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2019 / Vol. 11 / Issue 7
Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist
Nalin Perera
Chief Executive
Officer(CEO)
Nalin
Perera
The 10 Most Inuential Business Leaders in Sri Lanka 2019
Organizations today operate in a highly competitive, global environment, making creativity crucial for success. Creativity is
what fuels big ideas, challenges employees’ way of thinking, and ideate new business opportunities. “Creativity” and
“innovation” are often used interchangeably for that reason, but are two separate concepts need to be implemented.
“Innovation isn’t just one thing,” but there are a lot of competencies that go into realizing an innovation. Whereas creativity is
different because creativity is a mechanism to being innovative. You can have great ideas, but cannot be innovative.”
So let’s know how to foster creativity within an organization,
1) Reward Creativity:
Not every idea can be successful, but if the company looks poised to make a significant breakthrough achievements are not
far away. Executives need to be comfortable with failure, and give employees the freedom and flexibility to experiment with
and explore new opportunities.
Companies that reward creativity show they value it, motivating individuals in the organization to pursue untested theories
and concepts.
2) Hire Right People
The “right” people in this context aren’t solely creatives. Organizations should instead focus on diversity that can bring in a
variety of viewpoints, cultural backgrounds, and skill sets.
Not everyone is going to be creative, but many people can learn the tools and techniques for being innovative. Thus it helps
to look at the things and have a clear understanding of it.
It is also worth considering building an innovation team within your organization. They can tap into creative energies to
develop new products, services, or processes within an organization.
3) Try a positive Approach
This approach encourages colleagues to build off their peers’ thoughts by first agreeing and then adding something to the
discussion. Taking “no” off the table ensures all ideas are heard.
Well, in today’s modern age, it is important to get the right business strategies and stay afloat in a competitive business
environment. Insights Success has come up with the special issue “The 10 Most Influential Business Leaders in Sri Lanka
Creativity and Innovation Unlocking New Values
2019” to applaud the successful business leaders who exhibit their commitment to responsible growth and progress. Here, we
have tried to focus on leaders who are setting examples and working for the betterment of society.
Some of the below mentioned personalities have grabbed our attention the most to be featured as the influential business
leaders in this edition. They have shown what it means to think out of the box, to take the risk, to trust in the process and
commit to the journey no matter how wild the ride is.
On the Cover of the magazine, we have featured the story of Nalin Perera, the Chief Executive Officer at Mobitel. The
passionate business leader, Nalin is aiming to sharpen the MBS Services provided at Mobitel with the latest technology such
as IIOT solutions and extend industry-specific solutions for plantations, transportation, warehousing, security to work.
We have enrolled a passionate entrepreneurial figure, who has come up with the most unique solutions, Miss. Kasturi
Chellaraja Wilson, the Managing Director of Hemas Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, Hemas Surgical and Diagnostics Pvt
Ltd, and Hemas Logistics and Maritime Cluster as ‘An Emerging Global Commerce Leader’. Fiercely passionate, self-
inspired and sharp-thinking, Kasturi is nurturing a culture at her workplace that helps people to drive their best selves at
work.
Apart from this, we have also listed the following personas who are building the unique path. Shehan Selvanayagam, the
Managing Director of LOOPS Solutions, is a tech leader who is promoting and providing advanced solutions to businesses
at national and international arenas through his digital marketing expertise. Wasantha Perera, the Founder and CEO of
CryptoGen. is instrumental in driving the largest Cybersecurity solution provider today in Sri Lanka. Wasantha has earned
himself the title of a Powerful Influencer in the SriLanka Cybersecurity Industry.
Along with this, we have an exclusive ‘Interview with Insights Success’. Here, Ziyam Abdeen, the Chairman and Director
of WinSYS Networks talks about his overall journey and the influences made by his firm, service offerings, winning honors,
current and future perceptions.
We are honored to mention,
1) Eranga Weerante, the CEO of Omobio
2) Aakif A. Wahab, the Head of Branding & Business Development of Head of Branding and Business Development
3) Danesh Abeyrathne, the COO of Browns group
4) Dushyanta, the MD of srilankainsurance.com
So, flip the pages of our magazine and explore interesting insights into the world of business!
Rajkunwar Bhosale
Ziyam Abdeen
An Unshakable Optimist
Grooming the IT Industry
A R T I C L E S
Expert's View
Calibre of a Successful CEO
Exclusive
Technology: Enhancing
Future Workforce &
Economic Competitiveness
30
38
18
10
Nalin Perera
Sri Lanka’s
Digital Evangelist
Interview with
Insights Success
Cover Story
Dilmah
World’s Finest Tea-maker
offering a Plethora
of Amazing Flavors in Tea
22
Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson
An Emerging
Global Commerce Leader
26
Wasantha Perera
Sculpting
New Cybersecurity
Benchmarks
36
Shehan Selvanayagam
Forging Reformative
Digital Marketing Solutions 34
C O N T E N T S
SME-SMO Executive Uma
Circulation Manager Tanaji
Digital Marketing Manager Prashant Chevale
Technical Specialist Amar Sawant
Co-designer Sapana Shinde
Art & Picture Editor Savita Pandav
Art & Design Head Amol Kamble
Associate Designer Poonam Mahajan
Copyright © 2019 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd.
Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success. Printed and Published by Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd.
Corporate Ofces:
Insights Success Media Tech LLC
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Dublin, OH 43017, United States
Phone - (614)-602-1754
Email: info@insightssuccess.com
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Off. No. 22 & 510, Rainbow Plaza, Shivar Chowk,
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Email: info@insightssuccess.in
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sales@insightssuccess.com
November, 2019
Follow us on : www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/ https://twitter.com/insightssuccess
Cover Price : RS. 150/-
Editor-in-Chief Pooja M. Bansal
Managing Editor
Abhishaj SajeevContributing Writer
RNI NUMBER: MAHENG/2018/75953
Technical Head Pratiksha Patil
Business Development Leader Ashwini Pahurkar
Sr. Business Development Executive Pravin Yalameli
Rajkunwar Bhosale
Business Development Manager Megha Mishra
COVERSTORY
Nalin Perera
Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist
Nalin Perera
Chief Executive Officer(CEO)
The significance of
telecommunications has
been globally accepted,
broadly understood, and reflected in
its near-ubiquitous penetration and
use. Its industrial expansion has
facilitated the technological
foundation for societal
communications. Communication
has played a central role in the
fundamental operations of a society-
from business to government to
families. Communication from Web
browsing to cell phone calling to
instant messaging has become
increasingly integrated into how
people work, play, and live.
The following excerpt delves into
the biography of a famous telecom
entrepreneur exploring his work in
managing his organization and
striving to take Sri Lankan
telecommunication industry to great
heights.
Nalin Perera, a highly intelligent
thinker, and strategist has strong
entrepreneurial instincts in the
telecommunication industry. He is
endowed with great responsibility as
the Chief Executive Officer at
Mobitel.
In-depth Journey
Nalin, a rugby player and
academically trained in the field of
business studies, stepped into the
world of mobile communications in
1989. During the initial years, he
worked at Celtel- a part of Millicom
Group. Marketing was his
specialization, and he took up
positions at Celtel as Market
Executive. In his early years, he did
stints heading as Senior Manager
Customer Operations, General
Manager of Sales and Marketing and
worked as the Country Manager for
Bright Point.
Nalin started his journey with
Mobitel in 2001. He worked his way
up the ranks, moving through a
series of leadership positions in
marketing, operations and enterprise
business in the company, before
being named Chief Marketing
Officer and then Chief Operating
Officer. In 2017, Mobitel announced
that Nalin would be the CEO of the
company. Through his pioneering
ideas and positive outlook, he
continues to serve as a guiding force
for the company.
Sense of Serving Exceptionally
Post undertaking the role of CEO,
his leadership roles have led the
company to gain momentum in
multiple sectors besides the mobile
services industry. His well-executed
strategies have expanded the
company’s amenities to Digital
healthcare, Enterprise Business
Solutions, Mobile Money, Digital
Services, and national level
initiatives as well.
Over his 30-year career, Nalin has
worked for almost 14 CEOs
belonging to different nationalities
like Sri Lanka, South Africa,
Australia, Swedish, Belgium,
Scottish, and many more.
About Mobitel
Mobitel- Sri Lanka’s National
Mobile Service Provider and a fully-
owned subsidiary of Sri Lanka
Telecom. The company offers mobile
telephony services, high-speed
broadband, enterprise solutions, IDD
services, mobile money (mCash) and
a host of value added services.
Mobitel was the pioneer in South
Asia to launch the first Super-3.
5G HSPA network in South Asia in
2007, and subsequently trialled
HSPA+, MIMO (Multiple Input
Multiple Output) in 2009. Another
“Nearly every man who develops an idea
works it up to the point where it looks
impossible, and then he gets discouraged.
That’s not the place to become discouraged.”
–Thomas A. Edison
“Nalin feels the biggest award that
they have won is their customers, and
they take pride in saying that as the
National Mobile Service Provider the
company has recorded customer growth
in all pillars of their business”
successful maiden attempt in the
region was, Mobitel went on to
demonstrate 4G-LTE technology for
the first time in South Asia in 2011.
Accordingly, Mobitel launched its
4G-LTE Network in 2013 to provide
unparalleled broadband experience
to Sri Lankans. Keeping ahead with
pioneering new technologies,
Mobitel trialled 4.5G LTE-Advanced
Pro technology with CA (Carrier
Aggregation) of three bands again
for the first time in South Asia in
2016.
In 2017, Mobitel was able to deploy
the first Sub-1G mobile broadband
network in Sri Lanka based on
900MHz spectrum innovatively to
provide superior coverage for some
rural areas of the country.
In 2018 Mobitel launched the First
Commercial 4.5G/4G+ Mobile
Network in South Asia. In April
2019, Mobitel was the first network
in South Asia to successfully
showcase the first 5G deployment
over a mobile network by connecting
a commercial mobile smartphone to
its 5G network.
Fuelling over USD 700mn worth of
investments to-date, Mobitel has
shaped the ICT landscape
experiencing exciting growth- poised
to lead the industry into its next
phase of development.
It facilitates both prepaid and post-
paid mobile services, along with
mobile broadband services. The
success of Mobitel Business Solution
has enabled Nalin and his team to
garner prominent local and
international conglomerates in the
country.
Outperforming Varied Projects
Some of the key projects of Mobitel
Business Solutions include the
partnership with IBM to offer
enterprise customers IBM MaaS360
with Watson.
Watson is a comprehensive mobile
management solution that allows
businesses to fully embrace mobile
technology securely and quickly
scale deployments throughout their
organization.
The company has partnered with
Utech to introduce IIOT solutions,
with Bileeta to introduce mERP, and
with Cemex to introduce mHRM and
Kayjay, M3Force, Fetons, Office
Networks for Advanced CCTV
solutions with the integration of
artificial intelligence.
Achievements Crediting
Excellence
Nalin’s brilliance and success can be
evaluated from the fact that his
leadership has helped the company
to receive an array of honors and
accolades in Brand, Customer
Service, Engineering, Operations,
HR Excellence and many more.
Due to his magnanimous
contribution through continuous
novelty and service quality, Mobitel
has been felicitated with numerous
awards. Some amongst them include,
‘Excellence of the Year for
Innovation and Leadership Award’ at
Le Fonti Awards 2018 in Hong
Kong.
Furthermore, Nalin has also been
conferred gold for and has received
honors at the 8th ACEF Global
Customer Engagement forum which
focused on Artificial Intelligence and
innovative technology.
His guidance has accredited the
company with ‘Service Brand of the
Year’ at the SLIM Brand Excellence
Awards in 2017 & 2018
consecutively.
The positive growth trajectory of
Mobitel over the past few years and
its transformative journey gives
Nalin immense pride and honor to
witness it and sustainably grow with
it.
Technology and Finance Industry
in the Mainstream
Nalin feels technology is the DNA
leading to innovative approaches and
domination in the driving market. He
strives to draft all the plans from
strategic planning to service
execution in accordance with the
modernistic technology to ensure
flawless delivery and satisfying
customer expectations.
Furthermore, to incorporate
employees with the latest
technologies, periodic training
sessions are conducted thereby
equipping them with optimal
knowledgeable skills to serve and
evolve better. The training modules
ultimately unravel innovative
thinking and enable the employees to
achieve their maximum potential that
reflects in increased productivity and
efficiency of the overall
organization.
