Pulse Issue 010

ISSUE 010 | MAY/JUNE Rs. 400/- UK £6.00 US $15.00

Health Coping with a

Crisis

Fashion

Koshe

Styles Colombo

Shalin

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PUBLISHING HOUSE: Mango Publishers (Pvt) Ltd. No. 320, T.B. Jayah Mawatha, Colombo 10, Sri Lanka.

Tel: 00 94 115 882 662

EDITORIAL: Mayanthi Hatharasinghe (Events) Sachitha Kalingamudali (Digital)

GUEST WRITERS: Aanisha Cuttilan Aazam Ameen Ashwini Vethakan Christalin Casinader Deana Claessen Harith Wirasinha Nawya Ponnamperuma Renushi Ubeyratne Saruchi Dissanayake Vandana Hiranand

LAYOUT: Indika Anuradha (Design Consultant) Ian Mark Subramaniam

SALES & MARKETING: Binoth Geeganage binoth@mangopublishers.lk Walidh Jiffry walidh@mangopublishers.lk

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Dimitri Crusz

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Aruna Alwis Kasun Dheegodagamage Kaveeth Milinda Ramesh Roshan Ravindra Laksiru R.P. Romesh S S L Aarachchi

SPECIAL THANKS: Janeeth Rodrigo Lisa Perera

PRINTERS: Printage (Pvt) Ltd.

CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mango Publishing Pvt. Ltd. Sales Office: 45/6, Alwis Place, Colombo 03 Tel: +94 11 588 26 62 sales@mangopublishers.lk No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without prior written permission of the publisher.

This issue of Pulse is the first since the tragic events of Easter Sunday and the contents reflect the somber mood that has enveloped our nation since then. The anxieties and insecurities that have followed have only been made worse by manipulations and machinations seeking narrow ends. Sri Lankans have the capacity of rising above the forces that seek to divide us – we must overcome and stand resurgent by tapping into the resilience that is so intrinsically ours.

Shalin Balasuriya, who features on our cover, spoke to us at length about his many personas – doting husband and besotted new dad, the little brother, connoisseur of fashion and art, travel addict, avid cook who hates washing up… Shalin speaks of building the Spa Ceylon entity and offers great insights to budding entrepreneurs, extolling the importance of creating their own infrastructure and markets, and hiring the right people so that they can focus on what’s important. The most compelling message in the interview is Shalin’s strong belief in Sri Lanka and its potential, and his pride in being able to showcase Sri Lanka to the world through Spa Ceylon.

Our fashion exclusives feature trailblazing fashion designer and entrepreneur Koshe, who speaks of his mission to change the fashion game of Sri Lanka; Achala Leekoh – a designer who draws from her mixes Sri Lankan Indonesian heritage and Tutu – an artisan brand of handcrafted designer handbags made in Sri Lanka.

We interviewed rugby personality and Former CEO of Sri Lanka Rugby Priyantha Ekanayake who spoke candidly about the state of sports in Sri Lanka, and reminisced about his journey from a schoolboy to playing rugby at the highest levels.

Inside this edition, we also speak with Nivendra Uduman, counselling psychologist and psychotherapist who shares insights into coping after a crisis; it is essential reading on how to deal with the aftermath of terror attacks such as those of April 21st.

Pulse magazine is published in co-operation with Pulse website www.pulse.lk

Colombo has been quiet and its event calendar has been a subdued one, so we’ve only featured a few key events in this magazine. As a sense of normalcy is restored, the city is slowly rediscovering its rhythm and we hope to feature many more exciting happenings next time.

Enjoy Pulse!

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in this edition of Instafamous

Food

64 Page

102 Page

Culture Colombo

56 Page

Travel

Senali

Best Places to Visit for Your

Staycation

Sports

Fashion

86 Page

Priyantha Ekanayake Sporting Words of Wisdom

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98 Page

Lookout for

Leekoh

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Koshe

Styles

Colombo

Meet Koshe, Colombo’s energetic, sassy, and fabulous designer cum stylist. Emerging as the youngest fashion designer to appear on an international platform in 2015, Koshe began working with a star-studded clientele that includes Miss France for the Miss Supra and Miss Grand International Pageants. The owner and founder of his own antique jewellery line and the current Model Manager to the Agency, Sri Lanka, Koshe is blazing a trail that many fashion entrepreneurs and fashion lovers should most definitely take note of. This is a self-made fashionista is on a mission: to change the fashion game in Sri Lanka.

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Q. What drew you to the industry and how did you find your way in such a demanding industry?

A. I started off as a fashion designer, my work mainly targeted the masses but eventually I worked my way up and reached the starry side of Colombo as a celebrity fashion designer. A few years ago though, I started working along side many of our more high end local brands as a stylist and realized that this was another area in the sector that I could excelled in.

I eventually partnered up with my dear friend Manasha De Silva and created a brand known as The Two Broke Stylists. This gave us the opportunity to work alongside many mass market brands, high-end local names, and also gave us the platform we needed to reach out and work with many international brands.

I think what drew me into the whole area was the idea of being able to play dress up- to take a model and style her anyway I liked and thought suited her best! I also liked to scout hidden talent, by this I mean to be able to look around a crowd and find the star. Take a woman who didn’t know she even had it in her and turn her into a well-known and top-rated fashion model, be it in Sri Lanka or internationally. However, I didn’t have the right company or work with the right people in the beginning to help me scout out new talent so what I ended up doing was I’d use these women in a photoshoot with my own brands and then introduce them to the industry. That was probably how I got into the industry and how it first started for me- now I’m the head Model Scout and Manager at the Agency Sri Lanka.

Q. Which fashion moguls would you say you look up to?

A. There are 3 main ones in my book- the first I’d say is Gianni Versace, I loved how he always managed to make a woman appear more feminine- I fell in love with his ideas and how he made women appear more powerful and sexy. The second would be Tyra Banks because what she does for the industry is just an inspiration- she helps women and men achieve their dreams when it comes to becoming the ultimate face or model. And 3rd I’d pick our very own Otara, she inspired me when it came to how I would find my way around the industry.

She came from money and had many connections yet chose to make it on her own. That is something I admire.

Q. Have you ever been placed in an awkward position where the photographer or model you are working with simply didn’t like your choices- if so, how do you rectify the problems?

A. Well if it’s a styling job I also carry back ups but if it is a design job then I usually have three to four sketches ready for the client to get a heads-up about which they designs they prefer and want to move ahead with. If it’s a photoshoot, I make certain to have a meeting prior to the day and we will discuss the mood boards, sketches and the general look and feel that I plan on going with. I believe that its easier to do it that way and iron out all matters before the day of the shoot if not we just pile on added stress.

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Q. What are your go-to colours and preferred wardrobe choices when styling?

A. That depends really, if it’s a high-end client or brand I feel safer choosing neutral coloursI like to stick with whites, nudes, greys and tones of blush. If its mass market it tends to depend on the job that I do; for example, if it’s a local actress then I definitely want to glam it up and go on the glittery side of things! I want my clients to stand out- the more questions they ask about my wardrobe choices, the more my brand gets out there!

Personally though, say I’m styling myself- I prefer simple prints, kimonos; my outfits have more of a feminine and chic vibe.

Q. How do you deal with a wardrobe malfunction?

A. Touch wood- but for as long as my career has been, I’ve never had a wardrobe malfunction. However, I am always prepared!

I carry my styling kit with me- I’ve got everything I could possibly need in there!

From strapless bras to a mini sewing machine!

Q. Is there anything in particular you plan on doing to help the fashion industry over the next few years?

The plan is to gather the cream of the crop in the fashion industry and give them a chance to battle it out for the title of Ultimate Designer of the Year. I then plan on taking the winner under my wing to help him/ her advance in his or her design careergiving them an opportunity to work on an international platform. Another goal that I have is one that is very similar to what Tyra Banks does- I want to help women reach their dreams and help them in achieving a title similar to “Sri Lanka’s next top model”.

Favourites Round: • Favourite food Pizza

• Favourite music Anything with Taylor Swift

• Favourite designers both international and local Locally I’m a huge fan of Lovi Ceylon and Charini. International wise, I adore Lois London

A. I’m planning on hosting a competition for all emerging designers in Sri Lanka.

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Adventures of a Mixologist As written before in Pulse, for the last months I have been working hard with the Angel Beach team to set up a completely new concept in Sri Lanka. Although I have been living for almost five years in this beautiful country, I still feel every day I still have lots to learn and to discover.

As an European I try create a concept with more international influences and this is where I often strongly feel the cultural differences. The typical behaviour, appearance, and creations of Sri Lankan bartenders are very different from what I used to do in Belgium. I have invested a lot of energy trying to change the mindset and get the team to see things differently, and now, I start to see the results.

One of the big differences, and certainly compared to the hipster bars in Europe, is how bartenders look. In Europe, the hippest bartenders often have full sleeved tattoos, nice beards and moustaches or even long hair. In Sri Lanka, this is certainly not the norm, and its often even seen as dirty or bad.

Another big difference is the behaviour of the teams in the different countries. When I was a waiter or a bartender, I used to do a shot with the guest once in a while. Not to the point I was completely drunk or even tipsy, but enough to build stronger relationships with my guests, increase the revenue of the bar and dance when I heard a tune that I like.

Sometimes, even names of cocktails are frowned upon.

While ‘Sex on The Beach’ is already accepted here, it seems a lot harder to put classic cocktails such as a Slippery Nipple, Sloe Comfortable Screw or a Pornstar Martini on the menu. The first time I proposed such a name, colleagues looked at me as if I was a pervert.

The Heavenly

G&T

A recipe designed for Angel Beach in Talpe, hence the name. Super refreshing and easy to make at home.

What you need:

How to make

• 50 ml London Dry Gin

• Pour the gin in the Champagne glass

• 10 ml vanilla syrup

• Add 10 ml vanilla syrup and 1 dash of bitters

• 1 dash Aromatic Bitters (or Angostura bitters) • High quality tonic

• Top off with a half part tonic and a half part sparkling wine or champagne

• Sparkling wine or Champagne

• Garnish with a flower

I understand cultural differences, and try to take these into account while creating the concept, but the tourism industry also caters to an international market, so I do try to bring some change: I stimulate my team to grow a wellgroomed beard or get a nice tattoo. I ask them to dance for at least 5 minutes a day, sometimes even on the bar.

And yes, I am developing a twist on the classic ‘Dark and Stormy cocktail’ to put on the menu, thinking I’ll call it the ‘Dark and Horny”.

Jeroen Misseghers is a mixologist, whose passion is to create distinctive customized cocktails that draw inspiration from an occasion or hosts or guests, weaving a story into the drink served. Jeroen finds Sri Lanka an amazing place for a mixologist, with its many fascinating spices, teas and tropical fruit. He runs Dash of Lanka www.dashoflanka.com

To make the Vanilla syrup • Mix 500 ml hot water with • Pour everything in a clean 500 grams sugar and stir bottle and drop the vanilla until fully dissolved pods in the bottle • Cut two vanilla pods open • Infuse for 3-5 days and scrape the delicious • (This syrup will remain vanilla out of the pod and good for two weeks if mix in the syrup stored in the fridge)

EME Awards 2019

eMarketingEye, the award-winning Sri Lankan Digital Marketing Agency and a pioneer in the industry, felicitated their top-performing employees for the previous year at the EME Awards 2019

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Dilini

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Mayuri

Rashmi

Gehanya

Charithya

Shevon

Udara

Nishmi

Chandima

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Tashya

Elmo

Gehanya

Gayathrie

Sean

Renuka

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Elmo

Eshan

Chanduni

Mark

Joe

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Anndreino

Christina

Hiran

Wine and Cheese Tasting at the Galle Face Hotel

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Andreana

The Galle Face Hotel recently hosted an evening of fine wine and decadent cheese at the 1864, Colombo’s premier fine dining restaurant.

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Shalini

Dimitri

Thulika

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Senuri

Christina

Niroshi

Moin

Natalia

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Narelle

Ramal

Tyner and Nalinka

Deepak

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Avesha

Navin

Kalpanee

Island in the sun Dear Fellow Humans,

Some of you may know Sri Lanka from the recent news, some of you may have tried our exquisite cinnamon or world-famous Ceylon tea, some of you may have visited the island on holiday, some of you may have left during the civil war, some of you may have chosen to come reside on the island and make it your home, some of you may have been born there, and for some of you this maybe the first time you’re hearing of this island nation, lying off the Southern tip of India, and aptly named the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.

I write to you all.

This is the story of my island in the sun. The little and well known facts and figures about my home, my people, my forever paradise.

I love that my island home has more cultural heritage than any other island of its size can ever boast, because that is Sri Lanka.

I love that we understand when one of our friends is fasting during Ramadan, one of our friends is observing Lent, one of our friends is taking “sil” in temple, and one of our friends is doing a Pooja for Mahasivarathri, because that level of understanding and friendship, is the glory of Sri Lanka.

I love that we all have the same local remedies for a cold or cough or headache or stomach ache, and that it has Panadol and Sidhalepa balm and kothamalli as its core, because that is what it feels like when you’re having the flu in Sri Lanka.

I love that we unite against anything for a game of cricket, because 1996 will always feel like yesterday, and where Susanthika’s Olympic silver medal in 200m women’s track will always be ingrained in our memories, that is unity in Sri Lanka.

I love that we have extended families that are probably more up to date with our social lives on their CNN (curry news network) than news channels are with breaking news, because that is the comedy of Sri Lanka.

