From the bright lights of pageants to the everyday creativity of social media, Anjana Heenatigala is making her mark as a model, content creator, and Miss Teen Sri Lanka 2025. Her journey is about staying true to herself, growing through every challenge, and showing that real success comes from doing what you love with purpose.
What does success mean to you now compared to when you first started out in this industry?
I started in this industry when I was around five or six years old, and since then, I’ve faced many challenges and failures. I remember failing several auditions, but I never gave up. I kept trying and improving myself, and eventually, the auditions that once rejected me started accepting me. So, to me, success isn’t just about achieving something big, it’s about staying strong, believing in yourself, and never giving up until you reach your goals.
What’s one moment in your life or career that completely changed your perspective on who you are?
The moment that completely changed my perspective on who I am, both in life and in my career, was when I was crowned Miss Teen Sri Lanka 2025 and later went on to win the international title at Miss Teen Tourism International. Throughout this journey, I faced many insecurities and moments of doubt, but the competition pushed me to confront my weaknesses and rise above them. Winning these titles made me realize that true strength comes from believing in yourself, even when things get hard, and that growth often happens when you step outside your comfort zone.
How do you balance authenticity with the polished image that the fashion and entertainment world often expect?
This industry often focuses on perfection, but for me, authenticity is what truly stands out. I always make sure to stay true to who I am and reflect that in my work. I don’t want to be someone I’m not, and I believe that being real, even in a polished world, is what makes you truly unique and memorable.
You’ve worked across multiple fields: acting, modelling, and content creation. Which of these feels most like you, and which challenges you the most?
It’s honestly really hard for me to choose because I love acting, modeling, and content creation in different ways. But I’d say modeling feels the most like me because it’s where I get to express myself the most. At the same time, it’s also what challenges me the most, especially because of my height. Sometimes I feel like I don’t fit the “perfect” standards, but I’ve learned to turn that into motivation. It pushes me to prove that passion and presence matter more than how tall you are.
What role do you think social media can play in reshaping how Sri Lankan fashion and art are seen globally?
I believe social media is one of the main ways we can reshape how the world sees Sri Lankan culture and fashion. It gives us a space to show that Sri Lankan artists aren’t just about tradition, there’s so much more creativity, talent, and storytelling behind what we do. Personally, I love how social media lets us express our identity in our own way, whether it’s through fashion, photography, or even small creative moments.
How do you hope to represent Sri Lankan youth and women through your work?
I really want to represent Sri Lankan youth and women as confident, creative, and strong people who can achieve anything they dream of. Through my work, I hope to be a voice that reminds others to embrace who they are and never doubt their potential. I also want to show the world the warmth, strength, and creativity that Sri Lankan women and youth naturally carry in everything we do.
When you’re not in front of the camera or creating content, who is Anjana Heenatigala? What brings you peace outside the spotlight?
Outside the spotlight, I’m actually quite an introvert. I love spending time in my own space where I can just relax and recharge. I find peace when I’m with the people I love, my friends, my family, and my partner. And dancing always helps me feel calm and happy, it’s something that truly brings me joy.
Anjana Heenatigala ’s story reminds us that the path to success is not always linear, and that strength often shows up in quiet persistence, bold authenticity, and the courage to stand out. As she continues to grow and inspire others, one thing is clear: she’s not just wearing the crown, she’s redefining what it means.