Moreover, with mobile becoming an
ultimate source for information
consumption along with the
pragmatism of cryptocurrency, block
chain, and bitcoin, Nalin believes
that telecommunication would play a
key role. It can provide significant
support to financial entities to
identify new trends and meet
stakeholder expectations. Thus this
will help to build a new paradigm for
banking and transforming a
knowledge-driven economy into a
digital-inclusive ecosystem.
In his advice to the emerging
entrepreneurs striving to excel in the
e-commerce industry, Nalin says,
“Have a strong purpose in what you
want to achieve in the next 3 to 5
years. Believe in your purpose and
align your goals and activities
towards achieving that purpose.”
He adds, “Always evolve and learn
the new trends to create value
(Adapt, evolve and thrive) Welcome
constructive criticisms whether it’s
positive, negative or neutral,
different opinions enable you to see
beyond the horizon, moulding you to
become a better person in life and
work.”
Appreciating Government’s
Broader Role
The government has embarked on
several strategic initiatives to ensure
the upliftment of the business sector.
This includes policy amendments,
tax concessions, and strategic
private-public partnerships (PPPs).
By providing private sector the
opportunity to take leadership in
national-level initiatives, the
government is enabling the business
sector to propel the economy and
empowering small scale industries to
thrive and establish a presence in the
global market, feels Nalin.
Optimizing Future Plans
• As part of the further expansion
strategy, Nalin envisages his
company’s presence in Digital
Health Care through
eChannelling services.
• He aims to facilitate the
Education, transportation and
finance sectors by digitalizing
and maintaining the ticketing
platforms, uplift the corporate
business sector through
Mobitel’s Mobitel Business
Solutions (MBS).
• Elaborating MBS:
MBS is conceptualized to offer
corporates the ideal platform to
unlock their fullest business potential
by offering cutting-edge enterprise
solutions. This is done through his
dedicated expert team who have
utilized the latest technological tools
such as Big Data, Advanced
analytics, and data science.
Based on the findings, MBS
solutions have enabled organizations
to operate at their optimal level and
expand and increase their growth in
the long term.
During 2018 MBS partnered with
key clients, namely Sretchline,
Waters Edge, Jinasena, SAGT,
Indoscan, HNB, BOC, Commercial
Bank and Domino’s Pizza and many
more.
Nalin is taking efforts to sharpen the
MBS Services with the latest
technology such as IIOT solutions
and extend industry-specific
solutions for plantations,
transportation, warehousing, security
to work.
He aspires to expand the services not
only in Sri Lanka but also desires to
strengthen his company’s presence in
Asian and South East Asian regions.
Further, Nalin’s strategy to deliver
uncompromising MBS services has
brought glory to Sri Lanka by
winning the Best business solutions
provider of the year 2019 at South
Asian Business Excellence Awards
recently.
To know more about Nalin and his
expertise connect with him on
LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter and
get to know in detail about Mobitel
at https://www.mobitel.lk/.
Ziyam Abdeen
Chairman & Director
WinSYS Networks
November 2019|18
ZIYAM ABDEENAnUnshakableOp mistGroomingtheITIndustry
Information technology, and the hardware and software
associated with the IT industry are an integral part of
nearly every major global industry. For its secure and
sustainable utilization it should be backed by talented
individuals possessing extreme knowledge about its
accessibility, and operations.
We at Insights Success are delighted to introduce you to
Ziyam Abdeen. We’ve had the privilege to understand and
exhibit his views about Hi-Tech training and consulting
which he believes can fill the gap of lack in quality training
for networking and system administration field in the IT
training industry.
Ziyam drew upon his extensive practical experience leading
up to and including his tenure at his current position as the
Chairman and Director of WinSYS Networks. He
outlines his vision for WinSYS Networks and many more
topics.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Kindly brief us about you, your journey since the
beginning of your career
Ziyam: Before I started my ICT Career, I was a tour
operator for nearly about five years. During my travel I
used to visit all the technology exhibitions where I was
Impressed to change my career completely to ICT. This was
in 2001 where there were a few ICT Giants leading the
current industry. This helped me to Start WinSYS Networks
in 2003 to run all the professional courses related to
Computer Networking and Security.
The firm is now upgraded to WinSYS City Campus which
has become a leader in Providing Bachelor’s Degree in
Computer Networking, and Cyber Security, Forensic and
Data Science. It also provides Masters in Computer
Networking, Cyber Security and Forensic.
How do you describe yourself in a few words?
Ziyam: A thought leader
State us about the most memorable and remarkable
moments of your life.
Ziyam: When I met sir Vincent Cerf at Geneva who
invented the TCP/IP, without which there would be no
internet, network, and connectivity for all of us. Meeting
and talking to the ‘Father of Internet’ of my industry is the
most memorable and remarkable moment in my life. That
was the stint which made me realise that if this gentleman
can do it then why can’t I. Which inspired me to involve in
many ICT related volunteer works.
I feel proud to hold the membership of:
Vice President (Internet Society Srilankan Chapter)
Treasurer (Federation of Information Technology Industry
Srilanka-Communication Chapter)
Professional Member (Information Systems Audit and
Control Association)
Professional Member (Computer Society of Srilanka)
Professional Member – IEEE (#93937880)
Honorary Member (PICTA)
What role does technology play in your company? What
and how do you implement new
technologies in your firm?
Ziyam: For any technology, to adopt or to implement, the
Interview with Insights Success
November 2019| 19
knowledge is the best source of all. I am very much
happy that I am able to transfer a valuable
knowledge through my WinSYS Networks. I used
to travel many ICT Exhibitions all over the world.
As soon as I returned from the exhibitions, I held a
short meeting with my Team to incorporate all the
wisdom gained during the exhibitions and
implement it in WinSYS Networks.
Kindly highlight your achievements, awards and
accreditation.
Ziyam: Vice President of Internet Society of Sri
Lanka. National Trainer for UN.
Tell us about the challenges you faced and risks
taken and how did you overcome them?
Ziyam: As many countries Sri Lanka is also facing that all the developing countries are facing. The technology is growing
very fast. Its adoption and implementation takes time. Regulatory issues and taking the knowledge to remote areas are very
difficult.
We used to work with many organizations and voluntarily join them to take this knowledge to the next generation. Jointly
working with other organization and industry partners can solve and move forward to the future with ICT.
Share your current scenario about the industry and its future?
Ziyam: There is a huge gap in between what knowledge students are learning at schools, colleges and universities and what
the industry needs. We need to adopt some extra knowledge from the industry to teach the students in their studies.
With increasing unemployment the demand for jobs is also increasing. The leaders in the tech industry discuss all the key
valuable points in every forum but the education industry is not complying to and adopting it. We need a huge transformation
in the education industry. The industry specific technical knowledge need to be integrated in everyone which can take Sri
Lanka to the next level.
What would you advice to the budding entrepreneurs willing to make career in this field?
Ziyam: No matter what, start your journey. Don’t wait lets’ start when all settle, which you will never get. Once you start, fill
the blanks with analysing and prioritizing the needs. Take risks. Where there is risk, there is an opportunity. “The more you
acquaint yourself, you will establish more content to your business, so start building that strong Network.”
Please tell us about your future business plans.
Ziyam: About to start two more training companies. One will be specific to pure industry coding as “Coding College” and
the another will be to give a boost to the Start-up industry and help struggling start-ups to move forward as “Startup School
Srilanka”. There you will learn all that a Start-up needs to know. This will be from idea generating to exit plan.
November 2019|20
rown, handpicked and ethically made at source, Dilmah has
Ggrown from its humble origins into a global brand that is unique
in its promise of unmatched freshness, provenance, flavor, and
integrity. It is founded on a passionate commitment to quality and
authenticity in tea. Launched in 1988, the company believes in a
philosophy that goes beyond commerce in seeing ‘Business as a Matter of
Human Service’. Dilmah has some of the finest tea gardens, state-of-the-
art tea factories, printing and packaging facilities and investments in every
segment of the industry. “We care for your tea, right from the tea nursery
to the teacup!”- says the founder of the company. By following traditional
tea technique over centuries, it produces tea that is varied and
sophisticated.
The Inception Tale
With zealous business acumen, Merrill J. Fernando is the Founder of
Dilmah. He was fortunate to be offered a place amongst the first group of
Ceylonese to be recruited to learn the art of tea tasting. The journey
started from here. He was born into a middle-class Sri Lankan family in
rural Ceylon. After completing his training in the plantations, he went to
Mincing Lane, London which is the center of the world for tea. At that
time, he realized the fact that Ceylon tea is the finest in the world,
expensive, and the scope for this industry is huge. The years he spent
learning tea, changed his life; seeing the exploitation of his country’s
crop, the young tea-man, whilst yet in his twenties, resolved that he would
change the tea industry. Thus, he built his own brand to deliver the best in
the world with the finest quality.
Dedication at its Best!
Merrill Fernando has devoted his life to tea and after nearly four decades
of struggle against vested interests, he launched his own tea brand.
‘Dilmah’–the world’s first producer- owned brand in tea, coffee or cocoa;
is symbolizing hope for producers. Because of his dedication, Merrill was
‘‘
‘‘
November 2019|22
November 2019| 23
We have a passion for quality tea, ethics and conservation
‘‘
honored as one of the three Most Admired Leaders in Sri
Lanka. He was chosen for his passionate commitment to
Quality and Integrity, and for the philosophy, he established
at the heart of his Dilmah Tea business of making the
business a matter of human service.
Meet the CEO
Merrill Fernando named his own tea brand ‘Dilmah’ –after
his son’s names Dilhan and Malik, both of whom have
joined their father in his mission to bring quality back to tea
with ethics and integrity. The younger son, Dilhan C.
Fernando is the CEO of Dilmah. His efforts have focused
on bringing tea to a new generation with innovations like
tea gastronomy, t- Lounges and by enhancing knowledge in
tea through the ‘Dilmah School of Tea’. Dilhan also
nurtures his father’s pledge to make the business a matter of
human service through the work of the MJF Charitable
Foundation and Dilmah Conservation.
Taste, Goodness, and Purpose
The Dilmah tea is grown and fully packaged in Sri Lanka
itself. Produced with love and care, it was the first brand of
tea packaging in Ceylon and is the first company to
introduce tea bags as well. “Today, Dilmah is a global
brand and it is the only brand that states on each pack what
is inside the tea. It is a single origin tea of a well-respected
brand.” –says Merrill Fernando. “Almost nearly 99% of the
airlines in Asia Pacific region carry Dilmah tea on board.
About 60% of hotels in this region carry Dilmah tea. That is
a great compliment to Ceylon tea; and this all the success
of Dilmah is due to the power, quality, and image of Ceylon
tea.”-he added further. The firm offers a truly different
experience in tea-to-tea aficionados around the world.
The Strongest Weapon
Determination, commitment, dedication, and devotion are
the solid objectives, which were acted as the strongest
weapon for Dilmah. The firm was started from a small
brand in the big world of tea. It believed on itself and stood
firmly against all the negativity. Apart from everything,
today, everywhere in the world, people are talking about
Ceylon tea as the strongest weapon of Dilmah.
Ethical and Guaranteed Tea Products
Dilmah is a product offered with a strong passion for tea.
Besides, in tea, there is nothing more important than taste
‘‘
November 2019|24
and quality, which comes from the expertise of tasters.
Dilmah is the only Ethical Tea, where freshness guarantees
a satisfying cup, rich in healthy antioxidants.
Tea Packed at Source
The only international tea brand owned by tea growers
handpicked, packed and supplied directly from the origin of
a fully integrated company, caring for tea from the tea
nursery right to the cup. The world’s only ethically
produced tea that is truly traditional and authentic and
packed at origin i.e. packed at Dilmah Tea Gardens, the
home of the world’s finest Ceylon tea.
Expertise in Tea
The creation of brands has changed the perception of tea
and almost made this beverage a commodity. Growing and
selecting the finest in tea –is an art that takes years to get
perfect. The Founder of Dilmah, Merrill Fernando, is one of
the most experienced tea tasters in service today with 69
years in tea, and that expertise is what makes Dilmah
different.
