Wasana Ranmini De Silve

Photos

Tell us about yourself, Wasana.

I am a well-spoken Sri Lankan woman full of bright ideas and inspiration. I have built an incredible foundation for 100s of volunteers by providing a warm and approachable atmosphere.

What is your favorite travel memory?

My favorite memory was traveling to Mirissa for the first time. I was especially thrilled to do a bit of surfing and explore the area.

The locals are so welcoming and after hearing about the best little Roti shop, DEWMINI ROTI SHOP, I ventured off down the back roads to enjoy it. I recommend everyone goes! There is a hidden temple that the locals are keen to show you and a large rock mound that can be ventured out to so that you can see the entire bay!

I absolutely loved interacting with the children and splashing in the sea under the sun. Mirissa is a favorite for weekend travels for anyone in Sri Lanka!

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I have definitely grown in my position. This is my first close exposure to foreigners. I have shared and gathered so much knowledge regarding outside cultures, expressed my ideas of the world and gained countless friends along the way.

My English has improved and I feel very confident to converse with volunteers now after spending so much time learning about each participant! So many wonderful times laughing! I feel very happy to welcome each new volunteer to our PMGY Sri Lanka family and teach them about my culture.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

The best story was from Nathan Davis. He came back for the second time in summer 2017 and absolutely loved it! He said that coming back this summer felt like he was welcomed back to a family since everyone remembered him and greeted him with hugs and smiles!

He said that the summer before he wasn't as confident to be in Sri Lanka, but as a second time traveler he felt happy and I think he even took on a leading role amongst the group! It was so nice to hear about his happiness teaching on the project in Sri Lanka and that he felt more confident to come again.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

I think that PMGY Sri Lanka is unique because we are a very dedicated team. We always try to let our volunteers get the maximum experience and exposure to the Sri Lankan culture. We offer a very personal time and offer so much support.

The team in the UK speaks to the volunteers and answers so many questions so when they arrive in Sri Lanka they are knowledgeable. Then our team in Sri Lanka is happy to continue teaching them and happy to host them for the time they are here.

We love offering them the chance to travel on the weekends and even give them direction to visit temples, museums and the beach nearby too. According to the feedback of volunteers, our team is also very friendly!

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

The biggest factor of success is patience. As a Sri Lankan I have to understand that our culture is very different to any foreigner and it is very good to be patient when they have challenges with food, heat, language, and people.

Aside from patience, I think that each of us having a smile on our face is key! We are always happy to help and listen. I feel that having a smile can make anyone feel they can talk to me and our team!