Category: Features

A Q&A Session with Dinoshi Keiper – Author of Healing The Future.

I’ve read the book, and it is fascinating to say the least; however, could you tell us about your journey in discovering hypnotherapy?

 

Hypnotherapy is something I came across ‘coincidentally’, as I was reading Dr. Brian Weiss’ book, ‘Many Lives Many Masters’. This again was prompted by a friend who began questioning me about a birthmark on my son’s face, which could possibly be traced back to a past life, as indicated by Dr. Weiss’ book. As you have read my book, you would know I don’t believe in coincidences! I was on a constant quest to find that ‘spark’ in life (the purpose) I was looking for, and the whole concept behind Dr. Weiss’ book was the nudge I needed. I read that book in fascination and felt a deep desire and calling into discovering the world beyond ours.

 

I had by then had my spiritual exposure in India, while I lived there, and arrived in Singapore, where I had all options open to me: to work in my usual business-related profession or try something else. I decided I’m choosing the latter, and re-qualified myself into this profession, firstly, into the counselling profession through a Master’s in Guidance and Counselling with the eventual goal of getting into hypnotherapy. It was important to have a professional qualification with a solid theoretical background and experience in dealing with emotions, before entering hypnotherapy. This is because, a lot of emotional baggage is dug out, especially in hypnotic regression, and one must know how to stabilise the client and bring out catharsis. In parallel to my Master’s, I attended a hypnotherapy certification course, as I was impatient to be able to work in this area. I qualified as a Certified Hypnotherapist with the National Guild of Hypnotists (USA).

 

What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

 

I began writing my ideas for Healing The Future, and then stopped after about 2-3 chapters to research about who we really are, where we come from, what’s beyond Earth etc., as I felt I needed to give some background info to the reader before getting into concepts from the ‘other side’. However, the research became more extensive and I realised it’s very hard to explain our existence in a few words or even a chapter. Hence, the book The Invisible Truth came about. Then I went back and continued on Healing The Future from where I left it last. In total Healing The Future took me about 3 months to write.

 

I also do academic research, getting into the academic databases with scholarly writing. I still use my visual planning, but the writing process is very different with strict conventions from font type and size to referencing, language and how ideas are synthesised. Writing Healing The Future was, because most ideas and information were from my experiences. I referred to my case notes for detailed descriptions of the stories. Writing The Invisible Truth was a learning experience for me as well, and I decided to pass it all down to the reader.

Tell us about that one case, which touched you personally, and which led you to bring the art of hypnotherapy to the public eye.

 

In general, all cases are unique and offer a wealth of learning worth sharing. Every person has a unique story, as we have experienced different past events and lives. Even the same event could be perceived by two individuals differently, based on their past experiences. However, along the way I worked with clients who have been strong advocates in society, such as Florence Nightingale or Queen Cleopatra. Obstacles can hinder everyone of us at some point in time, and it is possible to become aware of them and take steps to move forward.

 

I learned that all people are the same. If I take Alex’s story, he is a German in this birth, but a Polish Jew in his past life, who suffered in the hands of the Nazis. In a much earlier life he recalled a lifetime in France. It reveals to me that we are born into various groups. And amongst every group there are the ‘good’ and the ‘not so good’. As Alex was suffering in Poland in his past life (1940s), his current German family too was suffering the hardships of war. His grandfather (in this life) was conscripted and ended up as a PoW in France. His uncle (current father’s brother) died due to lack of medication. And there was a general scarcity of food and basic needs. They have all suffered in the hands of a ‘common enemy’. A selected few people (Nazis, in this case) were causing suffering and atrocities to many. Why do we judge and work against different nations and ethnic groups, when it is us who come and go between these groups?

 

How long did Healing The Future take for you to plan and publish?

 

The total writing time was about 3 months. I started in Jan 2017 and wrote for 2 months. From March-August I was reading up on ‘who we really are’ and our purpose on Earth, in order to write a background chapter to introduce the whole concept before writing my client stories and learnings (in Healing The Future). I was doing this amidst work and family commitments. Around September, I was ready to put this background chapter together, but realised it was just getting longer. By the time I finished writing what I needed, in October, it was too long to be a chapter in Healing The Future. I then decided to leave it as it is and spend another 1.5 months finishing off Healing The Future, from where I left it back in March. The publishing took about 2 months initially. The books for the Launch in Sri Lanka were printed at that point.

 

Email: dinoshi.keiper@gmail.com

Website: mindsoulcounselling.com

Text: Rohitha Perera

A Q&A SESSION WITH RONNIE PEIRIS

Ronnie Peiris needs no introduction; counting over four decades in the field of management, he has been a highly visible and influential leader in the corporate field. I managed to secure him for a Q&A session for this issue of Esteem that navigates not just his illustrious career, but also a set of diverse views on various topics.

 

Spending over four decades in senior management is no mean task. What has been the secret to enjoying such a long and consistent career?

Values, and traits developed by nature and nurture. The values developed by nature are those which were formed, and entrenched, because of parental influence and upbringing, schooling, religion and the visible practices of the overwhelming majority in society. The traits developed by nurture are those which were formed out of association, experiences, reading, television, entertainment, the society you move around in and bespoke training.

