Melloney Dassanayaka Passion Meets Purpose: Melloney Dassanayaka’s Path to Miss Universe!

In this month’s edition, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Melloney Dassanayaka, the newly crowned Miss Universe Sri Lanka 2024, who is set to represent her country at the upcoming Miss Universe competition in Mexico. A former national basketball player and current banker at Standard Chartered Bank, she embodies the spirit of determination and resilience. As she balances her multifaceted career with her newfound title, Melloney Dassanayaka shares her insights on passion, self-belief, and the importance of setting goals. With a deep commitment to empowering young women and showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, she is poised to make a significant impact on the international stage. Join us as we delve into her inspiring story!

 Words - Sachini Perera
Location - Cinnamon Grand - Colombo
Hair & Makeup - Ramzi Rahaman
Styling By - Rozanne Diasz
Outfit - UR Bridal & Thimani Rodrigo 
Photos - Jagath Dharmakeerthi

Congratulations on winning the title Miss Universe Sri Lanka 2024! To start, can you tell us a little about yourself? What has your journey been like leading up to being crowned Miss Universe Sri Lanka 2024?  

Thank you for the wishes. A little bit about myself: My name is Melloney Dassanayaka. I’m a passionate 25-year-old former national basketball player with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Currently, I work at Standard Chartered Bank in Sri Lanka, while also pursuing my passion as a part-time TV host. I’m an avid dog lover, and at home, I’m surrounded by my beloved family of dogs!
Pageantry has been a lifelong dream and inspiration for me. My journey to Miss Universe Sri Lanka was both exhilarating and transformative. What began as a distant dream gradually came to life, thanks to the unwavering support and guidance from my mentors. Confidence and self-belief were key to my success in Miss Universe Sri Lanka 2024. Winning this title has only ignited my passion further, and I am more determined than ever to represent my motherland on the world stage with pride at every step.

What inspired you to participate in the Miss Universe Sri Lanka competition, and how has your background as a banker and professional model influenced your approach to the pageant?

My inspiration to participate in pageantry took root in my early years when my passion for this world began to blossom. What better way to pursue my dreams than by competing in a prestigious pageant like Miss Universe? My background as a banker has equipped me with valuable leadership skills and strong communication abilities—both essential for navigating the complexities of the pageant world. Additionally, my experience in modeling has instilled in me confidence, poise, and the importance of presenting myself authentically. These combined experiences have given me a unique perspective, which I hope to share with others through this incredible journey.

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