Draft:Missaka Senarath

Missaka Senarath

Missaka Senarath, born on 11th February 1978, is a distinguished Sri Lankan business administrator and journalist. His life is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. From his early years to his professional accomplishments, Missaka has consistently demonstrated a passion for learning and leadership.

Early Life and Education

Missaka’s educational journey began at the prestigious D.S. Senanayake College in Colombo, one of Sri Lanka’s leading educational institutions known for shaping future leaders in various fields. The school’s values of discipline, excellence, and community service became foundational to Missaka’s personal development. During his time there, he not only excelled in academics but also actively participated in extracurricular activities, which honed his leadership skills.

The culture of excellence and competitive spirit at D.S. Senanayake College inspired Missaka to set high standards for himself. He developed a deep appreciation for knowledge, which would later serve him well in his dual careers of business administration and journalism.

Tertiary Education

Missaka Senarath pursued his tertiary education at Central Queensland University of Australia, from 2006 to 2008, earning a Bachelor of Information Technology with a major in Network Engineering. His academic journey was enriched by a comprehensive array of secondary subjects that provided a strong foundation in both technical and theoretical aspects of information technology. These subjects included Information Systems Project Management, Java Programming, Systems Analysis & Specification,Database Use and Design, Operating Systems, and Managing & Securing Networks, among others. His education equipped him with diverse skills essential for navigating the fast-evolving IT industry.

Between 2003 and 2005, Missaka Senarath pursued a Diploma of Information Technology (Network Engineering) at the Hales Institute of Australia. This diploma provided him with key skills in various aspects of project management, including cost management, capacity planning, and quality management. He also gained expertise in client relations, offering advice and determining client needs, while managing crucial areas such as scope, risk, communications, human resources, and cost.

In 2005-2006, Missaka further expanded his knowledge by earning a Diploma of Information Technology (Multimedia Integration) from the AOI Institute of Australia. This program focused on areas such as IT security framework design, technical design development, and **system infrastructure planning, along with multimedia skills like coding for applications and 3D modeling integration for presentations.

In 1997-1998, Missaka Senarath completed a Certificate in Television Newscaster & Presenters (Communication) at the Sri Lanka Television Training Institute. This program provided him with in-depth knowledge of the media structure in Sri Lanka, and refined his skills in the role of a presenter and reader. The course emphasized voice training exercises, effective language usage, and practical on-camera exercises. Additionally, Missaka learned the techniques of television interviewing and gained experience in news reading on camera, equipping him with essential skills for a career in television broadcasting.

Professional Career

As a business administrator, Missaka Senarath’s role involves navigating the complexities of corporate environments, managing teams, and ensuring the smooth execution of strategic goals. His career has been marked by the ability to adapt to changing business landscapes, making decisions that align with long-term objectives while remaining attuned to the immediate needs of the organization. His managerial expertise has been instrumental in driving growth and efficiency in the businesses he has worked for, earning him respect in the corporate world.

In addition to his administrative acumen, Missaka also shines as a journalist. Journalism, a profession that demands both a sharp intellect and a passion for truth, has allowed him to channel his love for storytelling and current affairs. His dual role as a journalist complements his business career, providing him with a wider perspective on economic, political, and social issues. Through his journalistic endeavors, Missaka has contributed to important public discourses, always maintaining a balance between factual reporting and insightful analysis.

Since 2002, Missaka Senarath has held the position of Director at Siyesi Creation International, based in Colombo, Sri Lanka. In this role, he is responsible for making key decisions on behalf of the company, representing it in important meetings, and promoting its projects both locally and internationally. Missaka actively maintains and builds relationships with clients, studies market trends, and plans new projects to align with evolving demands. Additionally, he participates in foreign media and business conferences, coordinates with other companies, and liaises with government authorities to ensure smooth operations.

Missaka Senarath serves as a Director at Vis Broadcasting Company (Pvt) Ltd, located in Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka. His primary responsibilities include the implementation of a USD 10 million project, making key decisions as a board director, and representing the company at meetings. He actively studies market trends to plan new media projects and participates in foreign media conferences to stay ahead in the industry. His role also involves coordinating with other media companies both locally and internationally, as well as liaising with government authorities to ensure the smooth execution of company initiatives.