 

There are values that I will never compromise. Honesty and integrity are right at the top. Caring for fellow humans irrespective of their station in society, humility, simplicity, empathy and trust follow closely. Listening, delegating and empowering are traits, which I guess fall into the nurtured bucket. So is the relentless desire to achieve excellence in whatever I do and to delight whoever I serve. All of these within a framework of ethical behavior and in keeping with the laws and regulations in force. I firmly believe that doing the right thing brings its rewards in some form, shape or size.

 

 

I published a short book — “Tough Journey Great Destination”. It is an anecdotal illustration of the values and the traits, which founded my life, especially my corporate career. The book is available at Sarasavi Bookshops.

 

In a sense, nearly everyone I spoke to associates you with JKH. Tell us a bit about how you started out at JKH, and a list of achievements that you are most proud of.

 

I left Sri Lanka for greener pastures in December 1978. I returned in January 2003. I will be remiss if I did not acknowledge the formative exposure and experience I had, particularly in Management Accounting, at Lever Brothers (Ceylon) Limited as it was known then and the 25 years of multi-cultural experience I had, in a broad range of industries/functions, at Anglo American Corporation (Central Africa) Limited where I progressed from Accountant to Managing Director during the 25 years I worked for them.

 

I joined JKH as its Group Finance Director in January 2003 and was appointed to the Main Board in May 2003. I had wanted to return to Sri Lanka and was on the look out for suitable opportunities. The JKH opportunity fitted my aspirations and goals.

 

 

There were a couple of things, which struck me as systemic at JKH. The Top Management were very simple, humble persons with a “never say die attitude” and there was no compromise on honesty, integrity and ethics.  These were in great alignment with my own values and traits and provided me an environment where I could apply my acquired knowledge, exposure and experience.

 

I was also fortunate to join JKH at a time when the Board had decided to review and revamp JKH’s Operating Model including the Board Operating Model. The Boston Consulting Group had been chosen as the Consultants. There were great expectations and excitement at JKH and I was blessed to join the Group at such a juncture.

 

In terms of achievement – there were many. But all were as a result of Team Effort. JKH is blessed to have the Leaders and Staff who are very performance oriented. Perhaps the achievement which gives me the greatest satisfaction is the establishment of a Finance and Accounting Team which I would say, unhesitatingly, is the Best in Sri Lanka.  I call them the “All Blacks” of Finance and Accounting. Invincible. I was privileged to be at its helm during its transition from a function with a Compliance, Control and “Policeman-like” under-tone to one which is Advisory, Team-oriented, Open-minded and Futuristic. All this within a framework of professional independence, ethical behavior, honesty and integrity. As I stated earlier, it was Team Work and I was blessed to work with great women and men who have made the profession proud.

 

A key vehicle in JKH’s Operating Model is its very effective Performance Management System and I was a part of the Think-Tank, which conceptualized, designed and developed it. Since its initial implementation, we have reviewed and refined it in keeping with current and emerging trends. HR and Performance Management Systems are very much a part of my own DNA despite my “Finance and Accounting” beginnings.

 

It is also noteworthy that JKH has been recognized as the Most Respected Company in Sri Lanka in 12 of the 13 years since the inception of such an Award.

 

Your website www.ronniepeiris.com reveals that you have launched a book. Tell us how long it took you to write it, and what the writing process was like.

 

It is the current paucity of morals and values in our society and the diminishing awareness of professionalism which drove me to write this book. In this book, I have attempted to illustrate behavioural values and leadership principles through anecdotes from my life and my career. It is a very short book. Just 99 pages. Given the hectic pace of life and the declining reading habit, I deliberately kept it short. My target market is the young professional. So, I also kept it very affordable.

 

It is heartening to note that both the Generation “Y” and Generation “Z” are more socially conscious and more active in fighting for the “right” than the Generation “X”. I believe that the millennials will, with their greater “activism”, help rejuvenate the morality and values which are essential, in my view, for our country to prosper. A country which will provide all her citizens a better quality of life. The book aims at that too.

 

Since the thoughts came from my heart it was not too difficult to turn them into words nor was it a great burden in terms of time. I reflected on the contents for about 6 weeks in October/November 2016. Started writing in mid – January 2017 and completed the writing in August 2017. I must acknowledge, the advice, enthusiasm and perseverance of my Editor, Ms. Namini Wijedasa, who was very instrumental in advising me on the writing style. My natural writing style is very formal and business like. Namini persuaded me to adopt a more “from the heart” style of communication. I am very happy in how it turned out. Going by the reviews and public comments, it appears that the Readers are happy too.

 

What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?

 

Leaders must be “SELFLESS”. It is my view that a Selfish person can never become an effective Leader. The checks and balances in a large Corporate setting, makes it difficult for a Leader to be Selfish and yet be effective. The culture and the broader employee population will catch up with him in due course. In smaller Corporate settings, a Selfish Leader may get away for a short time, but the sentiments of his followers will eventually catch up.

 

Just look at our Political scene. When can we say that we last had a Selfless Leader. In recent times, most policy decisions, at the highest governmental levels, are aimed at staying in power. They are not aimed at making our Country better. Everyone is looking for cheap popularity. Popularity to win an election and remain in power. They are not bothered about the future of this Country.

 

A professional’s pecking order of loyalty, and therefore accountability is first the public/society, second the profession, third the employer/client and lastly himself. If only such a code was practiced by our Leaders. What a difference it would make. 

 

The Millennial generation is fast becoming the generation with the most about of workers globally. In the background of the habits and behaviours of this particular generation plus the fast advancement in technology (think social media), what would you say are the biggest challenges facing leaders today?

