This week we reached out to a young entrepreneur with a generous spirit, Sanuth Gunasekera.
More than just a youth entrepreneur he is a passionate visionary devoted to uplifting people and communities. His journey showcases the incredible power of determination and hard work to spark change.
Sanuth’s unwavering dedication to helping others serves as a powerful example of what’s possible through commitment. He’s a beacon of light, using his success to make a positive impact and support those most in need.
At the heart of his efforts lies The Gunasekera Foundation, focused on uniting young leaders in Sri Lanka through charity and community development. Together, they’re working towards a brighter future, organizing food drives, educational programs, and health campaigns.
In the heart of Sanuth beats a passion for community, a torch passed from his grandfather’s tales to his father’s deeds, now ablaze within him.
The Youth Observer delved into Sanuth’s world, unraveling his life’s tapestry woven with threads of service and purpose. His foundation, a beacon of hope, stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to a better tomorrow.
As the sun painted the sky in hues of promise, Sanuth shared his dreams, whispered secrets of upcoming endeavors, and vowed to etch his mark upon the canvas of society. Herein lies his tale, ripe with fervor and destined for greatness.
In conversation with Sanuth here’s what we found out;
Q: Tell us a little bit about the Gunasekara foundation?
A: The Gunasekara Foundation is a non-profit organization aimed at empowering underprivileged communities through education and sustainable development projects. It was initiated through a passion for making a positive impact on society.
Our goal is to assist people from all walks of life in starting their businesses or building sustainable livelihoods.
Through our support programs, we aim to empower individuals to showcase the essence of Sri Lanka and take a leading role in the region. We’re here to guide, inspire, and pave the way for a brighter future, where every effort contributes to the vibrant tapestry of our nation.
Q: What is the mission of the foundation?
A: The mission of the foundation is to provide access to quality education, promote sustainable development, and empower marginalized communities to break the cycle of poverty.
Q: Define yourself in two words?
A: Passionate advocate.
Q: How do you define success as an entrepreneur?
A: Success as an entrepreneur is not just about financial gain but also about making a positive impact on society, creating value for customers, and achieving personal fulfillment.
Q: Do you consider yourself to be successful in the business world?
A: Success is subjective, but I strive to make a positive impact through my business endeavours.
Q: Tell us a little bit about the charitable initiatives you have initiated through the foundation?
A: Through the foundation, we’ve initiated various charitable initiatives such as building schools, providing scholarships, and implementing sustainable development projects in underprivileged areas.
Q: Tell us a little bit about the charitable initiatives you are hoping to initiate through the foundation?
A: We’re hoping to expand our charitable initiatives to include more vocational training programs, healthcare initiatives, and environmental conservation projects.
Q: Who or who inspires you in your journey and motivates you to give back to the community?
A: My father and grandfather remain the biggest inspirations in my life; my grandfather, Premarathne Gunasekera, former deputy health minister, shines brightly in my heart.
His selfless acts, offered without seeking anything in return, define true leadership for me. His stories of aiding others fuel my own drive to make a difference.
Across the country, his name resonates with gratitude for his countless kind deeds. It feels like a personal calling to uphold his legacy, to carry forward the torch of compassion and service that he so brightly lit.
Besides them I’m inspired by individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference in the world, and their dedication motivates me to give back to the community.
Q: How does your business background support your charitable projects?
A: Drawing from my business experience, I bring a wealth of skills crucial for effective charitable endeavours. From strategic planning to resource management and networking, these abilities are the backbone of successful projects aimed at making a positive impact.
My background equips me with the tools to navigate the complexities of project implementation, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in achieving our philanthropic goals.
Q: Do you think it is important to give back to the community as an entrepreneur and why?
A: Yes, it’s crucial for entrepreneurs to give back to the community because businesses thrive when society thrives. It’s also a moral responsibility to use our resources for the greater good.
Q: What is your dream as an entrepreneur?
A: My dream as an entrepreneur is to create a sustainable business model that not only generates profit but also positively impacts the lives of others and contributes to a better world.
Q: What are your plans for the rest of the year?
A: My plans for the rest of the year include expanding our charitable initiatives, forging partnerships with other organizations, and continuously striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