Million Dollar Advice for Millennial
“Having full knowledge of the project and starting within
your reach will lead you to the success. When you grow, you
can think of expanding. After 5 years you will be well
established.”— advises Merrill J. Fernando. “Most people
fail by not properly identifying their limitations and trying
to copy what others do. That is a human weakness” he
added further.
Great Future Ahead
The mission of the firm was to bring quality back to tea
with integrity, and by God’s grace it has achieved that and
demonstrated that quality and genuinely fair trade can come
only from the empowerment of the producer. Merrill
Fernando is expecting that his sons Dilhan and Malik will
continue to focus on those same values and principles. The
world has changed vastly and it is undergoing change at a
pace that is unprecedented and as they look to God for
wisdom, and operate with integrity and dedication to the
customer, the workers, and our great tea industry, they will
continue to succeed.
November 2019| 25
Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson
An Emerging Global Commerce Leader
acro-economic forces led by advancing technology,
Mglobalization and e-commerce are transforming the
world and our business. As the future of these
businesses is always dependent on the endeavor of right people
they grow because of its people. Thus a business constantly
strives to preserve a strong pipeline of skilled and driven
brainpower to meet its goals and consumer expectations.
With a desire to develop and sustain, the firms never let go of a
single opportunity to expand their pool of innovative, smart and
technology-forward people. They help to maintain and further
strengthen their industry position as leaders.
The mentioned excerpt is the journey of a professional woman
who has been at the frontier of various paradigms and has
managed to stand tall by the virtue of her grit and firmness.
Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson, the Managing Director of Hemas
Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, Hemas Surgical and Diagnostics Pvt
Ltd, and Hemas Logistics and Maritime Cluster talks about
her story with us. Fiercely passionate, self-inspired and sharp-
thinking, Kasturi is nurturing a culture at her workplace that helps
people to drive their best selves at work.
Outlining Early Days
Kasturi is a relative new comer to the positions but not to the
industry. A fellow member of the Chartered Institute of
Management Accountants (CIMA) UK, Ms. Wilson began her
career as an Audit Trainee at Someswaran Jayewickreme &
Co(SJMS), and was the Director Consulting and Audit Manager
at SJMS. Prior to joining Hemas in 2002 she was the Financial
Controller at Confifi Hotels.
Since her journey with Hemas, she has been involved in various
managerial roles including General Manager Finance for Hem
Tours, Head of Hemas’ Shared Service Unit, and Chief Process
Officer of Hemas Holdings. Executing the responsibilities of
Hemas Holdings she overlooked the group’s processes,
technological set up, infrastructure as well as financial and HR
shared solutions.
Creating Infinite Opportunities
Kasturi moved on to her first business role as Managing Director
for Hemas Logistics and Maritime Cluster. The undertakings
comprised maritime, aviation and logistics operations in the
industry.
Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson
Managing Director
November 2019|26
10
Most Influential
BUSINESS
LEADERSin Sri Lanka 2019
THE
Kasturi took over in her current role in 2016 as the Managing
Director of Hemas Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd and Hemas
Surgical and Diagnostics Pvt Ltd. Whilst spearheading these
challenging sectors that represent over 50 percent of the
group’s revenue and earnings, she also serves as a Non-
Executive Director of Morison PLC and Capital Alliance.
Achievements Awarding Excellence
Ms. Wilson’s persistence and determination have led her to
achieve an award presented by the Sri Lanka Parliament i.e,
‘Women Change Maker in Sri Lanka’ in the Business
Category.
She has been accredited with the ‘Career Role Model’ award
by Women in Management (WIM) in 2012 and has been
among the rankings of 50 Sri Lankan business people in
LMD’s 2018 A-LIST.
Under her leadership Hemas in recent years has been
commendable, recording laudable revenue and operating
profits in the group. Her firm superiority at Hemas has made
the maritime sector management team a prestigious recipient
the coveted ‘Master of the Arena’ award.
She is also a well-known sports personality having
represented the National Women’s Basket Ball Team at the
Asian Games from 1989 to 1991 while serving as a captain
in 1989.
Facilitating Inclusive Services
Hemas Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, Hemas Surgical and
Diagnostics Pvt Ltd, and Hemas Logistics and Maritime
Cluster- are part of a diversified conglomerate Hemas
Holdings PLC a company listed in the Colombo stock
exchange. Hemas placed in Sri Lanka touches the lives of
millions of loyal customers, everyday via its renowned
wellness, leisure and mobility services.
Hemas has served selflessly and delivered award winning
diversified products and services for more than seven
decades with innovation, investment, and the talents of its
people. Their fineness and global approach have made a
positive contribution to the nation's economic development.
The Challenging Curve
Ms. Wilson explains that being part of the growth
diversification of Hemas she faced many hurdles while
balancing her personal and professional life.
One of the intricate challenges she faced at the very onset of
her career was undertaking a full-time work as a single mum-
balancing motherhood and profession. Another tough
decision she had to undertake was when she took up the role
of CPO (IT and Process) despite her strengths in the finance
sector.
Accompanied by a great support system including her
parent, helpers, superiors, colleagues, and friends she saw
through tough times.
Her mother has remained the biggest motivation and guide
throughout all the circumstances. And when it comes to
career, her best mentor is the company’s Chairman Husein
Esufally who believed in her potential.
She says, “From a career aspect, I am a person who is
passionate to succeed. In my work and in life in general, I
am a simple individual who strives to be straightforward,
direct and uncomplicated.”
Beholding the Future
Ms. Wilson believes that for Hemas, as a group with a rich
history of over 70 years, which has served every SriLankan
house hold operating in the wellness and healthcare
segments, it is important to focus on building for new – to
innovate and excel and strive for agility over security in
order to lead disruption
She states that proactive work with a disruptive mindset can
keep pace with consumer dynamics and environmental
changes including new ways to gain accessibility to
customers.
In her opinion to the emerging entrepreneurs striving to
make a successful career in this field she conveys, “For
entrepreneurs looking at the pharmaceutical industry, it is
essential to bring in new age innovation. Don’t let historical
structures and old school thinking impede innovation.
Create your own space and let the industry adjust itself or
else there will be no true growth.”
There is more to explore about Ms Wilson. Connect with
her on LinkedIn or Twitter, and to know more about the
firm you may also visit the websites
http://www.hemashealthcare.com/ or
https://www.hemas.com/.
We make our
service possible,
efficient and reliable
‘‘‘‘
November 2019| 27
November 2019|30
of a
ome say that leaders are born.
SThey were, till a while back.
Today, they become one. And in
most successful cases, all by
themselves.
For those of you wanting to make it a
mark as a successful CEO, know for a
fact that the following are some of the
qualities a person needs to be deemed
successful.
Learning from the Past
The past, how-much-so-ever painful,
teaches a thing or two about life and
how situations should be handled. For
someone with CEO ambitions, this is a
serious must-have given that most
persons go thru a lot before they come
anywhere near being a CEO. With
experience comes knowledge and from
th
knowledge comes foresight and a 6
sense about situations ane which way
they may turn. Nothing in the future
comes without a past. And not
acknowledging and learning from the
past is the best way to take care of the
future.
Effective Communicate
Communication, in the case of a CEO
goes beyond mere good language and
interpersonal skills. It means having
the innate ability to know what to say
to whom, when, where and why. A
flaw-less piece at the wrong time
makes all the flowery stuff pretty
grave-like. The ability to understand
the context, the audience, and the
circumstances is very, very important
to any form of communication, written,
verbal or gestural. A CEO goes
throught situations a person above and
below may not understand or
appreciate. That being the case, it is
important to think like a CEO and
communicate well with every level and
strata of the organization.
A Radically Different Perspective
A CEO remains an essential bridge
between the shareholders and owners
of an enterprise on the one hand and its
various departments and their head, on
the other. Both these sides have their
respective characteristics and
objectives, be it known or unknown.
For the owners, its profitability that’s
important. For the employees down
below at every level, its survival and
growth that precedes everything. Due
to this, the CEO who forms the link
between such disparate elements needs
to have the ability to think radically
removed from existing thoughts and
ideas so that the main objectives of
both owners and employees is met and
they prosper. Radically different
thoughts could be in terms of starting a
different line of products, closing down
an existing line of products, shifting
November 2019| 31
Expert's View
plant and machinery to different
locations, keeping, promoting or
reducing manpower, taking finances
from new sources etc to name a few.
Thinking traditional and thinking
growth can sometimes clash with
disastrous results. In fact, a CEO with
a very traditional mindset could be
perceived as being risk-averse.
Establishing Meaningful
Relationships
A CEO has to have the ability to create
great working relations with all those
(s)he get in touch with, be it within or
outside the organization. Since it is his/
her priority to get the job done,
forming meaningful relations is a must.
The ability to get along with everyone
in the organization, oversee things and
get the job done under every
circumstance is a great way to grow
and prosper for the self and for the
organization. Meaningful relation here
shouldn’t be construed to be pleasing
everyone just to get along but to have
the ability to make people perform to
the best of their abilities while
contributing to the organization’s goals
and growth.
Adapt Situations & People
When India opened it’s economy in
1991, those who wanted change were
the ones who grew as compared to
those who belonged to the old school
of thoughts who weren’t used to
changes so fast and so humongous.
Organization upon organization just
collapsed and so did people’s career
given that they just couldn’t survive in
a situation where the government
didn’t intervent to say the organization.
Without the ability to take independent
decisions, these CEOs/ Owners simply
wilted under the onslaught of tough,
unrelenting competition. Compare
them with today where a generation of
CEOs stand ready to take on
competition fully in the face and in
most cases, win and grow. This is
precisely adaptability to situations
Creating Efficient Managers
No-one anywhere, be it a business
organization or even a family of 4 ever
grow without the ability to delegate. To
delegate is to give responsibility to
accomplish tasks and in the process,
learn newer aspects of working and
running an organization. A CEO is
expected to lead an organization on
multiple fronts, and achieve success in
almost all. This is simply impossible
where the person refuses to give up the
existing set of responsibilities so as to
take up newer ones. One HAS to thus
create a second line of managers/
senior managers who would take up
the existing work of such a person
while that person goes on to the next
level.
Leading Optimistically
Dreamers never made great CEOs.
Realists and positive one, did. And
that’s because the realists knew what
exactly needed to be done to go to the
next level in growth, both of the
organization, and the person.
Remaining optimistic of good things
happening is an essential to feel
charged-up and optimistic, as this is the
feeling which finally helps win
especially in tough times when things
around don’t seem to be going right. A
person who can see afar in a ralistics
manner invariably finds reasons to
remain positive because in the long
run, most problems ease out- provided
one is ready to see situation in the
correct light!
Empathise
The ability to understand one’s reasons
to have acted in a certain way is
important to stand by people and
situations. Empathising one’s sitation
is this important and shall give the
future CEO the ability to read people’s
motives to take the decision to either
be with such persons or move on. The
best example of this ability is the
CEO’s understanding of why sales do
not increase in a tight economic
condition. By understanding the
reason, one can be expected to be with
people during the latter’s highs and
lows, suggest things and bring
situations to change drastically.
Right Source
A CEO is nothing if he/ she refuses to
listen to people within and outside the
organization. With an ear close to the
ground, the CEO can read the future
much before it actually takes place and
take decisive actions to avert unwanted
and unwelcome situations. On the
contrart, the ability to look at twigs in
the wind, and read the future is
something which lets a CEO make the
most of an existing or potential
situation. There are always those in the
organization who know way beyond
their position and situation. Knowing
such individuals and keeping them
close helps the CEO take the
organization to newer heights.
Meaningful Risks
Nothing in the world comes without its
share of risks. One cannot avoid risks
without ruining the chance of growth.
Growth and risks are thus intervowen.
In fact, growth is the product of taking
calculated risks which may either get
stupendous growth or complete ruin.
The CEO designate thus ought to have
the ability and stomach to take a risk
which may go either ways. If the
gamble pays, the CEO’s standing
grows. If not, such a person and
organization may have to take a hit.
How much of a hit is acceptable, is for
the CEO to know, appreciate and
accept.
November 2019|32
Shehan Selvanayagam
Forging Reformative Digital Marketing Solutions
In the days gone by, online marketing was just a new
and different way to uplift businesses. It opened up a
new form of media on which the businesses promoted
their products and services. But within the recent years the
significance of digital marketing has become evident.
But to have integrated digital marketing strategies working
for your business, you should gravitate towards marketing
professionals. They understand clearly how to utilize data to
propel your business forward. Having such people around
you that advance your journey to leading position and
support you is crucial in this field.
