Draft:Vincent Subasinghe

Subasinghe Mudiyanselage Vincent Subasinghe (March 29, 1906 – August 24, 1985) was a Sri Lankan Philanthropist, Social worker and Social activist and also considered the pioneer of country's cooperative movement. Often hailed as the "Gandhi of Sandalankawa" and the "Cooperative King of Sri Lanka", he has contributed immensely to the Sri Lankan socio-economic landscape.

Early Life and Education
Born into prominent Subasinghe family in Sandalankawa, Vincent Subasinghe, initially known as Wimaladharma, received his foundational education at Hendiyagala Village School. His pursuit of knowledge continued at St. Mary's College in Negombo and  Ananda College. Notably, it was during his schooling years that he was bestowed with the name 'Vincent' by Father Bitton, the English principal of St. Mary's College.

Philanthropy and Social Services
Vincent Subasinghe spent most of his time, energy and personal wealth for uplifting the lives of Sri Lanka's marginalized communities. He championed initiatives in public banking and the cooperative sector, seeking to alleviate the economic hardships faced by rural populations.

Cooperative Movement
In 1939, Vincent Subasinghe laid the foundation for the Sandalanka Cooperative, a humble venture that later became "Asia's Largest Cooperative." His visionary leadership transformed the cooperative movement, empowering farmers and landowners not only in Sandalankawa but also across the Sathkorala region. Through his guidance, the cooperative enterprise diversified its activities, encompassing coconut milling, copra plantations, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare services.

Personal Sacrifices and Leadership
Vincent Subasinghe's unwavering commitment to cooperative principles led him to forgo personal gains and dedicate his life to the service of others. Despite lucrative opportunities in engineering and banking, he chose to champion the cause of rural development through cooperative endeavors. His charismatic leadership and tireless efforts garnered widespread admiration and respect, inspiring countless individuals to join the cooperative movement.

Legacy
Vincent Subasinghe's legacy transcends generations, embodying the transformative potential of compassion, dedication, and cooperative spirit. He pioneered cooperative farming and played a pivotal role in establishing the People's Bank (Sri Lanka), leaving an indelible imprint on Sri Lanka's socioeconomic fabric. His selfless contributions continue to resonate, shaping the trajectory of community development and social welfare initiatives. Additionally, Vincent was the founder of Sandalanka Central College, a testament to his commitment to education and community development.

Family
Vincent Subasinghe, as the elder brother, played a pivotal role in guiding and advising Tikiri Banda Subasinghe throughout their collaborative endeavors. Tikiri Banda, serving as the 7th Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, benefitted from Vincent's wisdom and experience, particularly in matters concerning leadership, governance, and public service. Vincent's visionary guidance provided a strong foundation for Tikiri Banda's tenure as Speaker, allowing him to navigate the complexities of parliamentary proceedings with confidence and effectiveness. Together, their partnership exemplified the importance of familial support and collaboration in driving positive change and advancing the nation's interests. The Subasinghe family's legacy stands as a testament to their shared commitment to leadership, cooperation, and service to the people of Sri Lanka.

Death and Legacy
Vincent Subasinghe died in Sandalankawa on August 24, 1985.His legacy lives on through the enduring impact of his cooperative initiatives and his profound influence on Sri Lanka's socioeconomic landscape. The Sandalanka Cooperative Hospital and Sandalanka national School, which he pioneered, stands as testaments to his unwavering commitment to community welfare.

Vincent Subasinghe's life and work remain integral to Sri Lanka's history, serving as a model for future generations of social reformers and philanthropists. His journey underscores the transformative power of cooperation and collective action in building inclusive and resilient communities.