Life Story

King Charles knights Sri Lankan-born Prof. Nishan Canagarajah

Published

2 hours ago

July 8, 2026

King Charles knighted the University of Leicester’s Vice-Chancellor, Sri Lankan-born Professor Sir Nishan Canagarajah, in an investiture ceremony held at Windsor Castle.

Professor Canagarajah was recognised in the 2026 King’s New Year Honours for his inestimable contribution to higher education, particularly in championing inclusion.

During the ceremony, the head of state followed tradition by touching the shoulders of the kneeling Professor Canagarajah with a sword, before formally conferring the honour.

Professor Canagarajah was born and educated in Sri Lanka, before moving to the UK where he received his BA (Hons) and PhD degrees from the University of Cambridge in 1989 and 1993.

Professor Canagarajah, who travelled to Berkshire with his wife Thabi, said: “I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive this award from King Charles. It is a recognition of the efforts of so many others who have contributed to my success, including my dear friends and family and colleagues both past and present.

“I also hope it will serve as an inspiration for others. As a boy from the once war-torn land of Sri Lanka, to being recognised by royalty is quite a remarkable journey. It is because of the transformative power of education and the opportunities it presents that this has been possible. That is why I remain committed to removing barriers for others so that they too can fulfil their true potential.”

Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Canagarajah has shown an unwavering commitment to education as a force for improving lives and creating a fairer society. As the first minority ethnic Vice-Chancellor at the University of Leicester, in the first plural city in the UK, he has used his influence to give voice to those who are so often overlooked and under-represented and has taken actions to overcome barriers and create opportunities for others.

He has led one of the most diverse universities in the country – 38% of students are from the most disadvantaged areas and 69% from minority ethnic backgrounds.

Life Story

Tiana Sumanasekera Switches Nationalities: USA to Sri Lanka in Gymnastics

Published

2 weeks ago

June 22, 2026

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Sri Lankan-American gymnast Tiana Sumanasekera has announced that she will now represent Sri Lanka, describing the decision as both a proud and emotional milestone in her career.

In a message shared on social media, Sumanasekera said she has always had a deep passion for gymnastics and fell in love with the sport from her very first day. She said it had been an honor to represent Team USA over the past five years and expressed gratitude for the opportunities that journey gave her.

Sumanasekera said competing for Sri Lanka would be an “absolute dream come true,” adding that representing the country would allow her to honor her heritage and contribute to greater visibility for gymnastics in Sri Lanka and South Asia.

“As a Sri Lankan American, my heart will always be proud to belong to both countries,” she wrote, while thanking supporters and saying she is excited for the opportunities ahead.

Life Story

18-Year-Old of Sri Lankan Origin Elected to French Municipal Council

Published

3 months ago

April 13, 2026

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Bilaal Lookman, a first-year law student of Sri Lankan origin, has been elected as a municipal councillor in France at the age of 18.

He secured a seat on the city council of Guyancourt, located on the outskirts of Paris, after contesting in the recent municipal elections—where he also cast his vote for the first time.

Born in November 2007 to a family with roots in Mannar and Jaffna, Lookman is among the youngest elected officials in France.

He developed an early interest in public affairs, gaining experience through internships in the offices of a Member of Parliament, a former Minister of Education, and the mayor of his town during his mid-teens.

Lookman has also engaged with senior political figures and diplomats, while actively participating in community service from a young age through local youth councils and volunteer work with a food-aid organisation.

Life Story

Sri Lanka’s Asha de Vos honoured at UN General Assembly

Published

4 months ago

March 17, 2026

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Sri Lankan marine biologist Dr. Asha de Vos’s portrait and words were featured at the opening of the UN General Assembly for International Women’s Day and CSW70, celebrating women who break barriers. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra has hailed her message as a powerful call to empower women to challenge limits, shape science, and bring pride to the nation.