Quiet determination and humble resolve: The story of Heenbanda of Jetwing
The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones – Confucius
At first glance, R.M. Heenbanda – or Bandara as he is more popularly known – appears to be a kindly uncle; always with a smile on his face and a laugh in his eyes. Currently the Resident Manager of Jetwing Sea, Negombo, Bandara’s story is truly one for the ages: a testament to the principle that hard work breeds success.
Bandara’s 30-year career with Jetwing began in one of those meetings that occur in an Archer novel; a chance encounter with former Chairman and founder of the company, Herbert Cooray.
Hailing from Bakinigahawela in the Moneragala District, young Bandara worked in the house opposite Herbert’s as a security guard – having come to Colombo after his Advanced Level examinations.
Impressed by the humility and determination he saw in him, Herbert offered him the chance to join Jetwing, which he took up immediately. Bandara’s first posting was at the Yala Safari Game Lodge in December 1983, as a trainee room boy/waiter. This, to Bandara, was only the beginning.
Over the next four years, Bandara ensured he learned everything he could about hotel operations, and the intricacies of management and leadership and was very popular with the associates and guests. In fact, the Manager at the time – Percy de Silva – commented saying “[Bandara] has always been liked and complimented by the guests for his pleasant manner and enthusiasm”.
He was then transferred to Negombo, to the Blue Oceanic Beach Hotel (now Jetwing Blue) and Royal Oceanic (Jetwing Beach). To him, this transfer was a new challenge – two hotels with much higher room inventory, and constantly busy due to the close proximity to the international airport.
During his time in Negombo, Bandara completed a course in hotel housekeeping, on the encouragement of Hiran Cooray at the Jetwing Hotel School which was overlooked by Y.M. Thahir at the time. His hard work and tireless efforts saw him rise to Bell Captain and General Supervisor (at Sea Garden) in 10 years.
When Jetwing developed the concept for the first purpose-built wellness resort in the country, they appointed Bandara as the Assistant Manager of Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions; a return to Negombo.
He was also selected to attend the summer course at Den Haag, also known as Hotel School Hague. After six years at the property, Bandara moved to Jetwing Seashells (now Jetwing Sea) as resident manager – quite a journey from a security guard indeed.
Today, Bandara is happily married (an interesting fact, again – he met his wife to be when he returned to Negombo!) with two sons; one following in his father’s footsteps, currently studying at the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management and the other just about to embark on his secondary education.
When asked for a comment on his life, Bandara shrugs; his smile a constant and simply saying, “You have to work hard, and have a vision for where you want to be. Make an effort to understand life, be true to yourself, and don’t ever forget people who have cared and who care for you. This is what I believe in.”
Family-owned and in the tourism industry for the past 42 years, Jetwing Hotels has surpassed expectation at every aspect. Building on their foundation of being passionate, as well as the experience of true, traditional Sri Lankan hospitality, constantly pioneering discoveries captures the essence of the brand.
Such a strong statement and direction have enabled Jetwing Hotels to imagine, create and manage marvels and masterpieces, where distinctive design and elegant comfort complement each other and the environment.
Considered a priority, sustainable and responsible practice is implemented through the award winning Jetwing Eternal Earth Program; with energy efficiency, community upliftment, and education of earth saving measures to school children being a few tenets of the Program.
[Via DailyFT]
