Philip Nehri Mullegama is a prominent Sri Lankan entrepreneur, corporate trainer, personality development coach, motivational speaker, business consultant, and a former drug addict. His remarkable journey from the depths of addiction to becoming the CEO of Chandanaleepa, one of the largest local Ayurvedic cosmetics manufacturers in Sri Lanka, serves as an inspirational tale for many. Mullegama’s transformation has earned him recognition and respect, making him a role model in the Sri Lankan community.
Biography
Philip Nehri Mullegama’s early life was fraught with hardship. Born into poverty, he faced abandonment by his mother at just three years old. Raised by his father, he attended St Joseph’s College, Colombo for his primary and secondary education. However, his life took a tumultuous turn at 17 when he fell into drug addiction, influenced by friends who had long been under the sway of heroin. This period of his life was marked by significant struggles, including being admitted to the Angoda National Mental Hospital after being diagnosed with a mental illness.
His addiction led to numerous rejections from rehabilitation centers, and he resorted to begging on the streets of Dehiwala and Nugegoda to survive. Society labeled him an outcast, further pushing him into despair. During these dark times, he was even reported to have sought a romantic relationship with a prostitute, highlighting his desperate need for connection and acceptance.
However, at the age of 30, Mullegama made a pivotal decision to change his life. He began focusing on obtaining professional qualifications and building a career, effectively turning his life around.
Career
Philip Nehri Mullegama’s dedication and resilience paid off when he was awarded the Best Sri Lankan Student Award by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) in the UK during its final stage. His personal transformation was further recognized by the United Nations University for Global Peace in the USA, which honored him with a prestigious Doctorate title.
Mullegama’s achievements didn’t stop there. He became the youngest Sri Lankan to receive a full-time scholarship from the US Government in Therapeutic Community Psychological Counselling. Certified as a counsellor by the United States, he used his experiences and education to help others overcome similar challenges.
Professionally, Mullegama has held significant positions, including serving as the Head of Marketing for the South Asian region of Nature’s Secrets, a leading local cosmetics brand. He also imparts his knowledge as a senior lecturer at the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing and shares his insights on personality development through his column in The Sunday Times. Additionally, he is renowned for delivering transformational lectures that inspire personal growth and development.
Legacy
Philip Nehri Mullegama’s life story is a testament to the power of resilience and the potential for transformation. From being a drug addict and a mental patient to becoming a celebrated corporate trainer and CEO, his journey is a beacon of hope for those facing similar struggles. Mullegama’s success underscores the importance of perseverance, the impact of professional qualifications, and the value of giving back to society through mentorship and education.
In a society that once rejected him, Philip Nehri Mullegama has emerged as a symbol of triumph over adversity, inspiring countless individuals to believe in the possibility of a better future.
