Mary Saranya Fernando has won Women Icon of the Year

Mary Saranya Fernando has won Women Icon of the Year

• August 23, 2024

Mary Saranya Fernando: A Beacon of Excellence in Product Development

Introduction

In the bustling world of apparel manufacturing, where innovation meets tradition, I, Mary Saranya Fernando, stand as a paragon of dedication, expertise, and visionary leadership. As the Product Development Manager at Norlanka Manufacturing Colombo Ltd., I have driven the company's stellar growth and unyielding commitment to quality and sustainability.

About Me

My journey in the apparel industry is a testament to my relentless pursuit of excellence. With a career spanning over a decade, I have carved a niche for myself through an innovative approach, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication to my craft. My leadership is not just about guiding my team but about inspiring them to reach new heights of creativity and efficiency.

Born and raised in Colombo, I pursued my education in fashion and textile, earning a degree from the Academy of Design (AOD), an affiliated with the University of Northumbria, UK. My academic background has provided a solid foundation, which I have continuously built upon through ongoing learning and professional development. My dedication to staying ahead of industry trends and technological advancements has been instrumental to my success. As the first in my family to enter both the corporate world and the fashion industry, I have overcome numerous personal challenges and barriers. Today, I serve as an inspiration to many young individuals.

Professional Journey

My professional journey is marked by a series of significant milestones. Starting my career as a junior designer, I quickly rose through the ranks due to my exceptional skills and a keen eye for detail. My ability to understand market trends and translate them into innovative product designs set me apart from my peers.

Later in my career, as a senior designer, I took on more responsibilities, leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects. My strategic mindset and collaborative approach ensured that projects were not only completed on time but also exceeded client expectations. This period of my career was characterized by a series of successful new product developments, each one reinforcing my reputation as a formidable force in the industry.

Norlanka Manufacturing Colombo Ltd.

Norlanka Manufacturing Colombo Ltd. is a name synonymous with quality, innovation, and sustainability in the apparel manufacturing sector. Established with a vision to redefine the industry standards, the company has grown to become a trusted partner for some of the world's leading fashion brands.

At Norlanka, we believe in creating products that not only meet but exceed our customers' expectations. Our commitment to quality is unwavering, and we take pride in our ability to deliver products that are a perfect blend of craftsmanship and technology. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly skilled professionals, we are equipped to handle projects of any scale and complexity.

My Role at Norlanka

As the Product Development Manager at Norlanka, I play a pivotal role in shaping the company's product strategy. My responsibilities encompass the entire product lifecycle, from conceptualization and design to production and quality assurance. Under my leadership, the product development team has achieved remarkable success, consistently delivering innovative products that resonate with our customers.

My approach to product development is holistic, considering market trends, customer preferences, and technological advancements. I believe in fostering a culture of innovation and encouraging my team to think outside the box and explore new possibilities. My ability to anticipate and translate market needs into viable products has been a key driver of my contribution to the company.

Building Relationships with Key Customers

One of my key responsibilities is building and nurturing relationships with key customers. I understand that the success of any product is not just about its design and functionality but also about how well it meets the customers' needs. By maintaining open lines of communication and actively seeking customer feedback, I ensure that our products are always aligned with market demands.

My ability to understand customer requirements and anticipate future needs has been instrumental in securing long-term partnerships with some of the biggest names in the fashion industry. These relationships are built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Recognition and Achievements

Being recognized as a "Women Icon Powered by Times Women" holds a special place in my heart. This recognition is not just an acknowledgement of my professional achievements but also a celebration of my journey as a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry. It is a validation of my belief that with determination, passion, and perseverance, anything is possible.

Excitement About the Recognition

Receiving the "Women Icon Powered by Times Women" award is a moment of immense pride and joy for me. It is a recognition of my contributions to the industry and a validation of the hard work and dedication that I have put into my career.

I feel a deep sense of gratitude and humility at being chosen for this prestigious award. I believe that this recognition is not just about my achievements but also about the collective efforts of my team and the unwavering support of my family and colleagues. It is a reminder that every challenge I faced and every milestone I achieved has been a step towards this moment.

Future Vision

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future of Norlanka Manufacturing Colombo Ltd. I envision the company continuing to push the boundaries of innovation, sustainability, and excellence. With a focus on embracing new technologies and sustainable practices, I am committed to leading my team towards even greater achievements.

I believe that the future of the apparel industry lies in its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences. By staying true to its core values and continuously evolving, Norlanka is poised to remain at the forefront of the industry.

Conclusion

My journey is a shining example of what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. My role as the Product Development Manager at Norlanka Manufacturing Colombo Ltd. has been marked by significant achievements and an unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.

As I receive the "Women Icon Powered by Times Women" award, I look forward to continuing my journey with renewed vigour and enthusiasm. I am just a humble human being but also a true icon, inspiring others to dream big and strive for excellence.