Jewellery making: Life-changing stress buster

Did Udari ever imagine speaking to the media about her latest hobby that took a “U” turn in her life? Whilst still processing it all, she was well-thrilled to share her journey of becoming an excelled jewellery maker.  

Udari Samarakoon, who works as the project manager in a reputed organisation, started to undergo stress due to work pressure. To cope with the situation and to reduce stress, she looked for different distractions. Unaware of her creativity, she landed at jewellery crafting which she started during her maternity break.  

Before moving on to what she makes today such as clay and resin earrings, clay pendants, saree brooches and key tags, during her initial stages, she started making polymer clay accessories which she distributed as gifts to her family, friends and office colleagues.  

To her surprise, the feedback was astonishing. In fact, the positive response and motivation she received from them, was the key that opened the door to success for her in this field. Udari, working for a foreign organisation obtained immense popularity for her crafts. A special memory she holds is, the day she gifted her handmade set of accessories to the regional head of their organisation, who appreciated her and wore it instantly.  

While planning to expand her business step by step, introducing her work with a mixture of Sri Lankan traditional art is something she is currently exploring and looking forward to bringing to her market soon as it would be an innovative move   

After all the suggestions she heard from her family and friends, she then decided to gradually develop her hobby into a business.  

To handle both her current job and her employment smoothly, she chose the online business platform for her jewellery crafting by opening a Facebook page ‘HanaAkari’ to upload pictures and details of her products which reached many within a short period.  

While planning to expand her business step by step, introducing her work with a mixture of Sri Lankan traditional art is something she is currently exploring and looking forward to bringing to her market soon as it would be an innovative move. Apart from her business, she also makes floral decorations for children’s concert costumes.  
Samarakoon considers this a remarkable turning point in her life which she never expected at all.