Paalam - The Bridge to Humanity was founded by healthcare professionals, community leaders and volunteers who shared a simple belief: everyone facing serious illness deserves good care, dignity and respect.
Our work began with a concern that remains at the centre of what we do. Access to quality palliative care is not the same for everyone. Language, culture, location, resources and a lack of awareness can all make it harder for people and families to get the support they need.
In Australia, we work with multicultural communities to improve understanding of palliative care, advance care planning and available support. We also support awareness of stem cell donation and cancer screening.
Overseas, we work with hospitals, healthcare professionals and local organisations to strengthen palliative care services and respond to practical needs in communities where resources are limited.
Our first international flagship project was ARAVANAI, the End-of-Life Care Unit at Base Hospital Tellipalai in Jaffna, Sri Lanka.
We do not believe that one organisation can solve these challenges alone. Our approach is to work with people who understand their communities, listen to what is needed and contribute our skills, time and resources where they can be useful.
Paalam is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). Our full profile and annual financial reports are publicly available on the ACNC website ↗ (opens in a new tab, external site).
Paalam means "bridge" across several South Asian languages. A bridge connects people and places that would otherwise remain apart - that idea reflects how we work.
Our aim is simple: to help make good healthcare more accessible to people who might otherwise struggle to reach it.
When we build bridges of compassion, we create a future where every person can live - and die - with dignity, comfort and hope.
Health professionals and community members across Australia and South Asia who volunteer their expertise and time. No one draws a salary.
Dr Ganes Pranavan is a Medical Oncologist with a strong interest in improving the quality of life of people living with serious and incurable illness. He leads Paalam's work to strengthen palliative care and healthcare services in communities where access remains limited.
Senthan is an Anaesthetist with more than twenty years of experience working in Sri Lanka and Australia. He draws on his clinical experience to help bridge knowledge and healthcare service gaps within communities with the greatest need.
Dr Sivaraj Rajadorai is a Senior Palliative Care Physician with international experience across more than five countries. He contributes to Paalam's palliative care education and training, with a particular interest in culturally appropriate care.
Kuga Kugathas has a background in engineering, management and the not-for-profit sector. He supports Paalam's financial management, governance and organisational development.
Thuraisamy Ravichander is a Radiation Oncology Medical Physics Specialist with an interest in health equity and access to care. He supports Paalam's work to build relationships and explore future opportunities with First Nations communities.
Senthan Sanchayan brings experience in corporate organisations, communications and creative agencies. He supports Paalam's communications, community engagement and public profile.
Prasha Kamalaharan is an IT professional with experience in event coordination and marketing. She supports Paalam's community events and fundraising activities.
Rukshika Jeganathan has a background in banking, sales and finance and brings strong organisational and people skills to Paalam's events and community activities.
Shashi Senthan has a background in engineering, project management and ICT solution delivery. He supports Paalam's digital platforms, technology and internal processes.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
