NEWS

Awards: Asia's Tourism Icon Award & Asia's Outstanding CEO Award

“I am deeply gratified to have been honored with these prestigious international awards. They not only serve as a recognition of my past accomplishments but also inspire and motivate me to undertake even greater endeavors in the future. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all those who have supported me on this remarkable journey”

Ruwan Ratnayaka, born in 1981 (18^th January 1981) into a modest family in a rural region of Sri Lanka, encountered adversity from a young age. Tragedy struck in 1989 when his father fell victim to a violent incident during a period of civil unrest in Sri Lanka. At the tender age of 8, Ruwan, along with his younger siblings and extended family, was thrust into an uncertain future.

Despite these formidable challenges, Ruwan's mother, along with other female relatives, sought better opportunities abroad, leaving Ruwan as the eldest male tasked with supporting the family. Temporarily discontinuing his education at the age of 13, he ventured into labor and farming to ensure the family's survival. After a hiatus of two years, Ruwan displayed remarkable determination, resuming his education at 15 with the singular goal of passing the O/L examination, which he accomplished in 1996.

Ruwan's life took another unforeseen turn upon his mother's return, as he faced threats from individuals associated with his father's assailants. In the face of these adversities, Ruwan persevered, even enduring the burning of his family's home. Remarkably, he succeeded in passing the A/L examination and secured admission to Sabaragamuwa University.

During his tenure at Sabaragamuwa University, Ruwan assumed the presidency of the faculty student union. His commitment was evident in his efforts to address a range of university challenges, from water scarcity to infrastructural enhancements. To support his own education, Ruwan conducted tuition classes for O/L and A/L students.

In 2006, Ruwan made his entry into the tourism industry as an intern, working for a renowned travel company in Sri Lanka, a period marked by significant conflict. His unwavering dedication led to him exceeding targets and receiving accolades, including the title of "Employee of the Month." His contributions to the marketing team were instrumental in the company receiving prestigious awards in the travel and tourism sector. Notably, he ascended to the role of General Manager at the young age of 31, and his educational achievements include a B.Sc. Tourism Management from Sabaragamuwa university of Sri Lanka, a Post Graduate Diploma from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (UK) and a Master of Business Administration from Colombo University.

In 2013, Ruwan Ratnayaka embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by founding his travel company, Beyond Escapes. Simultaneously, he commenced delivering guest lectures at prominent universities in Sri Lanka. While the company encountered initial challenges, Ruwan's innovative strategies ultimately led to its successful establishment. Ruwan Ratnayaka's professional journey extended beyond his company, as he remained an influential resource person in various industry forums and government projects. In 2019, he embarked on a Ph.D. program that is now approaching its completion.

With over 17 years of extensive experience in the Sri Lanka Tourism Industry, Mr. Ruwan Ratnayaka has established a remarkable track record. His unwavering commitment to enhancing the industry for future generations is notable. He has made significant contributions in various capacities, serving as an executive, manager, entrepreneur, and a guest lecturer at prominent universities.

As the General Manager at &Beyond Lanka, he played a pivotal role in the ground handling of renowned documentaries like "Monkey Kingdom," "Wild Sri Lanka," "Elephant Island," and "Leopard on the Beach."

Currently serving as the Founder and Managing Director of Beyond Escapes, Leopard Nest, Mice Team, Aktivitar, Besports, and Glamp Collection, Mr. Ruwan Ratnayaka is dedicated to the creation of inspiring travel experiences for a global clientele, owing to his innovative and forward-thinking approach. Concurrently, he maintains a steadfast commitment to molding the perspectives and values of prospective leaders in the tourism sector through his role as an educator.

At the core of Ruwan's life philosophy lies the aphorism, "Individuals enter this world with nothing, depart with nothing, and in the interim, possess nothing to forfeit." This overarching perspective has instilled within him an exceptional spirit of benevolence and an unswerving positive mindset, both of which have played pivotal roles in his remarkable professional journey and accomplishments.