Otara Gunewardene, a prominent figure in Sri Lanka’s business landscape, is renowned not only for her entrepreneurial endeavors but also for her philanthropic contributions. Rooted in a deep commitment to responsible entrepreneurship and philanthropy, she endeavors to foster peaceful progress across the island, uniting people from all walks of life under the banner of compassion.
Born on August 30th, 1964, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Otara Del Gunewardene, the youngest and only daughter of Delysia and Norman, was raised with values of hard work and integrity instilled by her father, while her mother showed her the boundless possibilities achievable through dedication and compassion.
From her early days at Ladies’ College to her collegiate pursuits in Biology at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, USA, Otara’s journey took an unexpected turn when she found herself drawn to the world of high fashion. Transitioning from a promising career in veterinary science to modeling, she soon became a prominent figure in the fashion industry, both locally and internationally.
In 1989, with a modest loan from family members and guided by her discerning eye for fashion, Otara embarked on her first business venture, selling clothes from the trunk of her car. This endeavor marked the beginning of Odel, which rapidly expanded to become an iconic retail brand synonymous with Sri Lanka’s spirit.
Alongside her business successes, Otara’s personal life blossomed with marriage to Raju Chandiram and the birth of her two sons, Kiran and Rakhil. However, it was a serendipitous encounter with an abandoned puppy named Niko that ignited her passion for animal welfare, leading to the creation of Embark, a brand dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating street dogs.
Otara’s commitment to social responsibility extended beyond fashion, as she integrated Embark into Odel’s corporate ethos, revolutionizing CSR in Sri Lanka. Under her leadership, Odel flourished, becoming the first retail brand in the country to go public on the Colombo Stock Exchange.
In 2015, Otara established the Otara Foundation, focusing on environmental protection, animal welfare, education, and empowerment. Guided by her principles of zero corruption and holistic living, she continues to lead by example, mentoring the next generation of Sri Lankans and advocating for compassion in all aspects of life.
Today, Otara’s unwavering dedication remains centered on Sri Lanka, balancing her business acumen with philanthropic endeavors aimed at fostering positive change and sustainable development. As a leading voice on social media, she shares her journey, inspiring others to embrace kindness and progress in their own lives. Otara’s legacy is defined by her tireless pursuit of a better future for her country and its people, embodying the values of success, relevance, and compassion.
TIMELINE
- Date of Birth; 30th August 1964, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Education :
- CMS Ladies’ College, Colombo 7
- Bowling Green State University, Ohio – BSc Biology
- Professional Fashion Model – 1987 – 2004
- Modelled for high-profile fashion brands and international apparel catalogues, TV commercials and runway shows.
- Founder/CEO of Odel PLC – 1990 – 2014
- 1989 – Started selling surplus factory garments from the boot of a Blue Station Wagon.
- 1990 – Founded Odel, a 1,100 sq. ft. store in Colombo 5, Sri Lanka.
- 1999 – Launched Odel’s flagship store in Colombo 7. 35,000 sq. ft. luxury department store in the heart of Colombo.
- 2007 – Launched the Embark brand and the beginning of the program to improve the lives of street dogs of Sri Lanka.
- 2010 – Converted Odel into a public liability company, becomes the first fashion retail brand to be listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange and the first female entrepreneur to take a company public in Sri Lanka.
- 2011 – Odel launched the Luv SL brand – a concept carrying stylish souvenirs and products catering to locals and tourists.
- 2012 – Sale of close to 50% of Odel to Parkson Retail Asia, bringing significant investment of over $ 20 million into Sri Lanka.
- 2014 – Sells shares in Odel PLC to Softlogic Group.
- 2014 – Started the Otara Foundation – to improve the lives of animals and advocate for better animal welfare and for environmental conservation.
- 2014 – Selected and honored as one of the ‘Prominent Women of the Country’ by the Women’s Parliamentarians’ Caucus, for her achievements in business and for her service to the country.
- 2018 – Appointed as Non-Executive Director for Singer Sri Lanka
- 2019 – Sri Lanka Tamil Women’s Union Women’s Day Award in recognition of outstanding excellence, dedication and kindness to all animals.
- 2019 – Invited by the Rwandan Government as an honorary guest to name a baby gorilla at the national Kwita Izina naming ceremony.
- 2020 – Launch of Who We Are an online platform that retails products made in Sri Lanka by small businesses.
