AmCham Sri Lanka’s GenZ Means Business Forum Unites Gen Z and Corporate Leaders to Redefine the Future of Work
The American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (AmCham Sri Lanka), together with its Title Partner, Lyceum Campus and Lyceum Placements, successfully concluded its forum, “Gen Z Means Business: Rethinking Leadership, Communication & Corporate Culture,” on 7 April 2026, at Taj Samudra Colombo.
Bringing together corporate leaders and young professionals, the forum created a platform for an honest and thought-provoking conversation on the future of work, challenging assumptions and exploring what truly drives performance, engagement, and growth in today’s workplace.
Setting the tone, keynote speaker Vidusha Nathavitharana delivered a candid reflection on generational learning, stating: “If I could give Gen Z one piece of advice, it would be, don’t make the same mistakes we made.” His message highlighted the importance of learning forward, not just following inherited systems.
The panel discussion that followed brought diverse perspectives to the forefront. Shamal Gunawardene emphasised that leadership today must move beyond rigid segmentation, noting that “We should focus on being authentic leaders and better humans. If you’re authentic enough, performers will perform — irrespective of age.”
Ovin Amaratunga emphasised Gen Z’s approach to work and leadership: “We don’t respect bureaucracy or authority hierarchy, but instead we respect competency, leadership, as well as people who respect others and give them opportunities.”
Onaya Kulatunga highlighted the importance of structure and clarity within organisations, noting that “if people don’t know what’s expected of them, they can’t grow — clarity through competency frameworks is where it begins.”
From a leadership standpoint, Dhashma Karunaratne reinforced the value of going beyond transactional management, advising: “Do something extra, and treat your team members as you would treat your top client.”
Adding a practical perspective on workplace learning, Malinda Perera emphasised the need for simplicity and engagement, stating: “Employers and trainers should stick to simple, practical training — minimise PowerPoints and meetings, and focus on engagement.”
Throughout the session, a clear theme emerged — the future of work is less about generational divides and more about purpose, clarity, and authentic leadership. The forum underscored the need for organisations to evolve not just in policy, but in mindset.
By facilitating open, cross-generational dialogue, AmCham Sri Lanka, alongside its partners, continues to contribute to shaping a workforce that is adaptable, inclusive, and future-ready.
