Dynamic, fearless, and innovative, Radhiesha Daluwatte is a trailblazer in the world of marketing. With a career that spans industries and continents, from launching Sri Lanka’s first maternal milk to leading South Asia’s largest integrated resort, Cinnamon Life, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary. A former athlete who overcame her fear of water to represent Sri Lanka on the global stage, Radhiesha’s resilience and strategic mindset have made her a force to be reckoned with. In this exclusive conversation, she shares insights on leadership, marketing trends, and the delicate balance between ambition and motherhood, all while staying unapologetically true to herself.
Q Please share a summary of your personal and professional journey; from classroom to boardroom.
My journey has been anything but conventional. A scientific geek and a creative freak, I learned my first lessons not in the classroom but in the swimming lanes of Sri Lanka. After nearly drowning at three, I overcame my fear of water and went on to represent my country internationally, even qualifying for the Sydney Olympics. The discipline, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence I developed as an athlete continue to shape my approach to leadership and business. Academically, I pursued a U.S. degree in Business Administration and Marketing, graduating as valedictorian after an early foundation in pre-medicine. But my true passion lay in understanding human behaviour, building brands, and driving impact. I began my career as a copywriter at Grants McCann Erickson before launching Sri Lanka’s first maternal milk. At MAS Holdings, I led innovation-driven marketing, introducing first-to-market products in adaptive clothing and FemTech, transforming the company’s role into a pioneer in sustainable and inclusive design. My journey continued with launching a UK-based menopause start-up, securing $1M in crowdfunding for a U.S. sports recovery device, and spearheading Sri Lanka’s largest cancer crowdfunding initiative, Trail. Most recently, I led the $1.3B launch of Cinnamon Life, positioning Colombo as a global hospitality destination.
Q What was your first job, and how did it shape your career?
Selling sneakers at Footlocker in San Diego during the 2003 Super Bowl. It taught me two things: pace and passion. The high-energy environment fuelled my love for marketing and consumer behaviour, shaping my approach to brand storytelling.
Q What pivotal moments helped you transition from the classroom to the boardroom?
At three, after nearly drowning, I was terrified of water. But my parents refused to let fear define me. Their unwavering belief and gentle persistence pushed me back into the pool; not just to swim, but to excel. That love, coupled with my determination, led me to represent Sri Lanka internationally. It taught me that resilience isn’t just personal grit; it’s about the people who push you beyond your fears. This lesson became the cornerstone of my leadership, embracing challenges, pushing past limits, and never backing down from the unknown.
Leadership wasn’t something I studied; it was something I lived. My father, as Sri Lanka’s Army Chief during the Civil War, made impossible decisions under immense pressure. My mother, an iron-willed woman, kept our family strong. From them, I learned that true leadership is rooted in values, humanity, and doing what’s right, even in the hardest moments.
Q What advice would you give your younger self?
Trust the detours. They often lead to places more exciting than what you originally planned.
Most recently, I led the $1.3B launch of Cinnamon Life, positioning Colombo as a global hospitality destination.
Q What excites you most about marketing, and how has the industry evolved?
Marketing is the art of psychology, storytelling, and strategy. It has evolved from being brand-led to consumer-led, with technology and AI driving engagement. But at its core, bold storytelling and authenticity remain essential.
Q What was the most challenging marketing project you’ve worked on?
Leading Sri Lanka’s largest cancer crowdfunding campaign, Trail. The real challenge wasn’t just raising funds; it was changing perceptions. We reframed cancer from a story of illness to one of strength, raising $5 million and inspiring a nation.
Q How do you stay ahead of trends and innovations?
I stay curious. I explore insights from tech, fashion, psychology, and cultural movements. The best ideas come from unexpected intersections. Also, listening is key, consumers, not brands, dictate the future.
Q What essential skills should young professionals develop in marketing?
Understanding consumer psychology, mastering storytelling, being agile, and making data-driven decisions.
Q What are your key responsibilities as Director of Marketing at Cinnamon Life?
I oversee brand positioning, advertising, PR, digital campaigns, and high-profile partnerships. Every day is about innovation, collaboration, and ensuring Cinnamon Life becomes a global hospitality icon.
Q What has been the most rewarding aspect of working at Cinnamon Life?
Being part of a project that’s redefining Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry. I hope to leave a legacy of creativity and world-class storytelling that positions Colombo as a premier destination.
We reframed cancer from a story of illness to one of strength, raising $5 million and inspiring a nation.
QWhere do you see yourself in ten years?
Reshaping how we think about education and creativity, creating platforms that inspire unconventional thinking and innovation.
Q Any regrets?
The challenge of balancing being a mother and a director. The ‘mom guilt’ is real, but I remind myself that my work is also for my daughter’s future.
Q Who has been your biggest role model?
My parents - my father’s leadership and my mother’s strength have shaped me.
Q What books, podcasts, or thought leaders have inspired you?
Tara, the female Buddha, for wisdom on inner strength. Indra Nooyi, for redefining leadership while staying true to her values.
Q Have you faced gender discrimination in your career?
Yes, especially early on. I had to work harder to be taken seriously. But I stayed bold, confident, and let my work speak
for itself.
Q How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who loved deeply, laughed loudly, and inspired others to be unapologetically themselves.
Q What advice do you have for women breaking barriers in male-dominated industries?
Own your space. Be authentic, believe in your worth, and don’t let anyone make you doubt it.
Q How do you balance being a mother and a successful professional?
By being intentional. Some days I prioritize work, other days I prioritize family. It’s about making peace with imperfection.
Q What does self-care look like for you?
Playtime with my daughter, a warm bath, and blasting Queen. Simple but effective.
Q If you weren’t in marketing, what career would you have pursued?
Photojournalism or singing; storytelling in different forms.
