Neeliya

Travel information

I am currently

Activities i am interested in:

After nearly five years abroad, I came back to Bologna for a few months, and I’d love to meet new people and build genuine connections!

Description

Hi🌞

I’m Neeliya, I've just came back from spending a few months travelling in India soaking up the vibrant energy of Kolkata during my exchange semester.

My journey has taken me across many places. I grew up in Italy with Sri Lankan roots, spent almost three years living in Portugal, and two years in Germany for my Master’s.

I’ve never been one to stay in one place for too long. Over the years, I’ve studied and worked in Spain, the UK, Greece, Lisbon and the island of Madeira, always looking for ways to immerse myself in new cultures.

Two years ago, I spent three months backpacking solo across Southeast Asia, visiting Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. I had the opportunity to fully dive into local cultures, connecting deeply with diverse communities while volunteering.

For me, Workaway it’s about making genuine connections and contributing meaningfully wherever I go. I’ve dedicated much of my volunteer work to teaching English to children and women in remote villages, empowering communities through education. My experiences also include working on community development projects and sustainability initiatives, as well as using my skills in social media and event planning during my time volunteering at the University of Bologna.

I’m simply someone who values genuine human connections. I love hearing people’s stories, exchanging ideas, and being surrounded by positive, inspiring individuals.

Growing up in Sri Lanka inspired me to help communities and support those who have less. I dream of one day founding a nonprofit project dedicated to creating equal opportunities, especially for women, by providing fair working conditions and empowering them toward true independence. I also hope to inspire a broader shift toward mindful living, encouraging others to embrace ethical and responsible choices in their everyday lives.

I’ll leave you with one of my favourite quotes from Martin Luther King
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?"

Interests

Politics / Social justice

Van life

Self development

Drawing & painting

Sailing / Boating

Events & social

Cooking & food

Plant care

Languages

Hitchhiking

Gardening

Art & design

Yoga / Wellness

Beach

Dancing

Camping

Charity work

Culture

Sustainability

Writing

Videography

Music

Photography

Nature

Languages

Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
Italian: Fluent
Sinhalese: Fluent
French: Intermediate
Portuguese: Intermediate
German: Beginner

More details about my language interests
I'm bilingual in Italian and Sinhala. I'm fluent in Spanish and English, I have C1 level of the IELTS certificate. I'm fluent also in Portuguese level B2. I'm learning French and German.

Find a language buddy

Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn

I'm interested in:  

Being an elderly companion

Animal Care

Art Projects

Gardening

DIY and building projects

House sitting

---

Some knowledge of:  

Creating/ Cooking family meals

Eco Projects

Hospitality/Tourism

Charity Work

---

Able to teach about:  

Babysitting and creative play

Languages

Helping with Computers/ Internet

Teaching

More details about your skills

I studied Economics and Business Management in Italy, and now I’m finishing my Master’s in International Management in Germany.

Photography is a true passion of mine, I love capturing people's stories through both photography and videography. Creativity is at the heart of everything I do.

I also have experience in digital media, having worked for Facebook and Instagram in Lisbon, where I helped small and medium-sized businesses manage their Ad accounts and Business accounts. My work on social and sustainable entrepreneurship projects has deepened my commitment to making a positive impact.

In addition, I volunteered for a year at the University of Bologna’s Botanic Garden Museum with the SMA association. I also spent many years as a babysitter and teacher, and I’ve been involved in social projects working with children with autism and down syndrome.

I can cook you some authentic homemade Italian and Sri Lankan dishes, bringing a taste of my heritage wherever I go.

Age

25

What else ...

I’m passionate about photography and enjoy singing whenever I get the chance. Lately, I’ve been learning to play the ukulele, which has been a fun and rewarding challenge.

I practise yoga and meditation, which help me slow down and reconnect with myself. I’m also excited to learn new skills like surfing, slacklining, and skateboarding.

Spending time in nature, gardening, and caring for plants brings me a sense of calm and peace. I’m drawn to the idea of living in a community where people support and share with each other.

I love living by the ocean. Growing up in Sri Lanka, the sea was a big part of my life, and I’m always drawn to it. I could spend every day watching sunsets on the beach.

Some more information

• 

  Smoker

• 

  Driver's licence

• 

  Allergies

• 

  Special dietary requirements