 

I will use some of my thoughts I shared recently with a very popular business newspaper in responding to this question. We must first take cognisance of the divergent perspectives, and attitudes, of generations, these being — “Baby Boomers 2” (born between 1955 and 1965), Gen “X” (born between 1966 and 1976), Gen “Y” (born between 1977 and 1994) and Gen “Z” (born between 1995 and 2012). It is rather obvious that relations among the generations are at a low point. Gen Y thinks Gen X is a bunch of whiners. Gen X sees Gen Y as arrogant and entitled. And everyone thinks the Baby Boomers 2 are self-absorbed workaholics. Baby Boomers 2 feel “younger people” do not have as strong a work ethic as they do. Gen X believe the “younger generation” lacks a good work ethic and that this is a growing problem. And Gen Y says the difference in work ethics across the generations is causing friction. They believe they have a good work ethic for which they are not given credit. There is little debate that the Gen “Y” s and the Gen “Z” s are more adept and familiar with the contemporary communication modes and technology platforms which have led, and are leading, to disruptive innovation. The Baby Boomers 2 and Gen X are of the view that technology-facilitated communication lack feeling and is open for misunderstanding and must therefore be used sparingly.

 

As a generalisation, and empirically, I reckon that most of the top leadership spots in the corporate world, particularly the corporate world in Sri Lanka, are occupied by Baby Boomers 2 and Gen X persons. The challenge for the Sri Lankan corporate leaders is to retain and recruit the talent it needs to replace the Baby Boomers 2 who will retire shortly and the Gen X persons who are likely to move up the organisational hierarchy. The new entrants and replacers are likely to be Gen Y-ers and Gen Z-s. In addressing the workforce needs of the present and the future, Leaders must recognise the generational differences, and aspirations, in facilitating collaborative work.

 

Whilst, many of my generation may not agree with me and that is based on conversations I’ve had with them, I believe that the quality of millennial talent, which is available to, and entering, the corporate world is appropriate, and relevant, to the current and emerging needs. They are educated and technologically more adept than those from previous generations. More specialists are emerging.

 

Speaking about Talent Management – Very often, when you ask CEO’s and CHRO’s what their key priorities are for the coming year, talent management always is one of the issues high on the list. Talent management is an easy and safe choice. Nobody will argue that talent management is not important. Supervisory Boards love to talk about succession and talent management. Talent management is generally seen as something long-term. When you hear terms as “strategic”, “long-term”, “future” and “investment”, you must be careful. For talent management, this means: it is important, but not urgent.

 

For the CEO, it means: I have ticked the box, but now HR can deal with it. Also, it does not affect my short-term performance indicators and incentives. “Of course, I will visit the final session of the senior management program, of course, I will personally mentor one or two high potentials, but please, do not bother me too much about talent management, I have more urgent matters on my plate”. This is what one hears frequently. A big challenge for organisations is to make talent management urgent, and to make it a priority of today, not of the future.

 

What is one mistake you witness leaders making more frequently than others?

 

Not “walking the talk”. This is a sure recipe for a loss of credibility. There is no Leader if he has no Followers. And Followers look for consistency and credibility. In the modern era, you just can’t fool all the people all the time.  Although one could argue that most of the Sri Lankan voters get fooled most of the time.

 

Traits, I suppose, could affect careers. With this in mind, what is the one behaviour or trait that you have seen derail more leaders’ careers?

 

The reluctance to Delegate. Not just Delegate, but Delegate in an environment of Trust and Empowerment. Although you have asked for just one, let me give you another. That is the lack of Humility. Very normal persons become very pompous as they go up the ladder.

 

Suggest a few resources you would recommend to an aspiring Leader

 

Follow Role Models. Watch TV. Read extensively on Leadership. Subject yourself to Leadership Coaching.

 

What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time?

 

Don’t compromise on your Values under any circumstance. Practice Honesty and Integrity always. Be Transparent in everything you do. Lead from the front. BE SELFLESS.

Sri Lanka: Vacation Hot Spot for Sperm Whales

“There were about two hundred to three hundred sperm whales swimming past us” enthused the amazing Daya, who swims alongside these amazing creatures on a regular basis. His passion for the seas and its splendor was recognized and featured in the prestigious BBC Blue Planet 2017 series in full HD with David Attenbourough narrating the programme. This amazing feat would not have been possible if not for the Head of Cinnamon Nature Trails; celebrated nature aficionado and advocate Chitral Jayatilake, who was instrumental in convincing the exclusive production house to visit our paradise isle and showcase its sperm whale pods to a world audience.

I was enraptured by a 3 minute video footage of the sperm whales ‘vacationing’ in Sri Lanka as Chitral revealed the lengthy process that led to this milestone in the history of our resplendent isle.

 

Pleasure in the Job Puts Perfection in the Work – Aristotle

Wetagodage Dayaratne or ‘Daya’ for short hails from Nuwara Eliya. The David Paynter Memorial School (David Paynter was the artist who painted the murals at the Trinity College chapel) built by his brother Arnold Paynter was his second home from the primary to the advance level classes. Thereafter, the young man enrolled at the Gamini Dissanayake Foundation for a period of two years. Following the completion of his studies, he worked at the NGO; CARE International, Hill Club, a garment factory and Yala Village managing to escape being a tsunami statistic thanks to the sand dunes that were the natural blockades against the killer waves that swept across the Southern coast on 26th December 2004. This eventually led to a hiatus in his career as his mother who had already lost a son to a watery grave felt compelled to keep Daya away from the water. During this period he spent his days close to his neighborhood which was none other than the forests of Nuwara Eliya with its abundance of fauna and flora. “My backyard was the jungle as our home was bordering the Horton plains and we were experts at combing through the plains and summiting the Pidruthalagala peak top umpteenth times.” His love for nature was evident in the manner he cared for even the creepy crawlies such as snakes as he was often called by his colleagues to relocate snakes found on various compounds back to the jungle.

