Life style
Redefining strength beyond the crown
From the runways of Colombo to the global stage, Caroline Jurie has gracefully transitioned from beauty queen to business woman, mentor and modern day change maker. A symbol of poise and empowerment, she is defining what it means to wear a crown – one built not just on beauty, but on boldness and belief. With a background in fashion and modelling, she quickly emerged as a woman of influence, combining glamour with grit. Today she heads so many enterprising business platforms spotlighting ventures for purpose. Whether mentoring young women, creating clean beauty formulas or advocating mental wellness, she has emerged as a voice of resilience. She’s traded the spotlight for a deeper purpose helping women find their voices, their style and their strength.
Caroline’s journey proves that elegance isn’t just in how you walk it’s in how you rise, rebuild and keep moving forward. Her poise, articulate answers at the pageant, and striking presence resonated with many women who saw her as a symbol of strength and ambition
What is your life beyond pageants?
Beyond pageants, I am a dedicated advocate, using every stage and event as a platform to proudly promote my beloved country, Sri Lanka, to the world. My mission goes far beyond the crown; it’s about creating a legacy of purpose.
As a mentor, I guide students to build self-confidence, helping them grow mentally, emotionally, and physically into the strongest, most authentic version of themselves. I believe that true beauty begins within, and my goal is to help others discover their worth and walk boldly in their truth.
As an entrepreneur, I lead my own businesses with heart and vision, while staying grounded in service through social work. One of my greatest passions is giving back to society, especially by investing in children’s education because every child deserves the chance to dream, grow, and succeed.
My life beyond pageants is a journey of empowerment, compassion, and impact shaping lives, building futures, and using my voice to inspire change.
- At the grand finale Caroline with other contestants
- Caroline Jurie
What inspired you to enter the world of pageantry and how did it feel to win Mrs. World?
What inspired me to enter the world of pageantry was the desire to be a voice for the voiceless, to represent women who have faced struggles yet rise with strength, grace, and purpose. I saw pageantry not just as a celebration of beauty, but as a powerful platform to inspire, influence, and impact lives to break stereotypes, promote causes close to my heart, and proudly represent my country, Sri Lanka, on a global stage.
Winning Mrs. World was an emotional and life changing moment. It felt like the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in my vision. But more than the crown, it was the responsibility and honor that came with it to be a role model, a leader, and a symbol of empowerment for women everywhere. It reminded me that when you walk on purpose, with humility and heart, dreams do come true.
What did the Mrs. World platform mean to you personally and professionally?
The Mrs. World platform was deeply meaningful to me both personally and professionally. On a personal level, it was a celebration of my journey not just as a woman, but as a wife, a mother, and a dreamer who never gave up. It gave me the space to share my story, my struggles, and my purpose with authenticity and pride. It reminded me that strength and beauty are not limited by age, status, or circumstance they grow through resilience.
Professionally, the platform elevated my voice and opened global doors. It gave me the opportunity to promote my country, Sri Lanka, on an international stage, build powerful connections, and further my work as a mentor, entrepreneur, and humanitarian. It allowed me to bring attention to causes close to my heart, especially children’s education, equality, and empowerment.
Mrs. World was not just a title. It was a mission to inspire change, touch lives, and lead with purpose beyond the crown.
Your values and goals? How has it affected your lifestyle?
My values and goals are deeply rooted within me, but they have never changed who I am or how I live. I don’t mix my personal life with my professional life. I believe in maintaining balance, clarity, and authenticity in both. When you are true to yourself, you don’t need to change for the world. You simply bring your truth into everything you do.
Looking back, what are your thoughts on the crown removal incident at the pageant?
Can’t comment on this because of the ongoing court case
How did affect your leadership, judgement and accountability?
That moment became one of the greatest tests of my character and ultimately, one of the greatest lessons in leadership. It reminded me, and I hope it reminds my country, that true leadership is not proven in moments of praise, but in moments of pressure. When faced with public humiliation, I chose not to react with anger or revenge, but with grace, strength, and wisdom.
It taught me that leadership means holding your head high even when others try to bring you down, and standing firm in truth when it would be easier to stay silent. It strengthened my judgment not just in people, but in how I choose to respond to adversity. And it deepened my accountability to my values, my people, and the platform I represent.
To my fellow Sri Lankans, I say this: you don’t need a title to be a leader. You need courage, clarity, and character. When the world tests you, respond with dignity. When your path is shaken, walk it anyway because integrity will always shine brighter than any crown.
Let your strength be quiet. Let your legacy be loud.
What drives your passion for business?
My passion for business was born from a moment of deep realization. When I stepped down from my title, I saw how many brands chose to stand with public opinion rather than with truth. I stood for values integrity, justice, and authenticity but I realized the marketplace often did not.
That was the turning point for me. I made a decision: if no brand reflects the values I believe in, then I will build one that does. I entered the world of business not just to succeed, but to set a new standard to create opportunities for others who feel unseen, and to be a voice for those who are afraid to speak.
My mission as an entrepreneur is to prove that you don’t have to compromise your truth to thrive. You don’t have to follow the crowd to be accepted. You can lead with purpose, build with integrity, and rise by lifting others.
I don’t just run a business I run a vision. One that reminds the world: you are not defined by others’ opinions, but by the values you choose to stand for.
How did you define women’s empowerment in today’s world?
Women’s empowerment in today’s world is about freedom: the freedom to choose, to lead, to speak, to rise, and to be unapologetically yourself. It’s about breaking every barrier that once confined women to silence, and instead giving her the space to shine in her truth, her strength, and her purpose.
Empowerment means that a woman no longer has to ask for permission to dream. She owns her story whether she’s a leader in a boardroom, a voice on a stage, a mother at home, or a fighter rebuilding her life. It is not about competing with men, but about walking side by side in mutual respect and equal opportunity.
In today’s world, an empowered woman is one who lifts others as she climbs, who leads with both power and grace, and who uses her platform not just to be seen but to ignite change.
To the world I say: When you empower a woman, you are not just changing her life, you are transforming her family, her community, and the future of generations to come. Empowerment is not a trend. It is a movement and it begins with truth, courage, and unity.
How did you rebuild and redefine your identity after stepping down from Mrs. World?
Stepping down from the Mrs. World title was not the end of my story, it was the beginning of a greater purpose. The crown was a title, yes, but my vision, my voice, and my mission were never tied to it. I always knew who I was beyond the crown: a woman with a purpose to serve, to lead, and to be a voice for the voiceless.
The title may have opened doors, but my values kept those doors open to truth, justice, and a deep love for my country. When I stepped down, I didn’t lose my identity. I rediscovered the strength of it. I saw how many lived in fear of opinion, how truth was often sacrificed for popularity, and how silence protected corruption. That moment changed me not by breaking me, but by awakening me.
I rebuilt my identity not by reinventing who I was, but by returning to who I’ve always been: a woman of conviction, courage, and vision unshaken by titles, and unstoppable in purpose.
What role does resilience play in your life story?
I have been open about my life story whenever I have been asked about my challenging years as a teenager.
I have been open because I believe that we must share our experiences, so that we can pass on our learning to others.
I believe being open about my story is one of the best ways we can make an impact on someone who may be going through a similar situation. Not everyone has the heart and the courage to fight through the negativities that life often throws at us.
When we can inspire someone else to fight their way through with hope, when there seems to be no hope in sight, that is the most valuable gift we can give someone.
There was a time when hope was a word that didn’t exist in my world.
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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