Life style

Breaking the Cloud Ceiling

Published

4 years ago

2021/03/7

Sahan Weerasooriya

Dushy Jayaweera, Managing Director, Acorn Aviation

by Zanita Careem

With today’s focus on International Women’s Day, there is no better time to discuss the current status of women in one of the most critical segments of the travel industry—Aviation.

Breaking the Cloud Ceiling and at the helm of Acorn Aviation is Dushy Jayaweera, a dynamic personality in the airline industry, with seventeen airline representations under her purview, across Sri Lanka and the two regional offices in the Maldives and Thailand. She has proven that leadership skills are not defined by gender, but instead by capability and commitment.

Tell us a little bit about your journey in the Airline industry?

I have always had a fascination for the airline industry from a very young age, when as a teenager I witnessed the process and checks for departing passengers at the airport and vowed that one day I would be able to go through those barriers with ease onto the other side. Years later I debated with the thought of joining the National Carrier as Cabin Crew to accomplish this but decided instead to join the General Sales Agency of a leading Airline at their City Office.

I have not looked back since then and 40 years later, I am still in the same industry with no regrets and where professionalism, passion, dedication, empathy and hard work was the only way to accomplish anything.

Due to the pandemic that took the world by surprise in early 2020, the Tourism and Aviation industry were the first to be impacted with a tremendous downturn in business. How did this impact your work?

The downside was that the airlines we represent temporarily stopped their flights to Sri Lanka, as our borders were initially closed for all incoming passengers. We had a staff cadre of over 50, with an organizational culture of being results-driven through professionalism, integrity, and innovation. I would say that the team was stretched to deliver results while adapting to the new norm including ‘Work from Home’. We are also blessed to have created a group of world class managers who are empowered to carry out their functions with clear guidance. Many options were looked at, with identified deliverables to tide us through these unprecedented times.

Our industry is volatile with many challenges coming our way daily. The team, motivated through their Managers, firmly believe that we cannot leave any stone unturned. Looking back at the past year, it is with pride that I could say that not only have we secured new representations, but we have also ensured that we looked at new business opportunities that had not been explored pre-pandemic.

In 2018, IATA reported that only 3% of the world’s top 100 airline groups have a female CEO, meaning a whopping 97% of airlines are led by men. Why are there so few women in management positions in the Airline industry?

Ours is a service industry, which means that we are on call 24/7. This is irrespective of grade or gender. It is not easy to have a work-life balance especially when you are a female. You need to make many sacrifices, as sometimes your work comes first. Secondly, you also need a very empathetic spouse who would support you to ensure that your children also learn to understand and appreciate the commitments their mother has in her workplace. Finally, you need a very supportive work environment on the part of the company, also giving you the space and flexibility you need when it comes to focusing on your family. This is a win-win combination that is not always present in every organization. I was blessed to have a combination of all, in order to get to where I am today.

What are some of the challenges you have faced working in the airline industry?

I usually enjoy the challenges that each day has to offer and take each one of them with the thrill of overcoming each with complete perfection or at least near perfection! Being a female in my position where I am required to be a role model has not always been easy. You need to make your voice heard at many forums, which could be male dominated. The pandemic has not been easy, due to the many challenges. The responsibility of heading a regional office in the Maldives and being on the board of a JV partnership in Thailand has also had its fair share of hurdles to overcome.

However, this industry gets to you and personally I tend to multi-task and have disciplined my thought process to always look for options and have a positive mindset as I take my responsibilities seriously.

What are some of the perks that come with working in an industry which is perceived as being extremely ‘glamorous’?

The industry has opened the doors for many opportunities at a global level, one of which is that I am a member of Skal International, which is an international organization of Travel and Tourism Professionals. Membership in the organization has been a rewarding experience as it gives you so many opportunities to interact with different nationalities across the globe. Being elected as a Director to the Asian Area Board which overlooks 44 clubs in the Asian region has enabled me to gain insights to the thinking of many like-minded professionals in the region.

Additionally, the multi-representation model we have created in our Company, also gives me a very rewarding experience of getting to meet and interact with Principals of varying cultures and business processes. In short, you are continuously learning, while having the opportunity to travel overseas and visiting many countries which adds onto your travel journal, enriches your personality and level of confidence.

Would you affirm the statement that ‘Diversity adds value’?

Employees will have different characteristics and backgrounds; they are also more likely to have a variety of different skills and experiences. The Aviation Industry, especially in the General Sales Agency business, keeps us on our toes as we need to be creative, be quick at problem solving and decision making, be innovative and have higher employee engagement and retention. I am a firm believer that this combination within the organization drives results as well as ensuring that the reputation of our company continues to grow.

How have you served as a role model for other women in business?

