For many years, Sri Lanka has experienced a steady “brain drain” from the island, where highly-educated professionals sought out employment, and started lives overseas. However, since the end of the civil war in 2009, the country has started to become more appealing to such individuals, their families, and even non-residents. But, there are often challenges that come along with opportunities, and until recently there has not been a resource for those seeking to return, or find employment in Sri Lanka.
In May 2013, WorkInSriLanka.lk (WISL) became the first entity that was dedicated to assisting those returning to Sri Lanka, or foreign nationals seeking employment here. WISL is a volunteer-run, self-funded group with dedicated former returnees, expats, and like-minded people looking to lend a hand to those who want to follow in their footsteps. It has set up partnerships and networks with many government, and private sector groups to make this transition to be smoother.
As part of WISL’s efforts, the second annual WorkInSriLanka Conference will take place on December 23rd, 2014 at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo. The slogan of the conference is “New Era, New Opportunities”, which symbolizes the current state of Sri Lanka, as a beacon for learned professionals. The 2014 conference will contain keynote addresses and panel discussions on important topics such as overcoming challenges in returning, opportunities, corporate partnerships, and such. The keynote speakers and panelists will be some of the brightest minds in the country, from both the government sector as well as private. This is similar to the first WISL annual conference, which featured the likes of Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapakse, Mr. Ajith Nivard Cabraal, as well CEO’s from conglomerates such as Brandix, Hemas, and Dialog.
In addition to the conference, WISL has become an online hub for those looking to move to, or move back to Sri Lanka for their questions. The site covers a wide range of topics such as employment, housing, immigration issues, education, and more. “We come across people who say they are now thinking deeply about what is more important in life. Whether some extra money and perhaps few other benefits are worth being away from all that they left in Sri Lanka.” says Mr. Anjula Godakumbura, Chairperson of the 2014 WISL Conference. “Then there are others who are really keen to give back to the country and be part of its current growth. Some folks just miss home or haven’t found living abroad to their liking. That’s where we want to help out.”
With a global economic downturn hitting developed nations, it has however created new opportunities in countries such as Sri Lanka. The economy has been growing steadily since 2009, and investors are looking to tap into the well-educated workforce in Sri Lanka, create new business opportunities, as well as expand current projects. While challenges remain due to political culture, the infrastructure growth has made Sri Lanka into a more desirable economic destination.
WISL is also creating a “buddy” program for aspiring returnees as well. This is where they are paired with like-minded former returnees, to guide them through the challenging parts of moving back. The challenges can be as important as employment opportunities, or even everyday things such as where to find the best coffee houses.
The WorkInSriLanka conference will be an excellent opportunity to meet fellow returnees, network with business leaders, as well as potential employers. Registration is now open on WorkInSriLanka.lk. For further questions, please email contact@workinsrilanka.lk.
