As Director of Operations at ABR Holidays DMC (2018–present), my role is centered on optimizing inbound travel operations, ensuring client satisfaction, managing risks, and implementing sustainable practices.In financial and operational decision-making, I combined technology and cost management, using tools like Obsidian and Asana to streamline expense tracking, while MS Excel and Visual Basic helped create a cost-effective, automated system for tour package quotes. This setup enables rapid, accurate package creation without relying on pricier, complex cloud systems. Leveraging my legal research experience, I built a system adaptable to client needs, from luxurious getaways to spontaneous adventures.Risk management is a priority, involving proactive incident prevention through partnerships with local law enforcement and respected community members, especially in Southern coastal areas. Custom safety protocols are integrated, with guides trained in first aid, equipped vehicles, and safety briefings for high-risk locations. This rigorous approach has minimized incidents and boosted client trust in our services.For sustainable practices, I initiated eco-conscious changes, like replacing single-use plastic bottles with refillable glass bottles and introducing hybrid vehicles for small groups. I also influenced villa partners to adopt sustainable practices, including solar power. Digital innovations, such as NFC-enabled business cards, reduced waste further. Sales growth was bolstered through the recruitment of a foreign sales team, driving lead generation without increasing costs. This structured, commission-based model now supports a robust sales funnel, propelling ABR Holidays as a key DMC player with a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and seamless client experiences.

While I was doing my ALs, I co-founded Eastern Engineering, an electrical construction company collaborating with the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) and at prest it has grown into one of the biggest electical contactors in Gampaha, Kiribathgoda and Veyangoda Electrical Subdivisions.This is where I honed my expertise in risk and incident management. Unlike the tourism industry, high-voltage electrical work allows no room for error, as even minor mistakes can be fatal. The logistics involving heavy vehicles bring their own unique challenges, adding to the depth of my experience. In addition to managing labor, I gained skills in maintaining, servicing, and repairing heavy-duty vehicles, ensuring legal compliance in labor and logistics, and advancing my proficiency in MS Excel. Currently, my role is more strategic, serving as a non-executive director

My mother, I must admit, always had one fear: that I would marry a foreign girl. Ironically, it was my brother who did that before I ever had the chance, bringing a wonderful woman from Europe into our family. Together, the three of us ventured into our first business: Tatra Holdings Pvt Ltd. We wanted to bridge the gap between Sri Lanka and the world, helping facilitate foreign investment into the country. That venture eventually led us to create Sebu Lounge—a humble seafood restaurant in Galle that grew into one of the area’s best-loved destinations for tourists.At Tatra Holdings, I took charge of company registrations, including private limited, overseas, andoffshore entities. I oversaw conveyancing, contract management, and provided legal counsel onrelevant civil matters for foreign investors and venture capitalists. Meanwhile, at Sebu Lounge, Imanaged hospitality operations, customer relationship management, costing, basic accounting,financial decision-making, and overall business management.

Fresh out of school, I dove straight into law school, a decision that felt like following in my family’s footsteps (අම්මගේ කීමට). But soon, an unexpected opportunity knocked at my door: AIESEC, the Asian Student Exchange. It was a world away from the rigid structure of law school, a chance to connect with students from every corner of the globe. It was there I discovered my first international love, and at just 18 years old this is where my worldview began to change. One of my most memorable experiences in AIESEC was a project called “Explore Sri Lanka.” I decided to open up my own home as a hostel for 25 foreign students and organized tours covering whole Sri Lanka throughout two months. Suddenly, my world was filled with the laughter and stories of travelers who had seen the farthest reaches of the earth. Each tale they shared lit a spark within me—a fascination with travel and tourism that grew stronger each day. Partnered with local orphanages and communities to create enriching, educational travel experiences for underprivileged children and disabled youth.Developed a program that encourages travelers to contribute to local communities by participating in volunteer activities during their tours.

Dr. Kuma Iddamallena is an experienced and qualified trainer, coach, and consultant who blends two distinct disciplines: successful living and career development with wealth management. He designs programs thatfuse Eastern and Western training methods, attracting a diverse audience of Sri Lankan and international followers—from schoolchildren to seasoned business leaders. I began volunteering here alongside the girl I was dating at the time, initially as a way to escape home and spend time together. However, it quickly became a substantial learning experience at a young age, particularly self motivation, visionary thiking, how money works, creating goals and processes for life, yoga and healthy living