The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) Sri Lanka, the country’s professional body for Human Resource Management, recently conducted an exclusive executive panel discussion titled “Board Readiness: Building Executive Capability” as part of its flagship CHRO & C-Suite HR Leadership Programme (Batch 01-2026).
Held on July 25 at the CIPM Members’ Lounge, the session brought together senior corporate leaders to share insights into the strategic capabilities HR professionals need to succeed at the highest levels of organisational leadership.
The discussion was moderated by Davina Kern, Chief Human Resource Officer of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and featured an experienced panel comprising Suren Fernando, Group Chief Executive Officer of MAS Holdings; Anoma De Silva, Group Chief Human Resources Officer of Wardena Venture Holdings; and Samitha Perera, Former Regional Director/CEO of the CBL Group.
Drawing on their extensive corporate experience, the panellists provided participants with practical perspectives on executive leadership, corporate governance, business strategy, boardroom influence, organisational transformation and the evolving role of HR as a strategic business partner.
The event was also attended by U.A.C. Obeysekera, Chief Executive Officer of CIPM Sri Lanka, and G. Weerathunga, Director – Professional & Academic Affairs.
The session brought together senior HR and business leaders from leading organisations across Sri Lanka, including Chief Human Resources Officers, Heads of HR, Chief Operating Officers, Deputy General Managers and other senior executives.
The interactive format encouraged participants to engage directly with the panellists and exchange views on boardroom expectations, executive decision-making, leadership effectiveness and the future direction of the HR profession.
Through initiatives such as the CHRO & C-Suite HR Leadership Programme, CIPM Sri Lanka continues to focus on developing future-ready HR leaders with the strategic mindset, executive presence, commercial understanding and leadership capabilities required to contribute effectively at C-suite and board level.
Charana TV of SLT-MOBITEL PEO TV Wins ‘Best Educational Programme’ Award
Charana TV, a television channel of SLT-MOBITEL PEO TV, has been recognised at the 31st Sumathi Awards 2026, winning the ‘Best Educational Programme’ award under the Best Social Media Awards category.
The award was presented to ‘Seethala Ithala’, one of Sri Lanka’s leading youth-focused talk shows, which provides young people with a platform to express their views and discuss issues that matter to them.
Through the programme, Charana TV has created a meaningful space for young voices to engage in discussions on a wide range of social issues. ‘Seethala Ithala’ goes beyond conventional discussions by allowing young participants to share personal experiences, observations and perspectives while exploring different viewpoints.
Specialists and consultants from relevant fields also join the programme, offering professional insights and adding depth to the discussions. The programme’s approach to encouraging open and comparative conversations on social issues has helped it build a strong following among Charana TV viewers.
Shenal Jayasekara, producer of ‘Seethala Ithala’, accepted the award on behalf of Charana TV at the 2026 Sumathi Awards ceremony.
Charana TV is a Sri Lankan television channel focused on delivering educational, cultural and entertainment content for audiences across different age groups. Its programming covers areas including arts and culture, current affairs, documentaries, agriculture, health, children’s programmes, music, religion and philosophy, youth-focused content and profiles of prominent personalities.
Through its diverse programming, Charana TV continues to showcase Sri Lanka’s identity while connecting the country’s art, culture and heritage with younger generations. The channel also remains focused on creating purposeful content that supports learning, preserves cultural traditions and contributes to educating future generations.
CIPM Sri Lanka Strengthens Executive HR Leadership Through CHRO Panel Discussion