My present job at Yala Nature Trails led to a marvelous self- discovery, his love for the ocean and its treasures. “I am so grateful to my present boss, Chitral Jayatilake for giving me an opportunity explore the vast ocean and for trusting his instincts about me as I had no certificates to show my love for nature except my unbridled enthusiasm. As I snorkeled at Pigeon Island, Trincomalee, I was literally hooked for life and refused to leave, eventually settling there and working in the deep blue and making new discoveries each moment in its depths.

 

I was employed at Chaya Blue for being trilingual but this eventually led to an exploration beyond my wildest dreams,” recalled Daya in amazement as he recalled the awe-inspiring experience of swimming alongside the gentle giants of the sea.

It was during one of his Moby Dick style adventures that he stumbled or shall we say swam into the supersized sperm whale pods which were unperturbed by this minuscule human who gaped with wonderment at the sight of them. “Thanks to my go-pro which a gift from my boss, I was able to video this marvel which was the start of a mission of Chitral’s as he was determined to woo BBC Blue Planet to SL waters. “During my annual visit to England for the Bird Fair in 2015, I took one of Daya’s videos and presented it to them at an impromptu meeting and they realized the potential of this tiny drop in the Indian Ocean. They were convinced of the endless possibilities in filming a supersized sperm whale pod which was a rare occurrence in any part of the world. In 2016 the crew spent 27 days filming the sightings for a clip that would last 4 minutes. This proves the extent of work which goes into producing the much loved program with a viewership of over 14 million people worldwide.”

 

At present Daya who has found his calling in life continues to support the many nature related programs which are spearheaded by Cinnamon Trails with Chitral Jayatilake and his team at the forefront.

The Blue Planet Series:
“Sir David Attenborough narrates this critically acclaimed series that dives deep into the marine environment of Planet Earth. Although two-thirds of the world’s surface is covered with water, scientists know less about the oceans than they do about the surface of the moon. This limited series travels from various coasts to the poles to examine watery denizens ranging from the gigantic blue whale to microscopic coral polyps.”

“Our work in Trincomalee since 2009 has uncovered a treasure trove of marine mammals and perhaps the highest concentration of sperm whales in the island. It was indeed a shining moment in our work to have BBC’s Blue Planet II filming with us and more so, when they picked our own Daya to be featured on this breathtaking production. Listening to the world’s greatest naturalist, Sir.David Attenborough colorfully narrating Sri Lanka’s marine diversity and Daya’s efforts was perhaps the single most fulfilling moment in my career,” remarked Chitral Jayatilake.

 

Written by Rochelle Palipane Gunaratne

Getting to know Mandy…

 

With its black and red retro-ish design cues, the Robata Grill by Mövenpick Colombo seemed the perfect place to meet Mandy Jayatissa. Shy almost, but confident too, she truly came across as a mixed pot of inspiration, emotions, creativity, and poetry. We’ve all heard about the accolades she has achieved for her book The Other One. But here’s a quick refresher: The Other One was published as an eBook on Amazon in the beginning of May last year; the novel was ranked number one on Amazon under the steampunk genre and third under the science fiction genre. The book was also shortlisted for the Fairway Literary Festival Award, which it won, and has shocked many with its storyline, and its shattering of stereotypes (yes, women can write science fiction).

 

Just like Robata Grill’s exceptional spicy tuna roll with its mishmash of desirable flavours, Mandy too was a collection of experiences. Having been born in Sri Lanka, she studied and worked in California and London, and currently works as a corporate trainer while heading the communications department at her insurance startup Save Your Monkey. How does one manage so many roles? You just do, she says. Patience is a virtue, and that is what helped her carve out a novel that was well received by all those who read it. A fan of plot twists, Mandy told me how fiction is never actually ever fiction. How can it be when it is your experiences in life that shape and form characters in your mind which emerge in the pages of a book.

 

Writers are voracious readers and the honest fact is that Mandy is no different. Burdened with the desire to see more people publish their work, she spoke highly of self-publishing and was thankful for services like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (Amazon KDP), which makes the whole process of putting your talent out there into the world a possibility. Other local writers like Yudhanjaya Wijeratne, who is the author of The Slow Sad Suicide of Rohan Wijeratne and Numbercaste, have also found great success thanks to such publication services like Amazon KDP. The future does seem rather bright when it comes to showing the world that there are local writers who can indeed compete with the best that the world has to offer.

 

Yet there is more to a person than just their work. Mandy and I spoke at length while sampling the very best of what Mövenpick’s Robata Grill offered; topics ranged from the increase in the rate of divorce to the millennial generation to her childhood to her marriage. Emboldened with her recent success, she has been doing her part in empowering young minds to follow their dreams – she recently participated in a creative writing workshop at her alma mater, Bishop’s College. Always persistent and desiring sleep, Mandy is already planning her next book. I’ve read The Other One, and it is addictive stuff. It’s no easy task to just sit and bleed your thoughts onto paper (think Hemingway), but writing is a therapeutic adventure that is rewarding in every possible way.