I love that we are a nation, a people, a place, where food makes everything go around, and that you won’t go hungry - not even your enemy will, if they come home, because these are the values of Sri Lanka.

I love that it’s always time to have a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea and “put a chat”, because that is the beautiful attitude of Sri Lanka.

I love that even the poorest farmer will cook you a meal and give you his bed to sleep on if you’ve got no place to go - regardless of if you’re foreign or local (my friends who’ve

I love that we have national holidays that reflect the significance for every faith (i.e. with the most number of national holidays in the world,)and that we get the best of festive food from our neighbours because, that is the diversity of Sri Lanka.

I love that people will stop and help you on the road if you’ve lost your way, even when they are busy themselves, because that is the simplicity of Sri Lanka.

I love that we don’t need a reason to celebrate and have a good time from coast to coast, to the blessed hill country, because that is the feeling of Sri Lanka.

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visited and travelled around the island tell me the stories), because that is the humane spirit of Sri Lanka.

I love that grandparents automatically and voluntarily become babysitters who are paid by love and not by money, because that is what family is like in Lanka.

I love that we can’t even make eggs in the morning without spicing it up or having it with some coconut “pol sambol”, because that is what breakfast is like in Sri Lanka.

I love that the gift of giving through “dansal” (free food stalls during full moon Poya days) or and regular charity and zakat(annual % of your wealth to charity) are part and parcel of

waterfalls and the tea plantations and all its breathtaking views - all in one day, because that is what a long weekend is like in Sri Lanka.

Republic of Sri Lanka, where your healthcare (including dental care) and education, will always be free, because they are basic human rights in the Constitution of Sri Lanka.

I love that no soul is left behind regardless of age and gender, and that every sole is on the dance floor especially when the Baila (Portuguese influenced musical genre) music comes on, because that is what every party is like in Sri Lanka.

I love that we have a “paradise island complex” that is so real that you get withdrawal symptoms when you leave her shores, and nothing ever seems to match up to it, no matter what highway or Broadway you experience. Because this is where our souls are most at home - in stunning Sri Lanka.

I love how everyone “puts in their two cents worth” in on everything even when they are not asked of their opinion. - we colloquially call it “pana pana service”, because that is the freedom of speech in Sri Lanka.

I love that you can wake up to watch the sunrise on the east coast and wind down to the sunset on the west coast and that no Instagram filter can ever capture its majestic light. Because you have to actually see it with your own eyes, and that’s the serendipity of Sri Lanka.

everyday life on the isle. Because that is what everyday generosity is like in Sri Lanka.

I love that every city and town feel like they are celebrating Christmas and New Year, and, if you have seen our lights and decor you would realize that we love “overdoing it” in Lankan style, because that the grandeur of Sri Lanka.

I love that anyone can be your “machang” or friend, even if you’ve just met them because friendship and community matters and will always be the threads that build the bulk of our social fabric. Because personal will always be universal, and we all know that, in Sri Lanka.

I love that we all agree that we have one of the hardest and most beautiful national flags to colour in primary school, with the most courageous lion tribe on it - our tribe.

Because that is what it is like being a kid and going to school in Sri Lanka.

I love that we can have the ocean and the wildlife and ancient relics and the

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I love that we all agree that east or west, “kottu roti” (The street food you can dance to the sound of it being made, you need to try it because you’re missing out) is the best. Because that is how a good night always ends in Sri Lanka.

I love that we always invite our global friends to come visit our stunning mosaic of serendipity and then offer to be their personal tour guides around the island, as we have so much to show them of home, because that is what national pride looks like in Sri Lanka.

I love how Sri Lankan parents don’t inflate you or talk about any of your achievements while you’re around, because they always instill humility in you, but will be ever so proud of you in their social circles, because that’s what parenting looks like in Sri Lanka.

I love that unlike anywhere else in the world, we can proudly identify as Democratic Socialists because after all, we are the Democratic Socialist

I love that we’ve been born into the tradition of Ayurveda and healing and that ingrained in our social systems, is the aligning of body and mind, and which has been practiced for millennia, because this is what mindfulness looks like in Sri Lanka.

I love that we smile through successes and failures alike, our pains and sorrows alike, and even through the tears, synonymously all across the island, not because we have to, but because the most radical and rebellious choice you can make in life is to be optimistic, because this is who we are in Sri Lanka.

And I hope you have your smile on as you read this.

Because above all, I love that I can say, I am Sri Lankan. And, I know you do too.

To my fellow humans across the shores, Firstly thank you for sharing your heart warming stories of your time on my isle and for letting me know that these recent events won’t stop you from visiting this paradise, again. It speaks volumes of how you appreciate the beauty, simplicity and humane values that we possess as an island nation.

If you’ve been one of lucky ones to visit Sri Lanka or have lived there, you may have experienced some of these things, as did I growing up here; and if you haven’t, know

Take your time to heal, and let your minds, bodies and souls go through the phases of wound healing - hemostasis, reparative and remodelling. It’s important that you let that happen.

I choose to tell and share stories of the harmony of my people and I will amplify these stories. Because these are the stories, I choose to hold close to my heart, during this time of grief. Because like attracts like, that’s physics.

You may want to do that too to remind yourself of who we are at our core being.

this. I can assure that that my island will always welcome you because this is who we are. “Sri Lankan hospitality” has always been a thing and will always be a thing to you can come home to.

To my islanders, I say this.

There will always be evil around us. That is the reality of anything that tries to surround and the capture beauty and grace of a people, of a place, of a part of this universe. Always remember that an attack of any sort on one Sri Lankan, is an attack on all Sri Lankans.

Because we are all living - breathing - human cells in the body of our precious island.

So at this time of unsurpassable grief, as we put our lives back together, here are some of things my heart hopes for right now...

I hope that if you’re a teacher, teaching the impressionable future minds of society, you use your superpowers of making someone understand a concept to open their minds to the concept that diversity is strength. You are also the moral compass in a class, and I hope that you use that to guide to ensure that bullying of any sort is not tolerated in your classrooms. Have you heard about plants and talking to them kindly?

I hope that if you’re a doctor, you remember why you decided to become one - to do no harm and to save and change lives.

I hope that if you’re an engineer, you use your intellect and skills to help rebuild the communities affected by these mass atrocities.

I hope that if you’re a religious leader, you protect your interfaith community fiercely, with love. Let New Zealand inspire us.

I hope that if you’re an entrepreneur, you use your capital leverage to create and facilitate spaces of good will - and make these places as inclusive - as Sri Lankan as it can get.

I hope that if you’re a local community leader, you know that you don’t need to have been elected to do and spread goodness within your neighbourhoods and communities.

We have to put back the displaced segments of our social fabric together one piece at a time. But before we do that, we need to identify our wounds.

Let our island and it’s fun living, laid back, (over)achieving humans inspire a thousand stories of comradeship and gratitude throughout the world. Because always remember, that the power of the people will be greater than the people in power – that’s what a living - breathing - compassionate democracy is all about.

And let us spread that love and kindness above all through example, by the way we live our daily lives.

Because you can try to break a Sri Lankan’s heart, but never our spirit.

We shall rebuild.

Sri Lanka has given me the foundation of principles upon which I have been able to build my life and my values, and for that I am eternally grateful to my umbilical connection with this piece of magic in the Indian Ocean.

Ayubowan. Wannakkam. Assalamu alaikum.

These are all just different ways we say, may peace be with you, and good vibes all the way.

Away from where it is sunny 365 days of the year (a.k.a. Sri Lanka) SJ Written by: Sarah Jameel - Dentistry Student, Writer, Activist, Humanitarian, Sri Lankan and Canadian. Sarah is a writer/blogger at the Huffington Post and also writes via Medium on issues that she deems require attention on a global scale.

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Shalin the class act

Meet Shalin Balasuriya, the youngest son of the pioneer of Sri Lankan beauty, Janet Balasuriya.

The charismatic and patriotic co-founder and Director of the internationally renowned Spa Ceylon with an ambition for world domination!

But take the brand away from the man and who do we have? Shalin was kind enough to spare us a few minutes and simply talk. We’ve learned a lot about the youngest Balasuriya and who he really is and it comes as no surprise that he is just as riveting as his brand.

Learn more about the business man, family man, adventure seeker, food lover and art connoisseur.

01

We’ve all heard of Shalin of Spa Ceylon, could you tell us a little bit about Shalinthe person?

The person... well I’m the youngest of my siblings with my oldest sibling being 25 years older to me and the closest sibling about 13 years older to me, I basically grew up around my nephews and nieces I’ve lived in Sri Lanka my entire childhood I started my education at St. Peters, then moved to St. Nicholas and eventually to the British School of Colombo. I headed out to Australia soon after to attend university and let’s just say that the minute I finished my final exam, I flew right back to Sri Lanka, as I never really had any aspirations of living anywhere else. I’m very much rooted to my country- I am proud to say I’m Sri Lankan and always wanted to build my life here and be able to project our great Sri Lankan roots to the world. I’m extremely grateful that I got the opportunity to do so with Spa Ceylon.

Every time we open up a new outlet around the world we feel great to be able to take Sri Lanka to that part of the world- wherever it may be.

In general though I’m a very positive person; I love people, food, art and architectureanything to do with creativity really, is something that I admire and appreciate.

02

Tell us a little bit about your relationship with your brother Shiwantha and how the concept for Spa Ceylon came to be?

Shiwantha is the sibling just before me, so if at all he’s the brother that I grew up with.

Essentially how it started was, I had just got back from university and quite by accident ended up working for the family brand which is Janet. Shiwantha was the CEO there so I started off as a Management Trainee and worked my way up. Within a few years I was Marketing Manager- this was in the mid 2000s. It was at this time that we started looking at ways to take the Janet brand international but being a mass market brand, and unless you’ve produced the product in the given country, it was a bit of a challenge

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to work out. So we were looking at ways to create something that had reach outside of Sri Lanka. We were pretty much plugged into the cosmetic and personal care industries at that stage. We also noticed that people were slowing looking at greener and cleaner options and our research at the time also noticed that people were looking to older sciences as well and we just sat back and thought- hey wait a minute- we have this amazing science of Ayurveda right here in Sri Lanka, however, its presentation and look to make it a brand is what was lacking. We then worked on ways to create a brand and a line of products that had the goodness and the science of ayurveda but with a more appealing delivery. That’s basically how we first started to conceptualise Spa Ceylon.

We are now looking at our tenth year! And will be soon opening our 90th store globally!

It has been a helluva journey but it’s one we are so proud of and excited to see what more we will achieve.

03

Can you explain the major roles that came into play when the two of you decided to venture forth with Spa Ceylon?

Well most definitely it would have to be our mother. We grew up in a household where we basically watched our mother create Sri Lanka’s first beauty brand. She created the first salon chain in Sri Lanka, the first beauty school in Sri Lanka, and first line of homebased beauty brands or products in Sri Lanka, and we watched all this take flight right under our roof. We watched her create her beauty products from our pantry! Her first salon was attached to our house! There was one stage when she started the beauty school, and the school too was attached to the house!

We saw all the hard work she put in and the perseverance that went into making the business and that definitely rubbed off on us!

She never once pressured us or expected us to join the business, however in time we all did eventually find our way there!

My sister Shereen was the first to join the business as a hairdresser and beautician, and then Shiwantha joined soon after university.

Charmaine moved back from Australia and joined the company a few years later. I, as I mentioned, joined by accident!

I had just finished my final interviews for a multinational in Sri Lanka when one of our managers who was supposed to attend an international fair suddenly had to leave. There was nobody to take over so suddenly, so I accidentally kind of stepped in and once I had done that, I just decided to stay on.

There were two things my mother definitely insisted on: that we get a proper education and that we kept to our faith which in our case was Catholicism. The rest was really up to us. Now when you take a step back and look- the family business sure has grown and it is just great to see all the members, old and new who have joined us. Apart from Sheri, Shiwantha and myself, my sister Charmaine is the Head of Finance, one of our nieces now heads our spa services and we have a nephew who heads our international business. It’s amazing how everyone was qualified and how it just gelled together. It’s precious to see how every aspect came together! It’s been a blessing, really.

04

Tell us about your wife, newfound fatherhood and who Shalin the family man really is.

I met my wife a long time ago! It’s been about twenty one years since I met my wife! I met her in school when I was at St. Nicholas, she was younger than me and she is the love of my life! We’ve been married for about five years now and we just welcomed our first baby, a baby girl! Her name is Skylar- and she is now two months. It’s been an amazing journey! Fatherhood is just an indescribable feeling. I mean you never know what it’s going to be like till it happens, and when it does it’s just a whirlwind of experiences and emotions! I can honestly say that the day she was born, everything else in my life just took one step back. She just took over everything!

05

How are you handling the late nights?

Oh no, she’s been a good baby. The first couple of weeks she kept us up a while, but now she’s on her second month and she already sleeps through the night. She’s a really good baby and I want to be a hands on dad, so I don’t mind doing the bottle feeds or the late night diaper changes- I’m all in!

In general I’m a very positive person; I love people, food, art and architecture- anything to do with creativity really, is something that I admire and appreciate.

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grew up in a household where we basically watched “ourWemother create Sri Lanka’s first beauty brand. She created the first salon chain in Sri Lanka, the first beauty school in Sri Lanka and first line of home based beauty brands in Sri Lanka and we basically watched all this take flight right under our roof- I mean, we watched her create her beauty products from our pantry!

”

06

You are considered a foodie who travels the world through the foods he cookswhat drew you to cooking in the first place?

Cooking for me is the most relaxing thing.

