Our History

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In the annals of the Global Federation of Sri Lankan Business Councils (GFSLBC), a remarkable journey unfolds, a tale of vision, determination, and the triumph of collaboration. It all began with the bold desire of Mr. Jagath Ramanayake, the President of the Sri Lanka Business Council of Japan (SLBCJ), who harbored an audacious dream to mark the 20th Anniversary of SLBCJ with a resounding achievement. As the 19th AGM approached, he expressed his aspiration and urged the council to brainstorm ideas.

The pivotal moment arrived when Mr. Sajeev Rajaputhra, the International Director of SLBCJ, suddenly posed a compelling question: "Are there other business councils in other countries, and if so, do we know who they are?" The room fell silent, and what should have been a simple question with a simple answer, led to a surprising discovery. It suddenly became evident that these councils existed but operated in isolation, detached from one another despite being composed of highly successful Sri Lankan entrepreneurs worldwide. Mr. Rajaputhra seized on this concept and proposed an ambitious endeavor, his brainchild—to unite all Sri Lankan business councils globally under a single umbrella organization, the GFSLBC. He passionately articulated the myriad benefits this would offer to members, their interests, their councils, their respective nations, and above all, to Sri Lanka.

Embracing this visionary idea and recognizing its immense potential, Mr. Ramanayake entrusted Mr. Rajaputhra with the task of spearheading this audacious project. Throughout the year 2023, Mr. Ramanayake, Mr. Rajaputhra, Mr. Samarawikrama and other SLBCJ members embarked on a quest to connect with as many councils worldwide as possible. Yet, this path was riddled with challenges. The lack of a centralized registry made locating these councils a Herculean task. Undeterred, SLBCJ sought assistance from the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Japan, the Ministry of Trade, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Simultaneously, they initiated their own search efforts, leveraging contacts and resources.

Their relentless determination bore fruit as they successfully engaged with over 10 councils, who either joined or committed to join the GFSLBC even before its official establishment. On October 9th, 2023, the GFSLBC will emerge as a beacon of hope and unity. Mr. Rajaputhra envisions a future where every Sri Lankan Business Council worldwide will unite under the GFSLBC banner by its 1st AGM in 2024. This story of perseverance and the pursuit of a grand vision exemplifies the indomitable spirit that drives the GFSLBC and its mission to unite and empower the global Sri Lankan business community.