden will be cultivated to empower the children to cultivate their own plants and vegetables, enriching their culinary skills.

Wayne Milgate, General Manager of Velaa Private Island Maldives, expressed delight in contributing once again to the Maldivian community, acknowledging the invaluable support received over the years. He commended the achievements of the recipient organisations and their positive impact on communities, emphasising Velaa’s commitment to making a meaningful difference.

The Maldives Autism Association was founded in 2010 by Ilham Hussain, and today supports over 170 children with autism. Their curriculum focuses on Functional Academics (literacy, numeracy, IT), Life Skills (independence, emotional wellbeing), and Aesthetics (music, arts, sports) to foster holistic development and self-expression.

The Cancer Society of Maldives is a national community based (non-profit/non-governmental) organisation formed for the purpose of reducing the incidence and impact of cancer in the Maldives. CSM contributes by creating awareness about cancer, providing support and circulating information and resources so as to enhance the experience of people fighting against cancer.

The Manadhoo Amaan Veshi Centre provides a nurturing environment where children receive structured education and grow up surrounded by a sense of family. Girls remain at the centre until they reach adulthood or until family members are able to take on their care. Throughout their time there, children attend school alongside their peers until graduation. The children receive invaluable online assistance from experts based in Male and government subsidies cover the basic needs of the children, but donations are relied upon to fund additional extracurricular activities.

Nestled within the constellation of islands that form the Noonu Atoll in Maldives, Velaa Private Island takes exclusivity to the next level with facilities and service that go beyond traditional resorts. Designed by award-winning Czech architect Petr Kolar as “an elegant fusion of Maldivian culture with contemporary luxury, intimate with Maldivian nuances”, Velaa Private Island is the realisation of a dream to create a ‘beyond luxury’ exclusive boutique hideaway in the Maldives. Velaa means “Turtle” in the local language – named after generations of sea turtles that flock there to nest and hatch. From a broader “bird’s eye view” which greets arrivals by seaplane, the island’s exclusive over-water villas are also constructed to resemble the head of a turtle, with the island forming the body. The resort comprises 47 private villas, houses and exclusive residences. While 18 of the 47 are built over water, the Romantic Pool Residence can only be reached by boat, allowing even more privacy and exclusivity.