Life style
Living with the world’s largest elephant population
By Dr. Tempe Adams
Coexistence & Education Manager for Elephants without Borders, Botswana
6 pm November 17, 2022,
Jasmine Hall, BMICH
Sri Lanka, sadly, has the most incidence of human-elephant conflict (HEC) among countries that host the Asian Elephant. This is a topic that has dominated conservation for the past 50 years as human populations and development have increased with a corresponding decrease in elephant habitat; especially due to unplanned development, illicit deforestation and illegal encroachments into protected areas.
Today, humans share over 40% of the island’s landscape with elephants. Such have been the efforts to find solutions to this, to change from conflict to coexistence, that Sri Lanka’s scientists and researchers are seen as the experts on the subject, in relation to Asian elephants. Their knowledge and expertise, especially on tried and tested tools to help achieve this goal, are eagerly sought in other Asian countries that, like us, seek to protect their last populations of wild elephants.
So what is it like to live with the World’s largest population of African elephants? Botswana holds this proud accolade with an estimated 125,000 elephants living there. In the Chobe Province alone, in Northern Botswana, there are an estimated 32,000 elephants, in the dry season, who live alongside a population of 30,000 people. In comparison to Sri Lanka, with Botswana being much, much larger than Sri Lanka, and the human populations directly involved being considerably smaller, there are still numerous threats to these magnificent creatures, poaching being one, and human-elephant conflict another.

WNPS is pleased host Dr Tempe Adams of ‘Elephants without Borders’ (EWB) to discuss the similarities and differences in the challenges faced in protecting the Botswana and Sri Lankan elephants. EWB is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that has been operating in Botswana since 2004, and is dedicated to the protection and conservation of Africa’s elephants. It has created a ‘Side by Side’ Elephant Coexistence Programme and offers a holistic approach combining science and community empowerment to combat conflict.
To assist with this, they have created the ‘EleSenses’ Toolkit, a low-cost, user-friendly, mobile, solar-powered/green, sustainable, mitigation system aimed to protect human lives and property. They have also been conducting long-term studies monitoring elephants and wildlife movements across the landscape of both the international movements between countries and, at a fine spatial scale, around villages and towns. Corridors are identified by wildlife’s movements between needed resources. This information is vital and is shared with a range of stakeholders to incorporate corridors into land-use management plans and provides indications of how wildlife is adapting to people and development, over time.
Dr Adams is currently the Coexistence & Education Manager for EWB. She uses its innovative research and educational studies, and information sharing with all people, to strive to encourage mankind to live in harmony with wildlife and the natural world. Her role in the organization is working with communities and helping them live and farm within wildlife areas, free from conflict. She is currently based in the Chobe District.
Dr Adams has published a number of scientific publications on combating human-elephant conflict by conserving elephants and empowering rural communities. Her research has been featured on BBC and CNN as well as in the Times, and National Geographic publications, to name a few. Her overall goal is to further develop ways for communities and wildlife to coexist in close proximity to one another, by improving ways to manage wildlife corridors and other low-impact, long-term mitigation strategies, while increasing the communities’ involvement. She works on the premise that Conflict Resolution cannot happen instantly but must be worked on and cared for over time, through rigorous science and the building up of relationships between those affected by conflict and the relevant authorities.
African and Asian Elephants though evolving from different, relatively recent ancestry, Mastodons and Woolly Mammoths respectively, both share common evolutionary roots and, unsurprisingly, have developed similar patterns of behaviour. There is much to be learnt from each other in finding solutions for our common problems. Just as with elephants, we too share a common ancestry and similar behaviours, especially in how we address conflict.As such, this is a lecture that all interested in elephant conservation should attend and learn from,
The monthly lecture of the WNPS is supported by the Nations Trust Bank. Dr Adams visit is enabled with the kind support of Dilmah Conservation and Jetwing Group.The lecture is open to both members and non-members, Entrance Free. We are happy to recommence our physical lecture at the BMICH whilst continuing both Zoom and FB live for the benefit of the members who connect from across the Island and the World
(WNPS news release)
Life style
Aslam Hussein’s Couture and Trousseau
At Colombo Fashion Week,held recently at Cinnamon Grand,designer Aslam Hussein delivered a collection that spoke the language of quiet confidence and refined glamour, positioning him firmly as a Fashion Edit, favourite this season.
