Past Presidents & Milestones
A look back at the leaders who have served ASLA and the key moments that have shaped our community from the 1980s to today.
Honouring our past presidents and celebrating the milestones that shaped our community
The Australia Sri Lanka Association (ASLA) has grown into one of Canberra’s most active and respected multicultural organisations, thanks to the dedication and vision of our past leaders. Our journey is built on the commitment of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to bring our community together through culture, charity, and connection.
This page honours the presidents who guided ASLA through different eras, each contributing uniquely to our identity, values, and growth. Their leadership laid the foundation for the vibrant, inclusive community we enjoy today.
From hosting landmark events such as cultural festivals, charity initiatives, youth programs, and celebrations of Sri Lankan heritage, ASLA’s history reflects our shared determination to support one another and strengthen our presence in Australia.
As we look back with gratitude, we also move forward with purpose, continuing the work begun by those who built ASLA into the strong, united organisation it is today.
A Welcome from the President
Australia Sri Lanka Association - Canberra & QueanbeyanDear Members of the Canberra and Queanbeyan Sri Lankan Community,
It is with great honour and heartfelt appreciation that I step into the role of President of the Australia Sri Lanka Association (ASLA). I am humbled by the trust placed in me and deeply committed to serving our vibrant and diverse Sri Lankan community across Canberra and Queanbeyan.
Our community has always been built on strong values: unity, respect, cultural pride and mutual support. As we continue to grow, it is more important than ever to preserve our traditions while embracing new opportunities that bring us closer together. My vision as President is to strengthen our connections, support our families and create meaningful experiences that celebrate our shared heritage.
Over the coming year, ASLA will focus on expanding cultural events, enhancing youth engagement, supporting welfare initiatives and building strong partnerships with local organisations. I warmly welcome the ideas, feedback and active involvement of every community member, because ASLA truly belongs to all of us.
I extend my sincere thanks to the outgoing committee for their dedication and leadership, and I look forward to working closely with our new committee, volunteers and community stakeholders. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected and more resilient Sri Lankan community here in the ACT region.
Thank you for your continued support. I am excited for the journey ahead and honoured to represent you.
Warm regards,
Our Beginnings: The Founding of ASLA
In the late 1980s, as the Sri Lankan community in Canberra and Queanbeyan began to grow, a shared sentiment emerged. New families arriving in the nation’s capital were building successful lives, yet they missed the deep rooted connections of home the vibrant festivals, the familiar language, and the simple comfort of a shared cultural identity. It was a desire not just to remember their heritage, but to live it and pass it on to the next generation growing up as proud Sri Lankan-Australians.
This desire sparked a series of informal gatherings in living rooms and local parks. A handful of pioneering families, driven by a vision for a more connected community, began organizing small potluck dinners and cultural events. A modest but joyous Avurudu celebration in a local park became a turning point, revealing the profound need for a central body to unite and support the scattered community.
Fueled by this momentum, a formal meeting was held in late 1988. In that historic gathering, the decision was made to establish the Australia Sri Lanka Association of the ACT. A steering committee was formed, a constitution was drafted, and the core objectives were laid out with passion and foresight. The mission was clear: to create a cornerstone for the community that would serve as a home away from home.
The founding vision of ASLA was built on four pillars: to provide unwavering support for new migrants, to preserve and promote our rich cultural tapestry, to foster a sense of unity and belonging, and to build bridges of friendship with the wider Australian community. That humble beginning laid the foundation for the vibrant and thriving association we know today, a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of our founders.
Past Presidents
We are grateful for the vision and dedication of our past leaders who have guided ASLA through the years.
Lasath Lekamwasam served ASLA during a transformative and challenging period, guiding the association through the uncertainties of the pandemic. His leadership ensured that ASLA remained active, visible, and connected despite significant community restrictions. Lasath focused on resilience, adaptability, and sustaining cultural programs, laying a strong foundation for ASLA’s revival in the years that followed.
Asela Abeypala led ASLA during a period of rebuilding and transition, particularly as the community emerged from post-pandemic challenges. His presidency emphasised stability, cultural preservation, and reconnecting the Sri Lankan community in the ACT. Asela’s efforts were central to re-energising ASLA’s events calendar and strengthening community engagement.
Under Janaka Welikala’s leadership, ASLA strengthened its community presence and expanded its cultural and social initiatives. His term focused on uniting families, supporting newcomers to Canberra, and enhancing ASLA’s role in major community events. Janaka’s steady guidance helped the association modernise its operations and build strong relationships with community partners and government organisations.
Past Presidents
We are grateful for the vision and dedication of our past leaders who have guided ASLA through the years.
Mr. Lasath Lekamwasam
2019–2021
Lasath Lekamwasam served ASLA during a transformative and challenging period, guiding the association through the uncertainties of the pandemic. His leadership ensured that ASLA remained active, visible, and connected despite significant community restrictions. Lasath focused on resilience, adaptability, and sustaining cultural programs, laying a strong foundation for ASLA’s revival in the years that followed.
Ms. Asela Abeypala
2021–2023
Asela Abeypala led ASLA during a period of rebuilding and transition, particularly as the community emerged from post-pandemic challenges. His presidency emphasised stability, cultural preservation, and reconnecting the Sri Lankan community in the ACT. Asela’s efforts were central to re-energising ASLA’s events calendar and strengthening community engagement.
Mr. Janaka Welikala
2023-2025
Under Janaka Welikala’s leadership, ASLA strengthened its community presence and expanded its cultural and social initiatives. His term focused on uniting families, supporting newcomers to Canberra, and enhancing ASLA’s role in major community events. Janaka’s steady guidance helped the association modernise its operations and build strong relationships with community partners and government organisations.
Our Journey & Key Milestones
Celebrating the moments that shaped ASLA’s story across generations.
Volunteers and families came together to support those experiencing hardship, creating one of ASLA’s most meaningful annual traditions.
Traditional games, music and shared food strengthened connections among new and long-standing community members in Canberra.
Families celebrated Christmas together, strengthening ASLA’s identity as a warm, family-focused association.
ASLA reconnected the community through cultural performances, food stalls, games and family activities.
Event nights introduced new energy and attracted younger community members, leading to record participation.
ASLA’s new website and event calendar brought easier access to information, membership and community updates.
Our Journey: Key Milestones
A look back at the significant moments in the history of the Australia Sri Lanka Association.