Dr. Gitanjali Chakravarthy Re-elected as President for a Second Term
The Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) successfully concluded its 55th Annual General Meeting (AGM), held from 16 to 18 October 2026 at Araliya Beach Resort & Spa, Unawatuna, bringing together hospitality professionals, industry leaders and members from across Sri Lanka.
Held under the theme “Connect • Collaborate • Celebrate,” the three-day gathering celebrated professional fellowship, industry collaboration and the Association’s longstanding contribution to Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector.
A key highlight of this year’s AGM was the re-election of Dr. Gitanjali Chakravarthy as President of SLHGA for a second consecutive term. As the first woman to hold the prestigious position of President in the Association’s history, Dr. Chakravarthy continues to mark an important milestone in its leadership.
Her re-election reflects the confidence placed in her leadership as the Association continues its commitment to professional development, industry engagement and strengthening Sri Lanka’s hospitality fraternity.
Newly Appointed SLHGA Executive Committee and Office Bearers
The 55th Annual General Meeting also marked the appointment of the new Executive Committee, entrusted with guiding the Association’s activities, strengthening its professional network and advancing its objectives.
The following members were appointed to the key office-bearing positions:
- President: Dr. Gitanjali Chakravarthy
- Vice President 1: Mr. Dinesh Hettiarachchi
- Vice President 2: Mr. Thakshila Galappaththy
- Immediate Past President: Mr. Patrick G.S. Pereira
- General Secretary: Mr. Kanishka Udawatta
- Treasurer: Mr. Pradeep Liyanage
Together with the newly appointed Executive Committee members, the office bearers will focus on strengthening the Association’s governance, promoting professional excellence, enhancing membership engagement and supporting initiatives that contribute to the advancement of Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry.
A Successful Celebration of Hospitality and Fellowship
The three-day AGM provided an exceptional platform for members to reconnect with industry colleagues, strengthen professional relationships and celebrate their shared passion for hospitality.
Beyond the formal AGM proceedings, the programme featured networking opportunities, entertainment, culinary experiences, recreational activities and family-oriented events, creating a memorable gathering for members and their families.
The event was organised under the leadership of Mr. Dinesh Hettiarachchi, Vice President and Chairperson of the AGM Organising Committee, with the guidance and support of Mr. Priyal Pereira, former President of SLHGA and Advisor to the AGM Committee.
Their leadership, together with the dedication of the organising committee, contributed significantly to the successful execution of the Association’s 55th AGM.
SLHGA also extended its appreciation to the management and team of Araliya Beach Resort & Spa, Unawatuna, for their cooperation, hospitality and support throughout the event.
Strengthening the Future of Sri Lankan Hospitality
With a proud legacy spanning more than five decades, the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association remains one of the country’s respected professional associations representing the hospitality fraternity.
As the Association enters another chapter under the leadership of Dr. Gitanjali Chakravarthy and the newly appointed Executive Committee, SLHGA remains committed to fostering professional collaboration, supporting future hospitality leaders and creating opportunities for its members.
The successful conclusion of the 55th AGM reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to its guiding theme:
CONNECT • COLLABORATE • CELEBRATE
Issued by the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA)
