Thasmina
Wijeya Newspapers Limited (WNL) cemented its place as a leader in digital journalism at the Diamond Excellence Awards 2025, held on August 17 at the historic Galle Face Hotel, Colombo. The event, which celebrates excellence in Sri Lanka’s media and communications industry, saw WNL’s digital brands secure top accolades across key categories, marking a proud moment for the media house.
Among the standout winners was Lankadeepa Social-Media, which clinched the coveted award for Excellence in Social Media Journalism (Sinhala). This recognition underscores the platform’s dynamic and timely reporting, especially in Sinhala-language content that resonates deeply with audiences across the country. From breaking news to engaging explainers and multimedia storytelling, Lankadeepa Social-Media continues to shape the digital news landscape with accuracy and agility. Meanwhile, Sirikatha Online was honoured with the award for Excellence in Women’s Lifestyle Journalism: Digital and Social-Media. As a beloved digital extension of one of Sri Lanka’s most trusted women’s newspapers, Sirikatha Online has become a vital voice for modern Sri Lankan women. With content ranging from health and wellness to career, relationships, and empowerment, the platform has set new benchmarks in lifestyle journalism. The evening also celebrated individual excellence, with Ashathi Warunasuriya being named Most Popular Editor of a Women’s Newspaper. As the Editor of Sirikatha, and News and Features Editor of Lankadeepa Online, Ashanthi’s editorial leadership and distinct voice have struck a chord with readers nationwide. Her recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to WNL’s editorial depth and talent.
“These accolades are a reflection of our continued commitment to impactful journalism across digital and social-media platforms,” said Rishini Weeraratne, Head of Social-Media, Wijeya Newspapers Limited. “They reaffirm our belief in innovation, integrity, and audience-first storytelling.”
The awards also reflect WNL’s broader digital strategy, led by a talented team that has seamlessly blended traditional journalistic values with the demands of an evolving media landscape. Celebrating the occasion were key members of the social-media team including Thasmina Sookoor, Deputy Head of Social-Media, Wijeya Newspapers Limited, and Kasuni Wijesinghe, Social Media Executive for Lankadeepa Online and Sirikatha Online.
The team’s synergy and shared vision have played an instrumental role in WNL’s digital success. Their presence at the awards night, captured in a celebratory photograph alongside Ashanthi, symbolises the collaborative spirit that drives the company forward. As the media industry moves further into the digital age, Wijeya Newspapers Limited remains firmly at the forefront, telling stories that matter, amplifying underrepresented voices, and championing journalistic integrity.
Kasuni, Thasmina and Ashanthi
Kasuni
Ashanthi Warnasuriya
