BNI Sri Lanka National Conference 2026 to bring together visionary business leaders

Rajendran Dandapani, Otara Gunewardene, Hemu Suvarna

BNI Sri Lanka, the local chapter of the world’s largest business networking and referral organisation, will host BNI Sri Lanka National Conference 2026, on July 24, 2026, at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, bringing together the BNI members from across Sri Lanka and the global BNI network for a day of inspiration, learning and meaningful business connections.

Held annually as BNI Sri Lanka’s flagship event, the national conference celebrates entrepreneurship, leadership and collaboration while reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to helping businesses grow through trusted relationships and the philosophy of Givers Gain. 

As part of one of the world’s largest business referral networks, the conference provides the members with a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen professional relationships and gain valuable insights from internationally respected business leaders.

This year’s conference will feature two distinguished keynote speakers, whose leadership journeys have shaped globally recognised organisations.

Sri Lankan entrepreneur Odel and Embark founder Otara Gunewardene will share her journey of building one of the country’s most iconic retail brands while demonstrating how innovation, purpose-driven leadership and sustainability can create enduring business success.

Joining her as the international keynote speaker is Zoho Corporation Director and Zoho Schools of Learning President Rajendran Dandapani from India. Representing one of the world’s leading technology companies, Dandapani will share global perspectives on entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation and talent development, drawing on Zoho’s internationally recognised people-first approach to building sustainable businesses.

Together, the speakers represent two distinct yet equally inspiring leadership journeys, offering practical lessons on resilience, innovation, long-term thinking and creating organisations that remain relevant in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Small and medium-sized enterprises continue to play a vital role in Sri Lanka’s economy by generating employment, driving innovation and contributing significantly to economic growth. Through platforms such as the national conference, BNI Sri Lanka remains committed to strengthening the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting business owners with global knowledge, trusted relationships and opportunities for sustainable business growth.

BNI Sri Lanka National Director Hemu Suvarna said, “The BNI Sri Lanka National Conference is our flagship event that brings together members from across Sri Lanka and the global BNI network to learn, connect and grow. This year’s keynote speakers represent excellence in entrepreneurship and innovation and we are delighted to provide our members with the opportunity to learn from two outstanding business leaders whose experiences offer valuable lessons for businesses of every size.”

BNI Sri Lanka National Conference 2026 is expected to welcome hundreds of BNI members, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing and sustainable business growth through one of the world’s most connected business communities.