Kumar de Silva and Rozanne Diasz recently hosted an engaging episode of Fame Game featuring the newly crowned Miss World Sri Lanka 2025, Prathibha Liyanaarachchi. Known for her remarkable modeling career, design expertise, and dedication to empowering local craft communities, Prathibha shared her journey, ambitions, and vision for the future in an inspiring conversation.
When did your dream of becoming Miss Sri Lanka begin?
Thank you! My dream started when I was very young, in kindergarten, but it truly took root around grade three. I remember telling my friend Sonali, "I am going to be Miss World one day." She looked at me from top to bottom, and I felt certain about my path. Even my mother, who is a seamstress, noticed my passion early on. I would design and wear my own dresses and walk like a queen. She realized that I might have a creative path ahead.
How did your journey in modeling and pageantry officially begin?
Everything changed in 2018 when I participated in my first official pageant at the University of Kelaniya during the Stylish Marketer event in the Department of Business Marketing. I won the Best Female Model award, and that same year Colombo Fashion Week was searching for new faces. I was fortunate enough to be selected. Since then, I have worked with top models in Sri Lanka while developing my skills as a designer. I hold a Bachelor of Design from the University of Moratuwa, graduating with first-class honors, and I currently work as a technical designer at MAS Holdings, contributing to some of the largest international brands.
Before winning Miss World Sri Lanka 2025, you represented the country in other pageants. How did those experiences help you?
Those experiences were invaluable. In 2020, I was nominated to represent Sri Lanka at Miss Grand International. It was a challenging time, as it was during the COVID pandemic, and only a few people knew about my participation. Later, I also represented Sri Lanka at Miss Intercontinental and Miss Universe. Each experience, whether a win or a loss, taught me valuable lessons and prepared me to secure the Miss World Sri Lanka crown. Confidence and understanding the pageant system were key.
How did it feel when your name was announced as the winner?
The feeling was surreal. Initially, I could not believe it was me. When Kumar said "Prathibha," it finally hit me. I experienced a brief blank moment but stayed composed and remembered the Sri Lankan way of maintaining poise.
You won this crown among other contestants who had also won many titles. Did that affect your confidence?
I was confident from the start, especially because of my Beauty with a Purpose project. The final judgment in Miss World focuses on the impact of your project, your interview performance, and your presentation during the final. I concentrated on performing wholeheartedly, which helped me claim the crown.
Can you tell us more about your Beauty with a Purpose project?
Certainly. My project is called Hoop, which stands for Embroidery Hoop, representing collaboration in the craft industry. It is designed to empower and uplift craft women across Sri Lanka. There are 98 recognized crafts in the country, and my platform does not focus on just one craft. Through workshops, mentorship, and business support, I aim to help craft women expand their livelihoods, scale their businesses, and create market access for their products.
What practical steps have you taken with Hoop so far?
In 2024, I showcased the first collection at Colombo Fashion Week with 20 craft women from the Gampaha district. We focused on endangered crafts like thread weaving, lace-making, and other intricate handcrafts. Additionally, I partnered with MAS Holdings at their Balangoda plant, which employs 43 families, helping them standardize their supply chain, develop products, and expand their businesses. I have also conducted workshops and training programs to empower more women to become entrepreneurs in the craft sector.
How have your family and schools reacted to your achievement?
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. My first school, Sri Dharmaloka Vidyalaya Kelaniya, as well as Gothami Balika Vidyalaya and Visakha Vidyalaya in Colombo, have been incredibly supportive. Friends, teachers, and peers are proud, and it is heartwarming to inspire them. At home, my parents initially had reservations about my modeling career but now provide full emotional support. My siblings are proud and see me as an example of resilience and dedication.
How does your academic and professional background influence your pageant journey?
My Bachelor of Design degree and professional experience as a designer and technical designer are highly influential. I understand aesthetics, garment construction, and presentation, which helps me not only in pageants but also in curating my image, styling my wardrobe, and planning public appearances. Representing Sri Lanka is more than wearing a crown; it is about embodying culture, elegance, and purpose.
How is being a beauty queen different from modeling?
Modeling is about representing someone else's brand, while pageantry is about representing yourself and your country. Modeling taught me discipline, poise, and presentation skills. Pageantry adds responsibility, personality, and purpose. I have learned to express myself openly, smile naturally, and connect with people rather than just presenting clothing.
How do you handle public scrutiny, especially as a designer representing your country?
Criticism is inevitable. People will have opinions about wardrobe and presentation. I stay confident in my choices and ensure my attire reflects both my personality and Sri Lankan heritage. Respecting opinions while remaining true to your identity is key. Authenticity matters.
How do you plan to create your identity as Miss World Sri Lanka 2025, considering previous titleholders like Anudi Gunasekara?
Every titleholder has a unique story. I deeply respect Anudi for the attention she brought to Sri Lankan pageantry. My story is different, and I aim to continue the legacy in my own way. I focus on my project, my purpose, and my contributions rather than fitting into someone else's shoes. As Anudi advised, "Throw away my shoes and create your own shoes," and that is exactly my approach.
What preparations have you made for the international pageant next year?
I have a structured plan covering the development of my Beauty with a Purpose project, curating gowns, practicing public speaking, and enhancing stage presence. Physical fitness, grooming, and mental preparation are all part of the process to represent Sri Lanka at the highest standard.
How do you approach wardrobe selection and presentation for pageants as a designer?
My design training gives me an edge in creating outfits that showcase elegance, culture, and individuality. I carefully select fabrics, colors, and designs that reflect my personality and Sri Lankan heritage. Every outfit is meant to tell a story while maintaining authenticity and poise.
What advice would you give to young girls aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Dream big and start early. Believe in yourself even when others doubt you. Dedicate yourself to hard work and focus on purpose beyond aesthetics. Surround yourself with supportive people and never be afraid to create your own path. Every experience, whether a win or a loss, is a stepping stone toward success.
How has your family shaped your journey?
My family is my foundation. While my parents initially questioned my modeling career, they now provide emotional support. My siblings see me as an inspiration. My father even calls me a black horse because of my determination and resilience. I want to show them that perseverance and passion can make dreams a reality.
What is your long-term vision as Miss World Sri Lanka 2025?
My vision is to expand the Hoop project to create a sustainable ecosystem for craft women and children across Sri Lanka. I aim to make a measurable impact on livelihoods, preserve traditional crafts, and empower communities through mentorship, training, and market access. I hope this model can also be replicated internationally to uplift craft industries in other countries.
How do you stay grounded amid fame and recognition?
I focus on my purpose rather than accolades. Recognition is gratifying, but impact matters more. Staying connected to my roots, family, and the communities I serve helps me remain grounded. Gratitude and humility guide me in every aspect of life.
What are your next steps after winning Miss World Sri Lanka 2025?
My next steps include rigorous preparation for the international pageant, expanding the Hoop project, connecting with more communities, and ensuring every initiative creates measurable change. I also aim to inspire young girls and raise awareness about Sri Lanka's rich craft heritage globally.
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Pratibha Liyanaarachchi's journey reflects vision, perseverance, and purpose. From a young girl dreaming of a crown to a successful model, designer, and now Miss World Sri Lanka 2025, her story inspires aspiring pageant participants and young women alike. Through Hoop, her Beauty with a Purpose project, she demonstrates that a crown is not only a symbol of beauty but also a platform for meaningful impact. Her narrative highlights that success is built on experience, dedication, and the courage to forge one’s own path. As she prepares to represent Sri Lanka on the global stage, her journey stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of dreams nurtured from childhood.