I really enjoy it- the feeling of being able to create something from my own hands that people end up liking is just wonderful! It’s possibly the most accessible way of being creative too. I really started cooking when I was in Australia because I missed my rice.

Then I started enjoying cooking and since I loved to host my friends all the time it felt great to be able to share what I made with them and watch them enjoy it too. But I have to be honest; I don’t chop or wash up! Luckily we have help but yeah, cooking is the fun part not the chopping up or washing!

dressed to perfection! My mother was always perfectly attired and my father used to say “how you dress to someone else’s event is a reflection of how much respect you have for them and their event.” That is something that always stuck with me. It’s also something that’s fun as well- I feel men should be well groomed and should take more notice in that area and I have noticed that the younger generation does believe that too. People are far better dressed now than they were ten years ago!

08

Who would you consider your fashion icon?

Like I said my parents played a major role, but if I’m looking at people from an international level then I’d say Tom Ford and David Beckham.

09

As you mentioned, you love to support You are considered Sri Lankan one of Colombo’s designers- are there any local most fashionable men- what is your go to style? designers you love to work with?

07

Well, personal style is whatever I feel good and comfortable in. I travel a lot so I get to see a lot of new fashion as soon as they come out and I get to figure out what I’d like or not. I have a few brands I like so you tend to gravitate around the stuff they bring out, too because you’ve familiarised your style with that. Apart from that, I wear a lot of Sri Lankan brands as well. I think we really need to support our brands out there. We have some amazingly talented individuals and they have some quality garments, accessories and styles. I’d definitely support them.

There are a bunch of them actually! I work with a lot of designers who do a lot of custom made clothes or styles for me. One would be Envoy. They do a lot of bespoke clothing for me. I wear styles by Olive couture, Buddhi Batiks but at the same time, if there is a designer that I like, then I usually approach them and ask them to make me something.

For me I just need to make sure it is fitted properly. The advantage when working with local designers is you can approach them and ask them if they could do something bespoke for you and they say yes which is great!

In terms of dressing and grooming my parents played a major role. They were always

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10

Tell us a little bit about Pugsly?

Pugsly was actually driven by my wife. She wanted a pug about six years ago. We’ve had dogs growing up but I wasn’t really a dog person until Pugsly. I remember when we brought him home, he was so tiny he could fit in my palm! So initially when we got him I would keep him in the balcony and I’d say “Okay, let him be on the balcony”, that eventually became “Let him be in the hall” and now he sleeps on the bed with us!

He is a dog with the most amazing personality; it’s safe to say that before the baby, he was the baby of the house! Anyone who walked in had to show him attention! Even my Instagram followers show him so much love! He is so loving and very affectionate.

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11

With Skylar now in the picture, is he jealous?

Actually, he has chosen to ignore her at this point.

Since she’s in the cot most of the time, there isn’t much interaction between them. But I do sense that he can be a little jealous, so what I do is, as soon as I get home I first greet him and then head to Skylar!

Hopefully when she is about four months or so, we’ll introduce her to Puglsy.

But with me at work and Suzie on maternity leave, he is usually in the baby’s room just sitting and chilling out!

My father used to say “how you dress to someone else’s event is a reflection of how much respect you have for them and their event” and that is something that always stuck with me.

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12

What could you consider your biggest peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is people who complain about Sri Lanka but don’t want to do anything about it! I think where we are born is such a big part of us, it’s more or less brought us to where we are- we are a developing country and there is so much we can work on- political things aside! The thing that I think annoys me the most is people who live abroad and then come here and start to complain! Like “It’s too hot here!” or “There is so much traffic here!” Apart from that I’m not really someone who gets worked up. I’m generally relaxed, some even say too relaxed!

But yeah, it takes a bit to tick me off!

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13

Everybody knows Shalin the foodie, the art lover and the most stylish man in Colombo- is there anything the public does not know about you?

Well, I’m very strong in my faith, it was something that was inculcated into my family because of my mom but on a personal level, I think I really started to believe and follow when I was in my twenties, during which time I became heavily involved in my church. I ran youth groups and camps and I feel that period of my life really did help me build my relationship with God.

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14

With Spa Ceylon being the international success that it is, have you ever wondered what you would have done if you had not stepped into this business in the first place?

I think I would have ended up working for a multinational but chances are I would have deviated. I am a very creative person and very hands on. Some might think it’s an ego thing but I like to create something and appreciate the fact that I had input in making it that way.

So I guess, I don’t think I’d have lasted just listening and taking orders; I think that would have bored me. So I would have found some other creative field for sure.

15

Do you have a message for the younger entrepreneurs who plan to take their brand internationally?

I do. Firstly, something they need to realise is that they need to stop perceiving that starting off in Sri Lanka is a negative.

There are a lot who complain about our infrastructure or that the market not being ready. But what they need to understand is that everything they think isn’t working in Sri Lanka- they can use to their advantage!

For instance, the reason Sri Lanka is difficult is the reason that the international brands haven’t already come in. So brands like us got to go out and establish ourselves, if your infrastructure is not there, go ahead and build it yourself! Sri Lanka is small enough that you can do it too. Let’s also not forget that your networks are close enough so you can approach people! If the market is not ready- get out there and make the market! Segmenting the market is so easy!

I think another important factor they need to remember is that you literally have a controlled environment to use and test your product; you can settle all your kinks here before you leave and take it international, which is what we did!

When we started there was no real distribution channel for us to sell through.

So what did we do? We created our own PAGE 48 | www.pulse.lk

stores and then went into places that sold luxury brands like ODEL, Barefoot and Paradise Road. We followed the consumer and in turn created our own channel.

We established ourselves well enough that when international brands came in, we held strong.

So use the fact that we have this controlled and connected market, that is fairly basic to your advantage. Use it to create and incubate a brandperfect your brand so it’s ready for the international arena. That is what we do with every new product as well!

Shalin’s • Favourite Food is Sri Lankan- nothing beats a plate of rice and curry!

• Favourite Colour is Blue

• Favourite Spa Ceylon product is De-Stress body and pillow mist

• Favourite Genre of Music is R’n’B

• Favourite Musician is

Another fact a lot of younger Ed Sheeran entrepreneurs need to remember is to surround yourselves with the right more effectively and give out more personal people to ensure that you solutions to the consumer, which is great! are doing what you need to do to perfect We once did this little newspaper coupon your product and you are putting a majority with Janet where the consumer could write of your time into that bit of magic you bring asking for advice and we would receive sacks to your brand. If your strength is marketing, of responses that mother had to hand write stick to the marketing of the brand, and and send! So sometimes a consumer would have others handle the other aspects. If only receive her advice a month or so after! not, more often than not in Sri Lanka, most Now that everything is digital it works to our entrepreneurs are handling every aspect of convenience making us more efficient. the business from finance to maintenance and in the end they only give 40% to 50% of their time to their respective field. That just simply won’t work.

16

How have you seen the beauty industry grow?

And what are your expectations for the industry in the next five years?

I would say that it is growing in certain areas faster than it is in other areas! First of all, when you take the industry as a whole and the brands from mass to high end, I’d say our market penetration is low for a developing country. On top of it, the share of wallet is also dropping. Due to the high cost of living in the country, the beauty and personalised care industries will be the first to drop in the mass market. That being said, awareness is growing. We live in a time where mobile penetration and digital marketing are increasing. So we can talk to the consumer

But again in terms of mass market, the price range will always be an issue but in terms of the high end market, the market is smaller and you can always tap into the tourist industry since their share of wallet is a lot more. I guess you can say that as much as the industry is growing as a whole it’s just not growing fast enough. As tourism increases, the GDP increases and share of wallet hopefully grows, we hope to grow more. There are international brands coming in and that’s great, cause it lifts the industry as a whole and we as a local brand are all for it. However, there are local brands that aren’t happy with this and to them I guess the only thing to say is if you are so threatened by an international brand coming in, it’s because you haven’t done your work.

Photography: Dimitri Crusz Stylist: Koshe Location: Maniumpathy, Colombo

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 49

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COPING AFTER A

CRISIS: PROTECTING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH IN THE LONG RUN

“Trauma is hell on earth. Trauma resolved is a gift from the gods.”

- Peter A. Levine Terror attacks aim to sensationalize chaos and instil overwhelming fear among the masses.

Two months following the Easter Sunday attacks, the psychological wounds still persist among many. Long-term effects of trauma can manifest at different stages of our life, which is why protecting our mental health in the here and now is of utmost importance.

Counselling psychologist Nivendra Uduman points out that “reactions experienced by people directly or indirectly affected by any of the recent terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka would last for varying amounts of time. Most

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stress reactions tend to die down on their own, but not always for everyone.” According to him, some people may experience stress reactions for more than a month, but it is hard to pinpoint how long it generally takes for someone to mentally recover from a terror attack as each individual differs.

Symptoms vary according to each individual.

It is important to be mindful of this when reaching out to friends and family. Short and long term symptoms that usually surface following a crisis event can manifest in many forms.

People who were not directly exposed to the attacks can also experience distress and post-traumatic stress, even months following the incident. The fear that a crisis event such as the Easter Sunday bombings can bring has the potential to alter behaviour patterns. In the long term, people may have a tendency to make different decisions about their modes of travelling, employment, which events they attend and even who they socialize with. Interestingly, reports indicate that a terrorist attack can trigger both positive and negative responses among different people. Positive responses usually include dedicating time to helping others, making an extra effort to unite communities, showing more concern for friends and family, assisting others and avoiding unhealthy habits. Negative responses can vary from increased anxiety, alcohol consumption and insomnia to poor functioning at the workplace.

Usually, most symptoms fade within days and weeks following the attacks. However, those who were directly exposed to the event, young children, or those who have had similar past experiences are more likely to run the risk of experiencing long-term psychological symptoms. Yet, it may be reassuring to remind ourselves that most human beings are naturally inclined to be resilient and strong following an attack.

Dealing with the aftermath Going about your daily activities will help immensely in making you feel in control of the situation. Doing so may help those around you (i.e. family members, children) to deal with the aftermath of the incident in a calm and orderly manner.

Nivendra also pointed out that someone does not necessarily have to have serious problems to seek help from a mental health practitioner. Therapy can help anyone in

“It is important that one takes care of oneself in the long run, by attending to basic needs like adequate sleep, good nutrition and hydration, exercise and also maintaining some simple practices like sharing feelings with someone they trust, writing about one’s thoughts and feelings, and it would also be beneficial to speak to a counsellor or a therapist.�

- Nivendra making sense of the situation, gain clarity on their thoughts, to be more self-aware and grow through their traumatic experiences.

In addition to this, many find solace through spiritual care and practices.

There are several ways to reach out and extend your help to someone who is affected by the terror attacks. One of the simplest ways include being a source of human contact by providing a listening ear and acting in a caring and loving way.

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“It is also vital that people feel safe and secure in order to be able to positively deal with the aftermath, and this especially applies to children.

Parents and schools must take measures to make sure that a child feels safe.”

Helping children understand Children may exhibit their fear and confusion in different ways. Start by acknowledging that there is no right or wrong way to feel in situations like this. Some responses may include being easily startled, anger, sadness, trouble sleeping and nightmares, repeated drawing or playing about events related to the traumatic event.

Parents or guardians can help by spending more time with the children, providing a space to explain what they feel without interruption, praying together as a family, involving them in family activities or asking them to help you with tasks, staying calm during anger outbursts and limiting the time spent watching TV, for example.

What are the long-term signs of post-traumatic distress?

Long term responses to a traumatic event can range from intrusive thoughts and images about the traumatic event to flashbacks and nightmares, intense distress based on triggers inside and outside the body, being overly vigilant, being startled easily, avoidance of thoughts, memories, places etc. associated with the traumatic event, feeling numb, negative evaluation of one’s self, selfblame, constant low mood, loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed and even detachment from others.

When to seek professional help

• Start discussing the topic but do not force them to speak

If you or someone you know exhibits any of the signs mentioned above, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible.

You can help by accompanying your friend or relative to appointments and supporting them through their treatment. Alternatively, reaching out to loved ones who exhibit these symptoms and offering them support in any way needed can make all the difference.

• Some children communicate by drawing pictures or playing

What should volunteers know before helping victims?

A common problem that many parents and caregivers face is not knowing how to explain a crisis event to a child. These tips may help in doing so:

• Listen attentively and let them express themselves freely • Share your feelings with them as well • Reassure them that the world is a good place but sometimes, there are bad people who do bad things • Do not lie to your child. Help them understand that bad things happen but there are people working hard to keep us safe • Try to focus more on the positive things that have occurred since the event

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“Helping people affected by the attacks is something that requires a sense of great responsibility and commitment. There is the need for time, empathy, compassion, and skill. In a situation like this, people are highly motivated to offer support in various ways which Sri Lanka as a country is known for.

However, helping people without the proper knowledge and awareness can sometimes be harmful.

The basic principle of Do No Harm should be applied to every situation in which support is offered to people who have been affected.

There are organizations in the field of mental health who are offering introductory

training for volunteers in Psychological First Aid and other emotional support skills. It is recommended that anyone wanting to help people with emotional support attend these training programmes and educate themselves. We cannot re-traumatize people, and it is not good practice to ask people to recount their stories over and over again. This applies to the media as well.” – Nivendra Here are a few helplines for anyone seeking support: • The Ohana Project – 0777346334 (Nivendra), 0774979641 (Nilushka) • CCC line 1333 (24 hours) • NIMH toll free hotline - 1926 (24 hours) • 0717639898 (24 hours) • Sumithrayo -011 2696666 (9am to 8pm) Mental health should be a prime concern during a crisis event, in order to collectively ensure that no one suffers from long-term trauma or any other mental health issue.

