The Management Auditorium of the University of Kelaniya was filled with energy, ambition, and purpose on July 23, 2025, as more than 300 young people gathered for CEO 3.0, the third edition of Challenge Every Opportunity organized by AIESEC in University of Kelaniya. The forum brought together undergraduates, school prefects, and aspiring leaders from across the country for a full day of learning and inspiration centered on leadership, entrepreneurship, and social impact.
CEO 3.0 aimed to remind participants that every opportunity is a challenge waiting to be embraced. Through keynote speeches, workshops, and interactive discussions, students were encouraged to move beyond their comfort zones, think critically, and discover the role they can play in shaping the future.
The event featured a diverse lineup of speakers who shared valuable insights drawn from their personal journeys. Dr. Dhanesh Jayathilaka, CEO of Xiteb, spoke on values-driven leadership and the evolving responsibilities of young professionals. Entrepreneur, lecturer, and TV personality Ms. Bernardine Jayasinghe followed with a session on self-reflection and purposeful growth. Adding a touch of creativity, entrepreneur and digital creator Mr. Amantha Perera encouraged participants to embrace authenticity through his session on personal branding titled Be Your Unique Version.
A partner session conducted by GPS Education brought an academic dimension to the event, while the panel discussion Figure Your Passion drew significant attention. Panelists included Mr. Rashith Yapa, Co-founder of Axo Creative, who highlighted the balance between creativity and business; Mr. Harshan Waduge, CEO of OnlineAccounting.lk, who discussed digital innovation; and Mr. Mus’ab Nalir, Chief Business Officer of Target Pack International and Founder of Volunteer Nation, who shared his dual commitment to corporate success and community service.
The day concluded with a session on entrepreneurship led by Mr. Musthaq Idroos, Co-founder of Loku Business, who emphasized the importance of thinking big and building sustainable ventures.
CEO 3.0 reflected AIESEC’s mission of empowering youth through experiential learning and leadership. As part of AIESEC in Sri Lanka, which is one of 19 local chapters under AIESEC International, the University of Kelaniya chapter continues to create opportunities for young people to challenge themselves and grow as leaders.
More than just an event, CEO 3.0 became a movement that united ambition with action. It reminded every participant that the future is not something to wait for but something to shape. By the end of the forum, the message was clear: Sri Lanka’s youth are ready not only to face the future but also to create it.