In a world increasingly driven by outward appearances, it is a rare and refreshing moment when someone like Anudi Gunasekara rises to prominence. Crowned Miss World Sri Lanka 2024, she embodies far more than physical beauty. With an exceptional academic record, a passion for social justice, and a mission-driven heart, Anudi represents the modern Sri Lankan woman: confident, intelligent, empathetic, and impactful. Her journey from the ancient city of Anuradhapura to the global stage is not only inspiring but also a beacon of hope for a new generation of women who dream big and act boldly.
Who Is Anudi Gunasekara?
A Star Born in Anuradhapura
Born and raised in Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s most culturally significant cities, Anudi’s early life was steeped in heritage and tradition. Surrounded by temples, ancient architecture, and a community deeply rooted in Buddhist values, she grew up with a strong sense of national pride and a deep understanding of Sri Lanka’s historical legacy. This background helped shape her humble and grounded personality, even as she soared into the spotlight.
Early Education and Family Roots
Anudi attended Anuradhapura Central College, where she consistently excelled in academics while also immersing herself in extracurricular activities. Her family, particularly her mother — a professional beautician — played a key role in nurturing her interest in self-expression, grooming, and public presentation. This familial influence, combined with her curiosity and drive, laid the foundation for her journey into modelling, social activism, and eventually, pageantry.
Academic Journey and Global Vision
Studying International Relations at University of Kelaniya
Anudi graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Relations from the prestigious University of Kelaniya, earning a Second Upper Class degree. Her academic journey exposed her to a range of global issues, including gender inequality, international diplomacy, and human rights. It was during her university years that she began to truly understand the interconnectedness of the world — an awareness that would later inform her advocacy work and her vision for change on a national and global scale.
Other Academic Qualifications and Certifications
In addition to her undergraduate degree, Anudi pursued further educational milestones to broaden her worldview. She earned a Diploma in International Relations from the Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies (BCIS), further enhancing her knowledge of international affairs. She also obtained a DELF B2 French language certification, enabling her to communicate effectively on international platforms. Furthermore, her professional modelling training at the Brian Kerkoven Academy equipped her with the poise, discipline, and presentation skills crucial for her pageantry and public appearances.
The Spark of a Dream: From Childhood Photoshoots to a Pageant Queen
First Steps into Modelling
From a young age, Anudi displayed an inherent love for performing, posing, and fashion. What began as playful childhood photoshoots soon turned into a serious pursuit when she participated in a 2020 photoshoot that garnered significant attention online. That experience ignited a spark within her — one that combined her creative passion with a growing desire to use visibility for a meaningful cause. She saw modelling not just as a form of self-expression, but as a platform to influence and inspire.
Training and Development at Brian Kerkoven Academy
Recognizing the importance of professional grooming, Anudi enrolled at the Brian Kerkoven Academy, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected institutions for modelling and pageantry training. There, she learned everything from catwalk techniques to voice projection, wardrobe styling, and etiquette — all essential skills for a future beauty queen. The Academy not only polished her external persona but also empowered her to build inner confidence and leadership abilities.
The Miss World Sri Lanka 2024 Journey
Winning the Crown and Making History
In July 2024, Anudi’s dreams turned into reality when she was crowned Miss World Sri Lanka 2024. Interestingly, she had been the very first applicant that year — a symbolic gesture that reflects her initiative, drive, and belief in herself. Her win was a moment of national celebration, as people across the country witnessed a poised, articulate, and compassionate young woman take the crown. Anudi has since described the moment as “surreal and life-changing,” a recognition not just of her beauty, but of her intelligence, character, and purpose.
Mini Titles: Most Popular & Best in Evening Wear
Apart from the main crown, Anudi also clinched two significant mini titles: Most Popular Contestant and Best in Evening Wear. The “Most Popular” award is particularly notable, as it reflects the deep connection she built with the public through her genuine personality and consistent online engagement. Meanwhile, her stunning appearance in the evening wear round demonstrated her elegance, class, and ability to carry herself with sophistication — all key traits for an international pageant contender.
Saheli – A Beauty with a Purpose Project
Combating Period Poverty in Sri Lanka
Anudi’s “Beauty with a Purpose” project, titled Saheli, addresses a critical and often overlooked issue: period poverty in Sri Lanka. Many underprivileged women and girls in rural and urban communities struggle to afford menstrual hygiene products, which leads to school dropouts, infections, and shame. Through Saheli, Anudi organizes donation drives, awareness workshops, and policy advocacy aimed at creating sustainable access to menstrual health products. Her project is not only about distribution — it’s about transforming attitudes and breaking taboos surrounding menstruation in Sri Lankan society.