A tech leader who is promoting and providing advanced
solutions to businesses at national and international arenas
through his digital marketing expertise is Shehan
Selvanayagam, the Managing Director of LOOPS
Solutions.
He holds degrees in several majors that have helped him to
develop discipline, inventiveness and analytical skills. He
has pursued BSc in Business Management, MSc in
Information Technology, and Chartered Institute of
Marketing.
Shehan initiated his path to the E-commerce world at Sri
Lankan Airlines. It was September 2005 and he had joined
the company as one of its first e-commerce executives.
Under his leadership a his team built an e-commerce
division for the airline. Within six months, the department
was raking in $5 million per month. This success was due
to his multi-faceted professional backgrounds which he had
applied in it.
The Dream Foundation
LOOPS started its journey in Digital Marketing around 10
years ago when the market was almost non-existent, Shehan
and his associates were one of the first players in Sri Lanka
and working with over 100+ companies in around 10
markets across the world.
Shehan Selvanayagam
Managing Director
November 2019|34
10
Most Influential
BUSINESS
LEADERSin Sri Lanka 2019
THE
Loop’s is instantly recognizable for providing the following
solutions:
• Digital Marketing:
The company offers a wide range of Digital Marketing
services including Web Designing, Search Engine
Optimisation, Social Media Marketing, and Content
Marketing.
• IT Development:
LOOPS provides IT solutions that places clientele
brands on the virtual map. Their services include App
Development, Game Development, and Web
Development.
• Video Animation and Filming:
The company excels in creating eye-catching video and
animation services that help bring the customers' brand
to life.
• Mainstream Media:
LOOPS collaborates with the consumers to understand
and collect in-depth information and frame a perfect
strategy and solution to help their brand.
Appreciating Teamwork
In acknowledgement of the collaborative efforts of his team
Shehan says, “During one of my long visits overseas
exploring different market, it was nice to see the team
working independently on projects without me getting
involved at all, which gave a nice confidence that the team
would be able to run on their own which is a key transition
from an owner-operated business to a corporation.”
Achievements Crediting Excellence
Shehan’s contributions and determination have led the
organization to win over 35 awards for digital distinction.
The awards and recognitions include, Customer
Engagement Awards –Sri Lanka, Customer Engagement
Awards –Mumbai, Mobbys Digital Media Professional
Award, Zero One Awards For Digital Excellence, and many
more.
Technology in the Mainstream
LOOPS develops technology solutions internally and uses
third party solutions as well. The firm constantly tries to get
personalized with the changing technology attributes.
Shehan is of the opinion that the e-commerce industry is
looking for companies that can help them either solve a
problem or capitalize on an opportunity. Thus, he believes if
one can crack that idea and plan how to implement it, one
can master even the most complete aspects of the industry.
In his advice to the emerging entrepreneurs striving to excel
in the e-commerce industry Shehan says, “Being an
entrepreneur is not as glamorous as the media makes it out.
The first few years are super hard where you would have to
make personal sacrifices. However, do something that you
believe in and even if people say no, believe in your vision
and it should all work out in the long term.”
He adds, “entrepreneurship is about collaboration and
learning from others including your competitors so being
open for change and learning is an important part.”
Optimizing Future Plans
LOOPS currently works with a significant number of
companies in Sri Lanka. Shenhan looking at other venues
where along with his team, he adopted a three-pronged
approach
• Value Add
The firm envisions enhancing the relationship by
offering multiple services to established clients.
• Global Offering
Increasing the global footprint where the company,
under his leadership, can offer services to different
countries while maintaining a support team in Sri Lanka,
is the primary goal for Shehan. He also plans to launch
several start-ups owned by him utilizing the knowledge
and experience they yield.
If all else fails
just listen to your
gut and you
cant go wrong
‘‘‘‘
November 2019| 35
Wasantha Perera
Sculpting New Cybersecurity Benchmarks
In a ceaseless endeavor for progress, we humans often
neglect the fact that passion acts as an accelerator to
the composition of our excellence. It is fuel to a
furnace of hard-work where transcendent ideas are shaped.
To utilize this passion, and turn it into profits and goodwill,
is an active trait which an efficient business leader
possesses. We at Insights Success, in our endeavor to bring
into spotlight, The 10 Most Influential Business Leaders In
Sri Lanka 2019, have come across a commendable list of
prolific business leaders. These leaders have time and again
striven to uphold the mission of their respective
organizations and delivered excellence through their
leadership, skills and compassion.
One among such proficient leaders is Wasantha Perera,
the Founder and CEO of CryptoGen. Being instrumental
in driving the largest Cybersecurity solution provider today
in Sri Lanka with an overall revenue of US$13 Million, and
many other business ventures, Wasantha has earned himself
the title of a Powerful Influencer in the SriLanka
Cybersecurity Industry.
In the initial phase of his career, just after his graduation,
Wasantha was a systems engineer with a company called
Enterprise Technology. He then moved in to Millennium IT
as Consulting Engineer, company which developed the
world’s fastest trading platform. In his following path to
progress, he provided his service as the Head of Security at
N-able, a part of Hemas Group and later he was appointed
as the Head of Information Security and Compliance for
Colombo Stock Exchange, the national stock exchange in
Srilanka. In 2015 at the age of 34, he founded CryptoGen,
and the company took over the local Cyber Security Market
as a game changer with various partnerships, new business
models, consultancy and advisory.
In 2014, Wasantha was appointed as a board advisory
council member for the International Information System
Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2, the world’s
Wasantha	Perera,	
Founder	&	CEO
November 2019|36
10
Most Influential
BUSINESS
LEADERSin Sri Lanka 2019
THE
leading Cybersecurity Professional Organization. He has
received many global awards in China and United States for
the outstanding contribution he has made to build the Cyber
Security workforce in the SriLankan community.
Wasantha has a plethora of awards under his name for his
contributions to the world of Cybersecurity. A few of them
are; the Presidents Award 2014 from (ISC)2 and Security
Leadership award in Beijing China. He was also nominated
as one of the Top 10 Chief Information Security Officer
(CISO) candidates in 2015 in the award ceremony by EC-
Council hosted in Atlanta.
Crediting his success and excellence to his family,
Wasantha expresses, “My parents—father an engineer and
mother a house wife—didn’t have any background of
running businesses. But they coached me to learn the core
fundamentals of life to survive in any challenging
atmosphere. My sister has always guided me to the right
direction in bringing peace in my world, and finally my
wife for standing beside me and my three year old son
Sithuka who is an icon of courage and survival for my
journey.”
At Zeniths of Excellence
Coming to CryptoGen, expressing his views on how the
company caters to the market requirements, Wasantha says,
“Our business is highly dependent on trust. In addition to
maintaining corporate clients, we’re responsible for
building trust between them and their customers. That’s the
essence of Cybersecurity.”
Wasantha is of the opinion that as digital transformation
gathers momentum, it is the most appropriate time for
organizations to reflect on their security transformation. In
accordance with this, he states that during an era where
Cyber attackers, emerging techniques such as machine
learning and artificial intelligence are being used to learn
and launch disruptive activities, CryptoGen continuously
works with the world's leading Cybersecurity technology
providers to defend against such adversaries.
Sharing accounts of the challenges he faced while building
the company from foundations, Wasantha expresses,
“CryptoGen started with the theme ‘Start Small Dream Big
and Grow Fast’. Even today the company doesn’t have any
external investor and is sustaining with zero bank debt.”
He also states, “Initially none of the banks or large
organizations wanted to work with CryptoGen with the
nature of the business. But we assured continuous trust
from the smallest transaction and later developed into a
multi-million portfolio. I have founded small Sri Lankan
companies, and have seen them being acquired by larger
ones with good investments, and witnessed what happens as
a result. But I was determined to keep CryptoGen’s
entrepreneurial spirit, no matter how large and successful it
becomes. I always believed on my crown jewels, my
employees, during all types of storms in various weather
conditions.”
Beholding the Future
Wasantha believes that Cybersecurity will become a Market
worth $200+ Billion by 2023 around the globe. Pertaining
to this, CryptoGen secures around $3.5+ million worth
business per year in a small country like Sri Lanka. “With
our new managed service and Security Operations Centre
equipped with latest innovations, our plan is to explore
opportunities outside the region with many differentiation
factors to cover $10+ million transactions in next 2 years,”
states Wasantha.
He also believes that Automation and Machine Learning are
creating new possibilities in threat prediction and
prevention, so highest priority will be given any initiative
associated with these game changers.
In his advice to the emerging entrepreneurs, Wasantha says,
“Believe in yourself, explore a real challenge where others
struggle, and then address it with a trust. Your hidden
capacity and willingness to develop, organize and manage a
business venture along with any of its risks in order to make
the world a better and safer place has to be your ultimate
objective.”
In Cybersecurity
the more systems
we secure, the
more secure
w e all are
‘‘‘‘
November 2019| 37
TECHNOEnhancing Future Workforce & Economic Competitiveness
November 2019|38
OLOGYost technologies can be
Mshaped to have more
benefits than negatives. The
highest beneficiary of technology is the
education system today.
It is advancing learning and improving
performance by creating and using
appropriate technological processes
and resources.
The Role of Social Media in
Learning
Social media has gained credibility as a
source of information and a platform
for organizations to communicate with
audiences. Educational systems are
rapidly adopting it as a communication
tool where students can interact with
their peers and faculty members.
Embracing social media in education is
making students access useful
materials to connect learning groups
and other educational systems making
learning convenient.
Social media giants like Google,
Facebook, Youtube have enabled
educational institutions to
communicate campus news,
announcements, useful information.
Hashtags on social media and engaging
students in online discussions is also
the latest trend.
The Power of Visuals
Visuals are helping learners grasp the
concepts efficiently by stimulating
imagination and affecting their
cognitive capabilities. Besides, the
visual language also has the potential
to stretch ‘human bandwidth’. The
learning analytics created by digital
learning content has been most
exciting and potentially impactful so
far.
Students and teachers have
unanimously agreed upon the positive
impact on the quality education
delivered and the benefits of
introducing e-books in education.
E-books have enabled students to
easily highlight, annotate and share
their notes with friends, tutors or study
groups. E-books are streamlining and
enhancing the overall learning insights
making the learning process more
interactive and engaging.
E-books are proving to be an
educational reform helping students to
imbibe and recall the information
better and faster.
Also, SmartBoard technology which
displays the content in the form of
animations, videos and previews are
making the learning experience fun
among students.
Transforming Classrooms
AR integrates digital information that
makes us feel like a real-world
environment which increase the
participation, immersion, and
interaction with the topics whereas VR
creates an artificial environment. AR is
making deep inroads in education
making studies more interesting and
contextual.
Media and Digital Literacy
The development of mobile apps for
education unlocked a new way of
need-based learning.
November 2019| 39
Exclusive
Students are collaborating on group projects using
technology-based tools such as google docs and Trello.
To name a few apps that are helping out the learners are
Hologo, Netflix, edX, Coursera, Brilliant and Youtube are
the best platforms for formal and informal learning.
Beyond The Walls of School
Through technology, educators now are no longer
constricted to collaborate with students in schools, instead
they can connect with other educators and experts across
their communities or around the world.
They can now connect with real-world concerns and design
learning experiences that can allow students to explore local
needs and priorities. This makes classroom learning more
authentic and relevant.
Additionally by using tools like video conferencing, online
chatting, social media sites, people from urban and rural
areas to rural can connect and collaborate with peers and
experts around the world to form professional learning
communities.
Aiding the Specially-abled
Technology is been pivotal in the life of specially-abled
people by working around their disabilities and providing
them a suitable learning environment. Technology does not
necessarily require a large amount of funding but a great
talent to invent it.
Adaptive computing is overcoming challenging tasks. A
remarkable example has shown how technology can
become the game-changer of the specially-abled by making
use of telepresence robots; at a school in Copenhagen,
Denmark which is a k-12 school for the specially-abled.
It has made the students virtually attend the classes. The
telepresence robot is a FaceTime connection on two wheels
that is WiFi-enabled iPad or tablet and controlled by a
controller or smartphone.
Moreover, screen reader applications like JAWS with
specially designed Braille keyboards are enabling visually
challenged students to use computers.
