The world of marketing and communications, is a captivating realm where creativity meets strategy and brand narratives come to life. In this world, Pramukshi Kariyawasam has etched an inspiring journey with over 13 and a half years of experience in the dynamic realms of brand marketing, public relations, and communications. Currently, she holds the prestigious position of Director of Marketing & Communications at the opulent Shangri-La Dubai, a luxury urban retreat that graces the Dubai skyline.
Pramukshi’s path wasn’t paved with ease. Throughout her career, she often found herself as the lone woman at the helm or one of the few females in leadership positions. Yet, these challenges only fueled her determination. She transformed obstacles into stepping stones, proving that with courage and perseverance, any glass ceiling can be shattered. From starting her career as a trainee customer care executive, she embarked on a gradual ascent within the ranks over the years within one of Sri Lanka’s largest listed conglomerates, the John Keells Group. Eventually, her trajectory led her to become one of the youngest female Assistant Vice Presidents in the organization. Simultaneously, she also held the position of Director of Brand Marketing & Partnerships at the group’s flagship hospitality brand, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. In this role, she was overseeing the brand marketing for a portfolio of 15 hotels and resorts based in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Pramukshi takes pride in the work she has accomplished throughout her professional journey, from designing and executing comprehensive 360 marketing strategies to orchestrating pre-openings and launches of hotels, resorts and restaurants to curating immersive brand-building events, her imprint is visible in shaping brand visibility and equity.
At the forefront of leadership, Pramukshi recognized the importance of having a voice that echoes. She embraced the notion that being heard translates to wielding power. This realization motivated her to raise her voice, advocating for her ideas, her team, and her vision. Her journey exemplifies how amplifying one’s voice can lead to impactful change.
In her present role as Director of Marketing & Communications at Shangri-La Dubai, Pramukshi orchestrates the brand’s narrative, both internally and externally, cultivating strong relationships with global media outlets and influencers. In addition, Pramukshi is tasked with overseeing a wide array of marketing and communication responsibilities, spanning from advertising and public relations to digital and social media marketing, to building impactful and meaningful campaigns to position the property and its seven F&B outlets, each with its unique personality and character. She is committed to infusing her work with passion every day, striving to perform at her utmost and continuously evolve into the best possible version of herself.
Pramukshi’s story isn’t just about her own journey; it’s a clarion call for women to step into leadership roles. She believes that every woman possesses untapped potential, waiting to be unleashed. Through her experiences, she encourages fellow women to rise above societal expectations and tap into their inherent strength and capability. In an industry often defined by titles and achievements, Pramukshi remains grounded, attributing her success to unyielding determination and authentic engagement. Her story is a torch lighting the path for other women to follow. As she continues to shape narratives, foster relationships, and elevate brands to new heights, Pramukshi’s commitment to empowering women is palpable.
Her journey is a living testament to the fact that leadership knows no gender boundaries. Her story serves as a powerful reminder to women everywhere: embrace challenges, rise above adversity, and reclaim your seat at the table. Through her remarkable journey, she ignites a fire of change, inspiring women to break barriers and redefine leadership in their own unique ways.
Pramukshi’s legacy of empowerment transcends industries, and her narrative is a call to action for women to recognize their innate strength and potential. With her guiding light, women are encouraged to rewrite the narrative of leadership, one that is inclusive, powerful, and relentless in its pursuit of excellence.