I’ve now had the privilege of speaking at seven book launch events where I shared my adventures trekking from Galle in the south of Sri Lanka to Point Pedro at the country’s northernmost tip. I emphasise the grassroots initiatives I’ve championed since 2013, the hidden trails I’ve explored, and the captivating myths and legends that locals have shared with me along the way. My talks so far have taken me from vibrant library events in my home towns in Surrey to lovely audiences in Colombo and Kandy, Sri Lanka, in February, and then back to London as guest speaker at the Sri Lanka High Commission in March, another library and a Women’s Institute. Here’s some pictures from some of the events 🙂 The best thing for me about these events has been the opportunity to share my experiences of travelling to Sri Lanka and meet new people who are passionate about the country as well as others who are interested in learning more about what Sri Lanka has to offer.

Events yet to come

Thursday 12th June 2025 7.30pm Soroptimist International, Croydon, Surrey

Saturday 14th June 2025 11am – Thames Ditton Library

Friday 27th June 2025 – Flicks Films Posters, Church Street, Twickenham, London as part of a Sri Lanka themed evening 

16th Sept 7pm for 7.30pm start – Regency Bookshop, Surbiton but event held in The Corner House, Douglas Road, Surbiton 

Sept 2025 – Cowes Library, Isle of Wight – exact date tbc

October 2025 – Lake View Ink Bookshop, Colombo, Sri Lanka

22nd Sept 2026 – U3A, Fetcham, Surrey

Kingston Library – Date TBC

Abertillery Library, Wales – Date TBC

Their Future Today Charity – Date TBC

Barefoot Bookshop, Colombo

I’m pleased to report my book’s now for sale in Barefoot in Colombo, Sri Lanka as of this week. This charming bookshop specialises in showcasing Sri Lankan authors, as well as a rich collection of books focused on the vibrant culture, history, and landscapes of Sri Lanka. Additionally, they have an impressive selection of Coffee Table books that highlight stunning photography and art. I’m genuinely excited to have my book featured in such a renowned shop which was established more than 60 years ago, as it offers a wonderful opportunity for readers to explore local literature and immerse themselves in the country’s literary scene while enjoying a cup of coffee. The atmosphere in Barefoot is really inviting, making it a perfect destination for both locals and tourists alike.

What’s Next

Next month, I’m heading back to an Arvon week-long writing retreat in Shropshire, this time focusing on nature writing – exploring landscapes, wildlife, and learning to capture in writing the intricate world around us. The Narrative Non-Fiction course I took last year was a game-changer for me. It gave me the time, space, and expert guidance to build the confidence I needed to start writing professionally, and it set me on the path to writing my book, Trekking Sri Lanka: More Than a Travel Guide. I’m so looking forward to diving deeper into my writing journey and continue exploring the power of storytelling.

If you know of any organisation that would be interested in hearing about my journey trekking across Sri Lanka, where I raised £30,000 to support community projects please ask them to reach out or let me know so I can contact them directly. They’ll hear about my trials, hidden trails, and the untold stories shared with me by locals, all while highlighting the impact of sustainable travel.

Contact me at ma***********@*****il.com