Thasmina Sookoor Named Young Digital Media & Transformational Leader of the Year at New Generation Youth Top40 Awards 2026.
Thasmina Sookoor, Deputy Editor, The Sun (Daily Mirror) and Deputy Head of Social Media, Wijeya Newspapers Limited, has been named “Young Digital Media & Transformational Leader of the Year” at the 7th New Generation Youth Top40 Awards 2026, recognising her contribution to Sri Lanka’s evolving media landscape and her growing leadership across digital and print journalism.
Thasmina joined Wijeya Newspapers in 2019 as a Social Media Executive and quickly established herself as a dynamic force within the organisation’s digital operations. Within just three years, she progressed to become Deputy Head of Social Media, helping to strengthen the organisation’s digital presence, audience engagement and social media strategy. During this period, the department has also received three industry awards recognising excellence in social media.
Her career took another significant step forward with her recent appointment as Deputy Editor of The Sun (Daily Mirror). The role marks Thasmina’s expansion from digital media into print journalism, bringing together her experience in audience-led digital strategy with a passion for storytelling and journalism.
An alumna of Viharamadevi Balika Maha Vidyalaya, Thasmina gained admission to the University of Peradeniya on her first attempt, where she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from AEU Malaysia, further developing her expertise in business management, marketing and leadership.
Across her career, Thasmina has built experience spanning digital marketing, social media strategy, media production, business administration, event management and project leadership. Her ability to combine strategic thinking with creativity has helped drive audience engagement while contributing to the continued transformation of Wijeya Newspapers’ digital platforms.
The Young Digital Media & Transformational Leader of the Year Award recognises not only Thasmina’s achievements to date, but also her potential as part of a new generation shaping the future of Sri Lankan media.
As she continues to build her career across digital and print, Thasmina remains focused on innovation, impactful journalism and creating work that connects with the next generation of media audiences.
Speaking to The Sun (Daily Mirror), Thasmina stated, "this recognition belongs not only to me but also to the people who challenged me to grow, trusted me with responsibility, and inspired me to think differently.
I am especially grateful to Rishini Weeraratne, Editor of The Sun (Daily Mirror) and Head of Social Media at Wijeya Newspapers, for her unwavering guidance, trust, and the countless opportunities she has given me throughout my journey. She has consistently encouraged me to push beyond my limits, think differently, and expand my capabilities. I will always be thankful for her belief in me.
I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my parents, sibling, and extended family, whose sacrifices, unwavering support, values, and unconditional love have been the foundation of every achievement in my life. My deepest appreciation goes to my husband for being my greatest source of strength, patience, encouragement, and unwavering belief in me through every challenge and every success.
My sincere thanks also go to every member of the Wijeya Newspapers Limited, Social Media team. This recognition is a reflection of our shared passion, teamwork, and commitment to excellence. It is a privilege to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team whose support and collaboration continue to inspire me every day.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to New Generation Sri Lanka for this incredible honour and for recognising and celebrating young leaders who are committed to making a meaningful impact in their respective fields. It is a privilege to be counted among this inspiring community.
This honour strengthens my commitment to serving the media industry with innovation, integrity, and purpose. I dedicate this recognition to everyone who has believed in me, encouraged me, and stood by me throughout this journey."
