Wasanthi Stephen, a distinguished human resources leader from Sri Lanka, has been recognized with a 2024 Global Recognition Award for her exceptional achievements and leadership in the field.
Wasanthi’s journey is marked by her extraordinary ability to break barriers and set new standards in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her early career achievements include becoming the youngest department head at Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel, Colombo, and the youngest and only female member of the executive committee. These milestones underscore her exceptional leadership and strategic vision.

Wasanthi’s role as the youngest Assistant Vice President at John Keels Leisure Sector further highlights her rapid ascent and influence within the industry. Wasanthi’s role as the youngest Assistant Vice President at John Keels Leisure Sector further highlights her rapid ascent and influence within the industry. Currently, Wasanthi serves as the General Manager and Group Chief Human Resources Officer for the Janashakthi Group (JXG), a prominent financial conglomerate in Sri Lanka. In this capacity, she oversees HR operations for Janashakthi Ltd, First Capital Holdings PLC, Orient Finance PLC, Janashakthi Insurance PLC, Janashakthi Business Services (Pvt) Ltd, Beckett Capital (Pvt) Ltd, and Janashakthi Corporate Services Ltd. This role showcases her sustained excellence and ability to manage complex organizational structures. Wasanthi’s leadership has driven her company’s success, earning her the prestigious Silver Award at HRM Awards and multiple Best Team Awards. Her recognition as the only female General Manager in her group underscores her trailblazing role and commitment to advancing gender equality in the workplace. Her recognition with a 2024 Global Recognition Award is a testament to her pioneering leadership and significant contributions to her industry.

Commitment to Gender Equality and Inclusion

Wasanthi Stephen’s journey is marked by her achievements and unwavering commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusion in the workplace. As the only female General Manager in her group, she is a role model and advocate for other women aspiring to leadership roles. Her efforts to create an inclusive and supportive work environment have impacted her organization and the broader industry. Wasanthi’s dedication to advancing gender equality is evident in her strategic initiatives and policies to foster diversity and empower women at all levels of the organization.

Her ability to break through barriers and challenge the status quo has inspired many within her industry. Wasanthi’s leadership extends beyond her immediate organization, as she actively participates in industry forums and conferences, sharing her insights and advocating for greater representation of women in leadership positions. Her commitment to gender equality and inclusion is a testament to her values and reflects her belief in the importance of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and organizational success.

Final Words

Wasanthi Stephen’s recognition with a 2024 Global Recognition Award is a well-deserved honor that highlights her extraordinary achievements and leadership in the human resources field. Her trailblazing career, marked by numerous firsts and significant milestones, serves as an inspiration to many. Stephen’s commitment to gender equality and inclusion has profoundly impacted her organization and the broader industry. Her ability to lead with vision, integrity, and dedication makes her a standout recipient of this prestigious award. Wasanthi’s journey exemplifies the qualities that the Global Recognition Awards seek to honor: excellence, innovation, and a commitment to positive change.

Wasanthi Stephen brings over 24 years of extensive experience in the Human Resource industry in Sri Lanka. Her expertise spans talent management, employee relations, industrial dispute resolution, mentoring and counseling, strategic HR planning, and learning and development. She has worked across diverse sectors, including hospitality, real estate, telecommunications, manufacturing, financial services, and insurance.

In addition to her legal background as an Attorney-at-Law, she holds an International Master of Business Administration from Canterbury Christ Church University (UK). She is a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management and a Professional Member of the Association of HR Professionals. Wasanthi is also a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and holds memberships with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) USA and the ICF Colombo Chapter. She is a Life Member of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka.