By Tina Edward Gunawardhana

Araliya Thevapalan's recent election to the Colombo Municipal Council marks an inspiring milestone for women’s representation in local government. An alumnus of Methodist College and AIS, she is helping to break down barriers and encourage greater female participation in leadership. Motivated by her late grandfather’s example of public service and strengthened by her mixed-heritage identity, Araliya is committed to shaping a more inclusive and equitable Sri Lanka. With a focus on uplifting her ward and improving the well-being of the community, she has made a commitment to tirelessly address key issues while inspiring other women to step forward and contribute to meaningful, lasting change.

What first inspired you to get involved in politics, and how did your upbringing in a mixed-race family influence that decision?

It was my late grandfather, who served in the Army and at the Ministry of Defence, who instilled the love for our country and the passion to be of service to our nation from a very young age. He inspired me to follow in his footsteps with the hope to become a noble public servant someday, that contribute towards shaping Sri Lanka to the best it can be.

I am proud of my mixed-heritage identity. It enables me to play a unique role, which is pivotal in my political journey, embracing inclusivity and diversity.
 
You’ve been active in grassroots politics for some time. Can you tell us about a moment or issue that made you feel politics was the path to truly make a difference?
 
There wasn’t a specific moment, but whilst addressing the range of issues of the most vulnerable communities from around the island, through policy and advocacy, I was only able to resolve some of their issues or to a certain extent. There were limitations. This used to cause me a lot of frustration and disappointment. Hence, this experience is what put me on the trajectory to my political path, as I felt the sense of duty to do more.
 
How did your education at Methodist College and Asian International School help shape your worldview and approach to public service?

It was my holistic education from two such respected schools that helped lay the foundation for where I am in my career today. School taught me important values and enabled me to associate with children and educators from diverse backgrounds, which is the reason I can work with people from any strata of society or government with ease. This has been integral in my approach to public service.
 
My active participation in extra-curricular activities in school, such as Model United Nations (MUN), is what helped me recognise the interest I have in policy, negotiation, crisis resolution and current affairs. This led me to complete my Degree in International Relations and Global Politics in the United Kingdom and return straight home with the hope to build my career in public service, which was my childhood dream.
 

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a woman entering Sri Lankan politics, where female participation remains low?

The biggest challenge I faced was the stigma around it. The fear and prejudice society holds for women engaging in politics. Female politicians are prone to being subjected to harassment and sometimes even violence, which can be daunting. Hence, there is a lack of female participation in politics.
 
When I returned from University and started engaging in politics, it was rare to see young women in the political arena or in leadership roles.
 
Thus, I am grateful to the United National Party (UNP) for recognising and inviting me to come forward, as they encourage more women and youth to engage in frontline politics. Even in the past, the UNP leadership was instrumental in introducing the landmark policy in making it mandatory to have a 25% quota of women’s representation in local councils and also created history with the first female Mayor of Colombo.
 
You were once an entrepreneur with your own saree business. How has that experience shaped your approach to leadership, problem-solving, and serving your constituents?

My journey as an entrepreneur was a humbling one. I started 2 small businesses during the height of crises in the country. It taught me resilience and how to work with limited resources. I was able to empower small businesses that, in turn, supported mine.

To give back, to be dedicated to your vision, to be unafraid of challenges and have strategic thinking - all of this contributes towards my style of leadership, serving my constituents and problem-solving.
 
What are the key issues facing Colombo that you feel most passionate about addressing during your tenure?

There are many issues to be addressed, but I will pay special attention to issues pertaining to the well-being and protection of women, children and youth. Some of the key issues that concern me are the health and safety of the community with the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, consumption of illegal substances, damaged infrastructure and lack of street lighting.
 
In your view, what can be done to encourage more women, especially young women, to engage in politics in Sri Lanka?

I think women participating in frontline politics encourages aspiring women. The political space has its unique set of challenges, of course, but if we do not step forward, women will always remain in the shadows. Women are the majority in this country; therefore, it is vital to have adequate female representation in politics and in leadership roles. We need to ensure women feel protected from being subjected to harassment, in order to encourage them to come forward. Mentoring, guidance and exposure will help increase the interest of young women to engage in politics.
 
How do you stay grounded and connected to the communities you serve, especially given the diverse needs within Colombo?

I stay grounded by spending ample time with the people. This is actually what I love to do – dwelling with the diverse groups of people. Being empathetic has really helped me understand their challenges. As ground-level politicians, we need to be integrated into their neighbourhoods to establish a healthy working relationship, which will give us the drive and support to resolve their issues. I believe that when the community, stakeholders and policy makers work together, this is the sustainable mechanism to find effective solutions and make a meaningful impact in development.