Family Destroyed by Fire at Christmas

Refugees as Survivors New Zealand is deeply saddened to learn of the death of our dear friend and colleague Kailesh Thanabalasingham.  In the last few days he had shown signs of improvement which makes his loss all the more devastating.

Kailesh’s life encapsulates the spirit of what it means to be a refugee. He arrived in New Zealand with nothing.  Within just a few years he created a safe place for his family to grow up, built a very successful career and worked tirelessly to support his own community and new refugee families settling in New Zealand.  He touched the lives of so many people with his warm and sunny nature and his compassion and determination to make a difference. New Zealand is a richer place as a result of his efforts to foster a humane and inclusive society where all people are respected and valued.

Refugees as Survivors extend our love and sympathy to his daughter and family members. The Give a Little page will remain open and all donations will go into a trust for Kailesh’s 11 year old daughter, Krishah, who is the sole survivor of the fire that claimed her family’s lives.

Dr Ann Hood

Chief Executive Officer

Refugees as Survivors NZ