I have hopefully paved the way for women in leadership roles through my achievements in the various forums that I have associated myself. I was elected as the first female President of the Sri Lanka-Malaysia Business Council which was previously a thoroughly male dominated council. I was entrusted and empowered to lead this council which is under the aegis of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. This breakthrough also ensured that my successor in this council was also a female. I was also the first female President of the Sri Lanka Travel Trade Sports Club comprising members of all the verticals of the Travel, Leisure and Aviation industries, which is undoubtedly a male dominated area. By breaking through these cloud ceilings, I have ensured that women would get the opportunity to continue to follow in my footsteps.

In addition, I am also a Past President of the Sri Lanka Association of Airline Representatives and Skal International Colombo. Being at the helm of the various associations and business councils in addition to my responsibilities in office and at home, is not an easy task, as this too adds to fine tuning one’s many multi-tasking skills that needs to be developed.

To say there is a scarcity of women in aviation would be an understatement. Yet, women have made some noteworthy and important strides in this arena as well, that are worth recognizing and Dushy is one such individual who has overcome the challenges and successfully broken the ‘cloud ceiling’

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Life style

Blending additional warmth to festive v season

Published

6 hours ago

2024/12/22

Thilina Walpola

Pegasus Reef Hotel brought a refreshing twist to the festive season with its much awaited ‘Tropical Christmas’ themed holiday activities by lighting the Christmas Tree and welcoming Santa to the tropics a press release said. The celebrations provided a unique and joyful experience for the whole family, blending the traditional warmth of the festive season with the vibrancy of a tropical setting. The beautifully lit tropical Christmas tree set the tone for both an unforgettable evening and a magical holiday season for all. Guests enjoyed a host of activities including interactive elements for children, including surprise Christmas gifts and photo opportunities with Santa said the release.

The centre piece of the festivities was Santa who made a grand entrance to the event having escaped the cold of the North Pole, to spread the joys of Christmas to young and old in a warm tropical setting. This added to the ambience and brought out that true festive spirit. Tropical-inspired cocktails were available along with delicious food to offer additional flavour to the celebrations.

Commenting on the celebrations, Renuke Coswatte, General Manager of Pegasus Reef Hotel said, “Our Christmas celebrations have always been highly anticipated and has set the tone for the season. This year, by giving festive traditions a tropical twist, we were able to provide our guests, their friends and families a truly unforgettable start to the holiday season. From ‘Santa’s Welcome Party’ coupled with the ‘Tropical Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony’ and with what we have in store in December, the celebrations will truly be unforgettable.”

Pegasus Reef Hotel has garnered a reputation for hosting exciting festive events over the years, making it a top choice for year-end parties for all. So much so, that the hotels Christmas festivities are eagerly anticipated throughout the year. This year’s ‘Tropical Christmas’ celebration was an ideal opportunity for families, couples and friends to celebrate the season in a warm and inviting setting, that features activities for all.

Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Santa’s welcome party brought the magic of ‘Tropical Christmas’ to life blending traditional holiday festivities added with tropical charm. Pegasus Reef Hotel warmly invites everyone to join in the upcoming seasonal celebrations and create cherished family memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information on future events, contact Pegasus Reef Hotel on 0112049600, follow them on social media at facebook.com/Pegasusreefwattala or www.instagram.com/pegasusreef_wattala and visit their website at www.pegasusreefhotel.com.

Life style

Tis the season to sparkle and shine

Published

6 hours ago

2024/12/22

Thilina Walpola

This festive season, step into a world of allure at Taj Samudra Colombo, where the spirit of Christmas is brought to life with joy, celebration, and heartwarming experiences said a press release.In the words of Kris Kringle from A Miracle on 34th Street, “Christmas isn’t just a day; it’s a frame of mind.” At Taj Samudra, we embrace this philosophy with a delightful array of offerings designed to spread joy and festive cheer to our guests throughout the season said the release.

From gourmet hampers to festive family dinners, the Christmas carvery market, and the iconic Christmas goodies hut, our kitchen team has created a magical atmosphere for guests to enjoy, share, and celebrate this season of giving.

Luxury Seasonal Hampers and Wine

This Christmas, Taj Samudra offers the ultimate luxury gift experience with customized seasonal hampers. Choose from a selection of premium wines, Champagne, sparkling wines, and exclusive beverages, along with Christmas cakes, puddings, festival chocolates, cheese, seasonal cookies, and more. Curated to perfection, these hampers are the ideal way to indulge your loved ones with festive joy.

Christmas Carvery Counter

Indulge in the flavors of the season at our Christmas Carvery Counter, featuring a homemade charcuterie station brimming with delicious offerings. Enjoy lamb salami, beef salami, smoked lamb, honey ham, chicken cold cut, smoked seer, chicken liver pate and a variety of other delectable treats, perfect for gathering and sharing with friends and family.

