LMD ALUMNI OVERSEAS
Andrea Melisa
The pull of Sri Lanka
Q: In your capacity as an LMD alumni living overseas today, what are your thoughts on our international edition?
A: I’m absolutely thrilled about the launch of LMD’s international edition. Having been part of the team at Media Services, I have firsthand experience of the dedication, professionalism and commitment to excellence that defines its publications.
I firmly believe that LMD International will carve out a unique niche in the global media landscape, emerging as a trusted source of information, analyses and perspectives for a global Sri Lankan audience.
By maintaining the high standards of excellence that have characterised LMD’s publications for decades, I am confident that this international edition will make a significant impact – and contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation of Sri Lanka’s unique culture, economy and society on the world stage.
I look forward to following the success of the international edition and continuing to support LMD’s mission wherever I am in the world.
Q: What aspects of Sri Lankan culture do you miss the most while living in India?
A: The warmth and hospitality of the people are certainly at the top of that list! I often find myself missing the sense of community that I experienced over there.
And oh, how I miss those Poya days when everyone enjoys a day off – something I boast about to my non-Sri Lankan friends.
But what I miss most is the tranquillity and rootedness in Sri Lanka; it’s as if the very essence of the island permeates my being. Its natural splendour – the stunning beaches, lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes – envelops me in a way I’ve never experienced elsewhere.
There’s an indescribable allure in the collective consciousness or energy of Sri Lanka that I find myself longing for from time to time.
Q: And what aspects of Sri Lankan cuisine do you crave the most?
A: Since my mother and grandparents hail from Sri Lanka, indulging in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine here in India is merely a phone call away!
While we occasionally enjoy homemade pol rotis, hoppers, string hoppers and pol sambol, I often find myself yearning for lamprais, kiribath, hot butter cuttlefish and kottu.
Q: How do you stay connected to the Sri Lankan community while living in India?
A: I’m fortunate to have a tightly knit circle of family and friends back in Sri Lanka, and I make a conscious effort to keep in touch with them.
Whether it’s sending postcards, making spontaneous check-in calls, sharing funny memes and thoughtful reminders, keeping up with the group chat shenanigans or occasionally organising virtual game nights, we all do our best to stay connected.
While social media helps us stay updated on each other’s lives, fostering genuine connections demands more deliberate actions. I believe that prioritising such intentional efforts is crucial for nurturing meaningful relationships – they don’t have to be grand gestures; it’s the small thoughtful ones that truly matter and leave a lasting impact.
Q: In a nutshell, what are the cultural differences or similarities between Sri Lanka and India?
A: Culturally, Sri Lanka and India are quite similar due to their historical and geographical connections, such as shared traditions in food, festivals and religious practices – particularly within Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity.
As someone from Tamil Nadu, there wasn’t much of a culture shock when I moved to Sri Lanka.
However, distinct cultural differences do exist between the two countries – including linguistic and religious diversity, as well as varying regional customs.
For instance, every Indian state typically has its own official language(s) in addition to Hindi and English, which are used for official purposes at the national level.Furthermore, nuances in social norms, etiquette and cuisines exist across different regions and communities within both nations.
Q: What are the most effective ways to bridge the gap between different cultures and foster mutual understanding among communities?
A: I believe that cultural and communal harmony begins with us as individuals, rooted in our own self or personal awareness.
If every individual takes responsibility for the way he or she shows up in the world – with an open mind, free of prejudices and a willingness to embrace the differences that run through the fabric of humanity – we can truly make a difference one encounter at a time.
And every encounter offers an opportunity for growth and insights. Approaching life with humility and a constant readiness to learn from others can ignite a ripple effect, positively impacting our communities and beyond.
FACT FILE
FAMILY
Parents
Younger sister
Younger brother
Maternal grandparents
Paternal grandmother
SCHOOLING
Riverside Public School (Kotagiri)
HIGHER EDUCATION
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS)
PRESENT OCCUPATION
Creative Content and Brand Development Manager
Public relations consultant
Freelance writer
Professional singer
COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE
India
CITY OF RESIDENCE
Bengaluru
CV IN A NUTSHELL
Andrea Melisa is an Indo-Sri Lankan content creator, writer, PR consultant and professional singer. Her versatility extends across various artistic and professional realms, encompassing singing, writing, dancing, emceeing, theatrical performances, public relations and voiceover artistry.
As a seasoned performer and recording artiste, Melisa has lent her voice to numerous projects, and demonstrated her prowess as a lyricist and songwriter, crafting jingles and scripts for clients in India and Sri Lanka.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Melisa is a spiritual seeker at heart, finding profound fulfilment through mindfulness and conscious living.