TMC Colombo hosts insightful session on project management using creative ‘Soup’ metaphor

Tuesday, 2 December 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Management Club (TMC) Colombo chapter has concluded its 3rd Members’ Speak event titled; “Eat the Soup! Project Management for Organisational Survival, Growth and Success” on 13 November 2025 at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, drawing an audience of professionals and entrepreneurs eager to strengthen their understanding of project management.

TMC Colombo Chairperson Duneeshya Bogoda, highlighted the organisation’s mission of fostering professional growth through knowledge, networking opportunities and member engagement. She also announced two major events planned for 2025—”The Way Forward” and “TMC Christmas Night.”

TMC Vice Chairman Samitha Senevirathne, compered the event with his signature engaging style. He also introduced the theme, describing it as a thought-provoking and relatable concept—much like titles such as; Rich Dad Poor Dad and Who Moved My Cheese. His introduction set the tone for a session that encouraged participants to see project management through a creative and practical lens.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Madhu Fernando, a seasoned project management expert with over 30 years of experience, captivated the audience with her unique approach of explaining project management through the process of preparing a soup. She linked each step—identifying who will “eat” the soup, gathering and preparing ingredients, planning, execution, and serving—to core project management principles such as understanding stakeholder needs, planning, teamwork, resource allocation and delivering results. Dr. Fernando emphasised that effective project management is essential for organisational survival and growth across all sectors. Poorly managed projects, she noted, are similar to “burnt soup”—a result of inadequate planning, weak communication and insufficient monitoring.

Industry professionals in the calibre of S.A. Paulraj, Nihal Premachandra praised the session, commending the freshness of the metaphor and the clarity of delivery. Dr. Saliya Balasooriya, project Chairperson of the Members Speak initiative, thanked the speaker and audience for their active participation and noted the relevance of addressing Sri Lanka’s project delivery challenges. The event concluded successfully, reinforcing TMC Colombo’s commitment to advancing professional excellence and meaningful learning experiences.