Look out for your loved ones and reach out to those in need in your own little way. Together, we will show the world that our resilience will always be greater than fear.

Nivendra Uduman Counselling Psychologist

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Best Places

to Visit for Your

Staycation Right

Now

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Staycations are now more welcoming than ever with popular locations being slightly free from foot-traffic and hotels awaiting visitors. If you’ve been planning the perfect getaway, now might be the ideal time to pack up and head wherever your heart desire. From adventure to culture and everything in between, Sri Lanka offers a plethora of experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind! Here’s a roundup of some of the most idyllic experiences in Sri Lanka!

Unawatuna A popular coastal destination not too far from Colombo, Unawatuna offers you a host of unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or for some relaxation by the beach, Unawatuna has it all. Rich in biodiversity, its mangroves are a huge tourist attraction. Added to which are its historical and mythological facets.

Hiriketiya Hiriketiya is slowly but surely becoming the new hot spot for local travellers. A venue many musicians gather together for weekly and monthly gigs, it has been able to attract like-minded people from all across the island.

Cosy cafes are a plus not to be missed!

Kalpitiya Tailor-made for adrenaline junkies during the peak season, Kalpitiya is abuzz! Home to the largest coral reef in Sri Lanka, there’s a plethora of aquatic sports to indulge in as well.

Experience the authentic coastal life and rich history of the island all in one destination.

Galle An absolute delight to explore on foot, Galle is blessed with timeless beauty. Breathtaking architecture, quirky cafes, chic boutiques, and its passionate populace are few of the things that beckon an ardent following to the UNESCO heritage site each year.

Arugam Bay Main Point, Whisky Point, and Peanut Farm are three of the most popular spots that attract surfers from all across the globe to Arugam Bay. Apart from surfing, Arugam Bay is geared with yoga centres and numerous restaurants. Its scenic beauty is one to be

treasured. You are sure to spot exotic creatures and magnificent herds of elephants during an early morning or late night drive.

Yala Nature makes for one of the greatest callings of Sri Lanka.

As such, camping and safaris are activities all Sri Lankans must experience. Tented camping offered by many hotels in the area is a oneof-a-kind escapade to cherish. Forming a total area of 1268 sq km of forest and lagoon, the Yala National Park is home to diverse wildlife.

Nature enthusiasts from around the world flock to Yala fundamentally for this reason, so don’t be the only one to miss out on this idyllic experience!

Minneriya Discover the extraordinary wildlife of Sri Lanka at the Minneriya National Park where nature truly comes alive.

A safe abode for rare and endangered Sri Lankan wildlife; it’s where the spectacular annual elephant gathering takes place. Also famous for bird-watching, it is home to certain species such as the Hanging Parrot, the Jungle Fowl and Gray Hornbill, all of whom are found exclusively in Sri Lanka.

Serendipitous and exciting, Sri Lanka has many destinations within itself yet to be explored.

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, history-buff, a natureenthusiast, or are simply looking for a relaxing holiday, there’s a range of options to choose from.

As tourists flock back into the island and tourist destinations await to entertain visitors, pack your bags and revisit your alltime favourite locations to relive in all its glory.

Jaffna An escapade of its own, there’s much to be discovered in Jaffna. From its untouched beaches to secluded hideaways, if you’re an explorer that loves to get lost, Jaffna is where you need to head to! Experience the opulent Hindu culture and simplicity of farm life all in one destination. The Jaffna Market, Fort, Casuarina Beach, and the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple are some of the places you must visit when in Jaffna.

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 57

Rise

up

Sri Lanka PAGE 58 | www.pulse.lk

The full moon of Vesak has barely waned, and households that gave alms in memory of those lives lost on Easter Sunday have just about stacked their utensils away.

Near and dear are yet adorned in the hue of mourning. Christians say an extra decade or two of the Holy Rosary for the young who laid their lives down at the feet of their Saviour.

The sermons in three churches that day were

We had an entire decade, short of a month, of peace and harmony in the country, bar the isolated individual crimes. In fact, when elders spoke of the 30-year war, it almost seemed like a chapter out of the history book for the younger generation of today.

To think a small group of people plotted an attack simultaneously in various places on an auspicious day in the Christian calendar is beyond understanding even today. It being the very first time such an atrocity had been executed in the country, I am certain that it will scar the memories of every sane person.

We, I hate to admit it, but I must, have a tendency for evil, deep within our marrow. To wish someone ill, in retaliation seems such an easy choice to make. I have known of feuds within families, friends and communities that were passed down generations.

However, the prelates and priests preach of forgiveness, patience, tolerance, and peace. Somehow the seeds they sow by word have not germinated in people.

I saw the youngsters who were in gangs, hurling sticks and stones on properties, and wondered if they had never been sent to a Daham School, or had never been educated on kindness in their years in some institution where they studied. Do I have to turn on the teachers that they have not instilled a righteous way of conduct on their pupils, or do I mention it is solely the fault of the parents or guardians?

ironically on the Resurrection of the Son of God. The rising from the dead.

The island nation heaved her breast, aghast at the attacks by other people three weeks after Easter. People gossiped, shared frightful tidings and forewarnings, some incited others, a few took it upon themselves to avenge, and a fewer number spread the message of peace and tolerance.

Are they discontent youth, with no employment? High on some substance that temporarily removes them from the harshness of reality? Are they goons of political strong arms who cannot survive without thuggery? Are they hired criminals, working for a fee?

should we not acknowledge it, but go on as though everything is wonderfully perfect, or do we face the demons at a risk to our own selves, as the authorities in power, who we voted for, and perched on their shiny leather seats, will do almost nothing about them, except make statements?

I was reminded recently of travelling in a plane. Passengers are given a run through of safety in the plane. One must, the instructing cabin crew advises, always attend to oneself before turning to someone else in your care.

It is a good principal I thought.

One must look after oneself first, so that another could be looked after.

This applies to everyday life, within and outside one’s homes and workplaces, while travelling, or out on errands. Vigilance and observation is not a bad habit to practice.

Not surmounting to suspicion of every living creature, but care and prevention would help us all.

I sign off for now, wishing all our readers and the people of this beautiful nation, peace and harmony with one another, for the sake of all our loved ones. Truly, let there be love.

Let’s Rise Up, Sri Lanka!

By Angela Seneviratne

Whoever they are, our country has them.

We have terrorists, we have fundamentalists, extremists, the murderers, thieves, rapists, kidnappers, the hardcore criminals, the drug peddlers, you name it, we have them.

My concern is what we need to do with life around these elements. Do we go on in denial, pretending they do not exist? Like someone said soon after the bomb blasts,

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 59

Designer: Brian Kerkoven Models: Pawani Vithanage - Top 20, Miss Grand International 2018 Harini Silva - 1st Runner Up, Top Model of the World 2018 Makeup and Hair: Reena and Vimukthi - Mosh Photography: Nuwan Ranaweera Location: The Frangipani Tree, Talpe

PAGE 60 | www.pulse.lk

Designer: Brian Kerkoven Models: Pawani Vithanage - Top 20, Miss Grand International 2018 Makeup and Hair: Reena and Vimukthi - Mosh Photography: Nuwan Ranaweera Location: The Frangipani Tree, Talpe

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 61

Designer: Brian Kerkoven Models: Harini Silva - 1st Runner Up, Top Model of the World 2018 Makeup and Hair: Reena and Vimukthi - Mosh Photography: Nuwan Ranaweera Location: The Frangipani Tree, Talpe

PAGE 62 | www.pulse.lk

Designer: Brian Kerkoven Models: Pawani Vithanage - Top 20, Miss Grand International 2018 Harini Silva - 1st Runner Up, Top Model of the World 2018 Makeup and Hair: Reena and Vimukthi - Mosh Photography: Nuwan Ranaweera Location: The Frangipani Tree, Talpe

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 63

Culture Colombo The Meeting Point between Innovation and Tradition

Telling a story of culture and tradition, Culture Colombo is only six months young but is taking the city’s culinary experiences one step into the future.

Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine can be found at many five-star hotels and many corner-store buth kadĂŠs, but Culture Colombo brings to us the perfect middle ground between the two. A luxury setting with delicious fare for very reasonable prices, the restaurant aims to merge authenticity and affordability in perfect harmony.

Culture Colombo is the brain child of Jishan Beruwalage, a lawyer with childhood dreams of becoming a chef, who finally pursued his passions in the culinary field and opened up a family-run restaurant that is now spoken about far and wide. From the flavours of the dishes to the innovative presentation, Jishan’s passion helps him head all aspects of the business and bring to his customers an experience curated by love.

Built around a colonial building in Bambalapitiya, Culture Colombo preserves the beauty of its old walls and wooden panelling but also brings in an interesting modern twist with its interiors. From the time you walk in, a true Lankan nature is incorporated into each aspect of the experience.

You are greeted by the melodies of instrumental Lankan music playing in the background, an incredibly spacious dining space with indoor and outdoor seating, and rooms that you can reserve for occasions seating up to 20 to 30 people.

The service at Culture Colombo is unparalleled, with the waiters being attentive, well-versed with the menu, and prompt with recommendations.

You are given the option to eat using cutlery or by hand, in which case, they provide you gloves also if you choose an apron so that things do not get messy.

From the names of the dishes on their menu, like Elu Mas Yapanaya Kramayata, to the presentation of their dishes like the Chicken Bamboo Biriyani, Culture Colombo has found the perfect balance between innovation and tradition, emphasizing the meeting point between modern luxury and the essence of Sri Lanka.

True to its name, Culture Colombo aims to preserve cultures and values unique to Sri Lanka, and hopes to open up restaurants all around the country, bringing the true essence of Sri Lanka right to your doorstep!

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Down a little alleyway in Colpetty lies a little kitchen that expands Colombo’s options to the question “what can we do today?”. Aunty’s Sri Lankan Cooking Class is just that. A cooking class founded by Sana Khaled that teaches both foreigners and locals the ins and outs of authentic Sri Lankan cooking. Pulse had the opportunity to drop in for a class and oh boy – the fun we had!

Aunty’s

Sri Lankan

Cooking

Class Colombo’s Most Fun Afternoon Activity PAGE 66 | www.pulse.lk

Our class for the day was conducted by Chef Damien, who also hosts tours to the local market with his guests, where he sources all his produce for the class. Chef Damien was focussed but fun, patient, and playful, and guided us through a class that would definitely make Amma proud of our new-found cooking skills! Speaking of the origins of Aunty’s Cooking Class, Chef Damien went on to explain how “Aunty” is a term of endearment Sri Lankans use to refer to any older lady, and that he had acquired his culinary skills from an aunty as well, hence the name.

Beginning with an explanation of the different kinds of cuisines Sri Lanka has to offer, we were told that we would be cooking dishes with mainly Kandyan flavours for the day. Sourcing our very own welcome drink by chopping up a thambili, and cracking open a coconut to get to the white flesh inside was both an exhausting and exhilarating experience and we absolutely loved it!

On the menu for the day was a white fish curry, a spicy chicken curry, brinjal curry, coconut sambol, and tomato salad. Explaining how to effectively use common Sri Lankan utensils and describing the notes and flavours of each spice that went into our curries, Chef Damien took us through an exciting, aromatic, and fulfilling journey where we learnt many new things. Serving up our curries onto a lotus leaf with rice, beetroot, and parippu prepared by Chef Damien himself, we sat down to a meal of a lifetime. By the end of the afternoon, we had a newfound appreciation for women who toil in the kitchen on a daily basis and swore that we would never taking Amma for granted again!

Aunty’s Sri Lankan Cooking Class also sells bamboo straws and coconut shell bowls alongside packaged spices and anything you would need to prepare an authentic Sri Lankan meal. The class is a great way to spend an afternoon with friends or with your significant other, getting to know Sri Lankan cuisine, as well as each other. We loved our experience at Aunty’s and you should definitely check them out too at www.auntys.lk or on social media for an experience like no other!

506, New Galle Road, Weligama T:+94 (41) 225 4422 E: reservations@w15.lk www.w15.lk

Mahavihara Road, Ahangama Kanda, Ahangama T: +94 (91) 228 3672 E: reservations@w15escape.lk www.w15escape.lk

Alexandra Villas No 18, Alexandra Road, Colombo 06 T: +94 76 898 5922 E: reservations@av15.lk www.av15.lk

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 67

LAUNCH OF

TRENDY HUB

The Trendy Hub flagship store located in Colombo 3 recently held a launch event for VIP’s.

This new store is geared up to be the hottest fashion destination, featuring the latest global trends.

Andrew

PAGE 68 | www.pulse.lk

Nadiyah

Sarinda

Charlene

Mahela

Nathan

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 69

Words Advertising

Celebrate 10 Years

Words Advertising celebrated their 10th anniversary recently in grand style.

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The

Scarlet

Letters

Bringing the love of your life to meet your family turned out a little differently for me.

Exhausted and relieved to be back on home soil, yet nervous and apprehensive to go home, baby and I prepared to meet the family.