Time is a theme in her debut novel, and the smooth impermanence it offers is an affliction. The need to do more and achieve dreams seems to be something we are all burdened with, and Mandy has not been spared this affliction either. Ambition is part and parcel of being human, and this is something that should be embraced and cherished. Good things happen when you write. Good things such as being credible in front of the world, and thereby having the ability to make changes to the status quo to make it inherently better. This was something that was apparent when talking to Mandy: she wanted to offer the world something productive and valuable, and what she was offering is herself with all her imperfections.

 

And so we parted. She headed back to her office, and I off to mine. Writers are interesting people, I knew. With the heady aftertaste of wasabi rolling in my mouth, I was thankful to have been invited into Mandy’s world, which was as chaotic as it was structured. Considering the two hours of voice recordings I had tucked away in my iPhone, it was a matter of me bleeding onto paper and trying to understand the complex character that Mandy Jayatissa was and is. I think this article has done her justice. But as any writer would agree, that really is up to the reader to decide.

 

Website: http://amanda-jay.com

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmandaJayWrites/

 

Written by Rohitha Perera

NoarytheStylist: Beauty and the Palette

Noary Samarasinghe is young, beautiful and has worked for ten years in the hairdressing industry as a Cosmetologist at Ramani Fernando Salons and Instructress at the Ramani Fernando Hair and Beauty Academy. She has the hair and makeup looks of countless celebrities and models to her credit. Noary has worked with a number of local and international personalities in the glamour industry, such as Miss Iran, Miss Guatemala, Miss Colombia, Miss Kyrgyzstan and Miss Myanmar at the Miss Intercontinental pageant in 2016 and Colombo Fashion Week as a makeup artist. You can follow her at ‘NoarytheStylist’ on Facebook and Instagram.

This beautiful and vivacious girl is ambitious and passionate about her work. Her competitive spirit, determination to succeed and inability to take no for an answer is what writes her success story. Her pleasant and friendly demeanour endears her to her clients and this is a contributing factor to making her one of the most sought-after hair and makeup stylists in the city today.

 

How did your interest in the subject of Hair and Beauty begin?

“My father is quite artistic and at the age of 6, I would watch him decorating our Christmas tree and realised how talented he was. You could say that I basically learnt placing and balancing from him! Hairstyling and Beauty had always been my passion from my younger days and I used to love experimenting with all sorts of hairstyles on myself and my family. After I left school, I wanted to pursue either Hair and Beauty, or Fashion Designing, so I applied for both and decided to go with what destiny had in store for me. In future, I do hope to pursue another dream of mine, which is fashion design.”

How do you stay creative?

“Creativity, for me, doesn’t just stop at Hair and Beauty. Creativity constitutes part of whom and what I am; it is certainly a part of my life. I can be creative in everything, even something that I might not excel in. Even if you ask me to do landscaping, I’ll do my best like a perfectionist and succeed. I can meet any challenge and overcome it…that’s just the way I am.”

 

What aspect of your work do you enjoy the most?

“As a cosmetologist (makeup artist, hairstylist and beautician), I thoroughly enjoy every aspect of my work. The skin aspect of facials, the beauty aspect of makeup, the cutting, styling and colour aspects of hair, all of it gives me a deep level of satisfaction. My goal is to see good results in everything I do and I’m very insistent that the final result should satisfy me and every client I take on.”

What would you say was the turning point of your career?

“I would say there were two instances: back in 2010, a lady named Nina from MAC Cosmetics conducted a workshop on the basics of contouring and highlighting techniques with brushes. I learned a lot from her. The second occasion was when I attended a training course in Dubai in 2013. I developed my skills in haircuts, hair colour, ombré, highlighting and became more familiar with various cutting techniques. I also learned high technique skills in makeup, facial contouring and highlighting. I returned to Sri Lanka equipped with so much knowledge and made good use of what I had learned to improve my work.”

 

In your opinion, what is the difference between beauty and makeup?

“Beauty is pleasing aesthetic senses, how much enthusiasm a shape and form and sound can make you feel, beauty has balance and symmetry. Majority of people are under the impression that makeup is for the unattractive, but no it’s incorrect, make up is for the enhancement of hidden features, even for the attractive. People don’t always get this.”

Who do you look to for inspiration?

“Huda Kattan, Nikkie Tutorials and Georgiy Kot.

 

What sets you apart from your contemporaries in the field?

“I’m very competitive and adventurous enough to explore new trends. Like fashion, makeup has trends that constantly change and evolve and I am a strong follower of trends. Contouring and highlighting is a big trend all around the world and it has to be cleverly done. Sri Lanka is still getting there and the younger generation loves it. It just brings out the best in you.”

 

What do you do to relax when you’re not working?

“Dance is something that relaxes me fully. I’m a professional Latin dancer and I have competed locally and internationally with European and Asians, winning 1st place in Sri Lanka and in Asia. I became the 2010 and 2012 Asian champion held in Malaysia and Singapore, respectively; I had the opportunity to complete with top international couples. I also recently competed in China where I made it to the top 12.”

Thank you for your time, Noary. So what are your plans for the future?

“My passion for my profession will guide me to the best decisions and plans for my future.”

