Will power, courage steers Chandani to success

Sanjeevi Jayasuriya

The will power and courage that women have is unbelievable when it comes to a crisis situation. They have remarkable control over any undesired circumstances and come out with flying colours. The proprietor and Managing Director of a diversified business entity, Chandani Samaraweera Nanayakkara stands tall as a reputed business power amidst a cruel blow to her personal life.

Her unfailing faith and confidence in reaching the end goals have made her a shining example for aspiring young entrants to the business world. Chandani has pleasing qualities and her charming ways have won many admirers where it proves to be a winning combination for the business development. Having the best maintained building in Ganemulla to her credit she enjoys helping the needy to make their lives comfortable. Her success story is worth emulating for the business minded younger generation.

She was interviewed by Daily News Business.

Excerpts of the interview.

Q: How do you describe your line of business?

A: My late husband had a car spare parts related business where I was also involved. However, as I believe in having total control over a business, I started my own business related to the same field by setting up a petrol shed. Sampath Bank helped me to raise the necessary funds to purchase the 25 perch land. I obtained the initial money of Rs 20 million through a German funding and through a sale of land in Hikkaduwa soon after the tsunami.

I built a three storied building to house different businesses which also included renting of space. The G C Samaraweera Shopping Complex in Ganemulla is a treat to the eye. I ensure that it is maintained to perfection and could be considered as the most attractive business premises in Ganemulla.

I have a courteous staff which is a positive factor in rapid business growth. They are well mannered and provide an efficient service to develop a loyal customer base. The third floor of the building consists of a fully furnished luxury apartment and Praveena Fashion, my other business venture is housed in the second floor.

This business deals with high quality ladies wear, shoes, hand bags and accessories. The first floor is rented for other business as office space and I have an office in the ground floor where lubricant related products are on offer.

I am also into the hospitality trade where at present a hotel is being constructed in Kataragama. The three non-related diversifications add colour and different segments of customers which has become a popular choice for many to fulfil their needs under one location.

Q: How do you manage time to handle your personal life?

A: My late husband E P Nanayakkara was instrumental in having my own business. I have two children and my daughter Sewvandi is married and I have two grandchildren.

My only son Squadron Leader Sudharshana served in Sri Lanka Air Force as an Y12 air craft captain pilot. He is regarded as Missing-in-Action for the past ten years. This was the biggest blow in my life. However, I am still hopeful of his return and is working towards making this a reality. As the business is run by efficient managers and is well organized I only have to be present to see to other things. I devote my day time to develop business and also busy with social activities to bring meaning to my life.

Q: What motivated you to venture in to business?

A: I am from a business related family and my late husband too was a businessmen. I have self confidence in running a business and it is exactly what I did with success.

Q: What are your goals?

A: My only goal is personal as I believe that in business sphere I have reached the desired level. I fervently hope that my son will come back to me from wherever he is as we were informed that he was held hostage by the LTTE. All attempts to release him failed and I wish the President will intervene. We believe that he is taken to a foreign country. As a grieving mother I hope he will be back with us before long.

Q: How do you face the challenges of competition?

A: We promote business on a friendly manner and provide an efficient and courteous service. Our products, be it petroleum or fashion related are of high quality. We deal with the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation and it comes with a government guarantee. We benchmark our business to top players in the relevant sectors and work to reach the same level. The customers benefit from this and we face the challenges of competition successfully.

Q: What example do you provide others?

A: We as a business always maintain sufficient stocks. When it comes to petroleum products we do not go for quick money when prices go up. We do business in a fair manner and customers have well accepted our approach. As we have long standing customers we consider them as our associates and we have annual gathering to recognise them.

Q: What is your specialty?

A: Our business premises is the most attractive complex in Ganemulla. The staff is trained to attend to every need of the customers and they are very attentive. The high quality service delivery is key and the special feature in our business model.

Q: What are your achievements in business?

A: Our business involves high value transactions and I have a faithful staff that protects every asset. Their loyalty is an asset.

I was conferred the Weera Matha title and I am also an All Island JP. My husband and I set up an organization “ Association of Relations Missing in Action” and was successful in releasing ten captive soldiers.

This is a big achievement. He was given the title of Brigadier for Peace by the UN for the services through the association. He is also the Sama Soori award winner I have a well established business and I am happy to steer it to the next level.

Q: What is your message to society?

A: When doing business always anticipate challenges. Failures are the pillars of success and never be disheartened by them. Be patient until the bad period is over and stand up on your own to reach the end goals. Life is meaningful when you share the joy of achievements with others.