LIFESTYLE
Adhisha Dahanayake
In conversation with Nirmali Ameresekere
What is a typical day like for you – and do you have any specific habits or routines that help you
remain productive?
My morning begins with a gym session, followed by a cup of tea while I listen to music and dive into work thereafter
A soundtrack that typifies your workday
I love listening to Yanni, Enya and soft piano music, to remain relaxed and focussed
Your go-to song or playlist to stay happy during the day is…?
Have You Ever Seen the Rain – by Creedence Clearwater Revival – always puts me in a good mood
If your career were to be the subject of a movie, what would the title be – and who would play you?
Breaking Boundaries – and I’d love someone like Priyanka Chopra to play me
If you had unlimited time and resources, what passion project or business idea would you pursue?
I’d create a global platform for plus size fashion that celebrates body positivity across all cultures
The best piece of advice you’ve received
Trust your instincts and never be afraid to stand by your vision
And what is your mantra to recharge when you feel overwhelmed?
Keep going – because growth happens beyond the comfort zone
An item on your bucket list that you’d like to achieve in the next few years?
I want to expand Double XL into global markets and see it flourish internationally
How would you spend your time if you could unplug from technology for a week?
I’d travel to a quiet beach destination to relax, reflect and read
What other work do you think you would excel in – and why?
I enjoy sharing business ideas and new concepts with startup entrepreneurs, inspiring them to pursue their visions with confidence
A failure that turned out to be a blessing in disguise
Early in my career, I was told to make Double XL cater to all sizes but sticking to plus size only made it a unique brand that filled a gap in the market
And a guilty pleasure that helps you unwind at the end of a stressful day…
Binge watching Netflix while indulging in some of my favourite snacks
Quirky habits that help you during working hours
I like to pace around the room when brainstorming – it keeps my energy up and helps me think more clearly
Advice you’d give your younger self if you could travel back to the beginning of your career
Be cautious with your emotional energy and trust your instincts
If you could work from anywhere in the world for a month, where would you go – and why?
I’d choose Paris for its enchanting atmosphere, delectable food, rich art and vibrant fashion scene – it’s the perfect backdrop for creativity and inspiration
If you could collaborate with any person (past or present) on a project, who would it be – and what would you create?
I’d love to collaborate with Ashley Graham on a body positivity campaign that empowers women across the world, celebrating all body types and promoting self-love
If your team members could switch roles with you for a day, what do you think they’d find most surprising about what you do?
They’d be surprised by the constant decision making and diverse challenges I face across various aspects of the business as it’s not just about one role or stream but navigating multiple priorities simultaneously
One thing you hope people will remember most about your contribution to work or society in general
I hope people remember my ability to create a strong brand for the plus size community in Sri Lanka, breaking stigma and fostering confidence by being the first such brand in the country
