LEVEL UP 2.0 strengthens Imperial College’s position as a platform for professional growth in Kandy

Imperial College of Business Studies (ICBS) successfully concluded LEVEL UP 2.0 – The Next Million Mind-set on 9th September 2026 at Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, bringing together over 120 professionals, business leaders and emerging talent for an evening centred on wealth, career growth, continuous learning and personal development.

Returning after the success of its inaugural 2024 edition, LEVEL UP 2.0 demonstrated the evolution of the platform from an inspirational forum into a space for practical industry insight, meaningful professional dialogue and high-value networking.

Built around the theme “Building Wealth. Careers. Futures.”, the evening brought together three distinguished industry personalities, each approaching the idea of investment from a different perspective.

Tharindra Gooneratne, Head of Business – Fixed Broadband and International Services at Dialog Axiata PLC, drew from his extensive corporate and international investment banking experience to explore wealth creation and the thinking required to make informed financial decisions.

Stephanie Siriwardhana, Director at Infinite Grace Works (Pvt) Ltd, shifted the conversation towards investing in oneself, touching on personal branding, purpose and the importance of intentionally developing the person behind the career.

Closing the keynote conversations, Dr. Niroshan J. Pieris, Cluster CEO at LAUGFS Gas PLC and a member of the ICBS postgraduate lecturing panel, explored career investment, mentorship and continuous learning. Drawing from both his corporate leadership experience and his role in postgraduate education, he reinforced the importance of remaining adaptable, continuously developing one’s capabilities and staying relevant throughout one’s professional journey.

The conversations culminated in an interactive panel discussion moderated by Tharindu Wijewardhana, Country Head of AICPA & CIMA Sri Lanka, allowing the audience to engage directly with the speakers and translate their experiences into practical perspectives.

Beyond the stage, LEVEL UP 2.0 created an environment where professionals from diverse industries could connect, exchange ideas and build relationships, reflecting ICBS’s broader commitment to creating opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.

Established in 1985, Imperial College of Business Studies has continued to develop professionals through internationally recognised education and strong industry engagement. Initiatives such as LEVEL UP reflect an institution increasingly focused not only on qualifications, but on building the knowledge, networks, confidence and industry exposure professionals require to progress.

With LEVEL UP 2.0, ICBS once again demonstrated that meaningful professional education is not confined to a classroom, it is strengthened by the people you meet, the perspectives you encounter and the opportunities you are prepared to create.