Global advocate for humanity

Charming Anudi Gunasekara (25y) is the reigning Miss World Sri Lanka 2024/25.

- By ZANITA CAREEM

Hailing from Anuradhapura where she studied at Central College, Anuradhapura, she is a graduate from the University of Kelaniya with a Second Upper BA (Hons) degree in International Studies.

She also holds a Diploma in International Relations from the Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies (BCIS)

An Honorary Member of Rotary International 3220, Anudi is the Founder of Saheli, a non-profit organization to combat period poverty in Sri Lanka.

She represents Sri Lanka at the Miss World grand finale in India in May this year.

Begun in 1951, the Miss World pageant is the world’s oldest beauty pageant. In 1972, Miss World became the first major international pageant to feature a dedicated charity program, “Beauty with a Purpose,” which has since raised millions of dollars for causes such as education, disaster relief, and child healthcare.

Excerpt of interview with this ethereal beauty.

We can see a glow in your face and it looks like you are excited to be part of the Miss World Contest?

Absolutely! Competing in Miss World has always been a dream of mine. Wearing the Sri Lankan sash with pride and representing my country on such a prestigious stage is truly a dream come true. I’m incredibly excited for the main competition!

What made you choose your journey in the world of beauty pageants?

I've been modelling since I was 19, and Miss World was always a milestone I aspired to achieve. It wasn’t an overnight decision but rather something I’ve been preparing for over the years. What truly drew me to Miss World is its purpose beyond physical beauty, it made me realize that this is my calling.