My father was more than a parent – he was my guru. His wisdom and quiet strength shaped my values, and he gave me the courage to pursue a career in finance. It began in the private sector and then later I served at the Ministry of Finance in Sri Lanka.
As a financial sector specialist in my current role at the Asian Development Bank (ADB), I focus on financial inclusion, female empowerment, market development, and expanding access to finance for micro, small and medium enterprises. I also contribute to international policy dialogue through the ACCA Global Forum for the Public Sector and the Forum for SMEs.
I love those moments when a project has impact and lives are visibly uplifted
I lead ADB’s strategic development finance initiatives in Sri Lanka, translating policy into impactful programmes. I connect global standards with local realities, and working for the ADB allows me to merge technical excellence with global impact. My ACCA qualification also provides the strategic financial leadership, ethical governance and risk management skills that are core to ADB’s service delivery.
My favourite saying is ‘Fulfilment is found in meaningful work, where personal satisfaction is mirrored in the smiles of those we serve’. It reflects a core belief of mine.
If I had law-making powers, I would establish an Entrepreneur Promotion Act. This would ignite a culture of entrepreneurship, remove barriers to business creation, and empower individuals, especially young people, women and rural innovators. The law would help build sustainable enterprises that drive national prosperity.
What I enjoy most about my work is witnessing the genuine smiles of those we help. I love those moments when a project has impact and lives are visibly uplifted. Whether it’s a female small business owner gaining access to finance, or a family benefiting from job creation, these moments remind me that development is ultimately about people, not just numbers, so my work is not only professionally fulfilling but emotionally enriching.
I stayed in Sri Lanka during its economic crisis in 2022, when the country defaulted on its foreign debt and its economy was under severe stress. Having witnessed those challenging times, it allowed me to give my fullest and help drive recovery when it mattered most.
While I don’t build steel and concrete bridges, I do build bridges of opportunity and hope
My biggest achievement is my ability to transform financial expertise into ethical, strategic leadership, which drives meaningful change. For example, I introduced a national definition for women-led businesses, a milestone that enables more accurate support for women entrepreneurs. I have helped lay the foundation for targeted interventions that promote gender equity and growth.
I excelled in mathematics at school and thought I might become an engineer, a career rooted in problem-solving and innovation. However, I then discovered a deep interest in finance, which led me towards development finance, where I found a more profound purpose through tackling real-world challenges that shape lives and communities. While I don’t build steel and concrete bridges, I do build bridges of opportunity and hope.
Outside of work, I find happiness in life’s simple moments. Being with my family is most important to me as it’s where I find grounding, warmth and joy. I also love spending time with my friends, and my dogs who give me unconditional companionship every day.
Travel is another passion of mine, as it allows me to explore new cultures, gain fresh perspectives, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the world. These experiences enrich my personal life and inspire me professionally as well.
