Our Team
Dhanan Baduge, P.Eng., B.A.Sc.
President
Some unique characteristics that describe Dhananjaya (Dhanan) Baduge are courageous, positive, dedication, caring, honest, and never give up. He always looks forward to help and support the long-term vision and goals of the SLYO. One word that describes who Dhanan is committed.
Dhanan Baduge was born in Sri Lanka and immigrated to Toronto, Canada with his family when he was 3 years old to be part of the proud Canadian culture that is known across the world.
One of the life turning events for Dhanan was applying and moving to Waterloo, Ontario to study electrical engineering at the University of Waterloo in 2009. During his undergraduate, he was a class representative for his graduating class where he helped to promote and foster a culture for his classmates to participate in events and build a close community. After graduating in 2014, Dhanan started his career in electrical engineering in the power generation utility sector.
Dhanan was first introduced to SLYO Toronto in May 2017 where the SLYO team at the time was interested to host a sports day and bonfire night.
Under Dhanan’s leadership, the SLYO Canada Chapter team aims to facilitate a feeling of community with our charity, musical and cultural events where everyone can share their voice and contribute to an alliance of Sri Lankan youth both domestically and internationally. Our Sri Lankan community in Canada includes talented individuals and leaders wanting to make an impact while creating a difference in our community at the same time.
Dhanan and his amazing executive team is excited to bring more events for the community to bring them together here in Canada and continue to help our local community as well as the community back in Sri Lanka.
Sahan Maithripala, B.Eng
Vice President
Sahan was born and raised in Canada in Oakville, Ontario. He went to McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario and recently completed his degree with a B.Eng in Mechanical Engineering. He has gained experience working in the Nuclear industry and the automotive research industry through different internships and is looking forward to starting his career in engineering now that he has graduated. During his undergrad experience, he also took on a leadership role in designing and building a solar-powered car for the university’s competitive team, gaining experience leading and managing different projects.
Sahan recently joined SLYO after seeing the positive community impact that it provides firsthand. He volunteered in previous events for a number of events and joined as a Project Management Director to organize the upcoming events. He is excited to give back to the community and engage with youth in planning and preparing for upcoming events.
Outside of SLYO, Sahan enjoys outdoor sports, running, hiking, playing the guitar and listening to music.
Helitha Hewagama, B.Tech.
Treasurer
Helitha Hewagama born and raised in Sri Lanka moved to Canada as a teenager. He went on to graduate from McMaster University at Hamilton with a Bachelor’s Degree in Technology. Following his passion Helitha started his career in the Aerospace Industry and has now moved to Aerospace and Defense to engage in new innovation and technological advancements. One word that would describe Helitha is ambitious.
Helitha is an active member of the community and frequently contributes to philanthropic causes and currently serves as the treasurer of SLYO – Toronto Chapter. Through SLYO, Helitha hopes to engage youth and give back to the community. He is an enthusiast photographer and enjoys his time spent in outdoor activities.
Kushani Kekulawala, H.B.A.
Creative & Events Director
Kushani completed her HBA at the Ivey Business School at Western University. Upon graduating, she pursued her passion for finance and now works in Corporate Banking with previous experience in sustainable finance and product management. Seeing finance as one of the primary drivers of societal change, her goal is to use finance to drive innovation, facilitate the transition to net zero and support developing economies.
Kushani joined SLYO Canada in 2021 and previously served as VP Events for the Sri Lankan Student’s Association at Western. Seeing the direct impact that an organization can have on youth, she hopes to create events that unite the Sri Lankan community and support philanthropic causes.
Outside of work and SLYO initiatives, she serves as executive for her work’s national Climate Action Network and supports public speaking through her involvement as VP Memberships at Toastmasters International. She is also a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur and enjoys long-distance running.
Pasindu Gunasekara, B.A.Sc.
Secretary
Isuri Perera, B.B.A., MMPA
Senior Manager
Isuri grew up in Sri Lanka realizing the importance of culture and how it brings people together. She holds an undergraduate degree of Business Administration from Memorial University and currently studying for her Master of Management and Professional Accounting at University of Toronto Mississauga. She was delighted to see the effort the organization makes to inspire SLYO youth for network and making a positive impact. One word that describes Isuri would be compassionate.
Isuri’s motivation to help the SLYO youth made her join the organization as Senior Manager to develop plans to engage more youth to make a positive change in them and to work with all the members to improve and establish the organization within the local community. Isuri enjoys hiking, swimming, exploring the environment and natural habitat, and listening to music for relaxation.
Ranuka Gunaratne
Project Management Director
Ranuka is a driven and ambitious individual who has always been focused on his career in finance. He graduated from Ryerson University and is currently working towards obtaining his CPA designation. He also works in finance for an education company. His strong work ethic and dedication to his career have been the driving force behind his success.
Despite his busy schedule, Ranuka joined SLYO because he wanted to give back to his community and be part of a close-knit group of individuals who share his values and aspirations. He believes that being part of a community that focuses on empowering young individuals and fostering leadership skills is a great way to make a positive impact on society. Through his involvement in SLYO, Ranuka hopes to develop his leadership skills, meet new people, and make a meaningful contribution to his community. His love for watching sports, cooking, and food are also an added bonus, as he can share these interests with his fellow SLYO members while working towards a common goal.