John Keells Consumer Foods Sector has reinforced its commitment to building future-ready leadership with the successful graduation of 36 participants from the “Aspire” Executive Development Programme 2025, a sector-wide talent development initiative conducted in collaboration with the Postgraduate Institute of Management, University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
The graduation marks a significant milestone in the sector’s ongoing people development journey, reflecting its focus on strengthening leadership capabilities, business acumen, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration among emerging executives. Designed to align individual growth with evolving business priorities, the programme combined academic learning, interactive engagement, and action-driven projects, enabling participants to apply leadership concepts in real business contexts.
Operating under John Keells Holdings PLC, the John Keells Consumer Foods Sector comprises leading food and beverage brands such as Elephant House and Keells Krest, and has a strong legacy in Sri Lanka. Through initiatives such as “Aspire”, the sector continues to invest in structured learning and capability building as key enablers of sustainable business growth and long-term organizational resilience.
Daminda Gamlath, President, John Keells Consumer Foods Sector, stated:
“The Aspire Executive Development Programme reflects our belief that future growth must be supported by strong, agile, and purpose-driven leaders. We are proud to celebrate the graduation of these 36 participants, who have demonstrated commitment, curiosity, and the ability to think beyond their functional roles. Their development is an investment not only in their individual careers, but also in the continued progress of our businesses.”
Imani Perera, Head of Human Resources, John Keells Consumer Foods Sector, stated:
“‘Aspire’ was designed to unlock both individual and collective potential by equipping our executives with the tools, exposure, and confidence to lead with greater impact. The successful completion of this programme is a testament to our continued focus on nurturing talent from within and preparing our people for future leadership roles with greater responsibilities.”
Shangri-La Hambantota Marks a Decade in Sri Lanka’s Deep South
Set across 145 acres along Sri Lanka’s untamed southern coast, Shangri-La Hambantota marks its 10th anniversary this year, celebrating a decade of stories woven through nature, culture, community, and heartfelt connection.
Since welcoming its first guests in June 2016, the resort has evolved beyond a destination escape. For many, it has become a gateway to a slower, richer side of Sri Lanka—where peacocks roam at sunrise, artisan traditions continue to thrive, and golf unfolds alongside coconut groves and tranquil lakes. Over the years, generations of families have returned time and again to reconnect with both each other and the destination itself.
Marking the milestone under the theme “A Decade, With Heart,” the anniversary reflects not only the resort’s growth over the past ten years, but also the people and stories that have shaped its identity.
“At its core, this anniversary is about people,” said General Manager Refhan Razeen. “The colleagues who built this resort from the beginning, the local communities and artisans who continue to shape its spirit, and the guests who have returned to create memories here over the years. Hambantota has always had a soul unlike anywhere else, and we are proud to have spent the last decade sharing that with the world.”
Over the years, the resort has become known for experiences deeply rooted in its surroundings. From its championship golf course—the only resort course of its kind in Sri Lanka—to immersive cultural encounters, wildlife experiences, wellness journeys, destination weddings, and locally inspired dining, the property has consistently embraced a philosophy of creating meaningful connections to place rather than offering a stay alone.
That sense of place remains central to the anniversary celebrations.
To mark its tenth year, Shangri-La Hambantota is extending celebrations beyond the resort through a series of initiatives focused on community, sustainability, and colleague appreciation. For the community, the resort will host an eye camp for surrounding villages, continue its annual Vesak Dansala serving more than 2,000 villagers, and support Sarana, a home for elderly visually impaired individuals.
For the planet, the resort will plant 100 mangroves within and around the property, reinforcing its commitment to protecting the ecosystems that define Sri Lanka’s southern coastline. For colleagues, more than 95 team members who have been part of the journey since opening will be honoured during a special Month of Joy celebration, recognising the individuals whose dedication and care have shaped the resort over the past decade.
John Keells Consumer Foods Sector Strengthens Leadership Pipeline Through Aspire Executive Development Programme