Impact of Her Final Year Research on Marital Rape
The idea for Saheli was born during Anudi’s final-year undergraduate research on marital rape in Sri Lanka — a topic that remains under-discussed in mainstream discourse. Her findings were both eye-opening and alarming, revealing the systemic ways in which women are disempowered within marriage and society at large. This research didn’t just earn her academic recognition; it awakened her to the urgent need for female empowerment through education, legislation, and grassroots activism. Saheli, therefore, represents a deeply personal and evidence-driven mission.
Behind the Crown: The Woman and Her Values
Social Work and Volunteerism
Beyond academia and modelling, Anudi has always remained deeply committed to community service. Her early involvement in volunteering projects, especially those focused on education and women’s health, allowed her to witness the everyday struggles faced by marginalized communities. She has served as both an Event Analyst and Event Coordinator for student-led development organizations, including LED KLN, where she honed her organizational and leadership skills.
Anudi’s Involvement in Rotary and Rotaract
Anudi has actively participated in the Rotaract Club of University of Kelaniya and is also an Honorary Member of Rotary International (District 3220). Through these platforms, she learned the importance of service above self, global citizenship, and building sustainable solutions to social challenges. Her time with these organizations equipped her with the values of empathy, service, and ethical leadership, all of which align seamlessly with the Miss World platform.
Role Models and Inspirations
The Manushi Chhillar Connection
Among her greatest inspirations is Manushi Chhillar, the Indian medical student who won Miss World 2017. Anudi often cites watching Manushi win as a transformative moment in her life. She saw in her a reflection of her own dreams — a woman who combined intellect with grace and used the stage to amplify meaningful causes. Anudi hopes to follow in those footsteps, bringing pride to Sri Lanka while also promoting social awareness and advocacy on a global scale.
Road to Miss World 2025
Preparation: Dance, Fitness, and Training
Preparing for the 72nd Miss World pageant is no small feat. Anudi is currently undergoing intensive training in dance, physical fitness, grooming, media speaking, and personal development. Her talent round performance, expected to be a traditional Sri Lankan dance, is being choreographed to showcase her cultural pride and artistic skills. Meanwhile, her daily regimen includes gym workouts, mindfulness practices, and nutrition planning to ensure she’s physically and mentally prepared for the global spotlight.
Representing Sri Lanka on the Global Stage
As she sets her sights on the Miss World 2025 pageant, Anudi is more than aware of the weight on her shoulders. She’s not just representing herself, but also the dreams, culture, and aspirations of 22 million Sri Lankans. Her goal is not just to win the crown but to represent her country with dignity, authenticity, and purpose. She is determined to leave a lasting impression on the world stage and inspire women from all walks of life to step into their power.
Media Spotlight and Public Reception
Sri Lanka’s Support for Anudi’s Journey
Since her coronation, Anudi has received overwhelming support from media, fans, and influencers across the country. Her social media pages are flooded with messages of encouragement, admiration, and national pride. News outlets have highlighted her as a role model who redefines the standard of beauty, and public opinion reflects widespread excitement about her potential to make a mark at Miss World 2025. She has truly become a symbol of hope and pride for the nation.
An Icon for the Next Generation
Beauty, Intelligence, and Humanitarian Values Combined
Anudi Gunasekara is not your average beauty queen. She is a trailblazer, a thinker, and a changemaker. Her ability to blend external charm with internal substance sets her apart in the world of pageantry. Through her story, young girls across Sri Lanka are learning that they, too, can aspire to greatness — not by fitting into someone else’s mold, but by embracing their unique voice, background, and purpose. Anudi stands tall as an icon of modern femininity — rooted in tradition, yet global in outlook.
Anudi Gunasekara isn’t just the face of Sri Lanka’s beauty — she’s the soul of its future. With a degree in International Relations, real-world experience in activism, and a powerful message behind her pageant journey, she’s redefining what it means to be a beauty queen. As she steps onto the Miss World stage in 2025, she brings with her not only the elegance of a model but the spirit of a fighter, a dreamer, and a leader.
FAQs
1. What is Anudi Gunasekara’s Beauty with a Purpose project?
Her project “Saheli” combats period poverty in Sri Lanka by distributing sanitary products and conducting awareness programs.
2. What degree does Anudi Gunasekara hold?
She has a BA (Hons) in International Relations from the University of Kelaniya.
3. What inspired Anudi to enter beauty pageants?
Watching Manushi Chhillar win Miss World 2017 inspired her to follow in those footsteps.
4. What titles did she win during Miss World Sri Lanka 2024?
She won the main crown, as well as the Most Popular and Best in Evening Wear mini titles.
5. How is she preparing for the global Miss World pageant?
She is training in fitness, dance, and public speaking, and is refining her “Beauty with a Purpose” presentation.
