She came and she conquered all with her charismatic words and personality. Completing the head-to-head oral presentation with great confidence, poise and eloquence, the 25-year-old graduate of Kelaniya University stunned everyone by starting off her speech with “Sabba papassa akaranam, kusalassa upasampada”, a well-known verse from the Dhammapada which is often considered a summary of Buddhist teachings. It means “To cultivate good, To cease from all evil To purify one’s mind, This is the advice of all the Buddhas.”
Hence, she shared her journey and purpose in life, stressing the challenges that Sri Lanka faced during the past few years.
True to the prediction given by her astrologer she went on to challenge stereotypes today. Believing in giving back for what she gained through free education she said that she brought forth Saheli, her brainchild and non-profit initiative which is committed to ensuring menstrual health is taken seriously. No community is left behind in this venture, including women in religious communities.
Bringing period poverty to the forth via the ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ project that is part of the Miss. World pageant, Miss World Sri Lanka 2024 Anudi Gunasekara said that she is constantly thinking of ways and means to expand her wings and create a bigger impact as period poverty is widespread across the world.
“I make an effort to develop my social engagement and organise new projects for Saheli every day. I also keep up with world events since it’s critical to be knowledgeable and informed,” she emphasised her dedication to her cause. She also expressed her wish to take the project to a global scale beyond the island’s borders after Miss World. Period poverty, which affects women and girls worldwide, is the lack of access to menstruation supplies, sanitary facilities, and education on period hygiene. This lack of possession is sometimes brought on by financial limitations, social shame, or cultural barriers.
Praiseworthy effort
“At least 50 percent of Sri Lankan women experience period poverty. They don’t have access to underwear, sanitary products, or even basic information about menstrual hygiene.” Anudi pointed out adding that Saheli translates as ‘female bestie’ in the Sinhala language. The initiative seeks to alleviate this problem by providing individuals in need with knowledge and menstruation goods.
“We have worked with schools, children’s homes, and even prisons! Working with the prisons in Anuradhapura and Welikada was one of our most significant initiatives. These are marginalised groups that frequently lack the recognition and assistance they require, “she pointed out, highlighting the challenges behind the venture.
One major problem she encountered was the shame associated with menstruation.
“I once discussed periods openly on a podcast, and I got a lot of hate mail. People stated things like, “Women should be ashamed,” and “You should not discuss such matters in public”. Periods are a natural biological process. It is frustrating that the public views it as a taboo topic. We must normalise the discourse surrounding it. Saheli aims to accomplish this as well,” Anudi said.
She is dedicated to her goal despite the difficulties.
“I want to make Saheli’s projects sustainable. I would like to work with companies that make eco-friendly menstruation products, such as reusable pads. Protecting the environment is equally as important as assisting women,” she expressed.
Anudi wants to utilise her position to bring about long-lasting change.
“I think that even little things can have a big effect. Any endeavour, no matter how little, has the potential to become something amazing if you are dedicated to the cause. I hope to demonstrate that via my work with Saheli and my experience with Miss World,” she noted.
Childhood
Hailing from Anuradhapura, Anudi is a product of Central College in Anuradhapura. Speaking about her family she said that she comes from a family of five members. Her father, HemanthaGunasekara, is a former athlete and national record holder who is currently employed as a police officer. Her mother, Nishanie Menaka Gunasekara, is a beautician who was previously employed in the Sri Lanka Navy. Their commitment to their professions inspired the young lady to select a career which takes Sri Lanka’s name to the world.
Due to her mother’s link with the fashion and beauty secor, it is no wonder that Anudi too developed an interest towards the field.
“Modelling is something which has always captivated me. I recall that I loved dressing up and posing for pictures even during childhood. It was a form of creative release for me,” she said.
She said that her parents have consistently encouraged her to pursue her goals and served as her greatest source of encouragement.
“The modelling profession is seen negatively by many parents in Sri Lanka. However, my parents have always been sympathetic and supportive, even though I was the first member of my family to enter the field. I had to work hard to gain an opportunity, as did the majority of the newcomers. You did not automatically become a model or the face of a company just because you participated in a photo session. You have to continually go through a lot of screen tests, auditions, and rejections, which might wear you out at times. My parents have consistently supported me throughout those trying times. I believe that I got my never-give-up attitude due to them,” she said.
She did not stick to modelling alone but excelled in her studies as well.
She has earned a Second Upper BA (Hons) degree in International Studies from Kelaniya University and a Diploma in International Relations from the Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies (BCIS).
It was only during her university stint that Anudi began pursuing modelling on a serious note and was trained professionally by designer, choreographer, stylist and model maker Brian Kerkoven. Therefore she got the opportunity to embark on a career as a part-time model for commercials and renowned clothing brands.
Inspiration
What inspired her to apply for Miss World was India’s Manushi Chhillar’s win in 2017.
“I was 17 then and you need to be over 18 to take part in it. Then I had to focus on my Advanced Level studies and other aspects. The Covid-19 pandemic also happened which put a temporary stop to the pageant’s usual format. With such obstacles coming across my path, I feared that my dream would never materialise,” she said. It was during her last year at university that Anudi saw an announcement for Miss World Sri Lanka. She made the bold decision to apply while juggling it with her studies.
“I was the first one to apply then. For me, winning Miss World Sri Lanka seemed like a dream. It seemed as though everything was finally coming together,” she mused.
Apart from making her mark through her speech, Anudi also excelled at the Talent Challenge, one of the most interesting fast-track events at the Miss World pageant. She made it to the top 24 in this round by showcasing her dance skills on the international stage. She also made it to the final 20 Head-to-Head Challenge category, becoming the first Sri Lankan in the 74-year history of Miss World to reach this milestone. She secured a place among the top 5 contestants from the Asia and Oceania region as well in this category. The final of Miss World 2025 will take place at the Hitex Convention Centre in Hyderabad, India, on May 31.
Pictures by Arantha and Viraj Fernando
