What inspires you to work as an SBN Coordinator?
Being a development worker in a humanitarian setting has enabled me to experience the reality of ground level & the gaps in-between and identify how I can contribute for a better outcome, for the people and the planet. What simply keeps me going is the feeling of knowing that the work I do will have an impact on someone’s life, on the road to zero hunger.

What are the misconceptions about youth at the workplace?
One of the many common misconceptions is that youth do not have what the table requires from them, specifically the leadership. This misconception continues to limit youth when they seem to break traditional boundaries by bringing in transformational ideas and profound passion to go beyond and above in what they do to make a difference in the society. Further, it is vital that they are too often marginalized from policymaking as well as in decision-making even though youth have been identified as today’s decision makers for a generation unlimited.

What does success look like as a youthful coordinator?
This position has provided me an opportunity to lead the network to support businesses to act, invest and innovate in responsible and sustainable actions to improve nutrition and strengthen the private sector engagement in multi-sectoral decision making while ensuring the sustainability of the partnerships & networking opportunities created on the road to zero hunger.

Share one notable success story or achievements from your work as a Youth SBN Coordinator.
Private Sector representation through the SUN Business Network in the development of Multi-sector Action Plan for Nutrition in line with National Nutrition Policy was a truly remarkable milestone for me as the Youth SBN Coordinator. This time, the private sector was involved in multi-sectoral decision making in nutrition for the first time in Sri Lanka. Moreover, a non-food SBN member was selected to represent the private sector in this nationally important landmark event which further ensures the recognition of non-food businesses making smart commitments to address malnutrition.

As we commemorate this year’s international youth day, what inspiration would you pass to young entrepreneurs in the nutrition space?
“Everything started as nothing” – Ben Weissenstein. The key of nourishing the people and planet together by transforming the industry with sustainable, responsible, and transparent business models is believing in the right leadership and partnerships. Therefore, do not hesitate to make a difference when you have the opportunity to bring innovativeness to the table and always keep in mind that a healthy profit is a result of helping people live healthier & fuller lives.