Augmentative communication that uses pictures, charts,
books, and specialized computers provide functions for
word-prediction with more effective communication
helping the students to tackle the communication barrier.
Tech Grooming Seniors
With advancing technology, those are the senior citizens
that stay behind in house and far away from their brood.
They fear something might go wrong if touched an iPad or
a laptop and remain reluctant to modern advances. But now
a growing number of ageing older are embracing digital and
trying to learn new things.
Many times there are debates on how technology is spoiling
relationships but it has undoubtedly helped in sustaining
relationships for the older who are far away from their
loved ones.
Studies have found that today baby boomers and senior
citizens form an important percentile in smartphone
ownership using it for medication alerts, fall detection
alerts, ordering books, and leisure.
Need for a Guide
Regardless of the advancements in technology, the presence
of a teacher will not be hampered. The biggest factor in the
achievement of a student is the teacher-student relationship.
You can have a personalized device approach, continuous
internet connection and avail the latest software but the fact
will prevail. Unless a teacher is on hand to engage the
students and enquire them, learning is limited.
The Foreseeable Generation
Providing higher connectivity to mobile phones, tablets,
and e-readers can be a solution in the global effort to give
high-quality, multifaceted education for the people
everywhere, especially for the people living in the most
isolated and poorest countries.
In the years to come, digital literacy will be deemed more
important than academic literacy. The education cost
offered now will see a decline and numerous options will be
available on the internet.
Upgraded tools will emerge for measuring the text
complexity. Diverse learning forms will begin to
supplement the schools including business learning,
invisible learning, and open-source learning.
November 2019|40
Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist Nalin Perera Leading Mobitel’s Digital Transformation
Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist Nalin Perera Leading Mobitel’s Digital Transformation

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Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist Nalin Perera Leading Mobitel’s Digital Transformation

  • 1. 2019 / Vol. 11 / Issue 7 Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist Nalin Perera Chief Executive Officer(CEO) Nalin Perera The 10 Most Inuential Business Leaders in Sri Lanka 2019
  • 2.
  • 3.
  • 4. Organizations today operate in a highly competitive, global environment, making creativity crucial for success. Creativity is what fuels big ideas, challenges employees’ way of thinking, and ideate new business opportunities. “Creativity” and “innovation” are often used interchangeably for that reason, but are two separate concepts need to be implemented. “Innovation isn’t just one thing,” but there are a lot of competencies that go into realizing an innovation. Whereas creativity is different because creativity is a mechanism to being innovative. You can have great ideas, but cannot be innovative.” So let’s know how to foster creativity within an organization, 1) Reward Creativity: Not every idea can be successful, but if the company looks poised to make a significant breakthrough achievements are not far away. Executives need to be comfortable with failure, and give employees the freedom and flexibility to experiment with and explore new opportunities. Companies that reward creativity show they value it, motivating individuals in the organization to pursue untested theories and concepts. 2) Hire Right People The “right” people in this context aren’t solely creatives. Organizations should instead focus on diversity that can bring in a variety of viewpoints, cultural backgrounds, and skill sets. Not everyone is going to be creative, but many people can learn the tools and techniques for being innovative. Thus it helps to look at the things and have a clear understanding of it. It is also worth considering building an innovation team within your organization. They can tap into creative energies to develop new products, services, or processes within an organization. 3) Try a positive Approach This approach encourages colleagues to build off their peers’ thoughts by first agreeing and then adding something to the discussion. Taking “no” off the table ensures all ideas are heard. Well, in today’s modern age, it is important to get the right business strategies and stay afloat in a competitive business environment. Insights Success has come up with the special issue “The 10 Most Influential Business Leaders in Sri Lanka Creativity and Innovation Unlocking New Values
  • 5. 2019” to applaud the successful business leaders who exhibit their commitment to responsible growth and progress. Here, we have tried to focus on leaders who are setting examples and working for the betterment of society. Some of the below mentioned personalities have grabbed our attention the most to be featured as the influential business leaders in this edition. They have shown what it means to think out of the box, to take the risk, to trust in the process and commit to the journey no matter how wild the ride is. On the Cover of the magazine, we have featured the story of Nalin Perera, the Chief Executive Officer at Mobitel. The passionate business leader, Nalin is aiming to sharpen the MBS Services provided at Mobitel with the latest technology such as IIOT solutions and extend industry-specific solutions for plantations, transportation, warehousing, security to work. We have enrolled a passionate entrepreneurial figure, who has come up with the most unique solutions, Miss. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson, the Managing Director of Hemas Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, Hemas Surgical and Diagnostics Pvt Ltd, and Hemas Logistics and Maritime Cluster as ‘An Emerging Global Commerce Leader’. Fiercely passionate, self- inspired and sharp-thinking, Kasturi is nurturing a culture at her workplace that helps people to drive their best selves at work. Apart from this, we have also listed the following personas who are building the unique path. Shehan Selvanayagam, the Managing Director of LOOPS Solutions, is a tech leader who is promoting and providing advanced solutions to businesses at national and international arenas through his digital marketing expertise. Wasantha Perera, the Founder and CEO of CryptoGen. is instrumental in driving the largest Cybersecurity solution provider today in Sri Lanka. Wasantha has earned himself the title of a Powerful Influencer in the SriLanka Cybersecurity Industry. Along with this, we have an exclusive ‘Interview with Insights Success’. Here, Ziyam Abdeen, the Chairman and Director of WinSYS Networks talks about his overall journey and the influences made by his firm, service offerings, winning honors, current and future perceptions. We are honored to mention, 1) Eranga Weerante, the CEO of Omobio 2) Aakif A. Wahab, the Head of Branding & Business Development of Head of Branding and Business Development 3) Danesh Abeyrathne, the COO of Browns group 4) Dushyanta, the MD of srilankainsurance.com So, flip the pages of our magazine and explore interesting insights into the world of business! Rajkunwar Bhosale
  • 6. Ziyam Abdeen An Unshakable Optimist Grooming the IT Industry A R T I C L E S Expert's View Calibre of a Successful CEO Exclusive Technology: Enhancing Future Workforce & Economic Competitiveness 30 38 18 10 Nalin Perera Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist Interview with Insights Success Cover Story
  • 7. Dilmah World’s Finest Tea-maker offering a Plethora of Amazing Flavors in Tea 22 Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson An Emerging Global Commerce Leader 26 Wasantha Perera Sculpting New Cybersecurity Benchmarks 36 Shehan Selvanayagam Forging Reformative Digital Marketing Solutions 34 C O N T E N T S
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  • 10. SME-SMO Executive Uma Circulation Manager Tanaji Digital Marketing Manager Prashant Chevale Technical Specialist Amar Sawant Co-designer Sapana Shinde Art & Picture Editor Savita Pandav Art & Design Head Amol Kamble Associate Designer Poonam Mahajan Copyright © 2019 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success. Printed and Published by Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Corporate Ofces: Insights Success Media Tech LLC 555 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017, United States Phone - (614)-602-1754 Email: info@insightssuccess.com For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.com Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Off. No. 22 & 510, Rainbow Plaza, Shivar Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411017 Phone - India: +91 7410079881/ 82/ 83/ 84/ 85 Email: info@insightssuccess.in For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.in sales@insightssuccess.com November, 2019 Follow us on : www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/ https://twitter.com/insightssuccess Cover Price : RS. 150/- Editor-in-Chief Pooja M. Bansal Managing Editor Abhishaj SajeevContributing Writer RNI NUMBER: MAHENG/2018/75953 Technical Head Pratiksha Patil Business Development Leader Ashwini Pahurkar Sr. Business Development Executive Pravin Yalameli Rajkunwar Bhosale Business Development Manager Megha Mishra
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  • 13. Nalin Perera Sri Lanka’s Digital Evangelist Nalin Perera Chief Executive Officer(CEO)
  • 14. The significance of telecommunications has been globally accepted, broadly understood, and reflected in its near-ubiquitous penetration and use. Its industrial expansion has facilitated the technological foundation for societal communications. Communication has played a central role in the fundamental operations of a society- from business to government to families. Communication from Web browsing to cell phone calling to instant messaging has become increasingly integrated into how people work, play, and live. The following excerpt delves into the biography of a famous telecom entrepreneur exploring his work in managing his organization and striving to take Sri Lankan telecommunication industry to great heights. Nalin Perera, a highly intelligent thinker, and strategist has strong entrepreneurial instincts in the telecommunication industry. He is endowed with great responsibility as the Chief Executive Officer at Mobitel. In-depth Journey Nalin, a rugby player and academically trained in the field of business studies, stepped into the world of mobile communications in 1989. During the initial years, he worked at Celtel- a part of Millicom Group. Marketing was his specialization, and he took up positions at Celtel as Market Executive. In his early years, he did stints heading as Senior Manager Customer Operations, General Manager of Sales and Marketing and worked as the Country Manager for Bright Point. Nalin started his journey with Mobitel in 2001. He worked his way up the ranks, moving through a series of leadership positions in marketing, operations and enterprise business in the company, before being named Chief Marketing Officer and then Chief Operating Officer. In 2017, Mobitel announced that Nalin would be the CEO of the company. Through his pioneering ideas and positive outlook, he continues to serve as a guiding force for the company. Sense of Serving Exceptionally Post undertaking the role of CEO, his leadership roles have led the company to gain momentum in multiple sectors besides the mobile services industry. His well-executed strategies have expanded the company’s amenities to Digital healthcare, Enterprise Business Solutions, Mobile Money, Digital Services, and national level initiatives as well. Over his 30-year career, Nalin has worked for almost 14 CEOs belonging to different nationalities like Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia, Swedish, Belgium, Scottish, and many more. About Mobitel Mobitel- Sri Lanka’s National Mobile Service Provider and a fully- owned subsidiary of Sri Lanka Telecom. The company offers mobile telephony services, high-speed broadband, enterprise solutions, IDD services, mobile money (mCash) and a host of value added services. Mobitel was the pioneer in South Asia to launch the first Super-3. 5G HSPA network in South Asia in 2007, and subsequently trialled HSPA+, MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) in 2009. Another “Nearly every man who develops an idea works it up to the point where it looks impossible, and then he gets discouraged. That’s not the place to become discouraged.” –Thomas A. Edison
  • 15. “Nalin feels the biggest award that they have won is their customers, and they take pride in saying that as the National Mobile Service Provider the company has recorded customer growth in all pillars of their business”
  • 16. successful maiden attempt in the region was, Mobitel went on to demonstrate 4G-LTE technology for the first time in South Asia in 2011. Accordingly, Mobitel launched its 4G-LTE Network in 2013 to provide unparalleled broadband experience to Sri Lankans. Keeping ahead with pioneering new technologies, Mobitel trialled 4.5G LTE-Advanced Pro technology with CA (Carrier Aggregation) of three bands again for the first time in South Asia in 2016. In 2017, Mobitel was able to deploy the first Sub-1G mobile broadband network in Sri Lanka based on 900MHz spectrum innovatively to provide superior coverage for some rural areas of the country. In 2018 Mobitel launched the First Commercial 4.5G/4G+ Mobile Network in South Asia. In April 2019, Mobitel was the first network in South Asia to successfully showcase the first 5G deployment over a mobile network by connecting a commercial mobile smartphone to its 5G network. Fuelling over USD 700mn worth of investments to-date, Mobitel has shaped the ICT landscape experiencing exciting growth- poised to lead the industry into its next phase of development. It facilitates both prepaid and post- paid mobile services, along with mobile broadband services. The success of Mobitel Business Solution has enabled Nalin and his team to garner prominent local and international conglomerates in the country. Outperforming Varied Projects Some of the key projects of Mobitel Business Solutions include the partnership with IBM to offer enterprise customers IBM MaaS360 with Watson. Watson is a comprehensive mobile management solution that allows businesses to fully embrace mobile technology securely and quickly scale deployments throughout their organization. The company has partnered with Utech to introduce IIOT solutions, with Bileeta to introduce mERP, and with Cemex to introduce mHRM and Kayjay, M3Force, Fetons, Office Networks for Advanced CCTV solutions with the integration of artificial intelligence. Achievements Crediting Excellence Nalin’s brilliance and success can be evaluated from the fact that his leadership has helped the company to receive an array of honors and accolades in Brand, Customer Service, Engineering, Operations, HR Excellence and many more. Due to his magnanimous contribution through continuous novelty and service quality, Mobitel has been felicitated with numerous awards. Some amongst them include, ‘Excellence of the Year for Innovation and Leadership Award’ at Le Fonti Awards 2018 in Hong Kong. Furthermore, Nalin has also been conferred gold for and has received honors at the 8th ACEF Global Customer Engagement forum which focused on Artificial Intelligence and innovative technology. His guidance has accredited the company with ‘Service Brand of the Year’ at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards in 2017 & 2018 consecutively. The positive growth trajectory of Mobitel over the past few years and its transformative journey gives Nalin immense pride and honor to witness it and sustainably grow with it. Technology and Finance Industry in the Mainstream Nalin feels technology is the DNA leading to innovative approaches and domination in the driving market. He strives to draft all the plans from strategic planning to service execution in accordance with the modernistic technology to ensure flawless delivery and satisfying customer expectations. Furthermore, to incorporate employees with the latest technologies, periodic training
