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Our Committee

Meet the dedicated team leading SLBANZ's mission to empower Sri Lankan businesses and professionals in New Zealand.

Executive Committee

President

Iresh

Ignite Realty

NZBN: 9429052183409

Read more about Iresh

My main business is real estate. I bring my network, connections, passion, energy, and leadership skills to this organisation.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Use my networks to create opportunities for members
  • • Provide leadership and business development support

Vice President

Nishantha Ariyawansa

Krystal Holdings Limited, Lakdiv NZ Limited, Krystal Events

NZBN: 9429041486559

Read more about Nishantha

With strong experience in import/export and event organization, and established networks in New Zealand, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka, I am dedicated to creating opportunities that empower small businesses and farmers in Sri Lanka to showcase their products globally.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Leveraging my international network to create opportunities for members and new businesses
  • • Connecting with emerging businesses to drive sustainable growth and visibility
  • • Building strategic partnerships that strengthen our community's long-term success
  • • Creating platforms through events for cultural pride, networking, and business exposure

Secretary

Position Available

Managing communications, documentation, and administrative functions.

Treasurer

Position Available

Overseeing financial management, budgeting, and fiscal responsibility.

Assistant Secretary

Position Available

Supporting secretarial duties and member coordination activities.

Assistant Treasurer

Position Available

Assisting in financial operations and maintaining accurate records.

Committee Members

Che Delpachitra

RED

NZBN: 9429046881410

Read more about Che

I run a virtual services business providing support in VA, marketing, accounts, and IT. Alongside this, I also pursue my passion in event organising and photography.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Strengthening our marketing and digital presence to showcase members' businesses
  • • Bringing in event planning skills to create engaging networking opportunities
  • • Using my photography and creative expertise to promote SLBANZ events and members
  • • Helping to build partnerships with wider business networks to create growth opportunities

Chameera Wijethunga

Eco Facility Services, Fixngo Limited,
Kiya Ceylon Limited

NZBN: 8127278, 9369388, 5421401

Read more about Chameera

I am involved in several businesses in New Zealand: Eco Facility Services, Fixngo Limited, and Kiya Ceylon Limited. I am also the founder and current President of Ormiston Cricket Club, which has 9 active cricket teams competing under the Auckland Cricket Association with over 130 registered players.

Cynthia Perera

Financial and Management Accounting Services Ltd

NZBN: 9429046625632

Read more about Cynthia

Being a finance professional I am able to assist with any financial advice within my expertise. And happy to assist with any other assistance that the association requires (help with fundraising/events etc) with my ability.

D.G Naleen Dhanushka

Media Scape Solution

NZBN: 9429050975396

Read more about Naleen

Founder of Media Scape Solution and currently employed full-time at one of New Zealand's leading IT companies. With a strong foundation in technical problem-solving and business-focused digital strategies, I bring engineering skills and marketing insights to help businesses grow, stay secure, and scale on cloud.

Expertise in Software Engineering, development, Mobile Solutions, and Google Search Engine Optimisation.

Certifications:

  • • Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
  • • Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate (Facebook, Instagram & Messenger)
  • • Cyber Security - Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • • Certified Google Cloud Engineer

Gauri Katuwawala

Pro Books Consultants

NZBN: 9429048135443

Read more about Gauri

I'm a registered tax agent and owner of Pro Books Consultants. I work with small and medium businesses to ensure they're on top of their taxes and compliance.

I'm also involved with Student Visa Network, where I support students and new migrants with immigration-related guidance and connections. It's rewarding to help people find their footing when they first arrive in New Zealand.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Share tax and accounting knowledge with members - practical tips, updates, and advice
  • • Support the Sri Lankan community through my migration network - helping students, professionals, and entrepreneurs settle in and connect with opportunities

Harendra Bandara

Smartchem / Flame products

NZBN: 9429041061558

Read more about Harendra

Based in Rotorua, I run Smartchem / Flame products, manufacturing biodegradable chemical related products for car care, industrial cleaning, and specialty chemicals. We distribute these products nationwide. I also manage short-term tourism rental properties.

