52nd AGM of Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association, a pinnacle of success and new beginnings

From left: Thakshila Galappaththy, Asela Wewita, Dinesh Hettiarachchi, Patrick Pereira, Gitanjali Chakravarthy and Dickson Kumara

The 52nd Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) unfolded with great anticipation and grandeur on 6 October 2023, at the serene Anantara Kalutara Resort. 

This prestigious event drew attendees from various corners of the globe, converging to partake in a cordial atmosphere, forge new connections and reconnect with friends, families and distinguished industry professionals.

The gathering, a highly anticipated fixture on the association’s annual calendar, attracted nearly 300 attendees, including corporate leaders, luminaries in the business world, accomplished hotel General Managers and seasoned industry professionals. Established in 1971, SLHGA, an alumni association of the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM), stands as the largest and most esteemed professional organisation for hoteliers in the country, extending invaluable support to a membership base that spans over 1,500 members across the Island.

The chief guest gracing this memorable occasion was SLITHM Chairman Shirantha Pieris. However, the event’s centrepiece was the installation of the New Executive Committee for the year 2023/24.

Notably, Aitken Spence Hotel Management Vice President of Learning and Development/ Rooms Division Patrick Pereira, ascended to the role of the association’s President for the 2023/24 term, succeeding the outgoing President, Kandalama Hotel General Manager Asela Wewita.

Furthermore, the AGM saw the election of Hilton Yala Resort General Manager Gitanjali Chakravarty and Mandarina Colombo General Manager Dinesh Hettiarachi, as Vice Presidents. SLITHM Senior lecturer Dixon Kumara was elected as the General Secretary, while Club Hotel Dolphin Resident Manager Thakshila Galappathth was appointed as Treasurer.

In his address, Patrick Pereira took the opportunity to commend the Past Presidents and previous committees for their unwavering dedication and hard work in elevating the association to its current esteemed position. He stated, “With the renewed hope brought about by a consistent rise in tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka and a heightened focus on tourism, this juncture presents a significant opportunity for SLHGA to expand its horizons, evolving into a regional professional association and fostering a community of hospitality professionals capable of showcasing the brand of Sri Lankan Hospitality on the global stage.”

This year’s SLHGA AGM marked a momentous occasion, not only in its dedication to recognising outstanding professionals but also in its vision for the future, which seeks to propel Sri Lankan hospitality to new heights, under the capable leadership of Patrick Pereira and the newly appointed Executive Committee.