PolishUp 2026, a national-level professional development programme organized by AIESEC in Sri Lanka and hosted by AIESEC in University of Kelaniya, was successfully concluded on 24th January 2026 at the Duncan White Auditorium, Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs. The event welcomed over 250 youth participants from across Sri Lanka, offering them a platform to develop confidence, professionalism, and workplace readiness.
Empowered by Emerald, the event commenced with an inspiring opening address by Mr. Megha Sooriyaarachchi, Mr. World Sri Lanka 2024 and Brand Ambassador of Emerald Sri Lanka. His keynote encouraged young people to actively invest in personal growth, self-presentation, and continuous learning as they prepare to enter the professional world.
The programme featured three key segments: Dressing Etiquette, Dining Etiquette, and an interactive panel discussion, all designed to equip participants with practical, real-world skills essential for professional and social settings, irrespective of academic discipline.
The Dressing Etiquette session was conducted by Mr. Chameen De Mel, Head of Fashion Design at Emerald International. Through an engaging and interactive approach, he guided delegates on appropriate professional attire for interviews, meetings, and workplace environments, emphasizing the role of appearance in building confidence and creating positive first impressions.
Following this, delegates participated in a hands-on Dining Etiquette session led by Ms. Hashani Lahirumalee, Assistant Lecturer at the Colombo Academy of Hospitality Management, the event’s Official Hospitality Partner, along with her team. Using live demonstrations and professional table settings, the session covered proper dining conduct, table manners, and cutlery usage, helping participants understand the importance of etiquette in formal and professional interactions.
After a brief intermission, the event transitioned into its highlight, the panel discussion, moderated by Ms. Amasha Fernando, News Anchor and Journalist. The panel brought together three distinguished speakers who shared diverse perspectives on communication, confidence, and personal branding.
Mr. Fahad Farook, International Communication Trainer and Certified Transformative Coach, highlighted the importance of effective communication in confidence-building and professional success. Ms. Sade Greenwood, Miss Sri Lanka for Miss World 2021, shared insights on self-care, social etiquette, and personal presentation, drawing from her experience on international platforms. Mr. Udayanga Weerarathne, trainer, coach, and entrepreneur, spoke passionately about taking initiative, embracing action, and building a strong personality to thrive in both professional and personal life.
The discussion concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing delegates to directly engage with the panelists and gain practical, personalized insights.
As the programme came to a close, delegates were recognized and rewarded for their engagement. Pearl Bay, the Official Leisure Partner, offered complimentary tickets to selected active participants, while Naturals Salon, the Gift Partner, provided vouchers. Additionally, Unilever, the Official Self-Care Partner, distributed self-care packs to delegates. Participants who remained until the end of the programme received e-certificates of participation
PolishUp 2026 concluded as a highly impactful initiative, reinforcing AIESEC’s commitment to developing young leaders by equipping them with confidence, professional skills, and real-world exposure. With strong partnerships, meaningful content, and the participation of over 250 motivated youth, the event marked another significant step toward shaping a future-ready generation in Sri Lanka.