‘His collection unfolded like a carefully composed symphony – each piece moving with a rhythm of elegance and poise. Aslam Hussein’s runaway was more than a presentation – it was a story of refined luxury, individuality and timeless beauty where couture met emotion and each garment became a living expression of artistry.
Colombo Fashion Week was held this November at Cinnamon Grand ,namely Couture + Trousseau . The event was part of the luxury edit focused on high fashion,bridal wear and destination wedding,celebrating CFW’’s 22 rd anniversary Aslam Hussein opened the runway and his collection balanced sharp tailoring with fluid silhouettes, creating looks that felt both modern and enduring. Clean lines, thoughtful construction and an understated palette allowed craftsmanship to take centre stage. The colour palette was muted yet rich, allowing texture and craftsmanship to speak. Luxurious fabrics caught the light with every step, revealing subtle interplay between movement and form. Each silhouette told a story of – timeless, modern and effortless elegance
Fluid silhouettes, muted palettes and clean tailoring defined his collection.
On the ramp,models moved with understated confidence, their hairstyles were created by. Ramani Fernando salons,the soft luminous makeup complemented the collection’s quiet sophistication. Each silhouette reflected Aslam’s commitment to craftsmanship, versatility and timeless style. Since establishing his label, he has been a staple on Sri Lanka’s fashion calendar, consistently presenting at Colombo Fashion Weeks and earning recognition for his designs.
His collection this year re-affirmed his mastery of understated elegance and contemporary luxury. Neutral tones were punctioned with occasion, deep shades, allowing fabric, cut and texture to take centre stage. Models carried the collection with measured poise. Make up was luminous yet natural, letting the silhouettes and individual model presence shine. Through his designs, Aslam Huseein has cultivated a following among modern cosmopolitan clientele who appreciate understated glamour, versatility and the quiet power of elegance.
His contributions have solidified his reputation as a designer who bridges Sri Lanka’s rich fashion heritage with an international sensibility.
Colombo Fashion Week is Sri Lanka’s premier event, showcasing the country’s top designers alongside emerging talent and is one of the glamorous events in the fashion landscape. The visionary is Ajay Vir Singh, founder of Colombo Fashion Week, whose leadership continues to elevate Sri Lanka’s premier fashion platform to international level.
Life style
Hairstyle maestro: Niroshan at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia
Ramani Fernando salons is a name that has taken men and women’s grooming to new heights since its inception at Mount Lavinia. The salon has made its mark on the locals and celebrities alike. Over the years, Ramani Fernando Salons has not just set a benchmark for luxury grooming services but has also redefined how men perceive self-care, hair styling, and professional grooming. This salon at Mount Lavinia under its Manager Kappitiya Godage, namely Niroshan known by clients has become a favourite destination for those who sought more than just a haircut. The salon introduces a range of services—from precision styling and beard grooming to men’s makeup for photoshoots. The manager at Mount Lavinia is Niroshan Suresh. His philosophy emphasized that grooming is not just about appearance but also about confidence and self-expression and most importantly – self-care. He says make-up and grooming are not just limited to the opposite gender!
What makes Ramani Fernando Salon at Mount stand out. It is its innovative style and technique to men and women’s grooming. This branch prides itself on using cutting-edge tools and premium products that ensure every client leaves with a polished, customized look. The salon focus is on continuous learning and staying ahead of trends has earned it the loyalty of a discerning clientele.
