Dr. Chandana Wijayanama and research into “Current people related business challenges and expectations from HR professionals”

• A reflection in memoriam

Dr. Chandana Wijayanama—an academic, a professional, man of integrity, wisdom, and boundless compassion. A leader who believed in people, a thinker who saw beyond borders, and a human being whose humility was as deep as his intellect. His contribution to the field of human resources and humanity is remembered on this day, three months past his untimely demise.

A life of excellence and contribution

Finding the words to reflect the warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength that Dr. Chandana Wijayanama brought into every life he touched feels almost impossible. Yet, as we mark three months since his passing, we gather with love and reverence to honour his memory and celebrate the remarkable life he lived.

On 26 March 2025, we bade farewell to Dr. Chandana Wijayanama – a devoted husband, a proud father, an esteemed corporate HR leader, and a true friend whose life was defined by compassion and care for others. Born on 21 August 1968, his journey was one of purpose, humility, and unwavering humanity.

A proud alumnus of Ananda College, Colombo, Chandana often spoke of how the school helped shape his character and inspired his lifelong values. The discipline, integrity, and sense of responsibility instilled during his school days left a deep impression on him. He carried forward the Ananda spirit of humility, patriotism, and service throughout his life. It was not just an education – it was a foundation that fuelled his drive to live purposefully and contribute meaningfully to society. With over 25 years of experience across HR and IT, Chandana’s professional journey spanned across Sri Lanka, Thailand, Switzerland, and Hong Kong, where he held impactful leadership roles in multinational organisations.

He most recently served as Director HR – Sri Lanka Telecom, where his vision transformed people strategies and organisational culture. His previous roles at Siam City Cement Lanka Ltd., South Asia Gateway Terminals Ltd., Holcim Group, and Franke Foodservice Systems Asia saw him lead large regional HR operations, launch talent programs, and steer strategic transformation across borders.

Capability model – contribution to the HR profession with research into competencies

Chandana believed that the HR profession must be related to the need of the times and that HR professionals must essentially possess a set of competencies which helps to facilitate fulfilling the expectations of business leaders from their people. His extensive research into the domain together with business leaders of this country resulted in the development of a “core capability model for HR professionals” focusing on – people consulting, relationship management, technology and digital agility, leading self and others, outcome focused business mindset and effective communications. The Association of HR Professionals supported this study and it was endorsed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Not limiting to this Chandana’s research led him to propose a HR functional competency model with room for further research into HR leadership competencies. This alone is a hitherto unventured path which was unearthed by Chandana for other to follow and flourish.

A thoughtful leader and trusted mentor

Beyond titles and accolades, Chandana was widely recognised for his calm demeanour, strategic insight, and deep empathy. His leadership was not loud or ostentatious-it was grounded in clarity, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the development of people. Colleagues, peers, and team members remember him as someone who listened before he spoke, offered wise counsel without judgment, and led by example with unshakable ethical values.

Chandana’s influence in the field of Human Resources extended far beyond his own organisation. As Executive Vice President of the Association of HR Professionals and a member of the National Human Resource Development Council, he played a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lanka’s HR landscape. One of his most impactful contributions was his work in capacity-building programs for Sri Lankan universities a mentoring program for the final year university undergraduates collaborating with the academia in Sri Lankan universities. Chandana helped design and deliver programs by Association of Human Resources Professionals of Sri Lanka aimed at enhancing employability, leadership development, and industry readiness among undergraduates. 

A devoted family man

Chandana was, above all, a family man. To his wife – Chathu and their two beloved daughters, he was a source of unwavering strength, love, and guidance. His role as a husband was defined by tenderness and unwavering support. As a father, he was deeply involved-nurturing, proud, and always stood by them. No matter the demands of life or work, Chandana always prioritised time with his family. From guiding them with their future plans to spending quality time in the company of each other making even the ordinary moments extraordinary.

Home, for Chandana, was not just a place—it was his sanctuary. It was filled with shared laughter, meaningful conversations, and the warmth of unconditional love. Whether through a comforting word or a gentle smile, Chandana radiated peace. 

To his friends and community, Chandana was a man of principle, I long knew him for his humility, kindness, and grace. He lived by a quiet code of honor, never seeking the spotlight but always ready to support those around him. Whether offering help in times of need or celebrating the successes of others, he was consistently selfless, compassionate, and sincere.

A legacy that lives on

Chandana’s passing on 26 March 2025 has left an ache that words cannot ease and a silence that echoes in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. But even in this sorrow, we are comforted by the enduring presence of his legacy-a legacy etched not in monuments or accolades, but in people, values, and quiet moments of impact.

He lived not for recognition, but to uplift. Chandana believed in the potential of others long before they believed in themselves. He supported people without expectation, guided them without judgment, and challenged them with kindness to become the best versions of who they could be. He showed us that leadership was not about power-it was about compassion, trust, and courage.

Chandana leaves behind a legacy defined not only by professional excellence but by deep humanity, a spirit of service, and love for those around him.

We carry his memory in our hearts, may we also carry his message to the world. As one of his closest colleagues, I am sure his legacy will be with us for a very long period of time.

To live with grace. To lead with purpose. To love deeply. To leave the world better than we found it. Farewell, dear Chandana. Your light will never fade. “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” – Pericles

(The writer is Senior Vice President of the Association of HR Professionals.)