Sriyani Nonis: In Memory of My Great Friend

Two decades have passed since we lost our dear friend, Sriyani Nonis, on June 13, 2005, but her memory will always linger. Our friendship of nearly half a century was very close, not demanding, but genuine and dependable. We first met at St. Joseph's nursery school, where our two sons were taking part in a concert.

- By Bernie Aloysius

Although several appreciations were written regarding her many achievements as an exemplary business magnate, she was always humble and down-to-earth, and never spoke highly of herself. Her achievements were many: a Barrister-at-Law from Gray's Inn and an Attorney-at-Law, she was also one of the youngest Sri Lankan women to be appointed to the Board of a Sterling company, she was the President of the Sri Lanka Women Lawyers Association, and was one of the few women of our time to be at the helm of a large conglomerate in a male dominated corporate world. She was an inspiration to many, paving the way for women to build careers and reach great heights. As her friends, we were extremely proud of Sriyani.

Most importantly, though, to me, she was simply my very special friend. Now that I think back, we rarely ever discussed business or any official matters. To her friends, she was a sincere and caring friend, always available with very practical advice and concern. She was a doting mother, and in no way did her work life deprive her children of her love and attention. She was a hands-on mother to her 4 children.