THIS AWARD IS THAT FULL-CIRCLE MOMENT

Bhagya Iddamalgoda is still afresh since tasting her success, her first recognition as an emerging entrepreneur.

- TEXT & PICS BY PRANAVESH SIVAKUMAR

Making her mark as a businessperson, only weeks ago, she was feted at the Vanithabhimaana awards.

Running an all-women business, Candles House Ceylon, she was fittingly recognized at an all-women awards event, under the Corporate and Professional Sector.

In the afterglow of this, she opened up saying this injects that full-circle moment.

In a chat with Life, she reflects in retrospect on her award and what lies ahead.

Excerpts:

Q BHAGYA, TO START WITH, HAS YOUR MAIDEN AWARD AS AN ENTREPRENEUR SUNK IN?

It was a surprise! This award was a bolt from the blues. Since it is my first award, I was in disbelief when I got the initial email. In fact, they called me afterwards to tell me that I am the recipient of this award, which I hear is a very prestigious award here in Sri Lanka.

I had to double-check, ask them twice whether they have the right person (laughs). But, yes, I am immensely proud of it now that it has come past that day. I'm slowly processing it. And I'm incredibly happy about it. I started my business because I wanted to make a difference.

I was never interested in awards, and we do not go for fame and name. This is very much that full circle moment, but you know it just feels very surreal that all those things happen because of that one step. I wanted to pursue my dream of doing something for the country, for the people and for myself.

To be recognized for it is, well and truly, a wonderful thing.

When I launched my business, I never dreamt I would win an award. That is where life has got me.