 

Text: Rohitha Perera

Photography: Nadun Baduge Weddings

Outfit: Ramona Oshini

Model: Iresha Asanki; Winner Miss Sri Lanka 2013

Location: Cafe Noir Sri Lanka

Makeup & Hair: NoarytheStylist

Gauri Devidayal & Naserah Tyebally: Foodies at Heart

Words have a tendency to create a sense of vagueness. In fact, so do pictures. But we all know that images do have this innate power to cause cravings – more so when food is the subject of such visual seduction. Consider the Tiramisu Pancakes, which consist of Mascarpone Bavarois, Coffee Meringue, Cocoa, and Coffee-Amaretto Syrup. Haven’t got much of a sweet tooth? Then how about – Yellowfin Tuna Tataki with Avocado, Tomato Gelée, and Sesame Vinaigrette, or a

Duck Salad, Watercress & Herbs Salad, Red Cabbage, Hoisin Glaze, Thai Chili, and Pomegranate?

The food pictures (described above, and gracefully laid out on these pages) are just a microcosm of some of the dishes Gauri Devidayal’s The Table is capable of crafting, all thanks to her coterie of star-class chefs. Of course, with a restaurant that has been evolving for the last 7 years, The Table (www.thetable.in) was the brainchild of Gauri Devidayal and Jay Yousuf – a restaurant that has been solely inspired by the restaurant scene in California. A lawyer and accountant in a previous life, Gauri is the method to the madness. As she says with a smile – Rohitha, when running a restaurant every day is madness! But madness does lead to some genius creations; and the dishes by The Table, which came out during The Colombo Supper Club’s latest Pop Up, was nothing short of magical.

Focusing on simplicity, and believing that one should always taste the food, Gauri went onto describe The Table as – cuisine agnostic. Cast a voracious eye across her menus and you are sure to find the entire world represented; and, it is this representation that gels oh-so-well with the philosophy of Naserah’s Colombo Supper Club. Naserah explained how our Colombo denizens are slowly leaving their conservative desire for what’s comfortable (think of the buffet of French, Italian, Japanese, and South Asian cuisines) and exploring more adventurous fare. It is this focus that has made Colombo Supper Club so sought after by the social glitterati of Colombo. With a large majority of society being well-travelled and well-educated, they’ve found out that the world truly is their oyster when it comes to gourmandizing adventures.

Naserah wove a tale of desire and craving for food that is not only discerning but which also exudes quality with exceptional ingredients and condiments being utilized; the novelty of trying Japanese or Italian has, in a sense, worn off; people are more aware and want to taste the magical preparations of celebrity chefs. In other words, the restaurant industry is not cuisine-driven rather it is chef-driven. These are the trends of the time, and if one were to be honest, who wouldn’t want to taste something as exotic and tantalizing as a Rose Petal Panna Cotta with Damson and Lavender Viennese Shortbread dreamt up by a Michelin star chef?

Descriptions and pictures have an uncanny way of making us gourmands wag our tongues with expectation, and with pictures such as the ones plastered on this article doing just that, remember that Gauri was insistent that The Table’s most unique proposition was the use of organic produce. Her guarantee? You will taste the food, and, as a result, you will crave it. It is this desire for all things organic and natural that has made Gauri a fan of Sri Lanka and it’s abundance of vegetables, fruits, and seafood. Disclosing that she can eat her bodyweight in hoppers, she spoke of the great things this diminutive island of ours has to offer the world in terms of cuisine.

Remember how I mentioned that words and pictures have a rather annoying propensity to create a sense of vagueness? Nothing truly sets your mind at ease like appeasing your appetite, which is just craving to know. With that in mind, may I suggest you follow Colombo Supper Club on Facebook, and avoid that horrendous disappointment that afflicts all foodies, which is not knowing what you are missing out on. Regret, as we have found out at some unfortunate point in our lives, is an unpleasant state to be in.

 

(Oh, by the way, Rumour – that mischievous damsel – has it that Naserah Tyebally is hard at work crafting yet another adventure with a Lankan twist for her next Pop Up. As hard as it is, we are all familiar with that age-old proverb – patience is a virtue – so stay tuned.)

 

Written by Rohitha Perera

Photography by Suren Nimalan

Praveen Dhanasekara: Making His Mark in the Fashion World

Before Praveen decided to pursue fashion, he was reading for a degree in Computer Science at the University of Peradeniya. He has come a long way since then and his professional approach to his career is a very admirable and rare quality. We caught up with this dynamic young man for a chat on how he got started.

 

When Praveen First Got His Start In The Field…

I got into modelling two years ago, after participating in the Mr Sri Lanka for Mr International pageant in 2016 organized by Mr Brian Kerkoven. I got selected to the Top 10 and I haven’t looked back ever since.

 

Titles Won By Praveen…

I represented Sri Lanka in the Man of the Year competition held in Pekanbaru, Indonesia in 2017, in which I won ‘Mindful’, a title which is awarded to the contestant who works on the conservation of nature. In the same competition, I was placed 4th in the Best Physique and 5th in the Best National Costume categories.

 

Praveen’s Most Memorable Shoot…

The shoot I did for a new and upcoming brand called Ocaloca. I had the opportunity to model along with one of my favourite Sri Lankan actresses and it was really fun to work with that crew.

His Philosophy in Life

If you feel like doing something, go for it and give it a try; without trying, you will never know whether you will be good at it. At the end of the line, we will remember what we did and the risks we have taken.