Christmas goodies hut at the lobby

Visit the delightful Christmas goodies hut in our lobby, a stunning display of handpicked seasonal treats created by our award-winning chefs. The Goodies Hut, open daily from 10:00 am to 9.00 pm, offers an array of beautifully decorated seasonal goodies and carefully selected gift items—ideal for gifting or enjoying yourself.

Christmas eve celebrations

On the eve of Christmas, join us for a traditional Christmas eve dinner buffet at Ports of Call, where festive delicacies, live action stations, and mouthwatering desserts await. Santa will make a special appearance to delight the young and the young-at-heart. Additionally, enjoy a festive à la carte lunch and dinner at Golden Dragon, Navratna, and YUMI, our stylish Japanese resto-bar.

Christmas Day Festivities

Celebrate Christmas Day with a traditional festive lunch at Ports of Call, featuring all-time favorites such as succulent turkey and a wide selection of Christmas specialties. Our Executive Chef Sajesh Nair and his kitchen brigade will craft the perfect Christmas spread to satisfy every craving.

The said experience an unforgettable musical evening with The Traveleer Sound Duo from Budapest

The release said The lattice lobby lounge for an unforgettable musical experience with The Traveler Sound Duo from Budapest, Hungary. Known for their captivating performances, this talented duo brings a diverse repertoire that spans pop, rock, jazz, and more, offering something for every music lover. Catch them live every Tuesday to Sunday from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm and enjoy their soulful melodies and dynamic sound in the heart of our vibrant atmosphere. They will also be performing during our renowned Sunday Brunch at Ports of Call, adding the perfect soundtrack to your delightful dining experience.

Unwind and Celebrate at YUMI Japanese Resto Bar and Poolside – Daily Happy Hour from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm

This holiday season, experience the magic of Christmas at Taj Samudra Colombo, where every corner of the hotel radiates the joy and warmth of the festive season.

Life style

Hot Red looks for Christmas

Published

6 hours ago

2024/12/22

Thilina Walpola

Christmas is here and we are eager to begin the celebrations. Everything about December is breathtaking and spectacular, with the rapid shift in the weather and the increasing camaraderie. The cherry on top is the excitement of the New Year itself! The joyous month of the New Year and Christmas is filled with delicious delicacies, elegant decorations, lovely attire, and joyful vibes everywhere. Dressing up for Christmas in warm and fashionable red outfits is something we all love. However, if you are still confused about your Christmas attire, don’t worry, we are here to rescue you. When it comes to fashion and style, no one can do it better than our Bollywood queens. Here are some red-hot looks from our fav Bollywood divas to inspire your Christmas outfits.

Kiara Advani is a true fashionista who can pull off any look. While co-ord sets are among the season’s hottest fashions. In a red-coordinated ensemble, Kiara is offering fashion advice to everyone. Her ensemble is the ultimate Christmas attire since it perfectly combines sexiness and elegance. She is wearing a bustier crop top and a high-rise skirt that accentuate her physique. Bronze bangles and earrings completed Kiara Advani’s outfit as accessories. With this attire, you’ll definitely steal the show.

Huma’s red formal outfit serves as the ideal Christmas dress inspiration for you if you are not a fan of fancy attire and prefer a sleek and refined look. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal function, pantsuits look great on any occasion. In addition to being fashionable, it will also keep you warm. She looks great with a full-sleeved crimson jacket with a wide horizontal white stripe at the bust and straight-fit ankle leggings. For the best appearance, pair it with stud earrings and minimal makeup. Sara is a diva and she is slaying fashion goals in her little red dress with white frills.

If you wish to grab all the attention at the Christmas party then take cues from Sara and choose a red hot bodycon thigh-high slit little dress. Pair it up with a matching red jacket for the glam look and you will be ready to rock the Christmas party.

Among all the divas, Rakul Preet Singh is one of the most fashionable. The actress always dresses well, whether it’s in a gorgeous gown, party attire, or just something that’s too ethnic. Her red corset-style dress is stunning and a must-have for your Christmas wardrobe. It has an off-the-shoulder design, full sleeves, and a fitting nature. To get the glam look, wear it with pointed shoes and diamond drop earrings.

Talking about fashion and style and not mentioning Deepika Padukone is not fair. The queen of Bollywood looks amazing no matter what she wears. If you are tired of wearing dresses and gowns and want to try something different, her vibrant red power suit that exudes boss-woman energy is the ideal outfit inspiration. Her quirky bralette, which had a crisscross neckline, was polished off with a layer of preppy flair thanks to the oversized blazer’s design.