I couldn’t see where I was heading as I attempted to steer the trolley through the crowded airport. Baby was alert and curious after a series of long naps on our lengthy journey from the other side of the world and kept peeping from behind the lofty pile of luggage to assess the new surroundings. My mother says on first seeing us, that she couldn’t see us at all. All she saw approaching her was a monstrous pile of luggage that seemed to be pushing itself. And then she reports, she saw a tiny bald head peeping out from behind the luggage, beaming at her. I remember them looking delighted to see each other. Baby was oblivious to the introduction, but my mother looked like she couldn’t believe her eyes. I was so absolutely exhausted from the worry and the anxiety of the long journey and physically drained from the lack of sleep and water and from getting the baby and all our luggage safely here, that I didn’t realise what a big moment that was at the time. What I did realise in that moment, was that I had left the stroller at the baggage belt. I loaded the vehicle with all the luggage and left baby with my mom only to return to find baby balling her eyes out. My mother looked distressed and hastily handed her back to me. The baby hadn’t left my side from the second she was born. She was bound to be wary of these new faces and at the back of my mind I knew I had to let her get used to these faces in her own time because even though no one was talking about it, these were the faces of the people that baby was going to learn to depend on, not mine.

They say home is where the heart is and while my heart was certainly lighter being back in my childhood home, it was also a stark reminder that I was no longer a child. Every corner of the house prompted nostalgia that seemed foreign now. It was like I was living in someone else’s memories and I was the stranger trying to adjust. The first few days were simple, filled with polite smiles and logistical questions as we tried to fit in. Baby tried her best to adjust to the heat, to adjust to a new diet and to figure out who all these people were that wanted to carry her. Things were a little more complicated for me as I tried to adjust to all the advice, all the instructions and all the questions. I didn’t want to face anyone. I didn’t want to repeat this saga to people who would only judge it. People can be cruel without realising it and the harm that gossip can do in a society where everyone knows everyone, worried me.

unrealistic to start imagining what your life would be like together.

Then when you go to college, start living together and then end up making a baby together, you would think that the next logical step was to make the vow to support each other forever. Instead, I had to hear some rubbish story about how we were both are from different ethnic communities and how that was a difference that could never be reconciled. I was shocked honestly at how easily his entire family pretended like we didn’t exist. I couldn’t understand how someone who I thought cared about me could just walk away knowing that I was left holding the proverbial and in this case, his literal, baby.

The pain and the abandonment that I felt was something I never discussed with anyone. How could I, when I was too busy explaining to everyone how they would survive the stain of my actions on their pristine reputations or when I was pacifying their superfluous concern about my impending doom and loss of potential to have a normal life. It was exhausting. And I was honestly just trying to figure things out myself.

No one understood or saw the real fact that I had only just turned 20 years old and I was still naïve and unsure of myself. I still hadn’t figured out who I was. I hadn’t known an adult life. I hadn’t known consequences and I certainly hadn’t known what it meant to be truly alone and facing the cruel world on my own. Either way, I was getting a crash course in adulting now, and as harsh as my circumstances were, there was nothing worse than the feeling that I had let my family down. I wanted to show them that I would come out of this on top. That I wasn’t just going to just roll over and succumb to this lacklustre fate that everyone had designed for me. Tired of everyone else’s points of view, I made my own. I never wanted to be in a situation where anyone could hurt me again. So, I decided that I would do everything in my power to make sure that baby and I would always be protected and that journey needed to start with the completion of my education, even though it meant that I would have to leave the only thing that loved me unconditionally, behind.

Although I knew that the fire of judgment was simmering at the back of everyone’s mind, I was determined not to let it get me down. While they were focused only on the shame I had brought on the family name, I was still reeling from the trauma I had just been through. As a young teenage girl, when you meet a boy and he says he loves you, it’s not

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An Evening of

Remembrance at Dutch

Hospital

One month after the tragic events that shook the country on Easter Sunday, the merchants and regular bands of the Old Dutch Hospital came together for a candlelit night of remembrance.

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Kaylon, Awandi and Revon

Natali, Anu, Romesh, Sashe, Shevone and Sankhitha

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Lusia

Afham

Heshani

Danu

Tharindi

Awandi

Revon

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Kishu

Hisham, Nishara, Hashani, Shavindri and Kavishka

Ruki and Kevin

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Michelle

Lalinda

Tharanga

Mahela

Harpo

Nadil

E OTIC CARS

TM

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Harpo

Udara, Jalith, Rasitha, Nathasha and Yasara

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Priyantha

Ekanayake Sporting Words of Wisdom

In order to gain an insider’s perspective of the current sporting arena in Sri Lanka, we sat down with the legendary Priyantha Ekanayake, the once chairman of Sri Lanka Rugby. From politicised sports to a new sport that will soon take Sri Lanka by storm, he shared much of his valuable insight.

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Introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Priyantha Ekanayake. I studied at St. Anthony's College Kandy. I represented Sri Lanka in Rugby and Basketball. In terms of my career in sports, I was the CEO, President of Sri Lanka Rugby and currently I am the CEO of Sri Lanka Baseball.

Could you walk us through your school life?

I joined St. Anthony's in 1973. I was at the hostel for about 11 years. Hostel life was somewhat regimental. We also had a Socialist government at the time which made things worse. The saving grace was sports, it was our way out. The little time that we had, we took part in sports.

You mentioned that life in the hostel was very regimental. Did the discipline and structure involved with such a lifestyle help you in your sporting career?

I think so, if you look back a lot of people have good things to say about their school career.

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situations in sports you must have patience, so that kind of thing certainly helped. Looking back now, at that time I didn't think like this, but I feel that was one of the reasons we were drawn to doing sports at that time.

"Oh S***, I'm not gonna be able to survive!"

So, I had to really train hard and I was lucky enough to get in to the Otago B-Side.

Unfortunately I had to return to Sri Lanka due to my commitment with the National Team.

What about your debut in Rugby?

In general, how do you view the sporting arena in Sri Lanka?

It's difficult to recall, I played junior Rugby for two years in college. We couldn't win the under 13 tournament, but we came to the semifinals and lost to the eventual champions although I can't remember the details that well.

Do you have any gamechanging moments that defined your sporting career?

I think my game-changing or rather, lifechanging experience was when I played in New Zealand. I was very fortunate to play A-Division club Rugby in Otago. We had about 18-19 All Blacks playing in the same league. When I went there and saw them playing, I didn't think I could make it. I was contracted as a player; they funded my accommodation and trip there. When I went for the first day of training, I did five sets of stumps and I started vomiting, and I thought

Totally disorganised. No plan, no strategies.

Some sports are politicised. Unfortunately every sport is in a mess. When you look at a sports person, you have three stages in their life: One, as a kid, you aspire to play a sport. You look at Michael Jordan, Phelps, Sri Lankans like Aravinda, Susanthika...

You want to be one of them. The next stage is you become a sports person, you achieve something. And the third stage is after you've played the game, how do you contribute towards it? We don't build sports personalities in any sport. The few whom we have are self-built.

Do you see any potential for things to change?

The talent is there, but for me, I can't see it happening in the immediate future because there is no proper structures or systems in place for such changes to take place.

Can you talk about any memorable encounters or moments that took place on the field?

Achievement-wise in the National team, I can remember us playing the 1990 Asian Tournament in Sri Lanka. Usually we lose to teams like Hong Kong, Taiwan and Korea by big margins but the 1990 tournament...

We got an All Blacks coach. He changed the mindset of the players and as a result we beat Taiwan for the very first time in history.

In terms of the young up What words of advice do and coming athletes, how do you have for the young you view them? aspiring sportsmen and As I said earlier, we certainly have the talent to women of Sri Lanka? compete at the highest levels in most sports.

If we talk about Rugby, at school level we have done very well. There was a time when Sri Lanka became champions in Asia in under 18 and 20. Unfortunately we have only eight club teams including the three forces and the Police. Therefore, most of the school players don’t get an opportunity to play club Rugby.

The other issue is that there is a big gap between schools and clubs now.

You’ve got to enjoy what you're doing. Most players try to find employment through the sport and they don’t get an opportunity to play. Most of them play for the money and you get lost in the way. My suggestion is to go and play the game where you can enjoy it.

Play with passion and play because you love it. And the money will follow you.

Lately you’ve been involved with baseball, tell us a little bit about it.

Baseball gave me an opportunity, and so I looked at the sport, before I took over as the CEO I went to the US and met some of the top clubs there. For me, I think Baseball has a bright future. I feel Baseball can become something big and we can get a lot of support from the US. We are very fortunate to get support from Japan.

They have donated us a proper baseball ground and we have also got three Japanese coaches through JICA. Currently we have 31 clubs including 11 universities and 22 schools playing the sport. Sri Lanka became the West Asia Champions in 2017 and we took part in the Asian Games for the very first time in 2018.

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Advertorial having a brand portfolio that counts many proprietary and prestigious licensed brands.

Commenting on the occasion, General Manager of Vision Care, Harsha Maduranga, said, “We are delighted to welcome the residents of Matale into our fold of valued stakeholders, as we believe the new Vision Care branch is the first of its kind in the town to offer a wide range of eye wear for every occasion. From sleek designer sunglasses to precision contact lenses, optical and ophthalmic products – the new branch at Matale has it all. Vision Care offers spectacles & sunglasses across the entire price spectrum - from low to high prices – which makes it eminently affordable for all budgets! Our professionally trained staff looks forward eagerly to serving the residents of this vibrant town.”

Vision Care opens its newest outlet in Matale 22nd May 2019 Colombo: Vision Care inaugurated its 53rd outlet in Matale recently, in the presence of, Dr.R.D.K Rajapaksha - Consultant Eye surgeon, Dr.A.B. Kiridana - Consultant E.N.T surgeon and Dr.Asela Dissanayake - Regional Director of Health Services, along with the Vision Care management, effectively strengthening its footprint in key cities and towns in Sri Lanka.

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Vision Care will be showcasing a stunning range of designer brands at the Matale branch including Ray Ban, Vogue, Emperor Armani, Seventh Street, Polaroid, Manchester, Che, Vintage, Polarsun, Pierre Cardin, Carrera, Alain Delon, Bonia and SB Polo. The new Vision Care branch also features top brands from the Milan-based Luxottica Group, the largest eyewear company in the world,

Vision Care remains the foremost eye wear brand because it has kept a step ahead of evolving trends. Cognisant of the fact that shoppers select eye wear based on their personal preferences and moods, Vision Care maintains a vast array of designer and top brands representing different styles and colours, backed by the expertise of its highly trained staff. The new Vision Care branch is located at 87/A, Kandy Road, Matale.

Customers can call the Matale branch on 0662223002 for further information.

With 27 years of service excellence, Vision Care’s curated range of high quality branded sunglasses and frames offer a host of attractive designs to suit every requirement, and preference. Vision Care also offers the service of experienced eye care professionals to examine your eyes, incorporating state-of- the-art equipment to diagnose the vision problem with high precision. In addition, they are also able to provide sunglasses with prescribed lenses after eye testing has been conducted.

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SEED BOMBS: MAS HOLDINGS PILOTS FIRST EVER AERIAL REFORESTATION PROGRAMME

Conserving 25,000 acres of forest cover by the year 2025 is no small task. With the new and innovative technique of seed bombing, however, this goal seems achievable and MAS Holdings is well on its way to increasing forest cover a reality. As part of their environmental sustainability programme, the conglomerate piloted the first ever seed bombing project in Sri Lanka in June 2018.

The project involved extensive research in to the age-old method of seed bombing or aerial reforestation. Professor D.K.N.G. Pushpakumara, Dean of the Department of Agriculture at the University of Peradeniya, and his team, provided the expertise needed for the project.

Seed bombs are little chunks of clay and compost that are mixed with native seeds.

The project spearheaded by MAS consisted of 5000 seed bombs made of Kumbuk (Terminalia arjuna), Karanda (Pongamia pinnata), and Mee (Madhuca longifolia). The seed balls are usually sculpted to a 10-80mm diameter. The 5000 seed balls were made in forty eight different compositions to enhance faster germination and seed growth.

Conventionally, the age-old technique was done by throwing or dropping these balls of clay or soil into a plot of land. Earliest

days of seed bombing date back to times as early as the 1930s. The rediscovery of seed balls is attributed to Japanese farmer and philosopher, Masanobu Fukuoka.

Aerial reforestation is the farming technique of dropping these seed bombs from a considerable height through an airplane over a vast uninhabited land area in an effort to repopulate forest cover.

Following months of research and the preparation of 5000 seed balls with the help of MAS volunteers, the final step of the mission included dropping them from a height across the Ranorawa Government Forest in Nochchiyagama, a five acre land in the North Central region of Sri Lanka. This venture was undertaken by the Sri Lankan Air Force Command Agro Unit in an aerial operation that took place successfully on the 12th of December last year.

The Director of the Environmental Sustainability programme of MAS Holdings, Sharika Senanayake, commented on the project stating that, “[it] was a delicate task – there was a lot to consider, measure, and create. First, we reached out to the Forest Conservation Department whom we already work with closely, and they found us a five-

acre plot in Nochchiyagama Anuradhapura which was a degraded plot of land that had lost all its forest cover. Then, the challenge was to actually create these seed bombs which required a combination of the right forest trees to fit the climate zone, the right clay, soil, and compost combination to fit the chosen seeds.”

Deforestation remains a serious issue in Sri Lanka; to be exact we lose around 8000 hectares of forests per year. Large scale development and resettling programmes have resulted in a 1.46% deforestation rate per year, not to mention the detrimental effects that the loss of forest cover has on global warming and its effects on biodiversity.

Sri Lanka had a forest cover of 49% in 1920.

This number has decreased to a staggering 18% as of 2019. The joint by effort MAS, the SLAF Command Agro Unit and the University of Peradeniya in increasing the country’s forest cover is guaranteed to work wonders in safeguarding our ecosystem and conserving what is left of our greenery.