 

The Biggest Hurdle He Had To Overcome Since He Started His Career…

I was more into bodybuilding before I started modelling. When I did, I was told that I was too big to be a model, so I had to cut down my weight. I had to lose around 20 kgs before participating in the Mr Sri Lanka pageant, and I had to do it within a very limited amount of time. That was indeed a huge challenge.

The Pros of Being a Model…

You get to meet a lot of people from all walks of life, get exposed to many things and learn a lot. The best part is that you can be a role model to some people which is satisfying and at the same time gives you the feeling of responsibility.

What He Thinks Is The Biggest Misconception About The Male Modelling Industry…

That male models are not serious about life and relationships…it’s something every male model has faced. Male models can be outgoing, friendly and easy-going. But at the same time, they do work hard for their carrier, family and relationships.

 

Praveen’s Other Passions Outside Of Modelling…

I’m into fitness. It’s something I’m really in love with.

 

How He Stays In Shape…

I always make sure to do my gym sessions. I train 5 days per week. But that’s half the task. I always try to eat on time and have a proper sleep.

 

His Plans for the Next Five Years…

I am currently doing my Master’s degree in the USA. So my plan is to work on my career in the next five years.

 

Follow Him On…

You can follow me on Instagram: dan_praveen and on Faceboook: Pravèn Dhanasékara

 

Written By Michelle Alles

Upcycling: Easy On The Soul

It’s nice to see more people understanding and appreciating the noble concept of upcycling today. It’s even better to see people loving and wearing ethical clothing, accessories, shoes and using bags and home décor which look sophisticated and classy, and are easy on the environment, hence my headline.

 

Lonali Rodrigo’s products are designed for someone who not only cares about the environment but also wants to send a message to the world with what they wear. Her story is inspiring because it recounts determination and hard work from a teenager who wasn’t afraid to take risks, refused to give into challenges and was unfazed by convention. Today, she’s built up a sought-after brand and she can smile, knowing that she has done and continues to do everything in her power to take upcycling to even greater heights.

“When I was younger, I initially wanted to be a vet (mainly for the love of animals), or an architect, however I ended up dropping both ideas. I always knew I was creative, so after my A/Levels I had to make the big decision of whether I was going to use that creativity for a career, or just a hobby. That’s when I chose Fashion Designing. I discovered that having qualifications in Fashion Design went a long way towards building a strong foundation in the industry today, so I started my degree at the Academy of Design,” she reminisced.  “It’s sad to see that designing has become an option for those who think they have no other career options. It shouldn’t be a backup for someone who can’t enter Medical College! Fashion Designing is not about sewing a dress and show casing it on the ramp. There is so much more to it and what you need is the interest, the passion and the determination to succeed,” she stated.

 

Lonali’s self-named brand, House of Lonali, had been ready since her second year at college. “I got an opportunity to showcase at a trade show in London called Esthetica and I had to submit a collection as an existing fashion brand/business from Sri Lanka. I was competing against professionals who I admired and I consider that in itself was a significant achievement for me personally. I really enjoyed building my brand and going through the process of starting up a business and was lucky enough to be mentored by a few specialists from the UK who are world-renowned ethical designers and Ajay Amalean from MAS and last but not least, my professors at AOD,” she said.

 

Lonali’s work has had a tremendous amount of exposure in the fashion industry. Her collections have appeared at the Sri Lanka Design Festival (for which she won the Ethical Fashion Award in 2010), Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and numerous other fashion ramps. In 2013, she also won the Sustainable Designer and the Emerging Designer Awards at the Sri Lanka Apparel and Fashion Awards. Lonali plans to showcase more of her creations locally and internationally in the future. “It’s about communicating your story and who you are as a character and your design philosophy. I’ve showcased House of Lonali as the first upcycle brand for fashion and accessories in Sri Lanka and I’m proud of how many people value the concept of upcycling today,” said Lonali.

As part of her internship, Lonali undertook a project in Gampaha with the cottage industry weavers and recounts this as one of the best decisions of her career. “I learned a lot about myself as person and from there, I started working with other communities in Jaffna and in the South. I worked with people who make batik, beeralu, hemp and palmyrah craft and coconut shell products. I realised I was good at merging my creativity with what they know and turning out products that were not only creative but would be good for their respective livelihoods as well. They are very simple people; after staying in their homes and seeing how they lead their lives, well the experience was just so humbling. I would count these moments with them as some of the best in my life and my career,” she said with a smile.

 

Lonali also added that she really values being a part of The Design Collective. “We’re all together for the same purpose and that brings us closer. It’s great to be selling alongside so many other good brands…the other designers are really fun and it’s lovely to work with them all. We all think alike and that encourages amazing teamwork,” she noted. Lonali has also started retailing in UK and Sweden recently.

“We still have a long way to go to eliminate fashion pollution. We need to see more people pursuing ethical fashion trends to really make an impact on the environment. In terms of the apparel industry, we are way ahead, but in terms of fashion, we’re doing well, but we still need to shift to a higher gear,” she concluded.

 

House of Lonali’s products are available at The Design Collective, 28 Stratford Ave, Colombo 06.

 

By Michelle Alles

Simple is Beautiful

 

 

Nithiesha Jayasekera is beautiful both inside and out. How do I know this? Because every time I have had the privilege of meeting this young lady, she has exuberated confidence, poise, grace and above all simplicity. These are the very attributes that her clothing line “Nithiesha” portrays.

