IN CONVERSATION WITH SUMUDU WANNIARACHCHI EXECUTIVE WEALTH PLANNER, AIA INSURANCE
HER STORY. HER STRENGTH. BY: DR. SULOCHANA SEGERA
For more than three decades, Sumudu Wanniarachchi has built a remarkable career defined by resilience, determination, and a commitment to continuous growth. Beginning her professional journey in the finance sector, she steadily rose through the ranks to hold senior responsibilities in Credit, Recoveries, and Legal Operations, earning respect through competence, integrity, and leadership. Rather than viewing retirement as the end of a successful career, she embraced it as an opportunity to reinvent herself. Today, she balances two dynamic roles as a District Executive Wealth Planner at AIA Insurance Sri Lanka, where she has already achieved MDRT and Court of the Table status, and as the entrepreneur behind Samarah Styles, an online fashion venture born from her passion for elegance and empowering women. A devoted wife and mother of two successful sons, Sumudu's story is a testament to the belief that growth, learning, and new beginnings have no age limit.
Q: Your professional journey spans over three decades in the finance industry. Looking back, what were the defining moments that shaped you into the leader you became?
My journey began with a unique learning experience alongside my late father, who worked as a translator at the JEDB. I often assisted him by reading Sinhala documents and writing them in English while he completed the translations. Those early experiences developed my language, communication, and analytical abilities while teaching me patience, accuracy, and attention to detail. As my career progressed, my responsibilities in Credit, Recoveries, and Legal Operations strengthened my resilience, discipline, and decision-making skills. The foundation I gained through my father's guidance helped me connect effectively with people from different backgrounds and navigate professional challenges with confidence. I was also fortunate to have mentors who recognised my potential and encouraged me to accept greater responsibilities. Most importantly, my journey taught me that leadership is not about authority or position. True leadership lies in empowering others to grow, succeed, and realise their own potential.
Q: You started your career as a novice and rose to hold senior responsibilities in Credit, Recoveries, and Legal Operations. What challenges did you face as a woman in the finance sector, and how did you overcome them?
When I began my career, certain areas of finance, particularly Recoveries, were largely male dominated. Women often had to work harder to establish credibility and earn recognition. There were situations where I had to consistently prove my capability, professionalism, and sound judgement to be taken seriously. Rather than focusing on the limitations, I concentrated on strengthening my technical expertise, delivering consistent results, and maintaining integrity in everything I did. Over time, performance and perseverance naturally built credibility, and I earned the trust and respect of colleagues and stakeholders. Those experiences strengthened my resilience and reinforced my belief that competence, consistency, and commitment are the real drivers of professional growth and long-term success.
Q: After a successful corporate career, many people would choose to slow down. What inspired you to start Samarah Styles and embark on an entrepreneurial journey after retirement?
For me, retirement was not an ending but the beginning of a new chapter. I have always loved fashion and elegant dressing, particularly sarees. Samarah Styles was born from my passion to help women feel confident and beautiful. I wanted to create something meaningful that combined creativity with entrepreneurship while allowing me to remain connected with people and continue learning. The business became an avenue through which I could express my passion and create value for others. Entrepreneurship also gave me a renewed sense of purpose. It reminded me that there is always room for reinvention and that pursuing something you love can be deeply fulfilling regardless of your stage in life.
Q: What were some of the biggest differences between leading teams in a corporate environment and running your own business?
In a corporate environment, there are established structures, processes, and resources that support decision making and execution. Leadership is often shared across departments and functions. As an entrepreneur, the experience is very different. You wear multiple hats and take on responsibilities that extend far beyond your area of expertise. You become the leader, marketer, strategist, and customer service representative all at once. The responsibility also becomes more personal because every decision directly impacts the business and its future. At the same time, entrepreneurship offers a unique freedom to innovate, take creative decisions, and build something entirely aligned with your own vision. That ability to create and shape something from the ground up is incredibly rewarding.
Q: Entrepreneurship often comes with uncertainty. Were there moments when you questioned your decision, and what kept you moving forward?
Like every entrepreneur, I have experienced moments of uncertainty, particularly during challenging market conditions. There were times when I questioned whether certain decisions were the right ones. However, I have always believed that every setback presents an opportunity to learn and improve. Challenges force us to adapt, think differently, and become more resilient. The positive feedback from customers and the joy of seeing women feel confident and happy in our products kept me motivated. Equally important was my belief that growth happens outside our comfort zone. Every challenge became another step in my journey of learning and self-discovery.
Q: How did you balance the demands of a high-pressure career while raising two sons and supporting their ambitions?
Balance was never about achieving perfection. It was about understanding priorities and making conscious choices. My family has always been my greatest support system. My husband consistently encouraged me to pursue my goals and reach my full potential. His confidence in my abilities gave me the strength to progress in my career while maintaining my responsibilities at home. I always tried to be present during important milestones in my children's lives while remaining disciplined and committed professionally. I am proud that both my sons have grown into independent and successful individuals.
My mother also played an invaluable role in my journey. She supported me immensely by caring for my children during their early years. Her love and guidance provided me with the confidence and stability I needed to build my career. I believe the values of hard work, integrity, and education played a significant role in shaping our family journey.
Q: As a mother, what lessons have your children taught you that have influenced your own personal and professional growth?
From their childhood, I was actively involved in my sons' education and supported them whenever they needed guidance. While I provided structure and encouragement, I was careful not to impose my own ambitions or dictate their career choices. Instead, I encouraged them to identify and pursue their own strengths and interests. Watching them grow into confident, independent, and successful individuals reinforced my belief in the importance of trust, discipline, and respect for individual potential. Their journey also deepened my understanding that sustainable success comes from enabling people to think independently and make informed decisions. These experiences significantly influenced my approach as both a mother and a professional leader. They strengthened my commitment to empowering others to discover their own abilities and pursue success in their own unique way.
Q: Today, you are managing your online business while also working as a Wealth Planner. What motivates you to continue building and growing even after achieving so much in your career?
I believe that growth should never stop. Becoming a Wealth Planner after retirement gave me an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping people secure and protect their financial futures. Achieving MDRT, Court of the Table, and Diamond Club recognition within my first year at AIA and being recognised as the Best Female Upcoming Wealth Planner of the Year 2025 at the AIA Sales Convention, reinforced my belief that age is never a barrier to success. My motivation comes from creating value, helping others, and continually challenging myself to learn and improve. Every new experience brings opportunities to make a positive difference in people's lives while also pushing me to reach new levels of personal and professional growth.
Q: Many women hesitate to reinvent themselves later in life. What would you say to women who believe it is too late to start a new venture or pursue a new passion?
I would tell them that it is never too late. Experience is not a limitation. It is one of our greatest strengths. Every stage of life brings wisdom, confidence, and a unique set of abilities that can become valuable assets in a new venture. The experiences we gather over the years prepare us to face challenges with greater perspective and resilience. If you have a dream, pursue it with courage. The best time to begin may not have been yesterday, but the next best time is today. Reinvention is possible at any age if you have the willingness to learn and the courage to take the first step.
Q: In your opinion, what are the three qualities every woman should develop to succeed in both her career and personal life?
The first quality is resilience, which is the ability to rise above challenges and keep moving forward regardless of setbacks.
The second is self-confidence. Women must believe in their abilities and have the courage to embrace opportunities and take on new challenges. The third is integrity. Staying true to your values and building trust in every relationship, whether personal or professional, creates a foundation for lasting success. Together, these qualities form the basis for a meaningful and fulfilling life. They enable women not only to achieve professional success but also to build strong relationships, inspire others, and continue growing throughout every stage of their lives.
