Nayomi De Silva
A passion for storytelling
Q: What motivated you to pursue a PhD? And how do you stay focussed and motivated through the research process?
A: As a cross-sector practitioner, my pursuit of a PhD is driven by a passion for continuous learning and problem solving. I maintain focus through disciplined goal setting and strategic thinking, motivated by the opportunity to contribute to academia and make a real world impact.
Engaging with stakeholders to raise awareness and influence dialogue is my passion, with the aim of bridging academia and industry effectively. Leveraging my unique blend of academic rigour and industry experience, I aspire to catalyse positive change and drive innovation at the intersection of theory and practice.
Q: How do you integrate environmentally conscious practices into your daily life and work – and what changes would you recommend for others?
A: I do so by transforming daily routines for tangible impacts.
For example, by opting to walk or cycle to commute, embracing mindful consumption by purchasing responsibly and seeking certified products, and prioritising sustainability in every purchase decision can collectively make a significant difference.
Cultivating a healthier lifestyle by adopting the Mediterranean diet and fostering home horticulture practices not only reduces individual carbon footprints but also nurtures a deeper connection with the environment, nurturing a sense of responsibility and stewardship for future generations.
Q: In what way does your passion for creative storytelling manifest in your daily life?
A: My passion for storytelling spills over into routines – especially when playing with my son. Together, we embark on whimsical adventures where ordinary toys become characters in epic tales.
Storytelling isn’t merely a passion or hobby; it is the heartbeat of my existence, enriching our lives with joy, connection and a shared sense of wonder that transcends ordinary moments.
Q: And how do you ensure that your son stays connected to his Sri Lankan heritage while growing up in Australia?
A: We nurture his bond with our Sri Lankan heritage while in Australia by speaking Sinhala at home, sharing beloved Sinhala literature and cooking traditional dishes together.
Engaging in Sri Lankan cultural festivals adds joy and depth to his understanding of our vibrant heritage. And we ensure that he values, respects and appreciates our heritage, as well as other cultures, equally.
CV IN A NUTSHELL
Nayomi De Silva is a cross-sector practitioner who fosters a regenerative future through her doctoral research at Swinburne University of Technology, focussing on carbon neutral futures, consumer behaviour and Web3 technology.
Certified as a carbon literacy trainer in the UK, she empowers communities to achieve net zero stewardship.
With two decades of experience in creative industries and armed with an MBA, she founded Burgundy Consultants to support small businesses. And as a cofounder of Dvolve, De Silva drives social change.
In her role as a sessional academic at Swinburne, De Silva’s industry insights complement her academic rigour. Meanwhile, as an Effie and a Black Dragon Asia award winner, she has been a speaker and recipient of a merit award at Entrepreneur Awards 2020 – Western Province.
FACT FILE
FAMILY
Husband – Randika Jayatissa
Son – Dion Jayatissa
SCHOOLING
Gothami Balika Vidyalaya
HIGHER EDUCATION
Swinburne University of Technology
University of Moratuwa
PRESENT OCCUPATIONS
Researcher
Teaching academic
Entrepreneur
COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE
Australia
CITY OF RESIDENCE
Melbourne