Jeevan Thondaman, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development, has been honoured as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.
He becomes the first Sri Lankan Minister to receive this distinction, recognising his dedication to societal advancement.
The Young Global Leaders program identifies promising leaders under 40 shaping the future, with past inductees including figures like Emmanuel Macron and Jacinda Ardern.
Minister Thondaman's selection underscores his commitment to public service and advocacy for marginalized communities in Sri Lanka.
The Ministry and the World Economic Forum announced Minister Thondaman's selection yesterday (4)April 2024, highlighting his role in improving access to clean water and advocating for social justice.
Minister Thondaman leads significant reforms in the water sector and spearheads development initiatives benefiting plantation communities, including housing schemes and economic inclusion programs.
This recognition not only celebrates Minister Thondaman's achievements but also showcases Sri Lanka's global leadership amidst economic challenges.
It signifies the country's influence and its leaders' importance on the international stage, offering hope for future development.
Moreover, Thondaman’s selection as a Young Global Leader is particularly poignant for Sri Lanka's marginalised plantation community, affirming their place in the global community and recognizing their enduring struggles.