The seed bombing project is not the only environmental sustainability venture that MAS is credited for. The company made headlines when they unveiled the ‘Ocean Plastics’ initiative on the 3rd of May this year. Upcycled waste plastic recovered from beaches across the island were used to produce the new Sri Lanka Cricket Jersey that is being worn during the ICC Cricket World Cup this year. This groundbreaking venture is assured to be a part of their long-term solution in ending marine pollution that remains a serious issue surrounding the coastal belt of Sri Lanka.

Through the unveiling of the new Cricket Jersey, MAS Holdings hopes to bring more awareness both locally and internationally on sustainable waste management.

MAS Holdings has set exemplary standards in sustainable manufacturing and has shown the world that ventures such as these are not just innovative undertakings, but wise solutions to the need of the hour.

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Seba

Crishanthi

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Surani

Trevor

Kushlani

Roshan

Happy Birthday

Treshan Treshan Weerasooriya recently celebrated his birthday in style together with his close friends and family.

Treshan

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Tharushi

Lakshi

Madura

Jonathan

Indi

Chan

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Vish

Maheeka

Rafaella

Amani

Sulekha

Malaka

Shalini Thilanka

Sharmini

Prassanna

Harshini Thiyasha

Manuel

Sahan

Indi

Amani

Suraj

Charini

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Look

Out

Meet Achala Leekoh, fashion designer and fashion consultant whose latest collection for her designer brand - Leekoh graced the 2019 Colombo Fashion Week runway.

Coming from a mixed heritage, Leekoh has the privilege of embracing both her Sri Lankan and Indonesian roots, which reflects well and truly in all her designs.

We had the opportunity of catching her during her busy schedule where she was kind enough to give us a closer look at the woman behind the brand.

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For

L E E K O H

Did you always want to be in the fashion industry?

How, what or who drew you into the field?

I was always passionate about creating new things out of unconventional material. My mother and grandmother encouraged me a lot towards art, and they are the main two pillars of my creative roots. Since I was very young I wanted to be an author and a painter. Even now as a fashion designer I consider myself an artist who gets to explore different mediums and materials to create wearable pieces of art which have their own unique stories.

What is your go-to look/style?

My personal go to looks are quite minimal in nature. Such as simple shift dresses to crew neck tops. Whereas the work done by my brand Leekoh spreads out and reaches much more different and versatile styling as each client represents a new design challenge that needs to represent their own chic feminine flair.

What are your go-to brands?

Chole` and Coach

Do you have any designers you look up to (local and international)?

My local muse is the late great Eena De Sliva who revolutionised Sri Lankan batik design and inspired us all to glide the Lilly.

When it comes to international designers, I really admire the works, execution and thinking process behind Chanel, Ellie Saab, John Galliano, Rei Kawakubo and Mary Katrantzou.

What do you think the Sri Lankan fashion industry is lacking?

Fashion designing can be made a career but needs great persistence and patience to face the volatile market conditions and many other challenges that come along with that. At the moment the industry is growing and there is global recognition to our designers which shows great potential in the future. Hence, my opinion about what we are lacking is for designers who work strategically and design with the utmost passion while keeping in mind about the long term goals and have a vision for each season. Because we see a lot of brands and designers coming up with their labels but only a few survive or thrive through the market challenges.

Do you have a muse whom you look to for inspiration?

Frida Kahlo was one of my biggest inspirations growing up and I have to mention that I draw a lot of inspiration from nature as art.

Do you have any influencers who have helped you throughout your career? if yes, how have they helped?

As I told earlier my mother and grandmother have been the greatest strengths of my life so far and family always comes first for me. After finishing the degree in fashion from the University of Moratuwa I wanted to start a brand of my own but was hesitant to start, thinking that I will lose out on family time. But my family and especially my husband, Dineth Parakrama and sister in law,

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with shimmer and sheer playing along with the chic silhouettes. All looks were rooted in romance and unspoken passion towards celebrating the gifts of Mother Nature.

Were there any favourites you came across at this year’s CFW? Yes, there were two outfits that I was most interested in creating. One is the crop top with the long flowy sleeves which blended seamlessly in a dramatic way with the rest of the collection. Finding the right material which can be printed to create that flow when the model walks was quite interesting and I’m happy that I made the correct decision. The second favourite look is the showstopper red skirt and the mesh top.

The intricate embellishment on the skirt was a time consuming delicate work which needed the most amount of attention. I loved creating that look and it had the essence of quality over quantity.

Most clothing stores in Sri Lanka cater only up to size 16. Why do you think that is? As a designer would you be willing to cater to the plus size market?

Amilani Perera (also a renowned designer) encouraged me and supported me all the way to where I am today. My husband is an entrepreneur himself and an architect which resonates with my field of creative nature.

Therefore, I would say the family bonds and the support circle I have, have helped me become the person and the designer I am today.

I was really excited as my collection was selected for the grand finale of day 01.

My work received really good comments and overall, all the designers had unique collections which were very strong. Even as designers we inspire each other in many ways and I loved how the designers showcased for CFW supported each other from backstage chaos to sweet applauses.

If you could design for any celebrity out there, which two celebrities would you love to design for and why?

What was your inspiration for the styles and looks you showcased?

I would love to design for Millie Bobby Brown because her sense for fashion is remarkable despite her age, and if I can go back in time, Frida Kahlo.

Can you describe your experience at the 2019 CFW? The experience was remarkable as always.

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The growing concern over the health of our oceans inspires the SS’20 eveningwear story for Leekoh. It explores the ethereal beauty of a pre-polluted sea and the journey to the deep blue. From the sun kissed sea beds and crystal waters to the astounding marine life, the journey continues to capture life and beauty in its utmost purity. The fragility of washed up shells inspires layers of delicate pleats and layers of barely there chiffons

I still think the mass market offerings have not identified the crucial need for plus sizes but as a designer brand Leekoh’s range is such that any outfit that you see on the rack can be made to measure in any size including plus sizes. We believe that customisation has a bigger role in creating a look for the client so we work with customers and select the best option they feel great to be wearing. I believe the journey we have with the client is really important for the brand and Leekoh is rooting for that which ultimately offers the best clothing solution for any body type.

Do you have any goals you’d like to cross out for the year 2019?

Yes, I have a few focused goals. Mainly; I would love to explore more on the customised bridal business and give the customers the experience in creating their special day outfit with a print they love.

Creating a print for a customer is interesting as it depicts a lot of their personality and taste. Secondly, I’m planning on designing a collection with basic everyday solutions where you can grab it off the rack for a last minute dinner or a wedding that you totally forgot to plan an outfit for. This involves versatility in sizing for every body type (both fit and length).

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The Insta Famous

Senali PAGE 102 | www.pulse.lk

With over 20k followers on Instagram, Senali de Silva is making waves on social media. Apart from food and her incredibly unique fashion sense, Senali’s true forte is undeniably music. With her magical voice, her brilliant musical covers on Instagram have garnered much attention, love, and of course, Insta-fame! So we got up close and personal with the young singer and here’s what she had to say.

Give us 3 words that perfectly describe you

Do you prefer covers or performing?

Covers, because I have a bit of stage fright.

Positive, ambitious, and bubbly!

Where do you draw your fashion inspiration from?

Well, I’d say it’s just basically what I feel like suits me. I’d go for anything that I truly feel comfortable in and look good in.

Tell us about your musical journey I’ve been singing ever since I was a kid! I’ve loved Beyoncé, and have loved so many other musical legends, so I can’t say when I exactly started – and I’ve been doing it until now.

Tell us about your first cover My first cover was actually on Instagram.

My profile was a very closed one; I had only family friends, schools friends, and they all knew that I could sing. So I shared my first cover, which was Perfect by Ed Sheeran and it got quite a lot of comments so I figured I’d continue it!

Sinhala or English covers?

I would have to go with English, because I’m much more comfortable with the melodies, tone, and the variations. But I love singing Sinhala as well; it’s just that I can’t do proper justice to it!

Would you call yourself Insta famous?

I don’t know, you tell me.

What is your Instagram aesthetic and how do you maintain it?

get a lot of love, comments, and even direct messages from people who seem to love my work, so I focus on that!

What does the future hold for Senali?

I don’t know – but whatever makes me happy and makes me proud of myself is all I want.

I don’t just focus on one specific aesthetic because my Instagram is basically my whole lifestyle. If something interesting happens in my life or if I try out something new, even a haircut, I would definitely post about it, so I would never just focus on one particular theme.

Who takes a majority of your Instagram pictures?

Mostly, my mother! She’s a pro at it; sometimes all she needs is just one take and we’re good to go.

Tips to taking the perfect picture?

Well, the best advice I can give is a perfect smile - which only works when it’s genuine.

So just give your brightest and most genuine smile, and I think you’re good to go!

Tell us about your Insta fans I do get a lot of support and also negativity but I don’t care about the negative side. I

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As a parent, one of the many things we are responsible for is teaching our kids about ‘real life’. Though real life does contain really nice things, what we generally mean when we use that phrase is the not so nice things. Lessons like “life isn’t fair”,“not everyone is going to like you”,“you can work hard and still fail” and “everyone will die someday”.

I have always considered myself pretty good at real life. After a period of being discombobulated, I tend to be able to pick up and move forward. I take pride in being for the most part calm and logical in my reactions.

But everything is different now. The 21st of April 2019 saw to that.

I have lived here all my life, through the entire war. For me, like for so many of us, living in a country at war was normal. A friend said to me recently that she wouldn’t have had children if she had known we would be living in a situation like this again. I am ashamed to say that I don’t know if I would have been capable of being that selfless, but I do see her point.

I don’t know how our parents raised us during the war. Today, I shudder at the thought of

my children being exposed to danger. I also shudder at the thought of them having to accept the life I had as normal - the body checks, the bag checks, the high security zones… I shudder at how vulnerable they will be, how powerless in the face of a higher authority that is supposedly there to protect them, but could well abuse them instead.

Right after the attacks this year, I found myself unable to keep my thoughts calm.

I was constantly thinking about all those parents, seeing the crumpled faces and shattered eyes of mothers who had suffered unspeakable losses. My heart ached and I was sick to my stomach.

Before, I never worried about sending my children to school. I worried about getting them there on time, picking them up on time and making sure they were prepared for their lessons; but now I was terrified and filled with dread. I had to let them out of my sight, I had to take them out of the house, I had to send them somewhere where I was not. I had to trust people to do the right thing for them if something went wrong, to maybe put my kids’ lives ahead of their own.

Before the kids went back to their respective schools, I parked my car in the newly assigned spots, far further away than I was used to, and I timed how long it would take me to walk to their schools. Then I timed how long it would take me to run there. I hated myself because I needed to stop to get my breath back. I hated how long it took. By the time I was outside those school gates I was crying, full on ugly crying, because I couldn’t take the thought that no matter how fast I ran, I could still get there far too late.

The Realist’s

guide to

REAL

LIFE

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But…what was there to do but go on? We were not suddenly going to home school our children. I certainly didn’t want them to lead a life of permanent house arrest. I had to accept that real life now contained a real risk, and whether that risk involved my children or not, would be determined not by whether they went to school or note, but by the intangible influences of luck, timing, fate and chance.

All the steps we take to protect our children; checking the water in the shower before they step into it, scanning ingredients for chemicals, pasting mosquito patches on their clothes, holding their hands when we cross the street, packing umbrellas for the rain and caps for the sun, all that much detested sunscreen, traveling around with antihistamines, pain killers and antiemetics in case they are allergic, in pain or travel sick. We prepare and care, we round off every corner, we dull every edge, and yet…

Real life has brought one of its truisms viciously close.

“No matter what you do, you cannot completely protect your children”

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Tutu

Bags Handcrafted With Love Handcrafted with love, Tutu Handcrafted Bags is a Sri Lankan designer wear brand that is making big waves in the industry.

Locally manufactured by a one-man production process, Tutu Handcrafted Bags is the brainchild of designer and creator Deepankara “Tutu� Ramasingham, who both conceptualizes and brings to life the exquisite products. Embodying the business with his own nickname, Tutu certainly manufactures the various bags with a lot of care and precision.

Officially launched three years ago, Tutu brings to the market products with a unique twist. From its intricate design to its sophisticated look, Tutu saw the need for locally-manufactured bags set to international standards and now brings high-class, affordable bags to the Sri Lankan market.

From clutches to totes, Tutu caters to a niche market that looks for high-quality, sophistication and intricacy in their designs.

Customers will find that each bag is designed and crafted with pure love, using first-class imported materials such as fabric and genuine leather. Tutu aims to start locally sourcing their raw materials as well once the market has high-quality resources for purchase, integrating all types of local assets to create a truly Sri Lankan brand.

The response in the market has been phenomenal so far, with customers raving far and wide about the quality and look of the products they receive. You can get your hands on your very own Tutu Bag as well! Tutu Handcrafted Bags are available for purchase at Genelle outlets, Arienti and through their online profiles on Facebook at @tutuhandcraftedbags and Instagram on @tutu_ handcrafted_bags

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Henna An Age-Old Art Form Transformed into a Modern Makeover If you are a fan of body art but too afraid to take the leap of faith that is permanent ink, I am happy to announce that there is a way you can still fulfill your desires and wake up without regret. In fact, it’s been around for millennia and Sri Lankans are no strangers to it – henna.

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last up to a week or two on the skin – the perfect pain-free alternative to permanent tattoos.