  • 17. sessions are conducted thereby equipping them with optimal knowledgeable skills to serve and evolve better. The training modules ultimately unravel innovative thinking and enable the employees to achieve their maximum potential that reflects in increased productivity and efficiency of the overall organization. Moreover, with mobile becoming an ultimate source for information consumption along with the pragmatism of cryptocurrency, block chain, and bitcoin, Nalin believes that telecommunication would play a key role. It can provide significant support to financial entities to identify new trends and meet stakeholder expectations. Thus this will help to build a new paradigm for banking and transforming a knowledge-driven economy into a digital-inclusive ecosystem. In his advice to the emerging entrepreneurs striving to excel in the e-commerce industry, Nalin says, “Have a strong purpose in what you want to achieve in the next 3 to 5 years. Believe in your purpose and align your goals and activities towards achieving that purpose.” He adds, “Always evolve and learn the new trends to create value (Adapt, evolve and thrive) Welcome constructive criticisms whether it’s positive, negative or neutral, different opinions enable you to see beyond the horizon, moulding you to become a better person in life and work.” Appreciating Government’s Broader Role The government has embarked on several strategic initiatives to ensure the upliftment of the business sector. This includes policy amendments, tax concessions, and strategic private-public partnerships (PPPs). By providing private sector the opportunity to take leadership in national-level initiatives, the government is enabling the business sector to propel the economy and empowering small scale industries to thrive and establish a presence in the global market, feels Nalin. Optimizing Future Plans • As part of the further expansion strategy, Nalin envisages his company’s presence in Digital Health Care through eChannelling services. • He aims to facilitate the Education, transportation and finance sectors by digitalizing and maintaining the ticketing platforms, uplift the corporate business sector through Mobitel’s Mobitel Business Solutions (MBS). • Elaborating MBS: MBS is conceptualized to offer corporates the ideal platform to unlock their fullest business potential by offering cutting-edge enterprise solutions. This is done through his dedicated expert team who have utilized the latest technological tools such as Big Data, Advanced analytics, and data science. Based on the findings, MBS solutions have enabled organizations to operate at their optimal level and expand and increase their growth in the long term. During 2018 MBS partnered with key clients, namely Sretchline, Waters Edge, Jinasena, SAGT, Indoscan, HNB, BOC, Commercial Bank and Domino’s Pizza and many more. Nalin is taking efforts to sharpen the MBS Services with the latest technology such as IIOT solutions and extend industry-specific solutions for plantations, transportation, warehousing, security to work. He aspires to expand the services not only in Sri Lanka but also desires to strengthen his company’s presence in Asian and South East Asian regions. Further, Nalin’s strategy to deliver uncompromising MBS services has brought glory to Sri Lanka by winning the Best business solutions provider of the year 2019 at South Asian Business Excellence Awards recently. To know more about Nalin and his expertise connect with him on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter and get to know in detail about Mobitel at https://www.mobitel.lk/.
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  • 20. Ziyam Abdeen Chairman & Director WinSYS Networks November 2019|18
  • 21. ZIYAM ABDEENAnUnshakableOp mistGroomingtheITIndustry Information technology, and the hardware and software associated with the IT industry are an integral part of nearly every major global industry. For its secure and sustainable utilization it should be backed by talented individuals possessing extreme knowledge about its accessibility, and operations. We at Insights Success are delighted to introduce you to Ziyam Abdeen. We’ve had the privilege to understand and exhibit his views about Hi-Tech training and consulting which he believes can fill the gap of lack in quality training for networking and system administration field in the IT training industry. Ziyam drew upon his extensive practical experience leading up to and including his tenure at his current position as the Chairman and Director of WinSYS Networks. He outlines his vision for WinSYS Networks and many more topics. Below are the highlights of the interview: Kindly brief us about you, your journey since the beginning of your career Ziyam: Before I started my ICT Career, I was a tour operator for nearly about five years. During my travel I used to visit all the technology exhibitions where I was Impressed to change my career completely to ICT. This was in 2001 where there were a few ICT Giants leading the current industry. This helped me to Start WinSYS Networks in 2003 to run all the professional courses related to Computer Networking and Security. The firm is now upgraded to WinSYS City Campus which has become a leader in Providing Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Networking, and Cyber Security, Forensic and Data Science. It also provides Masters in Computer Networking, Cyber Security and Forensic. How do you describe yourself in a few words? Ziyam: A thought leader State us about the most memorable and remarkable moments of your life. Ziyam: When I met sir Vincent Cerf at Geneva who invented the TCP/IP, without which there would be no internet, network, and connectivity for all of us. Meeting and talking to the ‘Father of Internet’ of my industry is the most memorable and remarkable moment in my life. That was the stint which made me realise that if this gentleman can do it then why can’t I. Which inspired me to involve in many ICT related volunteer works. I feel proud to hold the membership of: Vice President (Internet Society Srilankan Chapter) Treasurer (Federation of Information Technology Industry Srilanka-Communication Chapter) Professional Member (Information Systems Audit and Control Association) Professional Member (Computer Society of Srilanka) Professional Member – IEEE (#93937880) Honorary Member (PICTA) What role does technology play in your company? What and how do you implement new technologies in your firm? Ziyam: For any technology, to adopt or to implement, the Interview with Insights Success November 2019| 19
  • 22. knowledge is the best source of all. I am very much happy that I am able to transfer a valuable knowledge through my WinSYS Networks. I used to travel many ICT Exhibitions all over the world. As soon as I returned from the exhibitions, I held a short meeting with my Team to incorporate all the wisdom gained during the exhibitions and implement it in WinSYS Networks. Kindly highlight your achievements, awards and accreditation. Ziyam: Vice President of Internet Society of Sri Lanka. National Trainer for UN. Tell us about the challenges you faced and risks taken and how did you overcome them? Ziyam: As many countries Sri Lanka is also facing that all the developing countries are facing. The technology is growing very fast. Its adoption and implementation takes time. Regulatory issues and taking the knowledge to remote areas are very difficult. We used to work with many organizations and voluntarily join them to take this knowledge to the next generation. Jointly working with other organization and industry partners can solve and move forward to the future with ICT. Share your current scenario about the industry and its future? Ziyam: There is a huge gap in between what knowledge students are learning at schools, colleges and universities and what the industry needs. We need to adopt some extra knowledge from the industry to teach the students in their studies. With increasing unemployment the demand for jobs is also increasing. The leaders in the tech industry discuss all the key valuable points in every forum but the education industry is not complying to and adopting it. We need a huge transformation in the education industry. The industry specific technical knowledge need to be integrated in everyone which can take Sri Lanka to the next level. What would you advice to the budding entrepreneurs willing to make career in this field? Ziyam: No matter what, start your journey. Don’t wait lets’ start when all settle, which you will never get. Once you start, fill the blanks with analysing and prioritizing the needs. Take risks. Where there is risk, there is an opportunity. “The more you acquaint yourself, you will establish more content to your business, so start building that strong Network.” Please tell us about your future business plans. Ziyam: About to start two more training companies. One will be specific to pure industry coding as “Coding College” and the another will be to give a boost to the Start-up industry and help struggling start-ups to move forward as “Startup School Srilanka”. There you will learn all that a Start-up needs to know. This will be from idea generating to exit plan. November 2019|20
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  • 24. rown, handpicked and ethically made at source, Dilmah has Ggrown from its humble origins into a global brand that is unique in its promise of unmatched freshness, provenance, flavor, and integrity. It is founded on a passionate commitment to quality and authenticity in tea. Launched in 1988, the company believes in a philosophy that goes beyond commerce in seeing ‘Business as a Matter of Human Service’. Dilmah has some of the finest tea gardens, state-of-the- art tea factories, printing and packaging facilities and investments in every segment of the industry. “We care for your tea, right from the tea nursery to the teacup!”- says the founder of the company. By following traditional tea technique over centuries, it produces tea that is varied and sophisticated. The Inception Tale With zealous business acumen, Merrill J. Fernando is the Founder of Dilmah. He was fortunate to be offered a place amongst the first group of Ceylonese to be recruited to learn the art of tea tasting. The journey started from here. He was born into a middle-class Sri Lankan family in rural Ceylon. After completing his training in the plantations, he went to Mincing Lane, London which is the center of the world for tea. At that time, he realized the fact that Ceylon tea is the finest in the world, expensive, and the scope for this industry is huge. The years he spent learning tea, changed his life; seeing the exploitation of his country’s crop, the young tea-man, whilst yet in his twenties, resolved that he would change the tea industry. Thus, he built his own brand to deliver the best in the world with the finest quality. Dedication at its Best! Merrill Fernando has devoted his life to tea and after nearly four decades of struggle against vested interests, he launched his own tea brand. ‘Dilmah’–the world’s first producer- owned brand in tea, coffee or cocoa; is symbolizing hope for producers. Because of his dedication, Merrill was ‘‘ ‘‘ November 2019|22
  • 26. We have a passion for quality tea, ethics and conservation ‘‘ honored as one of the three Most Admired Leaders in Sri Lanka. He was chosen for his passionate commitment to Quality and Integrity, and for the philosophy, he established at the heart of his Dilmah Tea business of making the business a matter of human service. Meet the CEO Merrill Fernando named his own tea brand ‘Dilmah’ –after his son’s names Dilhan and Malik, both of whom have joined their father in his mission to bring quality back to tea with ethics and integrity. The younger son, Dilhan C. Fernando is the CEO of Dilmah. His efforts have focused on bringing tea to a new generation with innovations like tea gastronomy, t- Lounges and by enhancing knowledge in tea through the ‘Dilmah School of Tea’. Dilhan also nurtures his father’s pledge to make the business a matter of human service through the work of the MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation. Taste, Goodness, and Purpose The Dilmah tea is grown and fully packaged in Sri Lanka itself. Produced with love and care, it was the first brand of tea packaging in Ceylon and is the first company to introduce tea bags as well. “Today, Dilmah is a global brand and it is the only brand that states on each pack what is inside the tea. It is a single origin tea of a well-respected brand.” –says Merrill Fernando. “Almost nearly 99% of the airlines in Asia Pacific region carry Dilmah tea on board. About 60% of hotels in this region carry Dilmah tea. That is a great compliment to Ceylon tea; and this all the success of Dilmah is due to the power, quality, and image of Ceylon tea.”-he added further. The firm offers a truly different experience in tea-to-tea aficionados around the world. The Strongest Weapon Determination, commitment, dedication, and devotion are the solid objectives, which were acted as the strongest weapon for Dilmah. The firm was started from a small brand in the big world of tea. It believed on itself and stood firmly against all the negativity. Apart from everything, today, everywhere in the world, people are talking about Ceylon tea as the strongest weapon of Dilmah. Ethical and Guaranteed Tea Products Dilmah is a product offered with a strong passion for tea. Besides, in tea, there is nothing more important than taste ‘‘ November 2019|24
  • 27. and quality, which comes from the expertise of tasters. Dilmah is the only Ethical Tea, where freshness guarantees a satisfying cup, rich in healthy antioxidants. Tea Packed at Source The only international tea brand owned by tea growers handpicked, packed and supplied directly from the origin of a fully integrated company, caring for tea from the tea nursery right to the cup. The world’s only ethically produced tea that is truly traditional and authentic and packed at origin i.e. packed at Dilmah Tea Gardens, the home of the world’s finest Ceylon tea. Expertise in Tea The creation of brands has changed the perception of tea and almost made this beverage a commodity. Growing and selecting the finest in tea –is an art that takes years to get perfect. The Founder of Dilmah, Merrill Fernando, is one of the most experienced tea tasters in service today with 69 years in tea, and that expertise is what makes Dilmah different. Million Dollar Advice for Millennial “Having full knowledge of the project and starting within your reach will lead you to the success. When you grow, you can think of expanding. After 5 years you will be well established.”— advises Merrill J. Fernando. “Most people fail by not properly identifying their limitations and trying to copy what others do. That is a human weakness” he added further. Great Future Ahead The mission of the firm was to bring quality back to tea with integrity, and by God’s grace it has achieved that and demonstrated that quality and genuinely fair trade can come only from the empowerment of the producer. Merrill Fernando is expecting that his sons Dilhan and Malik will continue to focus on those same values and principles. The world has changed vastly and it is undergoing change at a pace that is unprecedented and as they look to God for wisdom, and operate with integrity and dedication to the customer, the workers, and our great tea industry, they will continue to succeed. November 2019| 25
