Life style

Covid 19; an unexpected windfall for Sri Lanka’s wilderness and wildlife

Published

4 years ago

2020/10/18

Sahan Weerasooriya

WNPS Monthly Lecture – Online

by Rukshan Jayewardene

22nd of October 6 pm via Zoom and FB Live

Though small in size, Sri Lanka rivals much larger countries in terms of richness of biodiversity. Sadly Sri Lanka is also one of the world’s ‘biodiversity hotspots’ with much of her flora & fauna at risk. The large-scale loss of wilderness and biodiversity which began during the British colonial times 200 years ago, has only accelerated in more recent decades. With finite land resources and an exploding population coupled with poorly managed development, much of the land that was previously wilderness has now been converted to land for human settlement as well as for agriculture, pushing the country’s precious natural heritage to the brink.

Sri Lanka’s wildlife resources have many stakeholders – The Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Department of Forest Conservation in a custodial and management role supported by others like conservationists, scientists and tourism operators as by and large the tourism in Sri Lanka is ‘nature based’ and the country’s tourism dependent economy, is heavily reliant on its wilderness and wildlife. Sadly, the latter rides on the coattails of Sri Lanka’s enviable biodiversity but has also been at great cost due to issues like over-visitation in wildlife parks.

The recent pandemic has been an eye opener for many but also provided a respite for the country’s wildlife within park borders. Perhaps there is opportunity in adversity during this ‘new normal’; to get the management of protected areas, the relationship and obligations we have towards wilderness and wildlife as well as the ethics and attitudes that should govern the conservation of species on this island right, one last time.

Rukshan Jayewardene:

Is a founding trustee at the Leopard Trust; Chairman of the Wilderness and Protected Areas Foundation, Director at the Environmental Foundation Limited ( EFL) and past President of the WNPS. His is a lifelong passion for Wildlife; Interested in evolution, adaptive radiation of species, the long-term conservation of leopards and all biodiversity related issues. A wildlife photographer who believes the role of photography in conservation is best served by adhering to standards and ethics.

The WNPS monthly lecture is open to all please register online https://forms.gle/icbSR6x8v6u6Ld146 The Lecture is supported by Nations Trust Bank

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Life style

Thilini Kumari brings fame and name to Sri Lanka

Published

1 day ago

2024/10/6

Thilina Walpola

Thilini Kumari Shehara , who represented Sri Lanka won the first place at the prestigious Miss International 2024 beauty pageant held in Indonesia at the scenic Island of Bali.

She competed with many contestants from 20 counties around the world. Known for her acting prowess Thilini has been the winner of many beauty pageants, in Sri Lanka. Hailing from Kandy, Pilimatalawe, she holds a degree in Bachelor of Arts from the University of Kelaniya. She has a string of many qualifications and now she reads for her PhD in Philosophy in Education.

Thilini Kumari’s journey from clinching the many prestigious titles, her illustrious career today is nothing short of inspiring. Through her hard work dedication and unwavering faith, she has carved a path that has not only defined her success but has also inspired countless others.

In this interview, she reflects on the highlights and challenges that have shaped her remarkable journey. An actress, TV star and a brand ambassadors for several prestigious brands. Thilini was also the winner of Miss Tourism in 2024.

A multifaceted personality Thilini, worked hard to lose weight, get in shape, improve her speech and build confidence.

With her mesmerizing and impeccable sense of style, Thilini never let the limelight define her.

When asked about her , Thilini said she will continue with her studies but will use her platform to advocate numerous social causes and programmes on women’s empowerment. Her dignified presence and strong moral compass have made her an enduring icon of compassion and determination

This sizzling beauty with brains stunned the audience in an stunning evening gown for the national dress parade.

An old girl of Mahamaya Central College, she is a beauty with brain. She is very much grateful to SriLankan Airlines for sponsoring an air ticket to Indonesia.

Life style

Road to Give 2024- global movement for local impact

Published

1 day ago

2024/10/6

Thilina Walpola

We’re thrilled to announce the return of Marriott’s Road to Give! Now in its 10th year, this initiative brings together associates, guests, and well-wishers from across the Asia Pacific to move for a greater cause said a press release.

Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa, supports SOS Children’s Village in Galle through a special walk and beach run. Join us as we raise funds to enrich the lives of these deserving children said a release.

Life style

ADIEU GALADARI

Published

1 day ago

2024/10/6

Thilina Walpola

From (Left to Right) Priyadharshana, Anuradha, Zareena, Sampath, Trudy, Upali and Lalith

The Galadari Hotel hosted a cocktail bidding adieu to its successful 40 years in the industry as the hotel, hopes to come back under its new brand name Radisson Blue Galadari.

The grand cocktail was hosted by the General Manager Sampath Siriwardene was a way of saying ‘Thank You’ to all those who patronized the hotel and all those who contributed towards the hotel over the years. There was glitz, glamour and an unforgettable experience for those who were present.

The guests saw a vibrant champagne and wine reception combined with delicious canapies and live entertainment by popular violinist Roger Menez.While the grand décor of the spacious ballroom adorned with regal chandeliers and other ornate props were undeniably captivating, it was the heart felt speech made by the General Manager Sampath Siriwardena that truly stole the evening.

The invitees present included guests, business partners and members of the media. The hotel which is currently undergoing renovations was established in October 1984, under the name Galadari Meridian for a period of 11 years. The property then took the brand name Marriot for a further period of two years to thereafter becoming a stand-alone property for the longest period of 27 years.

After the renovations are completed the hotel hopes to create new waves in the hospitality industry. Complete with its new identity Radisson Blu Galadari will offer a better and promising era that will dawn for the property.