Women’s Day is a celebration of resilience, ambition, and the remarkable impact of women who continue to break barriers. In the aviation industry—an arena traditionally dominated by men—several extraordinary women at SriLankan Airlines have paved the way for future generations with their expertise, determination, and passion.
From shaping aviation education and engineering to advancing medical standards and product innovation, these women are redefining success in their fields. Today, we celebrate the achievements of four incredible women: Jayani Senanayake, Dr. Nileesha Gunasekera, Stephanie Kinson, and Maria Sathasivam—each of whom embodies the essence of strength and progress in the aviation sector.
Jayani Senanayake – Marketing & Business Development Manager, SriLankan Aviation College
A marketer, writer, and creative powerhouse, Jayani Senanayake has carved her niche in the aviation industry through strategic innovation. Having started her journey with SriLankan Airlines in 2015 as a web content specialist, she played a vital role in relaunching the airline’s website and expanding its eCommerce capabilities. Today, as the Marketing & Business Development Manager of SriLankan Aviation College, she is committed to shaping the next generation of aviation professionals.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Jayani is an award-winning poet, an active blogger, and a recognized voice in the literary world. Her ability to blend creativity with business acumen has allowed her to elevate the brand presence of SriLankan Aviation College while simultaneously inspiring young minds to pursue careers in aviation. Jayani’s journey is a testament to the power of versatility and passion.
Dr. Nileesha Gunasekera – Group Medical Officer, SriLankan Airlines
In an industry where safety and well-being are paramount, Dr. Nileesha Gunasekera stands as a beacon of expertise. With over 24 years in the medical field, she transitioned into aviation medicine in 2020, bringing with her a wealth of experience from government healthcare. As SriLankan Airlines’ Group Medical Officer, she ensures that the airline meets the highest medical standards and is well-equipped to handle medical emergencies.
A mother of three, Dr. Gunasekera expertly balances her personal and professional responsibilities, proving that women can thrive in high-pressure environments. Her dedication to aviation healthcare has set a precedent in the industry, inspiring many to consider the intersection of medicine and aviation as a career path.
Stephanie Kinson – Engineering Instructor, SriLankan Airlines
Breaking stereotypes and setting benchmarks in a male-dominated field, Stephanie Kinson has been redefining the role of women in aircraft engineering. With 12 years of experience in the aviation industry, she began her career as an Aircraft Maintenance trainee in 2011. Over time, she transitioned into avionics and later became an instructor, training engineering apprentices and university graduates.
Stephanie’s story is one of perseverance—navigating challenges and cultural barriers to establish herself as a respected figure in aviation engineering. Beyond her technical prowess, she is also a model and a mother of two, embodying the idea that women can seamlessly balance diverse passions and professional ambitions. Her journey is a true inspiration to women seeking careers in engineering and aviation technology.
Maria Sathasivam – Manager Product Development, SriLankan Airlines
With over 25 years in the aviation industry, Maria Sathasivam has played a crucial role in shaping SriLankan Airlines’ product strategy. As the Manager of Product Development, she oversees service delivery across inflight, ground, and digital experiences, ensuring the airline remains competitive in the global market.
Her achievements include leading the SriLankan Flavours campaign, which won the 2024 IFSA Best Inflight Food or Beverage Innovation Award, and spearheading initiatives that earned SriLankan Airlines Diamond status in a global health and safety audit. Maria’s ability to innovate and drive change has significantly contributed to the airline’s success.
Balancing her role as a corporate leader and a mother, Maria continues to inspire women in business, proving that excellence is achievable with passion and dedication.
A Tribute to Women in Aviation
The journeys of Jayani, Dr. Nileesha, Stephanie, and Maria exemplify the power of ambition, resilience, and determination. Their contributions to SriLankan Airlines showcase how women can lead, innovate, and inspire in an industry that has historically been male-dominated.
As we celebrate Women’s Day, their stories serve as a reminder that the sky is not the limit—it is just the beginning. These women are paving the way for future generations, proving that with perseverance and passion, anything is possible.