  • 28. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson An Emerging Global Commerce Leader acro-economic forces led by advancing technology, Mglobalization and e-commerce are transforming the world and our business. As the future of these businesses is always dependent on the endeavor of right people they grow because of its people. Thus a business constantly strives to preserve a strong pipeline of skilled and driven brainpower to meet its goals and consumer expectations. With a desire to develop and sustain, the firms never let go of a single opportunity to expand their pool of innovative, smart and technology-forward people. They help to maintain and further strengthen their industry position as leaders. The mentioned excerpt is the journey of a professional woman who has been at the frontier of various paradigms and has managed to stand tall by the virtue of her grit and firmness. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson, the Managing Director of Hemas Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, Hemas Surgical and Diagnostics Pvt Ltd, and Hemas Logistics and Maritime Cluster talks about her story with us. Fiercely passionate, self-inspired and sharp- thinking, Kasturi is nurturing a culture at her workplace that helps people to drive their best selves at work. Outlining Early Days Kasturi is a relative new comer to the positions but not to the industry. A fellow member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) UK, Ms. Wilson began her career as an Audit Trainee at Someswaran Jayewickreme & Co(SJMS), and was the Director Consulting and Audit Manager at SJMS. Prior to joining Hemas in 2002 she was the Financial Controller at Confifi Hotels. Since her journey with Hemas, she has been involved in various managerial roles including General Manager Finance for Hem Tours, Head of Hemas’ Shared Service Unit, and Chief Process Officer of Hemas Holdings. Executing the responsibilities of Hemas Holdings she overlooked the group’s processes, technological set up, infrastructure as well as financial and HR shared solutions. Creating Infinite Opportunities Kasturi moved on to her first business role as Managing Director for Hemas Logistics and Maritime Cluster. The undertakings comprised maritime, aviation and logistics operations in the industry. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson Managing Director November 2019|26 10 Most Influential BUSINESS LEADERSin Sri Lanka 2019 THE
  • 29. Kasturi took over in her current role in 2016 as the Managing Director of Hemas Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd and Hemas Surgical and Diagnostics Pvt Ltd. Whilst spearheading these challenging sectors that represent over 50 percent of the group’s revenue and earnings, she also serves as a Non- Executive Director of Morison PLC and Capital Alliance. Achievements Awarding Excellence Ms. Wilson’s persistence and determination have led her to achieve an award presented by the Sri Lanka Parliament i.e, ‘Women Change Maker in Sri Lanka’ in the Business Category. She has been accredited with the ‘Career Role Model’ award by Women in Management (WIM) in 2012 and has been among the rankings of 50 Sri Lankan business people in LMD’s 2018 A-LIST. Under her leadership Hemas in recent years has been commendable, recording laudable revenue and operating profits in the group. Her firm superiority at Hemas has made the maritime sector management team a prestigious recipient the coveted ‘Master of the Arena’ award. She is also a well-known sports personality having represented the National Women’s Basket Ball Team at the Asian Games from 1989 to 1991 while serving as a captain in 1989. Facilitating Inclusive Services Hemas Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, Hemas Surgical and Diagnostics Pvt Ltd, and Hemas Logistics and Maritime Cluster- are part of a diversified conglomerate Hemas Holdings PLC a company listed in the Colombo stock exchange. Hemas placed in Sri Lanka touches the lives of millions of loyal customers, everyday via its renowned wellness, leisure and mobility services. Hemas has served selflessly and delivered award winning diversified products and services for more than seven decades with innovation, investment, and the talents of its people. Their fineness and global approach have made a positive contribution to the nation's economic development. The Challenging Curve Ms. Wilson explains that being part of the growth diversification of Hemas she faced many hurdles while balancing her personal and professional life. One of the intricate challenges she faced at the very onset of her career was undertaking a full-time work as a single mum- balancing motherhood and profession. Another tough decision she had to undertake was when she took up the role of CPO (IT and Process) despite her strengths in the finance sector. Accompanied by a great support system including her parent, helpers, superiors, colleagues, and friends she saw through tough times. Her mother has remained the biggest motivation and guide throughout all the circumstances. And when it comes to career, her best mentor is the company’s Chairman Husein Esufally who believed in her potential. She says, “From a career aspect, I am a person who is passionate to succeed. In my work and in life in general, I am a simple individual who strives to be straightforward, direct and uncomplicated.” Beholding the Future Ms. Wilson believes that for Hemas, as a group with a rich history of over 70 years, which has served every SriLankan house hold operating in the wellness and healthcare segments, it is important to focus on building for new – to innovate and excel and strive for agility over security in order to lead disruption She states that proactive work with a disruptive mindset can keep pace with consumer dynamics and environmental changes including new ways to gain accessibility to customers. In her opinion to the emerging entrepreneurs striving to make a successful career in this field she conveys, “For entrepreneurs looking at the pharmaceutical industry, it is essential to bring in new age innovation. Don’t let historical structures and old school thinking impede innovation. Create your own space and let the industry adjust itself or else there will be no true growth.” There is more to explore about Ms Wilson. Connect with her on LinkedIn or Twitter, and to know more about the firm you may also visit the websites http://www.hemashealthcare.com/ or https://www.hemas.com/. We make our service possible, efficient and reliable ‘‘‘‘ November 2019| 27
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  • 33. of a ome say that leaders are born. SThey were, till a while back. Today, they become one. And in most successful cases, all by themselves. For those of you wanting to make it a mark as a successful CEO, know for a fact that the following are some of the qualities a person needs to be deemed successful. Learning from the Past The past, how-much-so-ever painful, teaches a thing or two about life and how situations should be handled. For someone with CEO ambitions, this is a serious must-have given that most persons go thru a lot before they come anywhere near being a CEO. With experience comes knowledge and from th knowledge comes foresight and a 6 sense about situations ane which way they may turn. Nothing in the future comes without a past. And not acknowledging and learning from the past is the best way to take care of the future. Effective Communicate Communication, in the case of a CEO goes beyond mere good language and interpersonal skills. It means having the innate ability to know what to say to whom, when, where and why. A flaw-less piece at the wrong time makes all the flowery stuff pretty grave-like. The ability to understand the context, the audience, and the circumstances is very, very important to any form of communication, written, verbal or gestural. A CEO goes throught situations a person above and below may not understand or appreciate. That being the case, it is important to think like a CEO and communicate well with every level and strata of the organization. A Radically Different Perspective A CEO remains an essential bridge between the shareholders and owners of an enterprise on the one hand and its various departments and their head, on the other. Both these sides have their respective characteristics and objectives, be it known or unknown. For the owners, its profitability that’s important. For the employees down below at every level, its survival and growth that precedes everything. Due to this, the CEO who forms the link between such disparate elements needs to have the ability to think radically removed from existing thoughts and ideas so that the main objectives of both owners and employees is met and they prosper. Radically different thoughts could be in terms of starting a different line of products, closing down an existing line of products, shifting November 2019| 31 Expert's View
  • 34. plant and machinery to different locations, keeping, promoting or reducing manpower, taking finances from new sources etc to name a few. Thinking traditional and thinking growth can sometimes clash with disastrous results. In fact, a CEO with a very traditional mindset could be perceived as being risk-averse. Establishing Meaningful Relationships A CEO has to have the ability to create great working relations with all those (s)he get in touch with, be it within or outside the organization. Since it is his/ her priority to get the job done, forming meaningful relations is a must. The ability to get along with everyone in the organization, oversee things and get the job done under every circumstance is a great way to grow and prosper for the self and for the organization. Meaningful relation here shouldn’t be construed to be pleasing everyone just to get along but to have the ability to make people perform to the best of their abilities while contributing to the organization’s goals and growth. Adapt Situations & People When India opened it’s economy in 1991, those who wanted change were the ones who grew as compared to those who belonged to the old school of thoughts who weren’t used to changes so fast and so humongous. Organization upon organization just collapsed and so did people’s career given that they just couldn’t survive in a situation where the government didn’t intervent to say the organization. Without the ability to take independent decisions, these CEOs/ Owners simply wilted under the onslaught of tough, unrelenting competition. Compare them with today where a generation of CEOs stand ready to take on competition fully in the face and in most cases, win and grow. This is precisely adaptability to situations Creating Efficient Managers No-one anywhere, be it a business organization or even a family of 4 ever grow without the ability to delegate. To delegate is to give responsibility to accomplish tasks and in the process, learn newer aspects of working and running an organization. A CEO is expected to lead an organization on multiple fronts, and achieve success in almost all. This is simply impossible where the person refuses to give up the existing set of responsibilities so as to take up newer ones. One HAS to thus create a second line of managers/ senior managers who would take up the existing work of such a person while that person goes on to the next level. Leading Optimistically Dreamers never made great CEOs. Realists and positive one, did. And that’s because the realists knew what exactly needed to be done to go to the next level in growth, both of the organization, and the person. Remaining optimistic of good things happening is an essential to feel charged-up and optimistic, as this is the feeling which finally helps win especially in tough times when things around don’t seem to be going right. A person who can see afar in a ralistics manner invariably finds reasons to remain positive because in the long run, most problems ease out- provided one is ready to see situation in the correct light! Empathise The ability to understand one’s reasons to have acted in a certain way is important to stand by people and situations. Empathising one’s sitation is this important and shall give the future CEO the ability to read people’s motives to take the decision to either be with such persons or move on. The best example of this ability is the CEO’s understanding of why sales do not increase in a tight economic condition. By understanding the reason, one can be expected to be with people during the latter’s highs and lows, suggest things and bring situations to change drastically. Right Source A CEO is nothing if he/ she refuses to listen to people within and outside the organization. With an ear close to the ground, the CEO can read the future much before it actually takes place and take decisive actions to avert unwanted and unwelcome situations. On the contrart, the ability to look at twigs in the wind, and read the future is something which lets a CEO make the most of an existing or potential situation. There are always those in the organization who know way beyond their position and situation. Knowing such individuals and keeping them close helps the CEO take the organization to newer heights. Meaningful Risks Nothing in the world comes without its share of risks. One cannot avoid risks without ruining the chance of growth. Growth and risks are thus intervowen. In fact, growth is the product of taking calculated risks which may either get stupendous growth or complete ruin. The CEO designate thus ought to have the ability and stomach to take a risk which may go either ways. If the gamble pays, the CEO’s standing grows. If not, such a person and organization may have to take a hit. How much of a hit is acceptable, is for the CEO to know, appreciate and accept. November 2019|32
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  • 36. Shehan Selvanayagam Forging Reformative Digital Marketing Solutions In the days gone by, online marketing was just a new and different way to uplift businesses. It opened up a new form of media on which the businesses promoted their products and services. But within the recent years the significance of digital marketing has become evident. But to have integrated digital marketing strategies working for your business, you should gravitate towards marketing professionals. They understand clearly how to utilize data to propel your business forward. Having such people around you that advance your journey to leading position and support you is crucial in this field. A tech leader who is promoting and providing advanced solutions to businesses at national and international arenas through his digital marketing expertise is Shehan Selvanayagam, the Managing Director of LOOPS Solutions. He holds degrees in several majors that have helped him to develop discipline, inventiveness and analytical skills. He has pursued BSc in Business Management, MSc in Information Technology, and Chartered Institute of Marketing. Shehan initiated his path to the E-commerce world at Sri Lankan Airlines. It was September 2005 and he had joined the company as one of its first e-commerce executives. Under his leadership a his team built an e-commerce division for the airline. Within six months, the department was raking in $5 million per month. This success was due to his multi-faceted professional backgrounds which he had applied in it. The Dream Foundation LOOPS started its journey in Digital Marketing around 10 years ago when the market was almost non-existent, Shehan and his associates were one of the first players in Sri Lanka and working with over 100+ companies in around 10 markets across the world. Shehan Selvanayagam Managing Director November 2019|34 10 Most Influential BUSINESS LEADERSin Sri Lanka 2019 THE
