Sunshine Holdings invests in next-gen leaders with residential first-time manager training program

Diversified conglomerate Sunshine Holdings PLC took a bold step in its leadership development journey with the successful conclusion of its first-time manager training program, an immersive, high-value initiative tailored to empower the next generation of leaders within the Group. 

Marking a milestone in the company’s human capital development efforts, the program was rolled out in three phases, starting in November 2024, followed by sessions in January, and culminating in a vibrant three-day residential session in April at Hilton Residencies, under the theme ‘Passport to Leadership.’

Curated by OneHR Learning Labs, this pioneering initiative targeted employees newly appointed to managerial roles—whether through internal promotion or external recruitment—offering them a transformative learning experience designed to ease their transition into leadership. Over the course of nine residential training days, participants were immersed in a rich blend of management education, personal development, team engagement, and cultural immersion, making it the first time Sunshine Holdings has deployed such a comprehensive residential training program.

The third and final session was a demonstration of the Group’s commitment to nurturing leadership potential. Structured as a series of country-based interactive experiences, the training offered participants both personal and professional growth in an environment of collaboration, creativity, and challenge. From themed entertaining evenings like ‘Back to School,’ ‘007,’ and ‘Jungle,’ to sessions rooted in emotional intelligence, communication, leadership pit-falls, and team profiling, the program seamlessly combined rigor with relevance and learning with laughter.

At the heart of this initiative was Sunshine Holdings Group Chief People and Corporate Communications Officer Michelle Senanayake, who played a central role in designing and facilitating the sessions. Her modules spanned a range of critical leadership topics including personal development, organisational culture at SUN, leadership styles at SUN, and practical first-line management skills.

The training also brought together a diverse array of expert facilitators and professionals from across industries. Tharindu Ameresekere, Imesha Gajaweera and Shyam Ranasinghe (Flying Instructor-SLAF) representing ‘Dan & Ken’, led sessions on leadership, time management, communications, and focused decision-making under pressure. Etiquette Coach Kumar de Silva conducted a hands-on workshop on professional conduct and dining etiquette, while Rozanne Diasz delivered an impactful session on personality development and grooming.

From case studies and management frameworks to documentaries on leadership figures like Jeff Bezos and Celine Dion, the training infused educational value with edutainment, ensuring that each participant could relate to the content both intellectually and emotionally.

Commenting on the initiative, Michelle Senanayake said, ‘More than just a training program, this initiative represents Sunshine Holdings’ deep-seated belief in the potential of its people. It reflects our commitment to investing in individuals at the earliest stages of their leadership journey, empowering them with the mindset, tools, and confidence needed to lead with purpose. This further underscores our passion for growing talent from within and cultivating a pipeline of leaders who are capable and performance-driven and also deeply aligned with our values, culture, and long-term vision for sustainable success.’

With every element—from skill development and culture-building to personal transformation and team bonding—carefully considered and executed, Sunshine Holdings’ first-time manager training stood as a benchmark initiative in Sri Lanka’s corporate training landscape, and a meaningful investment in the company’s future leadership.