Food quality

I began my professional journey in Sri Lanka’s flourishing floriculture industry, focusing on European and Far Eastern markets. Over five years, I led research and development initiatives, pioneering non-conventional breeding methods that significantly advanced the sector. This foundation facilitated my transition into project and program management, where I have had the privilege of collaborating with governmental bodies and international funding organizations. A highlight of my career was playing a key role in the success of the National Agriculture Development Program (2003-2014), contributing to strategic planning, coordination, and execution, while bringing over two decades of diverse experience within Sri Lanka’s agricultural development sector. My professional journey has been shaped by multidisciplinary training, equipping me with expertise in project and program management, monitoring and evaluation, strategic planning in MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), sustainable rural development, climate-smart agriculture, food and nutrition security, Agric value chain & SME developments,Results-Based Management (RBM), gender mainstreaming, and knowledge management, among other areas of competence. Since October 2015, I have had the privilege of coordinating multifaceted projects and programs for the EU Delegation in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, with a focus on integrated rural development. These initiatives span critical sectors such as agriculture ( agri- green), food and nutrition, local governance, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), SCP (Sustainable Consumption and Production), and Nature based tourism, all aimed at fostering positive, sustainable development. As I continue my professional path, I remain committed to leveraging my diverse expertise to drive impactful transformations across Sri Lanka’s evolving sectors, contributing meaningfully to sustainable development goals.

managing fisheries partnership agreements between EU and non EU countries

Energetic, dedicated individual with over ten years of strong interpersonal skills. A strong coordination and management background. Proven ability to work effectively with people of various ages, cultural backgrounds, and socio-economic statuses. Attentive to details, able to take initiative, prioritize multiple tasks and manage workloads. A long-time interest in project development and implementation in the field of health, nutrition and food security, and safety. 

Expert in small-scale and industrial fisheries and aquaculture with experience in developing countries on projects funded by international donors and technical agencies (mainly EU, FAO), particularly in quality and safety of fishery products, value-added products, and fish processing.
Expert in developing pictorial training manuals on good practices regarding fish quality and safety, handling, and processing for small-scale fisheries. Designed pictorial awareness materials such as posters. Developed training manuals on good business practices for small-scale fisheries, including value-chain product possibilities.
Expert in technical document translation in the sector of fisheries and aquaculture, and studies.

I’m a Nutrition and Health professional with extensive skills in Nutrition Assessment and Counseling Services, ensuring food safety and demonstrating food preparation techniques while upholding strict hygiene standards. My expertise extends to diagnosing and effectively managing moderate and severe acute malnutrition, achieving significant results in Growth monitoring and promotion. I have a strong background in managing infant and young child feeding programs in challenging context like HIV, COVID-19, Hepatitis, Influenza and emergency situations. I specialize in Nutrition education aiming at promoting, protecting and supporting Infant and Young Child feeding, Maternal and Adolescent Nutrition, and the Management of at risk mothers and infants under six months. I excel in defining Nutrition indicators and developing food and Nutrition security strategies. I possess strong analytical skills using tools like Nutrisurvey, WHO Anthro, SPSS, Epi Info, R-studio for Research data analysis. My expertise extends to training trainers, volunteers, change agents and community health workers in maternal ,Infant and young child feeding practices. I am adept at prioritizing Behavior and designing social Behavior Change strategy for complementary feeding, as well as implementing Nutrition sensitive Agriculture strategies for malnutrition prevention. I am well versed in the Care Group Model and Baby Friendly Health Facility Initiative. I excel in conducting various research methodology such as focus group discussions, key informants interviews, surveys for data collection and comprehensive report writing. My ability to identify and foster social networks within and outside Nutrition community further enhances my professional capabilities.