In this episode, Emma has a heartfelt conversation with Jetha Devapura, an inspiring CEO and philanthropist who immigrated from Sri Lanka to Australia at the age of 12.

Together, they discuss Jetha’s memories of his childhood in Colombo and his transition to life in Australia as a teenager. Jetha shares his academic struggles and eventual success, highlighting the impact of environment on personal growth. He recounts a pivotal moment in his life following his diagnosis of OCD, and the development of his three life virtues: courage, compassion, and commitment.

Jetha discusses his philanthropic endeavours, including building a 194-bed cancer transit home and initiating a Lifeline centre in Sri Lanka, significantly impacting mental health and suicide rates. He also introduces his “Let’s Talk” program aimed at fostering psychological safety and resilience in schools. Their conversation converges on the importance of authenticity, resilience, and the inner journey of self-worth. Jetha's story is a testament to making meaningful change and creating a better community both locally and globally.

Follow Jetha's work:

Website: https://letstalkprogram.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jetha-devapura-576a2a6/

Chapters:

(00:00) – Introduction to Jetha Devapura

(02:01) – Childhood Memories in Sri Lanka

(03:38) – Migration Journey & Family Sacrifices

(06:10) – School Struggles and Turning Point

(10:39) – OCD Diagnosis and Path to Healing

(13:59) – Building Sri Lanka’s Largest Cancer Transit Home

(16:02) – Launching Lifeline Sri Lanka

(19:39) – Creating the Let’s Talk Program

(22:58) – Psychological Safety & Authenticity

(35:32) – Final Reflections on Self-Worth and Belonging

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Thank you for listening to From There To Here!

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I was your host Emma Bellamy, and I can’t wait to bring you on another journey From There to Here!

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This podcast brought to you in partnership with Kintsugi Heroes. To find out more, head to kintsugiheroes.com.au.