As a Freelance Producer at EAP Networks (Pvt) Ltd in Colombo, Missaka Senarath was responsible for producing and presenting new TV programs. His role involved researching market trends in media to create content that resonated with audiences. Additionally, Missaka participated in media conferences to stay informed about industry developments and collaborated with other local media companies to ensure the success of his projects.

Between 1997 and 1998, he also worked as an IT Instructor at the Computer Centre, Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka, where he taught beginners in computer science, researched emerging trends in IT, and actively participated in IT conferences.

Work Experience

Missaka Senarath has an extensive and diverse background in both media and business leadership roles. As a Company Director and Project Manager, he was appointed by the President of Sri Lanka to manage a multimillion-dollar media project for Vis Broadcasting Company (Pvt) Ltd, reflecting his high level of responsibility and trust within the industry. His role extended to being a Personal Adviser to a senior Cabinet Minister, where he focused on project implementations and public relations. His directorship and assistant directorship in multiple radio and TV productions further showcase his expertise in media management.

His experience spans across various prestigious roles in media, including working as a reporter, announcer, scriptwriter, and news producer for SAWANA FM, as well as a drama artist at SIRASA FM. Additionally, he served as an Assistant Producer and member of the Voice-Approved Announcing Guild at the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation from 1993 to 1999. His early involvement in media also includes being a member of the Voice-Approved Children Artists' Guild at Rupavahini and ITN TV from 1992 to 1999.

Notably, Missaka became the youngest producer in Sri Lanka in 1998, where he researched and produced a current affairs program on youth involvement in underworld activities and drug trafficking. His international experience includes volunteering as an announcer and producer at 3ZZZ, a leading community radio channel in Australia, from 1999 to 2001. He also worked as a freelance announcer and producer at Hiru FM (ABC Networks) in Sri Lanka from 1998 to 1999.

His leadership roles are vast, including being the founder of the Helashakthi Organization and the Helashakthi Music Band in Australia, organizing various welfare activities from 1999 onwards. He conceptualized and organized the biggest Sri Lankan Festival held in Melbourne in 2001. As a media correspondent, Missaka was assigned by Swarnavahini TV and Hiru FM to cover significant news events in Australia and civil society issues in Sri Lanka.

In his youth, he demonstrated leadership as the Chief Announcer at the International Children's Day seminar organized by the Ministry of Education in 1999. He also held positions such as President of the College Media Circle, General Secretary of the College Literary Association, and Executive Member of the College Law Circle, where he organized the successful college FM radio station DS Ninnada in 1997.

Missaka has participated in numerous media workshops, voice training programs, and seminars on news gathering, reporting, and production, held by Sri Lankan media authorities like Swarnavahini and the National Film Corporation. His achievements in sports include being the manager of the Helashakthi Cricket Team in Melbourne and being an active member of the Sri Lanka WUSHU Chinese Martial Arts Federation and SSC Swimming Club.

Overall, his work experience demonstrates a well-rounded and impactful career across media, business, leadership, and public relations both in Sri Lanka and internationally.

Values and Contributions

At the heart of Missaka Senarath’s career is his dedication to ethical leadership and service to the community. Whether through business or journalism, his commitment to integrity has remained unwavering. He understands the impact that responsible leadership can have on both individuals and society at large. His ability to communicate complex issues in a relatable manner has not only helped him in his corporate roles but also in informing the public as a journalist.

Missaka’s contributions go beyond his professional roles. He is passionate about mentoring young professionals, particularly those interested in the fields of business and journalism. By sharing his experiences and insights, he has inspired many to pursue their careers with purpose and determination.

Conclusion

Missaka Senarath’s life journey is one of perseverance, growth, and dedication. From his roots at D.S. Senanayake College to his impactful roles in business and journalism, he has consistently pursued excellence while upholding values of integrity and service. His ability to balance multiple roles and his continuous quest for knowledge make him a true leader in every sense of the word. As he continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of his professional life, Missaka remains a source of inspiration for those who strive to make meaningful contributions to society.

This essay encapsulates the essence of who Missaka Senarath is—an individual committed to progress, leadership, and truth.