Henna (Mehendi) is an ancient art form that is still practiced all over the world today. Unlike traditional art however, the canvas here is the human body. Henna is made from a small flowering plant that grows in tropical climates like Africa and Asia. The leaves contain a staining pigment that varies in colour from rusty orange to deep red. The dye from the leaves has been used throughout the ages to dye clothing, hair and skin.

“Henna is applied to the skin as a paste, much like icing a cake. Once dried and washed away, the orange stain begins to darken over the next few days,” explained Sadhaf Jawahir, a henna artist who runs an Instagram boutique @Henna_Habeeb. The resulting henna “tattoo” is not permanent, but it can

Henna as body art has been practiced in India, Africa, and the Middle East for thousands of years. Known as Mehendi in India and parts of South Asia, Hindu and Muslim cultures began to adorn themselves in henna art for special celebrations like weddings and religious holidays, drawing intricate patterns on the hands, arms, legs, and feet. Pre-wedding “Mehendi Night” parties became popular and consisted of Indian brides, along with their female friends and family, gathering to be embellished in henna patterns as a symbol of luck and blessings.

The intricate designs feature floral, peacock, paisley, lotus and lace patterns, and often include depictions of the sun on the palm.

The watery, wavy lines and floral swirls are densely drawn over the wearer’s entire hands, arms, and feet. “The most popular designs requests I get are mandala patterns when it comes to non-bridal events. Brides typically request for reversed-filled patterns and a variety of floral motifs with designs reaching up to the elbows and knees,” said Sadhaf.

Most henna artists follow a freestyle design process when creating designs for their clients. “Freestyle using henna cones is the most common form of creating the design on the skin. Sometimes if I have a specific design in mind or a more complex one then I practice it beforehand,” explained Sadhaf. She added that although the drawing process is soothing to look and seems easy, it takes a lot of patience, stamina and strength. The henna mixture has to be consistent so that the paste comes out in one thin line. “Otherwise it gets clumpy and the design looks messy.

Drawing one element like a flower is easy, but repeating the motifs uniformly takes work.

You have to stay focused and have a steady hand.”

Bridal mehendis sometimes take three hours or more to apply, but the process is appreciated and brings women together.

Women typically gather around and shower affection on the bride, they have an opportunity to take a break from their everyday lives and chores, and bring some beauty into their world.

This age-old technique has evolved over the ages and apart from varying designs, it now also comes in a different colour which has taken the world by storm - white. These white henna tattoos are not extracted from the henna leaf rather it is an adhesive body paint which wears off in a few days. However, the method of applying it on the skin is exactly like the natural henna method. White henna has even made it on fashion runways and is a hit among younger girls. The sensual and exotic designs drawn in delicate white have a certain appeal and have transformed this ancient art form into a modern makeover for women everywhere.

“People get tired of the traditional henna colour, so white henna is definitely a very popular request. It allows women to stick to the traditions but also give it a new twist and have some fun with it” said Sadhaf.

Henna is considered the oldest form of body art in the world and has stood the test of time. For more information or for bookings contact Henna Habeeb on Instagram.

Photos by @henna_habeeb

www.pulse.lk | PAGE 109

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Meet

Insaf

Mohideen Sri Lankan born entrepreneur based in America, is currently the Chief Investment Officer to one of the world’s largest international sovereign funds where he manages a multi-billion dollar Tech Fund.

In addition, he is also widely recognised in Silicon Valley where he invested and advised over a 100 start-up companies ranging from Fin-Tech, Social Media to Machine Learning. His efficacious career spans over 25 years in various lucrative sectors of business ranging from Finance Management to Technology.

Pulse had the privilege of sitting down with the businessman and speaking to him about matters regarding entrepreneurship, racism, and the future of Sri Lanka.

Q. What do you think is needed to make a successful entrepreneur?

A. You’ve got to dream big. You can’t have any boundaries- I mean in terms of ideas and thought processing- you have to be able to push your boundaries and challenge yourself.

It starts with you.

Q. There are many start-up companies in Sri Lanka that eventually close shop. What do you think causes these companies to give up?

A. See, for any start-up or entrepreneurial gig the most exciting or exhilarating part is the beginning. Getting that office space, bringing in the right team together, building the cool website but then the most challenging component is as your team is norming, as your ideas are formalizing- you face pivots.

By that I mean, you may start the company with one frame of mind and one direction but however, over time, your end product ends up completely different- for instance, UBER started off as an auxiliary to rental cars where individuals like you and I could put our cars up for renting but ultimately with

the full pivots they ended up with a more crowd sourced taxi service. Similarly, what I’ve noticed in Sri Lanka is that most of the ideas are “Me too” ideas so it’s like a localized UBER or a localized version of UBER EATS and the problem with that is, it’s a very small market segment. When you look at Sri Lanka as a whole there’s 22 million people and out of that, for a tech based idea you’re looking at 4 to 5 million user base. If you then take the spend capacity, it’s really not a monetizable idea. I’ve had around 40 to 50 ideas that get presented to me but they’re just not big enough to attract global investors and that is the single biggest challenge- to get them to think big, dream big because their ideas no longer need to be localised anymore.

Q. Having worked in numerous sectors, what is the most common issue you’ve discovered across all fields?

A. Passion and the lack of it. See, when it comes to being an entrepreneur, a lot of the time many individuals find the wrong motivation to start a start-up. I mean I’m sure the ideas are capitalistic, but you have to be passionate about the idea and what you’re www.pulse.lk | PAGE 111

doing. Otherwise what ends up happening is, you give up too soon. I mean, it’s going to be a long journey, it can take eight to ten years before the idea pans out- how do you burn that midnight oil? How long can you survive on your bread and butter till you get there? That all depends on how passionate you are about your idea. So I find that most of the time, many entrepreneurs venture into a project for the wrong reasons- they’re frustrated with their current state, they find quick money in it or once again, they think it’s a good idea to sell- these could all lead to a pure disaster.

Q. What differences do you find when you look at entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka compared to those overseas?

A. One of the main differences I’ve come across is the whole concept of “Me toos”.

They look at ideas and they think “oh wow, that doesn’t work so well there because it’s in dollar terms but if I do a localized, rupee term model..” but ultimately there’s a reason why that model just won’t work. It’s just not profitable enough. Let’s take a localized taxi app- you start it, great but it will still only generate half a million dollars- you won’t be able to take it further than that. Even if you bring in investors to it and you won’t be able to scale it because we’ve already got the UBERS of the world.

Q. What sectors do you feel most positive about in Sri Lanka?

A. I’d say Finance, with a lot of pivots going on in terms of Global Funding, Sri Lanka could very easily position itself as one of those funds because with a lot of the restrictions going on Europe and the western countries, it doesn’t necessarily attract a lot of the money from Africa and Asia. So a lot of these African and Asian billionaires post 9/11 are very worried where they can leave their assets. Now a lot of their money currently sits in places like Dubai and we could easily make a play for that because Dubai is referred to as a ‘money laundering safe haven’; whereas with the right reputational build and the right controls we could be a huge financial hub – especially with our accessibility. Another sector I’m confident about would be the Tech industry.

We have a highly educated population; we have the infrastructure, in terms of the internet, in terms of the incubators, and a very hip population that basically understands that mindset.

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Q. What would you say to bring an investor to Sri Lanka?

A. If you really think about it, Sri Lanka is an easy sell- we have a track record of having done outsourced work and we continue to do outsourced work. On its own as an island it’s still a great sell- it’s a destination spot. Trip Advisor rated it as a Top Spot for 2019, its one of the top 3 cuisines in the world, so it really isn’t hard to sell it to an investor- we just need to keep our act together.

Q. You’ve lived and studied in the United States- the Western countries can sometimes be rather vociferous about a person’s race. With the recent terror attacks that happened across the world, did you ever feel out of place or were there instances where you were made to feel inadequate simply because of your race?

A. Oh absolutely, it happens all the time. If you take the US for instance, most of my life in the US I spent on the coast, in California or New York and there you don’t feel it as much because it is a melting pot and you’ve got people of all races living together- equally

thriving and succeeding but a lot of my work would take me to the Midwest- or as we call it, the Rust Belt. That’s where you mainly find Caucasian, all white Americans who’ve lived there for generations- when you visit these areas- there are towns where they’ve probably not seen a brown person in say, 10 years, and racism is very apparent and in those instances you could chalk it up to ignorance but you also see racism become very common after any of these terror attacks. I mean, I believe as human beings we have a value system where we judge based on experiences- if you’ve had a positive experience it will impact your opinion on the person or country and that’s pretty much the same with a negative experience, it’s an innate reaction really.

Q. What were your personal thoughts about the Easter attacks that took place in Sri Lanka?

A. It was very unfortunate, in the 30 years I’ve been out of the country and the past two years that I have been coming very consistently and then the past eight years when I came in to visit family- it was no longer a war zone, it was a ton of fun coming back here. I mean, over the past three to four

years we saw the boom of the hospitality industry as well and a lot more activities that everyone could enjoy. I was actually down here the week before the attacks and when I heard about them I was just shocked and almost went into mild depression- it was sad and there was absolutely no reason for it to have occurred in the first place, I don’t think even they know why they did it. I don’t think anyone outside of radicalism can understand the mindset of the perpetrators. It’s a common thing though, the radicalization of the youth. I just don’t think we heard of it here in Sri Lanka.

During my time here post the Easter attacks, I’ve been doing research and studying about the issues at hand. I met with a Buddhist monk in Hetiyapola who actually shed some light on the current affairs, and he said that a lot of the time, radicalization takes place among the youth, between the ages of 16 to 35. There have also been global studies conducted which state that there are two segments of today’s society which could be easily radicalised. The downtrodden, and unemployed-those who feel they have been left out and then the ultra rich- whom have absolutely nothing to do and suffer from an almost identity crises. We actually have both these segments right here in Sri Lanka- now you take that and you target those 100 odd kids and you can easily radicalise say 10 of them and that’s going to be a huge problem for Sri Lanka.

Q. After 30 years of war, Sri Lanka has had a noticeable changeindustries were finally growing, international business was slowly coming in- and that was within a flat 10 years. What do you predict for Sri Lanka's economy in the next 10 years?

A. I mean, if we had the previous trajectory we could have been the next financial and industrial hub. After all if you really look at it we were in direct competition with Singapore, pre 1983 and I definitely feel like we’ve done an amazing job of catching up these last 10 years. So in the next 10 years, with the right direction, we can easily become the next South Asian Hub- we have beaches, easy access to anywhere in the world, tons of access to recreational activities, an accessible cost of living and a large English speaking populations. These are all qualities that, if channelled, properly can make us the next big city in South Asia.

Q. We are a country that has survived a civil war. One would think we would have learned our lesson, but sadly, the attacks that happened post the Easter bombings proved otherwise- what do you think needs to be done to really change the perspectives of our communities?

A. If you were to analyse post the terror attacks it leads to chaos, corruption, lack of accountability and lack of leadership and I truly believe it boils down to leadership. I mean in this part of the world- you anticipate a certain level of corruption. So let’s assume that’s a base line- then you’d want able bodied leaders. Yes, this side is corrupt and

“I believe as human

beings we have a value system where we judge based on experiencesif you’ve had a positive experience it will impact your opinion on the person or country and that’s pretty much the same with a negative experience, it’s an innate reaction really.”

that side is corrupt, we anticipate that; now, give us someone who can deliver results. That is essentially what I think the country needs.

We have something that our communities just don’t recognize or value; we have a beautiful democracy- unlike most of South Asia or Africa, we have a peaceful transition of power and fair elections- we just need to use our vote very effectively and bring in the right leaders. Who can deliver? Are the right people in the right place- if we do that, then we can get past the finger pointing and get things done.

Q. If you were to take on a role of responsibility and try and change something to better our communitywhat would that be? Do you have a plan?

A. Absolutely, I’ve met with several key political and business leaders and we’ve come to the conclusion that in order to rectify certain matters regarding Sri Lanka it’s time we turn to the future, for us that is the youth of our country. Many individuals claimed that they’re just millennials- they’re remote to the political causes, but we just can’t leave it there. My idea is to create a very exciting youth summit that will attract the younger generation. It can’t just be all fun and games for them though; it has to be exciting and something that makes them feel it was worth their time in the first place. From there it’s all about understanding what is important- how do we make this generation stand up and take on leadership, be it the entrepreneurial side, the industrial side and eventually the political side. Ultimately you have a very aging population managing the country, one that is so disconnected from its youth and that gap is only going to get wider. If you really look at it, 80% of our politicians are nearing 65+ and they’re not getting younger! So how do you bridge that gap? So after proposing a few of my ideas- I spoke to a few other leaders and we came up with the idea that at the youth summit we allow the youth to publish their own gazette before the next election with the top ten things they’d like to see changed in the country. After that, whomever is going to be in charge of Youth Ministries, whoever the Youth MPs are, they’d need to pick one of those items and get it done in six monthsthat way you get their attention, you will have participation, you will have collective bargain and you will have their trust. From then on, you identify 3 different initiatives; one for the capitalistic ideas, one for the social well-being and the other is basically along governance.

Whoever is interested in these then basically is designated as a leader and eventually you start change. There’s tons of money that will come in for these kinds of projects, there are investors that will want to help us, there are investors that I can personally bring in as well- it’s just about how you organize all of this under one umbrella. That’s basically in a nutshell what I plan on accomplishing: Bringing the youth together to create more meaningful Sri Lankans.

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Champi is a talented Lankan artist who’s always been focused on finding her true passion, from realising her career calling, to identifying her own unique style of painting. Bubbly and sweet, this artist is climbing greater heights with dreams of showcasing her art to the world!

So read on for how she started, where she’s going and the little things she discovered along the way.

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Beyond the

Canvas with

Champi What got you into art?

During my childhood, I was more into sports, but after sometime, I realised I needed to find my passion and I tried everything to identify it. I’ve always admired oil paintings, acrylic paintings, and artistic things but I never had the chance to start anything. Even though I had a passion for art, I never really believed I was good enough to do it! My previous career was in fashion design but before I switched to oil paintings, I also tried pottery! I even got the chance to meet one of the greatest artists in the National Art Gallery and learned traditional pottery designs through him. It was he who wanted me to try portraits and then I realised I was actually pretty good! I was advised to drop everything else and start oil painting. So around 2000 or 2001 I decided to go down this path, but it was in 2010 that I got the opportunity to work in an art gallery.

What was your first painting about?

My first oil painting was of Jesus Christ, inspired by “The Passion of Christ” film. It was

actually sold to a church! It was the feedback I got that which made me decide that this would be my full-time career.

What do you love most about painting?

You don’t need a really big place; if you have a 10 by 10 place, all you need is some paint, brushes, and the canvas! You can do it anywhere but you just have to make up your mind about it. Whenever I see nice things, imagine a nice space or unique pictures, I simply transfer it to the canvas.

How did you come to identify with your own style?

When I first started painting, I researched a lot about many oil artists’ styles of painting.

I noticed that many painted by gaining their influence from greater artists’ styles (Michelangelo, DaVinci etc.), so you could tell that it wasn’t really their own. This made me wonder: was I going to do the same thing or was I going to start a new style? So eventually,

I decided to add traditional Sri Lankan designs into my newer paintings because we have a great culture that can be captured through art.

Do you have any formal education in art?

I studied for a few months in the National Art Gallery. Then my Art Master retired but I still went to him for lessons. My study period was around five years but I still go to him for advice sometimes!

Who inspires you?

I love Gustav Klimt. He works with lots of colours and details, even with backgrounds.

He also gives meaning to his pictures and that’s something I love to capture in my paintings; I love sitting in one place and putting a lot of work into one painting. The Art Master that I learned from inspired much of what I do as well. He has been very patient with me and he helped me identify what I want to do.

How much time do you spend creating a full piece?

Oil paintings take time. You have to apply the first layer, let it dry, and only then can you work on the next layer. So to finish a painting and completely dry it, it takes at least six months. We live in a tropical country so that’s why it takes this long, but for those experiencing winter, it could take longer.

What is the hardest part about being an artist in Sri Lanka?

Obviously, I’d have to mention the financial aspect because it’s not easy to sell paintings in Sri Lanka. People tend to look at the exterior alone rather than the inner aspect of it, which is what message is the artist trying to convey in their painting. The appreciation and understanding of the value of art in Sri Lanka is definitely in need of improvement. It can PAGE 116 | www.pulse.lk

be disappointing because we still don’t have the type of buyers who know the value of paintings when we’ve put so much work into them.

Your long term plans?

I’m planning on taking my art abroad because I want to introduce my style to the world.

I’ve got many invitations to take part in exhibitions in France and the UK!

How supportive has your family been?

Very. I have a big family and they’ve been supportive of me. Even with my father’s passing six months ago, my mother especially, has always been there for me no matter what, from my start in sports to being an artist today.

What do you do when you’re not painting?

I like to play badminton, swim, and read books in my free time. It usually so happens that I get very involved in my work and it’s only when something happens like a pain in my arm that I think ‘okay now it’s time to take a break’. Those breaks tend to stretch on for long hours!

What do you feel people need to understand more about your line of work?

When people are trying to buy a painting, they should definitely try and talk to the artist. This can help them understand the real picture, what was running through the artist’s mind, and how long they took to create it.

This isn’t like grocery shopping; people need to get a better idea so they can understand its value.

Any advice for young aspiring artists?

My advice for aspiring artists in Sri Lanka would be to start off part-time so that they can be financially stable and not get stuck along the way. Study well, get a good job, and settle a bit first so you can eventually make that career transition because Sri Lanka is not quite ready for full-time artists.

Where can people find your art?

Our art gallery is called Lavinia Art Gallery and the address is No.226, Galle Road, Mount Lavinia. It’s currently being renovated but by the end of this year, it should be up and running!

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Advertorial

Sri Lanka Hospitality Consultants

What is Sri Lanka Hospitality Consultants and why was there a need to establish?

Sri Lanka has seen a significant growth in tourism in the post war era where many investors have opted to invest, re-invest and upgrade their hospitality offerings. In doing so, once the hospitality business is established, it needs to function effectively serving the goals of its stakeholders.

Hospitality is a multi-disciplinary business offering where revenue, sales, marketing, operations, finance and other back end support functions perform. But what we feel is the centre of all this are ‘guests’. Every hospitality entity should concentrate and do well in their core business which is taking care of the guest and guest satisfaction.

In doing so, many entities face challenges. Be it revenue generation, operations, marketing & communications, etc. This is where Sri Lanka Hospitality Consultants (SLHC) feel there is potential to cater to these challenges that owners and senior management face and find ‘solutions’.

We also provide consultancy services with insights into local tourism trends with a global perspective. With expert consultants who share their passion for the tourism industry in Sri Lanka, SLHC provides 360-degree hospitality management

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within the numerous criterions under asset and general management of a hotel as well as sales, revenue and customer retention, marketing, public relations, branding and social media management, mystery guest audits, IT related services, project management, human resources services, hotel pre-opening and branding projects, events and promotional strategy development.

The key areas that SLHC provide within asset management services are maintaining of all the amenities that a hospitality establishment has, such as laundry and public area services, property housekeeping, maintenance services of the property, front of house services, kitchen and food & beverage services, human resources and setting up of financial divisions as well.

Given the current situation in the country, do you feel your business has potential?

Definitely ‘YES’. What we feel is that the whole hospitality industry is currently experiencing a very slow growth. But we must be positive and plan for better times ahead. When we plan strategically and have a practicable execution, then the hospitality businesses will be able to reap the rewards in return on investment.

What are your thoughts on the future of hospitality and tourism in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has much potential to develop further in tourism and hospitality in the next 10 years. Given the very positive publicity we have received locally and internationally for the destination before the unfortunate incidents and also considering the support from international community we are receiving now, we have a bright future for tourism.

Of course this development is not without the ‘disruptors & innovators’ which must be given encouragement. One is definitely IT and related technology in the tourism and hospitality field in Sri Lanka. We must use this to the benefit of business operations, marketing and guest convenience.

What are the challenges faced by tourism in Sri Lanka currently?

There are many challenges to which we must find collective solutions. Connectivity and human resource are arguably the top two challenges faced by Sri Lankan tourism and hospitality which impact the ‘Sri Lanka Tourism’ product we aspire to present internationally. Connectivity in reaching Sri Lanka from our feeder markets and second tier markets needs to improve. Also, connectivity locally needs to be seriously addressed in view of reducing travel time

taken to travel from one destination to the other. All this must be done with the view of ‘guest convenience’.

qualified staff members, SLHC focuses on providing solutions with special techniques, and by checking references and testing candidates’ attitude and aptitude which leads to the best possible selection of candidates. Besides recruiting, HR services of SLHC are related to all essential areas of today’s industry world. SLHC offer personal development and soft skills training, team building, customer service and service excellence, certificates on specialisation on food safety training, performance management and rewards schemes, staff management and labour regulations related advice, selection of best possible attendance, payroll and employee management system for the client.

The infrastructure in aviation, places of interest and worship, destinations of tourist importance must be developed to portray the value of the ‘Sri Lanka Tourism’ product in line with innovation and world class standards.

Once again, this must not deviate from the objective of providing a ‘fantastic and holistic guest experience’.

A positive framework must be further developed for hospitality businesses to grow and increase ease of carrying out their businesses which will further increase investment. A holistic approach to developing tourism and hospitality businesses must be taken at all levels i.e. large conglomerates, mid-size entities, small operators and individual business operators.

On a financial sense, we must re-visit our taxation structures and provide investment and business inductive tax structures.

While Sri Lanka should not aspire to be the ‘cheapest’ destination in Asia, we must focus on being a ‘destination of value’.

What are the services that Sri Lanka Hospitality Provide?

Sri Lanka Hospitality Consultants consists of a group of expert hospitality leaders who share a great passion for the development of the tourism industry in Sri Lanka, Our final aim is to uplift the tourism industry by assisting with the operations of a hotel on a consultancy basis, be it for rooms, revenue, housekeeping, F&B or even a spa or laundry. The protection of the assets is guaranteed with maximum returns, on investment for the owners by optimising operating returns and investment returns.

SLHC considers finance operations within hotel management efforts to be vital in terms of maximisation of profits and strong cost management methodology, which is essential for sustainability and development of hospitality business for its owners.

SLHC undertakes the complete set-up of accounts divisions including stores, receiving, purchasing, cost controls, receivables, payables up to providing financial and management accounting. These services are simplified as per the request of the owner to achieve maximum results.

With over 20 years experience in the tourism market, SLHC has developed

Renuke Coswatte Chief Executive Officer - SLHC

valued relationships with travel agents, tour operators, corporate businesses, NGO’s, foreign missions to bring increased revenue and sales for clients. With our broad market knowledge and generated relationships, SLHC is able to reduce the lead time generating income to clients and pursue timely-managed efforts on sales and revenue.

With the understanding on the importance of a long-term business model where marketing and related services provide the right framework in achieving sustainable business, SLHC provides marketing and branding efforts in order to sustain long term business and increase market share. This has been proven in past experiences and also have limitless examples of success stories. SLHC has a team to provide necessary support and advice pertaining to marketing, PR, branding and social media management aspects of the property as well.

With a certainty that IT services and their infrastructure foundation are as important as maintenance of property, and since innovation has been constantly propelling, IT services have become a true imperative for SLHC. The numerous services include Wi-Fi hotspot management systems, hospitality property management systems, web designing and hosting, networking solutions, all types of computers and accessories, CCTV and security alarm solutions, PABX recommendation and implementation overseeing, data recovery and troubleshooting.

SLHC also provides wellness and spa management consultancy services, either as a part of a hospitality segment or on a singular scope. Its pertaining criterions includes, selecting the best spa and wellness operators for the owner/brand, providing expertise in developing signature treatments for spa and wellness programmes, generating a holistic approach for wellness and concept development for the spa/wellness centre, acquiring staff for the spa/establishment locally and internationally and many more.

SLHC undertakes projects for star class properties as well as independent run operator properties, be it hotels, villas, concept restaurants and other hospitality related properties our focus is primarily results-driven and we work closely with owners to ensure their objectives are achieved to fullest.

What are the company plans for the future?

We will establish ourselves as the frontrunner in providing hospitality consulting services in Sri Lanka initially. We will strengthen our core businesses initially and carryout company expansion plans to selected destinations in Asia in three years time.

Renuke Coswatte | Chief Executive Officer | Sri Lanka Hospitality Consultants For more information visit www.slhc.lk or call +94 77 90 44 889 for a meeting.

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125 Years of

Excellence WNPS and their mission for a better Sri Lanka

As Sri Lankans, we all take great pride in the wonderful natural gifts our country has been blessed with.

Be it flora or fauna, Sri Lanka has it all. However, unknown to many, there is a force that protects these treasures and they have been doing it for the past 125 years!

Established in 1894, the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) has worked tirelessly for more than a century to bring important matters about wildlife and nature conservation to the limelight and to educate Sri Lanka about the magnificent gifts that we have and how we can protect them. Here’s everything you need to know.

What does the WNPSSL do on a regular basis?

One of the most active organisations out there, WNPS does a lot on a regular basis.

They have two bi-annual journals (Loris and Waruna) that cover a wide range of naturerelated topics in both English and Sinhala.

Their educational endeavours are also accompanied by a monthly lecture series which covers a whole load of exciting topics.

What exactly is the WNPSSL? When the organisation was created many years ago as the Ceylon Game Protection Society, their main objective was to protect local wildlife which was being heavily affected by hunting, a popular sport at the time.

As times changed and the need for more action came up, WNPSSL's interests grew to cover local forests as well. For a long time, this was the only civil organisation that looked into these issues and, to this day, they work closely with the government to bring about much positive change.

What have they done so far?

Over the past century, WNPSSL has done a lot of great things and some of the most notable are the efforts they put into the declaration of Yala and Wilpattu in 1938 as National Parks, along with Udawalawe in 1972.

Their fight to protect the Sinharaja Rain Forest is a key highlight which can never be forgotten. At one point this fertile land was to be a part of a logging project and it was the effort of the WNPSSL that protected the land for us and future generations.

What are the main objectives of the organisation now?

After becoming the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society of Ceylon in the year 1971, the organisation shifted its focus from game to all wild animals and their habitats.

At present, they work on policy advocating and providing education about the environment that surrounds us. In essence, this is an organisation that strives to protect Mother Nature and works with countless

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individuals, organisations, and the public to achieve that.

Completely free and open to the public, this is a perfect initiative to be part of if you are interested in wildlife,.

For those who are more adventure-oriented, the organisation conducts regular field trips and this can be a truly amazing experience.

How can I be a part of this?

Glad you asked! WNPS has an amazing membership program. The organisation is more of a community and enables everyday people to make positive change in the country. Being a member is easy and you can find a form from their website at www.wnpssl.org!

As Sri Lankans, wildlife and nature are a big part of our heritage and we need to be thankful that we have an organisation like the WNPS. 125 years down the line, WNPSSL is still working harder than ever to protect our country, working towards a better Sri Lanka.