The Supranational pageant is one of the world’s leading international beauty competitions, celebrating far more than physical appearance. Organised in Poland by the World Beauty Association, Miss and Mister Supranational bring together contestants from across the globe.
Representing Sri Lanka at the 2026 edition are two young achievers determined to make their mark. Mister Supranational Sri Lanka Demitha Jayawardena is a 20-year-old entrepreneur with experience in the recycling and floral industries, whose passion for motocross, modelling, and personal development reflects his drive and versatility. Alongside him is Miss Supranational Sri Lanka Sandeepa Sewmini, a 22-year-old entrepreneur and business management student from Galle, dedicated to empowering women and young girls.
Demitha Jayawardena
If someone met you for the first time away from the pageant stage, what qualities would they notice about you, and how have those shaped your journey to becoming Mister Supranational SL?
I believe people would notice my determination, humility, and discipline. Growing up as a motocross rider from the age of four and later becoming an entrepreneur taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and staying grounded. These qualities have shaped my journey and helped me become the person I am today and ultimately Mister Supranational Sri Lanka.
How have you worked on developing your communication, leadership, and public speaking skills?
My experiences in business, motorsports, and pageantry have all contributed to my personal growth. Running businesses at a young age taught me leadership and decision making, while pageantry helped me strengthen my communication and public speaking skills. Together, these experiences have given me the confidence to connect with people from all walks of life.
What responsibility comes with representing Sri Lanka on a global platform, and how do you hope to showcase the country’s culture and values?
Representing Sri Lanka on a global stage is a privilege and a responsibility. I hope to showcase the kindness, resilience, and diversity of our people while promoting the rich culture and natural beauty of our country. I want to be an ambassador who reflects the values that make Sri Lanka unique.
Can you share a challenge you’ve overcome in your personal or professional life that has made you a stronger and more resilient person?
Balancing entrepreneurship, motocross, personal development, and pageant preparation has been one of the greatest challenges of my life. Each of these areas demands commitment and discipline. Learning to manage them simultaneously taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of remaining focused on long-term goals.
What impact would you like your title and platform to have on young Sri Lankan men who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
I want to inspire young Sri Lankan men to believe that success is not limited by age or background. Through my journey in entrepreneurship, motocross, and pageantry, I hope to show that dedication, discipline, and self-belief can open many doors. I want young people to pursue their passions fearlessly and strive to become the best version of themselves.
Sanu Sewmini
Rather than introducing yourself with your achievements, tell us about the experiences and values that have shaped the person you are today.
I believe who I am today is shaped more by my experiences than by any title I have received. Growing up, I learnt the value of responsibility, resilience, and working with purpose. Being involved in business, community initiatives, and connecting with different people showed me that success is not only about personal growth, but also about creating opportunities and uplifting others.
One value that has shaped me deeply is empathy – understanding people’s struggles and using my voice and actions to make a positive impact. I also value discipline and consistency because I believe meaningful change comes from showing up every day, even when things are difficult. These experiences have taught me to stay grounded, grateful, and committed to becoming a woman who inspires and empowers others.
Beauty pageants increasingly focus on advocacy and influence. What causes or social issues are closest to your heart, and why?
The cause closest to my heart is empowering women, young girls, and children by creating opportunities for growth, confidence, and a better future. I believe every individual deserves access to support, education, encouragement, and the chance to realise their full potential regardless of their background.
Through my experiences, I have come to understand that true empowerment goes beyond providing resources – it is about helping people believe in themselves and giving them the confidence to create change in their own lives. This is especially important for young girls and women, because when they are empowered, they uplift families, communities, and future generations.
For me, advocacy is not only about raising awareness but also about taking meaningful action and using my platform with purpose. I hope to inspire others to create a more compassionate, inclusive, and supportive society where every person feels seen, valued, and empowered.
Preparing for an international stage involves mental, emotional, and physical discipline. What has your preparation journey been like so far?
It has been a journey of growth, discipline, and self-discovery. Beyond physical preparation, it has required mental strength, emotional balance, and staying focused on my purpose.
This experience has taught me resilience, confidence, and the importance of consistency even during challenging moments. Balancing preparation with personal and professional responsibilities has helped me grow into a stronger and more determined person.
More than preparing for a competition, this journey has been about becoming the best version of myself while proudly representing my country with authenticity and purpose.
How do you plan to represent Sri Lanka when competing internationally?
Sri Lanka is a country rich in culture, tradition, and genuine hospitality, and I believe representing these qualities begins with how we connect with people. On the international stage, I hope to represent Sri Lanka through kindness, respect, authenticity, and the warmth that our people are known for.
I also want to share the beauty of our traditions, values, and cultural identity while showing the world the strength, confidence, and spirit of Sri Lankan women. For me, representation is not only about wearing a sash or showcasing culture – it is about creating meaningful connections and leaving a positive impression through who I am and how I carry myself.
If you had the opportunity to inspire one message in young girls across Sri Lanka, what would you want that message to be and why?
Never be afraid to dream beyond the limits others place on you. I want young girls to understand that their background, circumstances, or challenges should never define their future. Every girl has the ability to create change, achieve her goals, and become the person she chooses to be.
Through my own journey, I hope to show that success is not about being perfect; it is about having courage, staying true to yourself, and continuing to move forward even when the path feels difficult. If one young girl chooses to believe in herself because of my story, that would be one of the most meaningful achievements I could ever have.
PHOTOS © ARANTHA SIRIMANNE
STYLING: KOSH HEWAGE AND DANIELLE KERKOVEN
HAIR AND MAKE-UP: HASHI AND ALI BY TALIA
WARDROBE: AMIRAN, OLIVE COUTURE, CHARINI