“In the right workplace, you don’t just work — you grow.”

By Kasuni Weerasingha

My journey with John Keells began through the FastTrack Summer Internship Programme, as I stepped into one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most dynamic conglomerates, I carried with me a mixture of excitement, curiosity, and ambition. I couldn’t help but wonder where I would fit in. What I didn’t expect was how profoundly the culture would shape not just my professional journey, but also my personal growth.

Through the internship I had the unique opportunity to explore multiple sectors across the Group. From retail, properties to hospitality and more, I was able to gain first-hand experience to various sectors. One of the most memorable moments was visiting the South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT) and getting a glimpse of Cinnamon Life while it was still under construction at the time, this was a truly inspiring experience that gave me insight into the scale and vision of the Group.

This internship didn’t just offer exposure; it sparked a deep interest in the company’s culture and diverse operations. That sense of purpose and excitement led me to take the next step in my journey, ultimately leading to my role as a Keells Management Trainee in the retail sector.

At Keells, culture was not only inclusive and collaborative, but also supportive. From day one, even the smallest projects felt like opportunities – chances to understand the business, the industry, and myself a little better.

Growth here isn’t about dramatic leaps — it’s about steady, meaningful steps, supported by encouragement, open conversations, and challenges that expand your potential.

Beyond the learning and the leadership, what truly sets Keells apart is its people. The sense of community is real – colleagues who check in, leaders who care, teams that celebrate together.

One of the strongest pillars of my growth has been the people, especially the mentors I’ve had the privilege to work with. Their guidance went far beyond tasks and timelines. They taught me to think strategically, navigate complexity, and lead with empathy. It’s this collective support and shared passion that has even led our team to win recognition and awards – a true testament to what can be achieved when people grow together.

Whether it’s tackling a deadline together or playing side by side at the Cricket Carnival, the camaraderie and support is real. It’s in these moments – professional & personal – that you realize the strength of the work family around you.

Opportunities Beyond the Desk

One of the most exciting things about working at John Keells Group is how growth extends beyond the desk. As someone passionate about dance, being part of The Spotlight – a talent show organised by the Group where we emerged as winners in the group dancing category – was definitely a highlight. It was more than just a performance; it was an opportunity to express creativity, collaborate with colleagues, and experience joy beyond the desk.

Likewise, initiatives like the JKH Speakers Club allowed me to connect with peers across different business units while refining my public speaking skills in a fun and engaging way.

Volunteering at Kala Pola, Sri Lanka’s iconic open-air art fair, reminded me that giving back and growing often go hand in hand. These cross-functional experiences not only fuel creativity but build deep connections across the organisation.

Looking ahead today, I’m still learning. Still growing. But I now know what it means to be in the right place – a place that sees your potential, nurtures it, and helps you bring out your best self.

I see people who believed in me, a culture that empowered me, and an environment that nurtured both my ambition and my well-being.

At John Keells Group, I didn’t just find a job,

I found the right place to grow.