Q: In your view, has the aragalaya led to a united Sri Lanka – and if so, is this unity sustainable?
A: Yes, it was united… by a problem but not by a solution. It has brought people of various identities, abilities, backgrounds and beliefs together, which is essential to understanding the people around us.
But sustainability is the big question.

Q: How do you view the aragalaya – and how do you think the voices of the youth should be heard?
A: A few hundred kilometres away in the middle of a palmyrah grove where the wounds of war haven’t still healed, the aragalaya waves that rose from the beach of Galle Face gave hope to a naive girl.
In my short life, I have never seen such a democratic uprising in which differences are celebrated wholeheartedly. In the history of Sri Lanka, for the very first time, a space is provided for youngsters to be progressive and liberal.
I think the youth are society’s key agents of change and progress. This will lead the way to a promising future for the youth to represent themselves in politics and policy making decisions.

Q: Do you see yourself remaining in Sri Lanka – or returning to Sri Lanka – or do you think it’s best to migrate?
A: The position I’m in today isn’t purely through my effort but that of every citizen in this country who has helped me… knowingly or unknowingly.
The only way I could repay this is by reaching great heights and serving the country for the betterment of others like myself. So I hope to remain in Sri Lanka.

Q: Where do you see Sri Lanka in a decade from today?
A: If the striving of the aragalaya succeeds, we will emerge as a self-sufficient country with redefined government and administrative engines, and become a progressive, policy driven, corruption free and disciplined country.

MESSAGE TO THE YOUTH
Do small things in a great way and the reward will be huge.

SRI LANKA: FIVE BURNING ISSUES
No leaders with a vision and mission
Executive presidency
Incapable policy makers
Corruption
Sustainable unity

ROLE MODEL
Kumar Sangakkara – I’ve always thought of myself as a minority until I listened to his speech where he said: “There is nothing such as minorities in our country but people of Sri Lanka who have different beliefs.” This gave me a new and inspiring vision of life.

SUMMARY
It’s all about having a positive mindset and fostering influence through my words. Patriotism isn’t something we realise and exhibit – it’s a lifestyle.