How I found my voice in environmental journalism

It was four years ago when I first began to witness the global environmental situation up close, and it has shaped the course of my life ever since. Now, at 20 years old, I look back on that evening with gratitude. It was a sunny day, and the sky had a warm, yellowish hue. I had been given the opportunity to compere the year-end award ceremony for The Pearl Protectors, a marine conservation organization I had become involved with. The event was on the beach, unlike typical award ceremonies. The sea breeze cooled the evening air, and I could taste the salt on my lips. My hair was messy, but the people around me made me feel comfortable, as if that didn't matter at all. The atmosphere was welcoming, thanks in no small part to Muditha Ayya (Muditha Kaduwawala), the coordinator of Pearl Protectors, who reassured me, saying, "This is a chill event. Just speak like you're talking to your friends. Don’t worry." 

Despite his calming words, I was nervous, paralyzed by fear. I had some traumatic memories from school, where I was bullied while part of the media unit. Those experiences had shaken my confidence in public speaking, and every time I faced a crowd, my thoughts would scatter. But this day was different. I found myself standing on the beach, in front of my parents and my brother, who were watching with quiet pride. I was even more anxious seeing them there, but at the same time, it motivated me. Nothing mattered more to me than making them proud. Somehow, despite the nerves, I managed to speak. Speaking that day felt like breaking free from a cage that had held me for years.

That evening, standing in front of my family and community, was a turning point in my life. It wasn’t just about overcoming my fear of public speaking—it was the moment that evoked my passion for environmentalism. Before then, I had only a vague understanding of the environmental crisis, but that day, I gained deep insights into marine conservation. I learned about plastic pollution, the destruction of fishery habitats, and the challenges turtle hatcheries were facing. This new awareness spurred me to research these issues further, reading about these topics like plastic pollution, veganism, oil spills, and the exploitation of natural resources. My eyes were opened to the urgent need for action.

Soon after, I had the opportunity to lead environmental projects under Green life Avenue as part of the Interact Club of Colombo North, particularly focusing on wetland and urban conservation. One of our projects called Green Footsteps, was so impactful that it won a Interact district award. I co-chaired this project, and it marked the beginning of my hands-on involvement in environmental activism. Organizing workshops and clean-up campaigns deepened my commitment to protecting the environment and empowered me to continue the work I started that day on the beach. From donating 500 trees and conducting environmental surveys to creating and promoting eco-friendly decorations during the Christmas season, our girls did an outstanding job in Green Life Avenue, all with the guidance of Uncle Barry (our Rotary advisor) during my time as their club president. 

                              

At the workplace, my journey as an environmental journalist took shape with the guidance of my editor (Nisthar Cassim - my guru in journalism) - who consistently made sure to assign me environmental stories. These assignments gave me the chance to connect with communities, collaborate with corporate giants, and even build international connections. One of my most memorable projects was covering the Sri Lankan leopard conservation efforts by the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS). I wrote an article titled WNPS Partners with LOLC for Multi-Regional Monitoring System to Conserve the Sri Lankan Leopard, and I remember meeting LOLC COO Kithsiri Gunawardena, whose passion for nature deeply inspired me. It was through him that I became more involved with WNPS, eventually joining their youth wing.

At WNPS, I found Sriyan de Silva Wijeyeratne super inspiring, whose mastery of the English language and dedication to wildlife conservation profoundly influenced my own writing. His authenticity and precision shaped the way I approach my work today. 

One of my fondest memories is of the Leopard Day celebration competition. I spent two intense days with my college friends Beenu and Lasitha under the guidance of Sir Andrew (Andrew Fawler Watt, the favorite teacher in my life) creating an exhibition titled 'Leopard as Creative Catalyst,' where we showcased how leopards have inspired art, fashion, poetry, and writing. Attending WNPS's monthly lectures also became a significant part of my learning process. These lectures, both formal and informal, opened my eyes to the incredible depth of knowledge within the wildlife community. I still attend them online, although I miss the in-person experience, especially sipping on a cup of Dilmah tea at the end of each session. Nevertheless, the insights I gained from these discussions about human-animal interactions and conservation strategies continue to shape my understanding of our natural world.

Around this time, my curiosity about biodiversity grew, leading me to explore the topic further. While reading a book on biological diversity, I felt a deep urge to learn more. Instead of enrolling in formal courses, I decided to seek out practical experiences, believing that hands-on work with environmental organizations would offer more valuable insights than any curriculum ever could. That's when I discovered the Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN) Sri Lanka, an organization that transformed my understanding of biodiversity conservation. At GYBN, I met some of the most genuine environmental champions I have ever known. Working on various projects, both locally and internationally, taught me not only the theoretical aspects of biodiversity but also the practical skills required for effective conservation work. From identifying policy gaps to designing interventions, I learned how to address environmental challenges in a way that truly makes a difference.

Looking back, these wonderful individuals and organizations taught me values, principles, and lessons that I carry with me every day. They gave me the foundation to become the environmental journalist and advocate I am today. They are the roots of my environmental journey, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities and growth they have given me.

(P.S. This story I wrote to Storyfest 2025 for Planet Forward)