In Sri Lanka, I manage Smartchem International Pvt Ltd (construction-related chemicals), a timber saw milling business, and am excited to be opening a boutique luxury hotel, Headman's Resort, in January 2026.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Help promote SLBANZ in the Bay of Plenty region to grow membership and connections
  • • Share business knowledge and experience with anyone who might find it useful

Harsha Weerakoon

Welkin

NZBN: 9429031337083

Read more about Harsha

From Wellington, I started Welkin, a small tour company in 2010 to promote Sri Lanka and support friends in the hotel industry. I work with Stuff Ltd and founded the Sri Lankan newspaper here about five years ago.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Work with editorial team to promote the Council and spread its message across New Zealand
  • • Connect with local Sri Lankan business community in Wellington
  • • Encourage involvement with this valuable initiative for our community

Jayantha Nanayakkara (Jay Nana)

DTel (NZ)

Read more about Jayantha

Telecom background from SLT, then QTel (Qatar Telecom), then 'NZ Telecom' (now SPARK), and now in Data Telecom (DTel). Founder of DTel (Qatar) & DTel (NZ). Managed the DTel company for last 30+ years in both countries. Good in social media networking with https://www.facebook.com/SriLankanNZ.

Currently doing workshops for new comers "Be UR own Boss" to guide and support Sri Lankans to setup business in Aotearoa, educating them about advantages of having business here, and supported financially to few potential entrepreneurs.

Kasun Ranaweerage

Bemart Nz Limited

NZBN: 8823373

Read more about Kasun

I am a Life & Business coach. I help people solve their problems and achieve their NEXT LEVEL.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Developing skills of members and motivating them for consistency through workshops and trainings
  • • Help business personalities bring their business to the next level
  • • Help retain members with influencing strategies
  • • Create new business ideas and update knowledge of businesspeople

Kishorkumar

United Palate Limited

NZBN: 9429053003539

Read more about Kishorkumar

I have a background in media, running online Tamil radio and news platforms, and I also manage my own restaurant business.

How I'll contribute:

Using my media and business platforms to strengthen our Sri Lankan community in New Zealand, and by supporting networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals to grow together.

Mangala Gamage

HouseWash New Zealand Limited

NZBN: 9429049190939

Read more about Mangala

Founder of HouseWash New Zealand Limited, specializing in residential and commercial property maintenance services, as well as equipment & accessories import and distribution. My background is in Business Administration, and I serve as Assistant Principal of the Sri Mihindu Dhamma School at the Srilankaramaya Buddhist Temple in Auckland.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Leverage my business network to create opportunities and collaborations for members
  • • Support the council in fostering business and cultural exchange between New Zealand and Sri Lanka
  • • Draw on my Buddhist temple and community leadership experience

Manoj Isuru Kotigala

Lexcom Legal Limited

NZBN: 9429051608200

Read more about Manoj

Barrister and Solicitor and owner of Lexcom Legal Limited.

How I'll contribute:

Assisting businesses by providing legal advice and directing them to specific individuals/authorities who can assist with their concerns.

Nadeesha Ranasinghe

Kasi Limited,
Ceylon Sips Ltd

NZBN: 9429052748783, 9429052520389

Read more about Nadeesha

My background is financial planning, and I'm happy to contribute wherever needed. My strengths lie in organisation, event planning etc. so happy to help in any way needed.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Leverage my financial planning expertise to support business development and member services
  • • Contribute organizational skills and event planning experience to help coordinate SLBANZ activities

Nishaka Ranaweera

Knect Business and Technology Solutions Ltd

NZBN: 9429046590930

Read more about Nishaka

Director of Knect Business and Technology Solutions Ltd with experience across a wide range of IT domains. My current focus is helping Small to Medium Enterprises (SME) and State owned Enterprises (SOE) drive business transformation through strategic and enterprise architecture, developing future-state architectures, technology roadmaps, governance frameworks, and operating models for large-scale projects. I also mentor young IT professionals to establish their own startups.