Working at Ramani salons, Niroshan has spent many years perfecting the craft of styling, cutting and grooming men’s and woman’s hair, blending technical skill with a keen understanding of contemporary fashion trends. With years of experience, he guides clients on hairstyles and on the selection and proper use of styling products. His presence at Ramani Fernando salon at Mount Lavinia reinforce the brand’s reputation for excellence but also highlights the vital role of a skilled male stylist in shaping men and women’s grooming culture in Sri Lanka.
In the evolving world of men’s grooming, where style isn’t just about guiding a haircut but crafting a confident identity Niroshan at Mount Lavinia represent more than just a stylist or a place to cut hair. With Niroshan at the helm, this salon has become a place where style, innovation and meticulous grooming are curated for any client who walks in.
He is part of Ramani Fernando salons creative team, and brings creativity and precision to every look reflecting the high standards of Ramani Fernando’s renowned beauty collection
Niroshan has been with Ramani Fernando for several years and he is popular among his clients for those seeking sharp, modern and personalised hairstyles. With many years of experience, he has combined technical expertise with an eye for current trends ensuring each client leaves the salon looking confident and polished, Niroshan begins with a consultation, he carefully considers face shape, hair texture and personal style before recommending a look: He tailors each style to suit individual preferences, while ensuring easy to maintenance.
Beyond haircuts and grooming, his services include beard shaping, scalp and hair treatments and guidance on styling products. He makes each client of his leave the salon not just with a haircut but walk with confidence. He enjoys seeing his clients happy and self-assured. His experience, professionalism and knowledge make him a standard stylist in Colombo’s competitive grooming scene. He is very grateful to his senior and dynamic hairdresser Kamal for his guidance and expertise and who has been instrumental in shaping his approach to styling and artistry
by Zanita Careem ✍️
Life style
The Kingsbury, Colombo, Welcomes Season of Splendour
The Kingsbury, Colombo, welcomes the festive season with a spirit of warmth, elegance and celebration. This year’s Christmas and New Year offerings have been curated to bring guests together through moments of comfort, connection and shared joy across the hotel.
Harbour Court sets the tone for the season with its Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet, Christmas Day Brunch and Christmas Dinner on 24th and 25th December, followed by the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet on 31st December and the New Year’s Day Lunch and Dinner Buffets on 1st January. Kings Steakbar brings festive fine dining to Colombo with its Sunday Gourmet Carvery every Sunday in December, the Christmas Gourmet Carvery on 24th and 25th December, an á la carte Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day and a Seven-course Gourmet Dinner on New Year’s Eve.
Yue Chuan offers authentic Chinese cuisine with its signature Peking Duck Experience throughout December, daily Dim Sum and a special All You Can Eat menu on 24th, 25th and 31st December. At Tenk?, guests can enjoy elegant Japanese cuisine with the daily Teppanyaki Show, festive á la carte menus on 24th and 25th December and a New Year’s Eve Tasting Menu. Ocean highlights the best of coastal cuisine with festive á la carte menus on 24th, 25th and 31st December. Bringing Sri Lankan authenticity to the season, Tavern presents an Arrack Tasting Experience throughout December.
Festive cheer continues outdoors at Honey Beach Club with live music from 19th to 23rd December, poolside Festive party packages, and the signature New Year’s Eve celebration “Dancing Into 2026,” featuring Infinity and DJ E2. At Sky Lounge, guests can enjoy elevated festivities with Corporate Celebration packages, festive set menus, seasonal cocktails and the New Year’s Eve event “Party in the Sky,” featuring The Kingdom. Seas
For those celebrating at home, The Kingsbury offers Seasonal Roasts and festive hampers, available both ready-made and customisable, while Indulgence provides five-star delivery throughout the season. Families can also enjoy special offers, with children below six dining free and children aged six to ten receiving 50% off buffet dining. Seasonal cocktails, wine menus and bottle deals are available across all outlets.
This year, The Kingsbury, Colombo, invites guests to embrace the season with kindness, hope and cherished moments. Whether dining out, gathering with loved ones or gifting thoughtfully, we are honoured to share a season of splendour with you.
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