Sri Lanka’s Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development, Jeevan Thondaman has been recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.
The World Economic Forum announced Minister Thondaman’s selection on Thursday (Apr 04), highlighting his role in improving access to clean water and advocating for social justice.
Issuing a statement, the Ministry of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development said this recognition is significant as Minister Thondaman becomes the first-ever Minister in Sri Lankan history to be selected as a YGL.
Since taking office last year, Minister Thondaman has led several initiatives aimed at improving the living conditions of historically marginalised communities, advocating for social justice, and spearheading reforms in the water sector to ensure access to safe and affordable drinking water for all Sri Lankans. His dedication to public service and his innovative approach to leadership have made a substantial impact at the national level and are now recognised on the global stage through this selection.
The YGL Community is a unique, multi-stakeholder community of more than 1,000 exceptional young leaders who share a commitment to shaping the global future. Being selected as a Young Global Leader is a testament to Minister Thondaman’s vision, leadership qualities, and his relentless pursuit of equality and sustainability.
The Ministry further congratulated Minister Thondaman on this achievement and supported his ongoing efforts to use this opportunity to further the nation’s development goals, encourage youth empowerment, and enhance Sri Lanka’s presence on the global stage.
“Minister Thondaman’s selection as a Young Global Leader underscores his role as a dynamic and progressive force in politics, both domestically and internationally. It highlights the potential for impactful leadership and the importance of collective efforts in building a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for all,” the ministry added.
Minister Thondaman’s inclusion in the Young Global Leaders programme comes as a recognition of his commitment to public service, focusing on improving living standards and advancing rights for marginalised communities in Sri Lanka.
The Young Global Leaders programme identifies promising leaders under 40 who are shaping the future. Past inductees include prominent figures like French President Emmanuel Macron, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Ali Baba founder and technology entrepreneur Jack Ma and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.
Commenting on his recognition, Minister Thondaman thanked the World Economic Forum and outlined his plans to use the platform to foster international collaboration and promote entrepreneurship, particularly among Sri Lanka’s youth.
“This recognition is not just a reflection of my journey, but it stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the people of Sri Lanka. I am committed to leveraging this platform to foster greater international collaboration and drive forward our shared goals for sustainable development and equality,” Minister Thondaman said in a statement. (NewsWire)