  • 37. Loop’s is instantly recognizable for providing the following solutions: • Digital Marketing: The company offers a wide range of Digital Marketing services including Web Designing, Search Engine Optimisation, Social Media Marketing, and Content Marketing. • IT Development: LOOPS provides IT solutions that places clientele brands on the virtual map. Their services include App Development, Game Development, and Web Development. • Video Animation and Filming: The company excels in creating eye-catching video and animation services that help bring the customers' brand to life. • Mainstream Media: LOOPS collaborates with the consumers to understand and collect in-depth information and frame a perfect strategy and solution to help their brand. Appreciating Teamwork In acknowledgement of the collaborative efforts of his team Shehan says, “During one of my long visits overseas exploring different market, it was nice to see the team working independently on projects without me getting involved at all, which gave a nice confidence that the team would be able to run on their own which is a key transition from an owner-operated business to a corporation.” Achievements Crediting Excellence Shehan’s contributions and determination have led the organization to win over 35 awards for digital distinction. The awards and recognitions include, Customer Engagement Awards –Sri Lanka, Customer Engagement Awards –Mumbai, Mobbys Digital Media Professional Award, Zero One Awards For Digital Excellence, and many more. Technology in the Mainstream LOOPS develops technology solutions internally and uses third party solutions as well. The firm constantly tries to get personalized with the changing technology attributes. Shehan is of the opinion that the e-commerce industry is looking for companies that can help them either solve a problem or capitalize on an opportunity. Thus, he believes if one can crack that idea and plan how to implement it, one can master even the most complete aspects of the industry. In his advice to the emerging entrepreneurs striving to excel in the e-commerce industry Shehan says, “Being an entrepreneur is not as glamorous as the media makes it out. The first few years are super hard where you would have to make personal sacrifices. However, do something that you believe in and even if people say no, believe in your vision and it should all work out in the long term.” He adds, “entrepreneurship is about collaboration and learning from others including your competitors so being open for change and learning is an important part.” Optimizing Future Plans LOOPS currently works with a significant number of companies in Sri Lanka. Shenhan looking at other venues where along with his team, he adopted a three-pronged approach • Value Add The firm envisions enhancing the relationship by offering multiple services to established clients. • Global Offering Increasing the global footprint where the company, under his leadership, can offer services to different countries while maintaining a support team in Sri Lanka, is the primary goal for Shehan. He also plans to launch several start-ups owned by him utilizing the knowledge and experience they yield. If all else fails just listen to your gut and you cant go wrong ‘‘‘‘ November 2019| 35
  • 38. Wasantha Perera Sculpting New Cybersecurity Benchmarks In a ceaseless endeavor for progress, we humans often neglect the fact that passion acts as an accelerator to the composition of our excellence. It is fuel to a furnace of hard-work where transcendent ideas are shaped. To utilize this passion, and turn it into profits and goodwill, is an active trait which an efficient business leader possesses. We at Insights Success, in our endeavor to bring into spotlight, The 10 Most Influential Business Leaders In Sri Lanka 2019, have come across a commendable list of prolific business leaders. These leaders have time and again striven to uphold the mission of their respective organizations and delivered excellence through their leadership, skills and compassion. One among such proficient leaders is Wasantha Perera, the Founder and CEO of CryptoGen. Being instrumental in driving the largest Cybersecurity solution provider today in Sri Lanka with an overall revenue of US$13 Million, and many other business ventures, Wasantha has earned himself the title of a Powerful Influencer in the SriLanka Cybersecurity Industry. In the initial phase of his career, just after his graduation, Wasantha was a systems engineer with a company called Enterprise Technology. He then moved in to Millennium IT as Consulting Engineer, company which developed the world’s fastest trading platform. In his following path to progress, he provided his service as the Head of Security at N-able, a part of Hemas Group and later he was appointed as the Head of Information Security and Compliance for Colombo Stock Exchange, the national stock exchange in Srilanka. In 2015 at the age of 34, he founded CryptoGen, and the company took over the local Cyber Security Market as a game changer with various partnerships, new business models, consultancy and advisory. In 2014, Wasantha was appointed as a board advisory council member for the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2, the world’s Wasantha Perera, Founder & CEO November 2019|36 10 Most Influential BUSINESS LEADERSin Sri Lanka 2019 THE
  • 39. leading Cybersecurity Professional Organization. He has received many global awards in China and United States for the outstanding contribution he has made to build the Cyber Security workforce in the SriLankan community. Wasantha has a plethora of awards under his name for his contributions to the world of Cybersecurity. A few of them are; the Presidents Award 2014 from (ISC)2 and Security Leadership award in Beijing China. He was also nominated as one of the Top 10 Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) candidates in 2015 in the award ceremony by EC- Council hosted in Atlanta. Crediting his success and excellence to his family, Wasantha expresses, “My parents—father an engineer and mother a house wife—didn’t have any background of running businesses. But they coached me to learn the core fundamentals of life to survive in any challenging atmosphere. My sister has always guided me to the right direction in bringing peace in my world, and finally my wife for standing beside me and my three year old son Sithuka who is an icon of courage and survival for my journey.” At Zeniths of Excellence Coming to CryptoGen, expressing his views on how the company caters to the market requirements, Wasantha says, “Our business is highly dependent on trust. In addition to maintaining corporate clients, we’re responsible for building trust between them and their customers. That’s the essence of Cybersecurity.” Wasantha is of the opinion that as digital transformation gathers momentum, it is the most appropriate time for organizations to reflect on their security transformation. In accordance with this, he states that during an era where Cyber attackers, emerging techniques such as machine learning and artificial intelligence are being used to learn and launch disruptive activities, CryptoGen continuously works with the world's leading Cybersecurity technology providers to defend against such adversaries. Sharing accounts of the challenges he faced while building the company from foundations, Wasantha expresses, “CryptoGen started with the theme ‘Start Small Dream Big and Grow Fast’. Even today the company doesn’t have any external investor and is sustaining with zero bank debt.” He also states, “Initially none of the banks or large organizations wanted to work with CryptoGen with the nature of the business. But we assured continuous trust from the smallest transaction and later developed into a multi-million portfolio. I have founded small Sri Lankan companies, and have seen them being acquired by larger ones with good investments, and witnessed what happens as a result. But I was determined to keep CryptoGen’s entrepreneurial spirit, no matter how large and successful it becomes. I always believed on my crown jewels, my employees, during all types of storms in various weather conditions.” Beholding the Future Wasantha believes that Cybersecurity will become a Market worth $200+ Billion by 2023 around the globe. Pertaining to this, CryptoGen secures around $3.5+ million worth business per year in a small country like Sri Lanka. “With our new managed service and Security Operations Centre equipped with latest innovations, our plan is to explore opportunities outside the region with many differentiation factors to cover $10+ million transactions in next 2 years,” states Wasantha. He also believes that Automation and Machine Learning are creating new possibilities in threat prediction and prevention, so highest priority will be given any initiative associated with these game changers. In his advice to the emerging entrepreneurs, Wasantha says, “Believe in yourself, explore a real challenge where others struggle, and then address it with a trust. Your hidden capacity and willingness to develop, organize and manage a business venture along with any of its risks in order to make the world a better and safer place has to be your ultimate objective.” In Cybersecurity the more systems we secure, the more secure w e all are ‘‘‘‘ November 2019| 37
  • 40. TECHNOEnhancing Future Workforce & Economic Competitiveness November 2019|38
  • 41. OLOGYost technologies can be Mshaped to have more benefits than negatives. The highest beneficiary of technology is the education system today. It is advancing learning and improving performance by creating and using appropriate technological processes and resources. The Role of Social Media in Learning Social media has gained credibility as a source of information and a platform for organizations to communicate with audiences. Educational systems are rapidly adopting it as a communication tool where students can interact with their peers and faculty members. Embracing social media in education is making students access useful materials to connect learning groups and other educational systems making learning convenient. Social media giants like Google, Facebook, Youtube have enabled educational institutions to communicate campus news, announcements, useful information. Hashtags on social media and engaging students in online discussions is also the latest trend. The Power of Visuals Visuals are helping learners grasp the concepts efficiently by stimulating imagination and affecting their cognitive capabilities. Besides, the visual language also has the potential to stretch ‘human bandwidth’. The learning analytics created by digital learning content has been most exciting and potentially impactful so far. Students and teachers have unanimously agreed upon the positive impact on the quality education delivered and the benefits of introducing e-books in education. E-books have enabled students to easily highlight, annotate and share their notes with friends, tutors or study groups. E-books are streamlining and enhancing the overall learning insights making the learning process more interactive and engaging. E-books are proving to be an educational reform helping students to imbibe and recall the information better and faster. Also, SmartBoard technology which displays the content in the form of animations, videos and previews are making the learning experience fun among students. Transforming Classrooms AR integrates digital information that makes us feel like a real-world environment which increase the participation, immersion, and interaction with the topics whereas VR creates an artificial environment. AR is making deep inroads in education making studies more interesting and contextual. Media and Digital Literacy The development of mobile apps for education unlocked a new way of need-based learning. November 2019| 39 Exclusive
  • 42. Students are collaborating on group projects using technology-based tools such as google docs and Trello. To name a few apps that are helping out the learners are Hologo, Netflix, edX, Coursera, Brilliant and Youtube are the best platforms for formal and informal learning. Beyond The Walls of School Through technology, educators now are no longer constricted to collaborate with students in schools, instead they can connect with other educators and experts across their communities or around the world. They can now connect with real-world concerns and design learning experiences that can allow students to explore local needs and priorities. This makes classroom learning more authentic and relevant. Additionally by using tools like video conferencing, online chatting, social media sites, people from urban and rural areas to rural can connect and collaborate with peers and experts around the world to form professional learning communities. Aiding the Specially-abled Technology is been pivotal in the life of specially-abled people by working around their disabilities and providing them a suitable learning environment. Technology does not necessarily require a large amount of funding but a great talent to invent it. Adaptive computing is overcoming challenging tasks. A remarkable example has shown how technology can become the game-changer of the specially-abled by making use of telepresence robots; at a school in Copenhagen, Denmark which is a k-12 school for the specially-abled. It has made the students virtually attend the classes. The telepresence robot is a FaceTime connection on two wheels that is WiFi-enabled iPad or tablet and controlled by a controller or smartphone. Moreover, screen reader applications like JAWS with specially designed Braille keyboards are enabling visually challenged students to use computers. Augmentative communication that uses pictures, charts, books, and specialized computers provide functions for word-prediction with more effective communication helping the students to tackle the communication barrier. Tech Grooming Seniors With advancing technology, those are the senior citizens that stay behind in house and far away from their brood. They fear something might go wrong if touched an iPad or a laptop and remain reluctant to modern advances. But now a growing number of ageing older are embracing digital and trying to learn new things. Many times there are debates on how technology is spoiling relationships but it has undoubtedly helped in sustaining relationships for the older who are far away from their loved ones. Studies have found that today baby boomers and senior citizens form an important percentile in smartphone ownership using it for medication alerts, fall detection alerts, ordering books, and leisure. Need for a Guide Regardless of the advancements in technology, the presence of a teacher will not be hampered. The biggest factor in the achievement of a student is the teacher-student relationship. You can have a personalized device approach, continuous internet connection and avail the latest software but the fact will prevail. Unless a teacher is on hand to engage the students and enquire them, learning is limited. The Foreseeable Generation Providing higher connectivity to mobile phones, tablets, and e-readers can be a solution in the global effort to give high-quality, multifaceted education for the people everywhere, especially for the people living in the most isolated and poorest countries. In the years to come, digital literacy will be deemed more important than academic literacy. The education cost offered now will see a decline and numerous options will be available on the internet. Upgraded tools will emerge for measuring the text complexity. Diverse learning forms will begin to supplement the schools including business learning, invisible learning, and open-source learning. November 2019|40