• How Piyumal Pattuwearachchi took the stage at ‘Manhunt International’ and made history as a model, father, and fitness entrepreneur

In February this year, Sri Lanka made headlines on the global pageant stage when fitness trainer and model Piyumal Sithum Pattuwearachchi was named First Runner-Up at the 23rd edition of ‘Manhunt International,’ held in Bangkok, Thailand. 

Competing against participants from 37 countries, Piyumal not only claimed the First Runner-Up title but was also named the Swimwear Digital Winner, in recognition of both his physique and commanding stage presence.

But for the 32-year-old father of two, the win meant more than personal glory. It marked a pivotal moment in a career that has spanned over a decade; a career built on perseverance, style, and self-belief in an industry that hasn’t always had space for male models, let alone ones with family responsibilities.

Answering the call

“I actually didn’t plan to compete again,” Piyumal admitted, reflecting on how the opportunity came to be. “I first competed in ‘Manhunt Sri Lanka’ in 2015, but didn’t go on to the international competition. I had got some hits from the local industry and honestly didn’t want to go through the competition experience again.”

That all changed earlier this year when a friend, fellow model Chandimal, recommended him to Manhunt Sri Lanka National Director Arjuna Senanayake. “When Arjuna called and asked if I was interested, it made me stop and think. ‘Manhunt’ has an age cut-off of 33 and I’m 32. It felt like a now-or-never moment.”

Pageants are a way for models to develop themselves, according to Piyumal, because they force contestants to put themselves out there physically while also showing their capabilities outside of looks alone. 

“Pageants are exciting for me in general because I have participated in national and international pageants and I have also served as a judge for several pageants. Competing is always about pushing your limits. I really wanted to take on ‘Manhunt’ because of my kids – I have two boys – and I wanted them to see me doing something like this, even though I’m ‘older.’ 

“As a male model, the industry is never as great for male models. I wanted to give it a try as a father of two and show that anyone can do it. It was a chance to push myself and also to see how things are in the international pageant scene,” Piyumal said. 

With years of modelling and fitness experience under his belt, Piyumal decided to take on the challenge. The competition, held over eight days in Bangkok, was a rigorous mix of rehearsals, photoshoots, judged events, and public appearances. 

“It was intense,” he said. “But I gave it everything. I prepared hard – physically, mentally, and emotionally. I wanted to push myself to the limit and see what I was capable of.”

And his efforts paid off. “Winning First Runner-Up was a huge honour,” he said. “Especially because this wasn’t just for me. It was for my family, my boys, and for everyone who has been told they can’t do something because of their age or their responsibilities.”

From basketball court to catwalk

Piyumal’s modelling journey began at age 18, somewhat by chance. “My sister was helping organise a fashion show and they needed guys of a certain height,” he recalled. “At the same time, one of my university lecturers encouraged me to give it a try.”

At the time, Piyumal was focused on playing basketball competitively and had never seriously considered modelling. “I was really shy back then. I didn’t know how to walk on a ramp or pose for a camera. But I had a good physique and I liked dressing well – doing my hair differently, trying new styles. 

“I’ve always been a person who likes to do a little bit extra, and modelling helps me to be who I am. I also hope that I am able to inspire others by being an ideal for many people.”

Those early experiences helped him realise that modelling wasn’t just about appearance. “It’s also about expressing yourself – how you carry yourself, how you connect with fashion. That really resonated with me.”

Over the years, Piyumal became a fixture on Colombo’s fashion circuit, walking for Colombo Fashion Week for an impressive 11 consecutive years, an unmatched feat in Sri Lanka’s male modelling space. 

“I think I’m the only actively modelling father with two kids in the local industry,” he laughed. “And now, I’m the first Sri Lankan dad to represent the country at ‘Manhunt International’ and place in the top three.”

The business of balancing it all

Modelling may be what Piyumal is known for, but it is far from his only focus. He is also a certified personal trainer working at Body Bar in Colombo and the owner of his own gym, which he opened in 2020. “I realised early on that modelling alone wasn’t going to be sustainable, especially in Sri Lanka and especially as a man.”

He explained that while female models often had access to a wider range of opportunities – from fashion and beauty campaigns to influencer work – male models faced far fewer openings. “Even at fashion weeks, you will see 24 female models and maybe 10 male models. Most designers create for women. Even the local brands cater more to a female audience.”

That said, he sees his dual career in fashion and fitness as a strength. “As a trainer, I stay in shape, eat well, and live the lifestyle, and that translates into modelling. My clients also find it motivating to see their trainer walk the ramp or appear in campaigns. It helps me build trust.”

He has also become a popular influencer, working with brands and using his platform to promote fitness, fashion, and positive lifestyle habits. “I love that I can share what I do – how I train, how I prepare for shoots, and what I eat. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about discipline and mindset.”

Discipline, mindset and motivation

That discipline is what keeps him going – balancing 16-hour days between training clients, managing his gym, creating content, being a dad, and preparing for shows or campaigns.

“I always work with a plan,” he said simply. “Even if it is just what I’m doing tomorrow or next week, I need to know what’s coming. If you don’t plan, things will always fall apart.”

Time management and grooming are part of his daily routine. “You can’t just show up to a job. You need to be prepared – clothes ironed, hair styled, body camera-ready, attitude on point. People think modelling is just posing, but it’s work. And like any profession, your reputation matters.”

When asked what sets a good model apart, Piyumal doesn’t hesitate. “Consistency. You have to invest in yourself. Work out. Eat right. Dress well. Be kind. Build your character. Clients want to work with people they can rely on.”

Advice for the next generation

Piyumal is passionate about mentoring younger models and often judges local pageants. He is direct about what it takes to make it. “First, you need income, since modelling in Sri Lanka won’t pay all your bills. So invest in yourself, build a parallel career, and have a backup plan.”

He is also a firm believer in social media. “These days, clients check your Instagram before they book you. They want to see how you present yourself, how you engage with your audience. So make sure your online persona matches your real-life professionalism.”

Above all, he wants young Sri Lankan men to believe in themselves. “There is so much talent here, but guys give up too easily. They think it’s too late, or too hard. But I’m proof that it is not. I’m in my 30s, I have got two kids, and I still compete internationally.”

Pushing the boundaries

At this point in his career, Piyumal is focused on legacy, not just personal achievements, but the message he leaves behind. “I want to show people what’s possible. You can be a father, a businessman, a model, and still do great things.”

He is currently exploring international modelling and fitness opportunities while continuing to expand his local presence. “I’m not done yet,” he smiled. “There is more to achieve, not just for me but for everyone watching who needs to know that it is possible.”