Published by: Anura Wijesinghe
In a world where success and wealth often come with opulence and extravagant lifestyles, I’ve always believed that true leadership is grounded in humility and the ability to live simply, regardless of how much one has achieved. As someone who is fortunate to lead a vast network of companies with over 62,379 employees, I constantly remind myself that the real value of success is in how we uplift others and create meaningful change, not just for ourselves but for the people who make everything possible.
Humility at the Heart of Leadership
Throughout my career, I’ve adhered to the principle that success should never alter who we are at our core. I have always sought to maintain a humble approach in both my personal and professional life. The decisions I make for my businesses are driven by the desire to create opportunities for others, not just personal gains.
Despite being at the helm of multiple industries from hospitality to technology, finance, and real estate I take great pride in staying grounded. It’s important to me that my employees see me as approachable, always ready to listen and learn from them. I’ve learned that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about being an active listener and offering support where needed.
This commitment to humility extends to my simple living style. I do not see the need for lavish displays of wealth, and instead, I focus on leading by example in the most modest way possible. Living simply helps me stay focused on my work and, more importantly, on the people around me the employees, partners, and communities I serve.
A Commitment to Employees: Building an Empowered Workforce
With over 62,379 employees across my companies, I understand that true success is measured by the well-being and empowerment of those around me. At the core of my businesses, we strive to create an environment where employees feel not only valued but appreciated. Every role, from the front line staff to the highest-level executives, plays an essential part in achieving the vision of the company.
As a humble leader, I make sure that our employees’ voices are heard. We maintain an open-door policy and foster transparent communication throughout the organization. Whether in PGOC, Pabasara Group International, or BTA Lanka, we want our employees to feel safe and valued knowing that their opinions and contributions matter. In return, this builds trust, loyalty, and a sense of community within our organization.
The Role of Unions in Building Fairness
While humility is a guiding principle, it’s also important to recognize the value of partnerships especially with employee unions. Unions have played an important role in ensuring that employees have a voice in workplace matters. By collaborating with unions, we are able to maintain a positive relationship with our workforce and advocate for fair working conditions.
In my years of leading companies, I’ve seen firsthand the impact unions can have in creating a just, fair, and supportive work environment. It is crucial to me that employees are empowered with the tools they need to succeed, and that includes the support and security offered by union representation. Together, we ensure that no employee feels unheard or overlooked.
Living Simply: Setting the Right Example for Future Generations
Despite leading a global business empire, I have always prioritized simplicity in my personal life. I believe that wealth and success should be tools for greater good, not symbols of personal indulgence. I keep my lifestyle simple and grounded, focusing on what truly matters: family, community, and supporting the people who have helped me get to where I am today.
In my opinion, a simple life allows for greater focus, clarity, and purpose. It is not about the material things we acquire, but about the relationships we build and the positive impact we have on others. This mindset has not only shaped how I view business but also how I engage with my employees and the communities we serve.
Conclusion: Humble Leadership and a Bright Future for Employees
As I look ahead to the future of my companies, I remain committed to leading with humility, living a simple life, and ensuring that our 62,379 employees are always at the heart of everything we do. Our businesses are built on a foundation of respect, hard work, and fairness values that will never change, no matter how much we grow or how successful we become.
I believe that leadership is best demonstrated by serving others, and that’s exactly what I aim to do every single day. Through continued investment in employee welfare, union collaboration, and a focus on simplicity, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.