Aysha Asad is a dynamic force in the business world, with a career spanning over 15 years in marketing, public relations, and international education. An alumna of La Trobe University, Australia, where she earned her MBA, Aysha has seamlessly transitioned from corporate life to entrepreneurial ventures rooted in purpose and sustainability.
Currently the Director of A & A (ETL) PVT Ltd, she also leads Allavillu Estates and has recently launched a real estate enterprise, further expanding her footprint in sectors traditionally dominated by legacy players. Beyond business, Aysha is the founder of the Young Entrepreneurs Club, a platform designed to empower children through real-world business experience. Her approach to leadership is deeply rooted in empathy, community upliftment, and cultural pride. In this exclusive Q&A, Aysha shares insights into her journey, the values that drive her, and her commitment to leading with integrity in every sphere of life; from boardroom strategy to homegrown philanthropy.
Q You’ve had an impressive career spanning marketing, public relations, international education, and now agriculture and real estate. What inspired you to shift gears into wholesale coconut distribution and the real estate sector?
Honestly, even I wonder sometimes! My first transition came through wholesale coconut distribution. It began as a small, family-run business, but I felt a strong desire to contribute more meaningfully to the economy. I saw an opportunity to align this traditional venture with my personal growth and broader vision. Real estate, on the other hand, is something I started recently with a friend. We saw evolving trends in the market and decided to tap into them, it’s all about evolving with purpose and being unafraid to explore new frontiers.
Leadership, to me, is about service and impact. In a professional context, it’s about setting a clear vision and inspiring others to believe in it
Q As the Director of A & A (ETL) Pvt Ltd and owner of Allavillu Estates, what values or principles guide your decision-making in business?
Integrity is everything to me. I believe in being honest and transparent in all that I do. Helping the local community and workforce is another non-negotiable value. My decisions are often shaped by a desire to uplift others and stay grounded in our cultural roots. This business has been in my family for generations, and I hold that legacy very close to my heart. At the same time, I always remain open to change, innovation, and expansion; it’s about honouring the past while building the future.
Q Many people view agriculture as traditional, but you’re bringing innovation into it. How do you merge sustainability with business scalability in this sector?
Growing up, I found agriculture quite traditional, and honestly, a bit boring! But times have changed. With the advancement of technology, the agricultural landscape is full of possibilities. One example is hydroponics, or Controlled Environment Agriculture, which allows you to grow more with fewer resources. When you integrate scalable, sustainable models into agriculture, it transforms the sector into something resilient and profitable. It’s about redefining what’s possible, without losing sight of the earth we depend on.
Q You founded the Young Entrepreneurs Club to empower children through hands-on business experience. What sparked this idea, and what impact have you seen so far?
This initiative is my baby; it’s so close to my heart. During the lockdown, my two children, who are the apple of my eye, started a small home business selling honey and homemade chutney. I searched for a platform to support their efforts and was surprised to find there wasn’t one. That’s when the Young Entrepreneurs Club was born. Since then, it has given many children a chance to build their own ventures. They learn everything; from brainstorming ideas to planning, financing, marketing, and sales. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them gain confidence and learn skills that many don’t acquire until adulthood.
Q You wear many hats, business leader, philanthropist, mentor, and mother. What does leadership mean to you in both personal and professional contexts?
Leadership, to me, is about service and impact. In a professional context, it’s about setting a clear vision and inspiring others to believe in it. Personally, it’s about nurturing, listening, and showing up with consistency and care. True leadership isn’t about a title or position; it’s about lifting others, being responsible, and influencing positive change across all aspects of life.
Q How has your experience as a mother influenced your professional journey and your perspective on entrepreneurship?
Motherhood has deeply grounded me. It’s taught me resilience, focus, and above all, empathy. These qualities have directly influenced how I approach entrepreneurship. I’ve learned to prioritise what truly matters and to define success not just by growth or profit, but by the impact I create. It reminds me that business should serve people; not the other way around.
Q You’ve lived and studied abroad but chose to build your ventures locally. Why was that important to you?
Studying abroad gave me a global lens, but it also deepened my appreciation for my roots. There really is no place like home. I saw real opportunities in Sri Lanka and felt compelled to invest where it would matter most. Creating jobs in my own community and contributing to the local economy felt like the most meaningful way to define success. It’s not just about how far you go; it’s about what you build and give back along the way.
Q What’s one lesson from your 15+ years in marketing that still guides you today in every aspect of your work?
Empathy. That one word has shaped my entire approach. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that the most authentic and effective work comes from seeing people as they truly are; not just as consumers or clients, but as humans. Whether I’m developing a product, building a brand, or mentoring someone, I always ask: “What do they really need?” That mindset changes everything.
Q You’ve been actively involved in community initiatives, particularly around youth and education. Can you tell us about a project that is especially close to your heart?
One project that’s especially close to my heart is something I’m currently planning; it’s a mentoring program focused on youth career guidance and life skills. It’s about more than just academic support; it’s about helping young people understand themselves, discover their strengths, and feel empowered to make their own decisions. Seeing the next generation step into their potential with confidence is so fulfilling. It reminds me of the importance of simply showing up, listening, and investing time where it matters.
Integrity is everything to me. I believe in being honest and transparent in all that I do
Q What role does volunteerism play in your life, and how has it shaped your perspective on success?
Volunteerism has always been the grounding force in my life. I’ve been volunteering for as long as I can remember; for a range of causes and communities. It connects me with people and their real needs. It has taught me humility, gratitude, and the importance of community. My definition of success has been shaped by these experiences. It’s not about personal accolades; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change. In the end, success is something both shared and deeply personal.
Aysha Asad’s story is a testament to what’s possible when vision, empathy, and integrity converge. Her journey proves that purpose-driven leadership can not only succeed in business but can also leave a lasting impact on communities and generations to come. From traditional estates to tomorrow’s young entrepreneurs, Aysha’s legacy is being written with heart, one bold move at a time.
RAPID FIRE ROUND
- Tea or Coffee? Coffee: strong, bold, and always essential.
- Heels or Sneakers? Heels, because power dressing starts from the ground up.
- Work from home or office vibes? Office vibes! I thrive on energy and face-to-face connection.
- Text or Call? Call. It’s the quickest way to connect heart-to-heart.
- Biggest guilty pleasure? Fizzy drinks and chocolate; sometimes together!
- One thing you can’t leave home without? My phone; my world in my pocket.
- If your life had a theme song, what would it be? “Life is a Rollercoaster” by Ronan Keating; ups, downs, and all the thrills in between.
- What’s always in your handbag? My purse; can’t go anywhere without it.
- If you had a superpower for a day? Hyper Finishing! Imagine ticking off every task in record time.
- Your mantra on tough days? “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. There’s always a new day.”