I am also a Director of the New Zealand Sri Lanka Cultural Foundation (NZBN 9429052306044), which promotes cross-cultural collaboration, showcases Sri Lankan culture in Aotearoa, and supports younger generations in embracing their heritage.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Connect SLBANZ with Christchurch-based businesses
  • • Arrange local events and create opportunities for expansion into Christchurch
  • • Assist businesses looking to establish or grow operations in the region
  • • Support businesses with setting up large scale IT projects and business transformations

Pasan Thilakasiri, PhD

TextReload Limited

NZBN: 9429051900816

Read more about Pasan

I'm Dr. Pasan Thilakasiri, Co-Founder of TextReload Limited, an AI-powered SMS automation platform that integrates with Xero and Xero Practice Manager (XPM). My background is in Software Engineering and Public Administration. I previously worked as the Programme Manager (Digital Health) at the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), the government body responsible for the country's digital transformation.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Sharing expertise in AI and digital transformation for both businesses and government services
  • • Leveraging my professional and academic networks in New Zealand and Sri Lanka to create opportunities for collaboration and growth

Rohitha Karunaratne

CeylaNZ

NZBN: 9429048297509

Read more about Rohitha

I have four decades of Insurance and Risk Management experience together with artistic performing arts experience for 49 years now. My business organisation is CeylaNZ for importing, marketing and distribution for coir products.

How I'll contribute:

Through my professional, artistic and business experience creating new era for the association.

Sasini Ariyarathna

Sassy Production Limited

NZBN: 9429053153241

Read more about Sasini

I'm a content creator, creating under Sassy Production Limited.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Support with event promotions and social media
  • • Create short promo videos and event highlights
  • • Produce clips to raise awareness about the Association
  • • Create content to encourage more members to join

Suggestion:

Whenever a new member pays their membership (business owners or professionals), give them a welcome shout-out on social media and list them on the website. This will give recognition to members and help the community connect with them, encouraging more Sri Lankan businesses and professionals to join.

Sharmella Ponnampalam

Joram Recruitment

NZBN: 9429050640867

Read more about Sharmella

I am a social worker by profession and also serve as an executive committee member for several organizations. I own Joram Recruitment, which focuses on connecting Sri Lanka and New Zealand, providing job opportunities for qualified Sri Lankans.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Assist with administrative tasks and funding applications
  • • Provide support wherever needed in the community

Sudheera Nanayakkara

Kip McGrath Rotorua & Hamilton

NZBN: 9429053026958

Read more about Sudheera

Based in Hamilton, I am the Director of Kip McGrath Rotorua and the Administrative Manager at Kip McGrath Hamilton. I recently completed my PhD in Education, and I'm passionate about empowering students through effective learning strategies and academic support.

I also have experience in community leadership, having served as the President of the Sri Lankan Friendship Society (SLFS).

How I'll contribute:

  • • Supporting educational initiatives that benefit our wider community
  • • Helping organise community events that bring people together and inspire connection, collaboration, and growth
  • • Building positive networks and encouraging others to reach their potential

Tharusha Manage

KIWI LION PARTNERS LTD

NZBN: 9429050741748

Read more about Tharusha

Self-employed, running a growing courier business in the logistics field. Over the past three years, I have created more than 30 job opportunities for the Sri Lankan community here in New Zealand.

How I'll contribute:

  • • Encouraging the younger generation to join our organisation and bring in their fresh ideas
  • • Creating new job opportunities and supporting people who will be settling in New Zealand in the coming years

Thisara Wijethunga

DSR Housing, D and S Food Ltd,
Icon Hair and Beauty

NZBN: 9429049004175, 9429031126557, 9429041701843

Read more about Thisara

How I'll contribute:

  • • Share my experience in business management and operations to strengthen our decision-making and long-term strategies
  • • Support in building partnerships and creating growth opportunities for the organisation

Yasasi Gunarathne

Migrate Wise Ltd

NZBN: 9429052560798

Read more about Yasasi

Licensed Immigration Adviser and Founder of Migrate Wise Ltd, an immigration advisory service. I am also a co-owner of a healthcare business and a property investment business. I live in Wairarapa - Masterton.

I bring professional background in brand management, marketing, logistics and international business management, alongside my expertise in immigration advisory services.

Community Involvement:

  • • Volunteer with New Zealand Red Cross, supporting refugee settlement
  • • Board member of Multicultural Council, Wairarapa Women's Centre
  • • Focus on promoting multiculturalism in rural areas and connecting migrants with local communities
  • • Serve as deputy chair for an Executive Committee in New Zealand politics

How I'll contribute:

I am keen to contribute wherever my expertise can add value, offering my skills and experience in immigration, business, and community development in support of the organization's goals.

Join Our Committee

We're always looking for passionate individuals to help lead and grow SLBANZ. If you're interested in contributing your skills and expertise, we'd love to hear from you.

Express Your Interest