By Flemin Fernando
Vice President, AIESEC in the University of Kelaniya

From 3rd to 5th October 2025, AIESEC in Sri Lanka hosted the National Leadership Development Seminar (NLDS) 2025 at Carolina Beach Resort. The conference welcomed around 300 young leaders from universities all across Sri Lanka, creating a space filled with learning, connection, and shared purpose.

NLDS 2025 was more than just a conference. For many delegates, it was a place where friendships were formed, confidence was built, and perspectives were challenged. Over three days, participants took part in leadership sessions, group discussions, outbound activities, and reflective spaces that encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones and learn from one another.

Leadership That Starts from Within

At NLDS 2025, the focus was on helping young people understand leadership in a real and personal way. Delegates explored what it means to lead with values, to work as a team, and to take responsibility for the impact they create both within AIESEC and beyond.

By bringing together students from different universities, backgrounds, and experiences, the conference created a strong sense of unity. Delegates left with new skills, fresh motivation, and a clearer understanding of how they can contribute positively to their communities and future workplaces.

Partners Who Made the Experience Possible

NLDS 2025 was made possible through the generous support of our partners, who shared our belief in developing young leaders and investing in the future of Sri Lanka.

We are grateful to MAS, our National Talent Partner, and EMERALD, our National Partner, for their continued trust and support. We also extend our appreciation to Commercial Bank, the Official Banking Partner, and CA Sri Lanka, the Education Partner, for contributing to the learning experience of our delegates.

The conference experience was further strengthened with the support of KSTREAM as the Technology Partner, Union Assurance as the Associate Partner, Omega Line LTD as the Banner Partner, and International Student Identity Card (ISIC) as the Student Partner.

Our outbound and experiential learning spaces were supported by CBL Munchee Lemon Puff and RIDE, who helped create energetic and memorable moments. Pearl Bay, our Leisure Partner, added value to the overall delegate experience, while thoughtful gifts were made possible through Citrus, Bilesma Naturals, and RESH Natural.

We also sincerely thank Moons Clothing Pvt Ltd, our Official Clothing Partner, our Refreshment Partners : Laki Cake Hub, Deligent Delight, Cakes By Vish, and The Baking Queen for keeping our delegates energized throughout the conference.

Capturing these moments were KITH ARTS Photography, our Photography Partner, and Nipuna Kithmal Photography, our Gala Photography Partner, while SEN Events, our Digital Experience Partner, helped bring NLDS 2025 to life beyond the venue.

Looking Ahead

NLDS 2025 reminded us of the power of young people coming together with a shared purpose. AIESEC in Sri Lanka is proud to continue creating spaces where youth can grow, connect, and lead with impact.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our partners for walking this journey with us and supporting the development of Sri Lanka’s next generation of leaders.