In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, Suresh Pathirana stands out as a beacon of inspiration, with a career shaped by resilience, innovation, and a passion for community building. His journey from the tech industry to creating vibrant ecosystems for startups is a testament to his unwavering dedication and vision.
A Transformative Experience at Hatch Sri Lanka
Suresh’s time at Hatch in Sri Lanka was a pivotal chapter in his career. Immersed in its dynamic entrepreneurial environment, he honed essential leadership and strategic skills. This experience fostered his passion for innovation and collaboration, laying the foundation for his future ventures. “Hatch was more than just a workplace; it was a catalyst for my professional growth,” Suresh reflects.
Building Communities and Spaces for Growth
Driven by a desire to foster creativity and entrepreneurship, Suresh embarked on building startup communities, co-working spaces, and programs. His passion led him to establish initiatives like Bindaloy in Dhaka and Bedaya in Abu Dhabi. These projects are more than just spaces; they are vibrant hubs where ideas flourish, and startups thrive.
His events company, Layer14, further exemplifies this vision. “Layer14 allows me to curate experiences that bring people together, fostering meaningful conversations and creating lasting impact,” he shares.
Major Milestones and Achievements
Suresh’s journey is marked by significant achievements, including the successful launch of Bindaloy and Bedaya. These initiatives have redefined how startups and entrepreneurs are supported, offering collaborative environments that inspire growth. Expanding Layer14 onto the international stage has also been a rewarding experience, allowing him to connect communities globally.
Suresh Pathirana: A Dynamic Career Journey
Suresh’s career trajectory is anything but linear. Starting in the tech industry, he transitioned through various roles in government, teaching, and healthcare finance. Throughout these shifts, his passion for events remained a constant, evolving from a hobby into a cornerstone of his professional life. His involvement in the Chamber of Knowledge and Innovation further broadened his horizons, ultimately leading him to the startup ecosystem.
Current Projects and Vision
Today, Suresh is focused on three exciting projects that align with his mission to empower and inspire. Bindaloy in Dhaka aims to empower the youth through innovation and collaboration. In Abu Dhabi, Bedaya is shaping the Emirati entrepreneurial ecosystem. Simultaneously, Layer14 continues to expand internationally, creating impactful experiences that connect and inspire.
Sources of Inspiration
Suresh’s journey has been shaped by three influential figures. His mother, Indika Pathiran, instilled in him the values of patience and persistence. Brindha Selvadurai, Co-Founder of Hatch Sri Lanka, pushed him to set new benchmarks in the startup ecosystem. His best friend, Stephanie Esther Fam, constantly reminds him of the power of self-belief.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Like any entrepreneur, Suresh has faced his share of challenges. He recalls a particularly difficult time in a toxic workplace. Despite the negativity, he took a leap of faith, leaving without a clear plan. The ensuing months were tough, but his belief in himself and faith in the process led to unforeseen opportunities, shaping his career in profound ways.
Lessons Learned and Definition of Success
The most important lesson Suresh has learned is to never give up and to always believe in himself. This belief, coupled with the support of his close circle, has been his anchor through tough times. For Suresh, success is about freedom—living a life that aligns with his passions and purpose. His projects, Bindaloy, Bedaya, and Layer14, embody this philosophy, allowing him to create, inspire, and thrive.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Empowerment
Suresh aspires to be remembered as someone who inspired others, empowering them to believe in themselves and never give up. His vision is to leave a legacy of impact, fostering inclusive spaces and creating opportunities for future generations. “Light always wins,” he says, a mantra that guides his journey and mission.
In conclusion, Suresh Pathirana’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a relentless drive to make a difference. His journey inspires us to believe in ourselves, take bold leaps, and create lasting impact in our communities. Do follow him on Instagram & LinkedIn
