For Nishani Fernando Founder/Managing Director of Manisha Exports (Pvt) Ltd who was successful in winning big at the recently concluded WCIC PRATHIBHABHISHEKA – WOMEN ENTRPEPRENEUR AWARDS 2023, effective time management and delegating tasks are important when it comes to maintaining a balance with one’s professional and personal life. A highly successful businesswoman,   she shares this honour with her team.

  We had a chat with her on what it takes to succeed in today’s competitive world and her advice to those who like to venture out on their own like her.

Q: How do you feel about winning big at the WCIC PRATHIBHABHISHEKA – WOMEN ENTRePRENEUR AWARDS 2023, with the National Awards for  THE WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR OF 2023,  THE WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR OF THE SAARC REGION 2023, and the Winner of the Provincial Award for the WESTERN Province and how do you think it will help you in your role as the head of your company?

 

 I feel overjoyed and very humbled at the same time.  Winning multiple prestigious awards at the WCIC PRATHIBHABHISHEKA – WOMEN ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS 2023  is undoubtedly a significant and  proud achievement for any woman entrepreneur and I share this honour with my team. It not only recognises and validates our hard work and dedication but also enhances my company’s reputation and credibility. Winning these awards will open up new opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and business expansions, further solidifying my role as a leader in my field.

 

Having finished my A-levels, I went into study law, (LLB)at the University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK(UEA).  Looking back, the exposure that comes with university is a very valuable life lesson whatever industry you choose to go into. My degree provided me with a strong foundation in critical thinking, in problem solving, negotiation and understanding regulations and contracts. All of which are valuable in the business world. It also helped enhance my risk management abilities (thinking smart and one step ahead) and decision making processes, contributing to the overall business success. 

I feel it’s necessary for women to have ambition, independence, resilience/determination, a belief in God,  leadership skills, self-confidence, adaptability, networking abilities, and a supportive environment that values gender equality and diversity.

Q: Can you tell us about your business and some of the main areas you overlook?

Manisha Exports Pvt Ltd is a leading manufacturer and a 100% exporter of coconut fibre and its value added products which are channelled into various industries such as bedding, furniture, natural brushes, natural baskets and liners for horticulture, and used for soil erosion control. Our coconut substrates, provides a sustainable, recyclable solution as soilless media for open field agriculture and commercial greenhouses for vegetables, soft fruit (strawberry/blueberries /raspberry/blackberry), micro greens, medicinal herbs (hemp /cannabis) and commercial cut flowers. Moreover, our natural coconut peat serves as bedding for horses and pet reptiles. We are proud to say that our products are manufactured from 100% local raw materials while only the packing materials are being imported.   

I overlook and handle on a day-to-day basis all the international marketing and sales, negotiations and keep abreast of all aspects of the company operations with the support and regular interaction with my management team.

In 2017, I reached a pivotal crossroad in my career journey, having been nurtured by my family business with invaluable lessons and experiences. I had the many ideas to expand, and I wanted to fulfill these ideas with freedom and on my own as an independent woman. Therefore, I embarked on my own, supported by my strong, loyal, and dedicated management team to bring these ideas on business expansion and innovation to fruition. 

My advice to others: Define clear goals, research your market, cultivate a supportive network, and remain resilient in the face of challenges while embracing adaptability.

Q: Does your work require you to travel overseas and if so, how has it helped your business?

  I do frequently travel abroad for business purposes. It’s essential to meet my buyers regularly to nurture and strengthen business relationships, especially post-Covid. In early 2022, I established my subsidiary company, Manisha Canada Trading Inc., to offer tailored solutions to commercial growers in Canada and the USA. Over the past two years, I have devoted considerable time to establishing and expanding our presence in Canada, as well as cultivating trust with our buyers. Additionally, I travel for marketing purposes, participating in trade expos annually to maintain our market presence and attract new buyers.

Q: How do you manage to balance your work with family and other commitments?

Effective time management is essential, particularly when managing buyers across various time zones. It’s crucial to set boundaries, communicate effectively, and prioritise tasks, especially while balancing responsibilities towards my teenage son and husband to avoid feelings of guilt regarding whether I am fulfilling my roles as a mother and wife to the best of my abilities. I have learned that multitasking has its limits, so delegating tasks is vital. Weekends are reserved for family time and self-care, recognising the importance of maintaining health and taking necessary breaks.

Q: How important are educational/professional qualifications to succeed in the competitive world we live in today? 

Educational and professional qualifications certainly play a significant role in achieving success in today’s competitive world. They provide individuals with essential knowledge, skills and credentials that are often required by employers or self-starters. However, success is not solely determined by qualifications. Factors such as experience, networking, adaptability, creativity, and perseverance also contribute greatly. While qualifications open doors and set a foundation, it’s ultimately the combination of various attributes and qualities that drive success in the long term.

Q: What would you say are some of the highlights of your career?

Women Exporter of the year – 2020/21 – Presidential Export Awards hosted by Export Development Board SL.

And my latest set of awards by WCIC 

My team and I are proud of all our achievements and recognitions we have received thus far, and we hope to be the best in Sri Lanka and internationally in time to come.

The initiatives taken by the Women’s Chamber of Industries and Commerce (WCIC) in uplifting entrepreneurs, recognising their contributions, and rewarding them are essential for promoting gender equality and empowering women in business. By providing support, resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities specifically tailored to women entrepreneurs, WCIC addresses unique challenges women may face and helps level the playing field. Recognising and rewarding women entrepreneurs not only celebrates their achievements but also inspires other women to pursue entrepreneurship and leadership roles. Overall, WCIC’s initiatives play a crucial role in fostering women’s economic empowerment and driving inclusive growth in industries and commerce. I commend and thank each and every committee member of WCIC for their dedication and commitment to the chamber.  As well as a special note of thanks to Anoji De Silva, chairperson and co-chair Nilani Seneviratne for the support and encouragement they have given me. I encourage all women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka to join WCIC chamber to build a resilient and formidable network for future women entrepreneurs.

 My father, John Aloysius (Malith) Fernando, is an inspiration to all my family. His profound love and dedication are a testament to the human being I am today. He is a force to be reckoned with, and he has challenged me to breaking limits and made me stronger. He has shown me love has no boundaries and toughened me up to face any challenge head on. 

Audrey Hepburn - for her timeless elegance, grace and kindness. 

Indra Nooyi - for her remarkable achievements in business leadership, breaking barriers, advocating diversity 

and inclusion. 

Nita Ambani – for her overall, dedication to Philanthropy, leadership qualities, advocacy for women’s empowerment and promotion of culture and heritage.