“Starting from a young age I have always admired the simple things in life. To me simplicity has always been the most beautiful things. This is why my clothing line and the collection consists of basic silhouettes which would suit all body types. It is also an embodiment of who I am and who I strive to be daily”, says this vivacious young lady who is one of the many young designers to be featured at The Design Collective (TDC).

 

Even though design is not what Nithiesha studied while at school here or at university, it was a lifelong dream that she hoped would one day find wings. “Growing up I remember looking at women who carried beautiful clothing with so much poise and grace, and thinking to myself that I wanted to create beautiful clothing like that some day. It has always been something that I would eventually get into in the long run and here I am today”, she added.

Having met the founders of TDC, Shahili Gomes and Binu Wickramasinghe through a mutual friend, Nithiesha found herself right at home when they gave her the opportunity to create an exclusive brand under her own name. “When I got the opportunity to include my work at TDC I had already established a brand called Nithie, but this collection would be exclusive to the store”.

 

Describing the TDC collection, Nithiesha says it consists of a range of cottons that are best suited for the island lifestyle. “This collection is also one that is suitable for all age groups and one that you could either dress up in or dress down!”One glance at pieces from the collection speaks volumes to how much understanding the designer herself has of the typical young, island woman who lives a simple but fun and fulfilling life. Inspired by the natural beauty of nature and its elements Nithiesha’s collection consists of rudiments such as frills, capes etc. that give her clothes an extra sense of sophistication.

Colombo being the modern metropolis that it is today has seen a recent outburst of designer brands. It has also brought on the advent of many young designers setting up shop. TDC has provided the ideal platform for young designers like Nithiesha to display their own personal style and brand, while creating a name for themselves.

 

“I’ve come to realize in a very short period of time that fashion is a very demanding industry. With the designer stores emerging it gives new designers like me the opportunity to showcase our talent. I believe that it has become reasonably easier for us than it was a few years ago, but that has definitely not diminished how competitive it is out there. The industry has opened doors for many new names to retail their products and the new platforms we have are such a boost”, said Nithiesha in response to a question about the industry that she has just entered.

“Nithiesha” unlike any other brand focuses solely on different types of cottons and simplicity. The silhouettes themselves are very basic making it easy to wear. “As I said earlier I believe that there is sophistication in simplicity, therefore my style would be minimalistic and simple. I don’t really like being over the top and that’s exactly what my collection portrays”.

 

The “Nithiesha” collection is available at TDC No 28 Stratford Ave, Colombo 06.

 

Information:

Full Name: Nithiesha Jayasekera

DOB: 21st March 1995

Alma Mater: Stafford International School and the British School in Colombo

Fashion Icon: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Best Dressed Male: Tom Hardy

Best Dressed Female: Victoria Beckham

Life Quote: “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” – Leonardo da Vinci

 

By Nishu Hassim

Determining the Fashion Success of Tomorrow

With not one, but two labels, Maneesha Perera’s glam quotient is doubled. After discovering her love of long sleeves, I am officially a fan! Re’ra by Perera, her bridal label, also has custom designed evening dresses that range from sophisticated and refined to elegant and graceful. The embroidery on some of them is head-turning and guaranteed to stand out in a crowd. Her other brand, Lillie’s Wardrobe, belies its innocent-sounding name and its designs for casual, evening and work wear are eclectic and will definitely make a statement wherever the wearer goes.

Maneesha studied at St. Bridget’s Convent and studied Fashion and Textile Design at AOD International Design Campus. She also did a Higher Diploma in Fashion Styling in Mumbai and currently has her own design studio.

Maneesha, what made you choose fashion design as a career?

I always knew I wanted to be a part of the creative side of the world, whichever it was, and since I am a major shopaholic, a career in fashion came naturally.

 

What inspires you and how does it feed into your work?

We are surrounded by so much inspiration, sometimes we just need to open our eyes to see it. I’m inspired by almost everything. Once you have been to fashion school, you are programmed in a way to draw inspiration from almost anything around you, so whatever catches my eye is something I always make note of. When I design something, I recall them and create something unique with a touch of my signature style.

‎If you could design for someone you consider an icon, who would it be?

No one in particular, but I enjoy helping people match stuff (mostly family and friends) when they reach out for fashion advice.

 

‎What do you feel is unique about you and sets you apart from your competition?

I don’t really think too much about the competition. But having said that, I am very impressed by everyone who is in the field of fashion and they make me want to do better and step up my game.

‎Where do you see yourself in a decade?

In a decade? I see myself as a happy person who owns a successful business…or two!

 

If not fashion design, what else would you be doing as a career?

If not fashion design, I’d be an actress.

 

‎What is your first fashion memory?

Walking into AOD as a clueless teenager!

 

‎What do women, their personalities and their bodies represent to you?

Simply put, women are like swans. Graceful, though they paddle so hard and fast beneath the waters. When it comes to their bodies, I have never judged a woman for her size, as any size is beautiful; what matters the most is that she is healthy. Size or colour of the skin doesn’t define beauty.

 

Are there any aspects of the fashion industry, local or global, that you’d like to see a change in?

Yes, I am put off by a lack of originality. I believe we all get inspired, but replicating someone else’s work is something that is a big no-no, as fashion is all about individual creativity.

 

How do you start a new collection?

For my label ReRa, it’s mostly bridals and evening wear which I design for each person’s body type and preference. At Lillie’s Wardrobe, I try to keep every new collection alongside the latest trends and styles with fabrics that are more suitable for our tropical weather.

 

By Michelle Alles