Dharshini stands tall in her chosen industry

Sanjeevi Jayasuriya

Adversities are blessings in disguise for many ambitious women. The inner strength to face challenges often proves successful. Though, she may not be as tall as some, she stands tall among others in the garments and hotel industry. Her determination, courage and commitment to the task have enabled her to take great strides in her chosen fields.

Dharshini Yvonne Nanayakkara runs three viable ventures making a significant contribution to the country’s economy in terms of revenue and employment generation. Her passion for success is amply displayed in her ventures where she has carved a name for herself.

Not all the people are born in the same way. What is important is to overcome the shortcomings to do well in life In this case, Dharshini is a shining example for womanhood. Her desire to bring happiness to people similar to her situation is admirable. She is truly a woman of our times. She was interviewed by Daily News Business for the column.

Q. What is the business you are engaged in and how do you set about it?

A. I am involved in the hotel trade and garments industry.

The hotels are inherited businesses and I continue these ventures with the help of my brother and sister who are directors in the company. My brother is in Switzerland and sister is in Australia. They both assist me in the business and I manage it.

Out of the two hotels, Aqua Pearl Lake Resort is in Moratuwa and Life Ayurveda Resort is in Wadduwa. The Life Ayurveda Resort offers total ayurveda solutions. We have our own travel agents and my brother plays a big role in sending tourists from Switzerland.

With the end of the war we feel a big difference and tourist arrivals are increasing. We are optimistic about the tourism boom and better times for the tourist industry. This is a positive factor for us to continue and sustain in business.

I also have a garment factory under the name D & A Marketing located in Dehiwala. I have two buyers from Dubai and Maldives and a local buyer. I am fortunate to have these buyers as the entire output is purchased by them. Therefore, the risk factor is minimal. I do not have to look for buyers and this enables the factory to operate smoothly.

Q. How do you balance your family life and business?

A. My husband Athula Ratnaweera is also in the same trade. This gives me flexibility in running the businesses and we have a good understanding. Since I left school I have been involved in the business and the experience plays a vital role. I plan my day according to commitments of both home and business. I have a son Sachith and I take him to school daily. I make sure that I sit with him to assist him in his studies.

I go to both hotels daily and ensure they are run properly. Though, I have a hectic schedule I manage in such a way that I somehow spend quality time with my family.

Q. What were the challenges you faced?

A. The business was a going concern and I did not encounter challenges as such. My father, Prema Nanayakkara gave me the strength and encouragement to face society. Though I had challenges in early days, with the passing of time I managed to overcome them and was confident to face any situation. My father was inspirational and I owe my success to him.

I was able to steer the business to remarkable heights and proud that I could achieve this much in life. I need to mention the support I receive from my staff members.

They are the major stakeholders of the progress that the three ventures have made. My husband is a source of encouragement and a tower of strength. This motivates me to go that extra mile and continue the business.

Q. What are your goals?

A. There are many goals and some I have achieved already. I have this dream to get to the top. I want to prove myself and to be known for my achievements. I always wanted to do something for the country.

Q. Being a woman was an advantage to be in business?

A. Being a woman you get respect at certain places. But, in some instances it is difficult to get through things. I have a loyal staff and a good team. Since I get their fullest support I can go ahead without much difficulty. However, handling labour is a tough job and I am lucky to have a dedicated staff for my businesses to progress. The garments trade is not an easy business to be engaged in.

Q: What is your advice to women in business?

A. My advice for women is not to step behind because you are a woman. Try hard and achieve the goals and go for the best. Ignore the barriers and achieve what you want in life.

Have courage and motivation in reaching the desired results. You need to have a proper plan.

Take a cue from me. I wanted to become a reputed business woman and I have reached that goal. I am honest and open and I want other women to be the same.

Q. What are your achievements in family life and business?

A. I am happily married for the past eleven years. I have a son. My mother is living with me and her support is invaluable. My brother Anil and sister Dr. Ishani too are very supportive. I am fortunate to have a closely knit family.

With the family support I have taken the business ventures to great heights. I am proud about the progress they have made so far and hope to improve in future too.

Q. What is your contribution to society?

A. I have provided employment for 150 people in the three ventures. They are treated as one big family. I am contributing to the garments and tourism industries in the country.

I have an idea to set up a mini Disneyland at Aqua Pearl Resort in Moratuwa.

I plan to form an association for people who are suffering from acondroplacia.

There are Little People Associations worldwide to recognize them and provide assistance. I want to have the same type of organization for the well-being of these people in Sri Lanka and amalgamate with the global organization. This is a long and tedious process and I am confident that I will be able to set up the Association for their betterment. There is another issue that people similar to me are confronted with. It is the non-issuance of a driving licence. This issue needs to be addressed favourably as it will be of great use to us. There is a special kind of car for us and I am determined to fight for my driving licence.