Female solo travelling has gained significant momentum in recent years, as more women are embracing the freedom and empowerment that comes with exploring the world on their terms. With the rise of social media, many female travellers are sharing their experiences and tips, fostering a supportive community that encourages others to take the leap and explore new destinations independently.

In a world filled with travel influencers, one stands out by challenging women to explore the globe on their own terms. 

At just 25, Himashi Weerakoody, affectionately known as Mashi, has transformed her life into a captivating narrative of independence and empowerment. Her journey took a bold turn when she moved out at 22 years old stepping into a life of freelance work and travel that would inspire countless followers.

Instagram has been a game-changer. It’s the platform that elevated her presence in the influencer community. Reflecting on her unexpected rise to fame, Mashi admits that her career wasn’t meticulously planned she simply “went with the flow.” She believes in seizing opportunities as they come, tackling challenges head-on, and enjoying life every day. “There might be things going around, but still, we have to enjoy our life, do the things we want to do because if we don’t do it now, we might not have a chance tomorrow,” she says.

Her influencer journey began when she joined a collaborative network right after completing her A/Ls, which led her to work in social media marketing. After stints at agencies and brands like Daraz and G-Flock, Mashi decided to leave the 9-to-5 world behind, choosing freelancing and travel as her new career focus.

Mashi is known for her spontaneous, unplanned trips, which she finds more exciting and adventurous. She frequents places like Ella and loves uncovering hidden gems across Sri Lanka. "I cover the smallest places that people don't even know," she proudly states. When travelling solo, Mashi often stays in hostels, enjoying the chance to meet people from different backgrounds.

Despite her spontaneous approach, Mashi takes personal safety seriously, especially when travelling alone. She dresses modestly in baggy clothes to avoid unwanted attention and advises other women to be confident and assertive while travelling. "You have to be straightforward," she stresses, explaining how speaking up has helped her avoid uncomfortable situations.

As with any career, being a travel influencer comes with its own set of challenges. Mashi acknowledges that facing these obstacles is part of everyday life, whether it’s navigating new places or solving unexpected problems on the go. She’s quick to seek solutions, relying on tools like Google Maps or reaching out to locals for advice.

When it comes to her work, Mashi collaborates with brands and hotels to cover travel costs, often receiving free accommodations, food, and transportation in exchange for content creation. She’s also proactive, reaching out to brands for partnerships when travelling to specific destinations.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Mashi’s work is her ability to create and share content in real-time. She edits videos on the go, often using apps like CapCut to create seamless transitions. Her quick turnaround time allows her to post on the same day she travels, sharing her experiences instantly with her followers. Over time, she’s mastered the shortcuts and tools needed to produce high-quality content efficiently.

Mashi primarily relies on her phone for photos and videos, appreciating its convenience. She’s also excited about the future of content creation, where new technology, like advanced drones, will continue to revolutionize the way influencers capture and share experiences.

Himashi is also a talented makeup artist and the founder of her own company, ‘Ready to Glam’, where she specializes in creating stunning looks for festivals. In addition to her makeup artistry, she works as a user-generated content (UGC) creator and marketing manager, roles that provide her with exciting travel opportunities. For Himashi, every job she takes on aligns with her passion for exploration, allowing her to combine her love for makeup with her desire to see the world.

In 2024, Mashi’s top destination is Riverston, an underrated gem in Sri Lanka. She’s also eager to try bungee jumping, adding yet another adventure to her growing list of experiences.

Her advice to aspiring solo female travellers? “Don’t overthink it. Focus on the positive, be confident, and speak up.” For Mashi, the most rewarding part of being an influencer is the journey itself the places she visits, the people she meets, and the personal growth she experiences along the way.

In the ever-evolving world of social media, Mashi continues to ride the wave of new trends, staying true to her adventurous spirit and love for travel.