In a compelling feature on The 3i Show with Stefan de Alwis—a globally recognised platform shaping entrepreneurial thought and influencing business dialogue across industries—Stefan de Alwis engages in a powerful conversation with Ms Kanthi Jayamaha,
Founder of Tasty Caterers.

Renowned for uncovering the strategic thinking, resilience, and leadership behind enduring success, The 3i Show continues to inspire and inform a new generation of business leaders and changemakers.

In this insightful conversation, Ms Kanthi shares her journey of transforming a modest passion into one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted brands, offering valuable lessons in perseverance, discipline, and purpose-driven leadership in today’s competitive landscape.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: What was the reasoning behind starting Tasty Caterers? Take us back to the beginning.
KANTHI: I started very young in life. I was only 22 years old when I began Tasty Caterers, and it started purely as a hobby. I never planned to build a business. I simply enjoyed preparing food and experimenting.

The turning point came unexpectedly when a friend asked me to prepare a small order of cutlets and patties. I did everything from home, with no employees—just minimal support. That small beginning became the foundation of where I am today.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: At what point did this hobby evolve into a business?
KANTHI: Initially, it was just something I enjoyed doing. However, gradually, people around me began placing orders, and I realised there was potential. After a couple of years, I decided to take it more seriously and build it into a business.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: Today, the business has grown significantly. How would you describe that journey?
KANTHI: It has been a long journey of 45 years. What started from a small home kitchen has grown into a network of cafés, restaurants, school cafeterias, and catering operations.
However, the journey was never easy. It required patience, consistency, and a strong commitment to quality.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: You have succeeded in a field where, especially decades ago, female entrepreneurs faced many barriers. What advice would you give to young women today?
KANTHI: I believe women are very strong and capable. The challenge is that society sometimes underestimates them.

My advice is not to start big with large investments. Instead, understand what you enjoy doing and build from there. Learn deeply about your product and grow step by step.
There will always be challenges and discouragement, but you must remain strong and not give up.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: Every entrepreneurial journey has difficult moments. What was the most challenging period for you?
KANTHI: The COVID period was extremely difficult. At that time, I had many outlets and a large team. The country was closed, and operations came to a standstill.
I had to make very difficult decisions, including discontinuing certain operations. It was emotionally challenging, especially when it affected our people.
However, we had to act wisely, manage our resources carefully, and focus on rebuilding once conditions improved.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: How do you approach decision-making in business?
KANTHI: I always consider key factors such as the business concept, profitability, sustainability, and market demand.

You must ensure you are offering the right product at the right time and at the right price. Sometimes, this requires adapting your approach—changing menus or adjusting pricing to remain competitive.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: Your brand is known for consistency and trust. How did you build that reputation?
KANTHI: Consistency and quality are everything in the food business. Customers return because they trust what you offer.

We focus on maintaining high standards in quality, hygiene, portion control, and pricing. There is no compromise when it comes to delivering value to the customer.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: As your business grew, how did your role evolve?
KANTHI: Even today, I remain very hands-on. I am involved in many aspects of the business, including training staff and overseeing operations.

Managing people requires patience, empathy, and understanding. Your team plays a critical role in maintaining the quality and consistency of your brand.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: What are your future plans for the business?
KANTHI: My focus is to maintain current standards and continue growing the brand.
In the future, I would like to develop a dedicated venue for events, such as a wedding destination, which would take the business to another level.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: What is the most important factor in building a strong brand?
KANTHI: Quality control. There must be no compromise.
Customers trust us, and we must protect that trust. At the same time, we must manage costs, reduce waste, and ensure consistency in every product we deliver.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: What key lessons would you share with young entrepreneurs?
KANTHI: Success does not come overnight. It requires hard work, planning, and persistence.

Many young people today focus on making quick money, but a sustainable business requires long-term commitment.

Also, a business is not only about profit—it is about people. You create livelihoods, support families, and contribute to society.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: Did you ever feel like giving up during your journey?
KANTHI: Yes, there were many difficult moments. The journey was not smooth.
However, I learned to balance my personal life and business responsibilities and to remain strong during challenging times.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: How do you balance work and family life?
KANTHI: I prioritise. Family is important, but I also ensure that my work responsibilities are managed properly.
Planning, preparation, and delegating responsibilities help maintain that balance.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: How important has faith been in your journey?
KANTHI: Faith has played a very important role. I believe that everything I have achieved has been guided by God.

It has given me strength, clarity, and the ability to move forward, even during difficult times.

STEFAN DE ALWIS: Finally, what advice would you give your younger self?
KANTHI: I would say: stay focused. Work hard and remain committed to your goals. If you have clarity of purpose and the determination to continue, success will follow.
(An extract from an interview with Ms Kanthi Jayamaha, Founder of Tasty Caterers, on The 3i Show with Stefan de Alwis)