The Jaffna model the world noticed

• “The days when modeling was viewed as a profession reserved for women are fading fast. Across international runways and pageants, male models are increasingly making their mark.”
• “His breakthrough came in November 2025 when he travelled to Manila, Philippines, to represent Sri Lanka at the Mister Glam International 2025 competition.”

The days when modeling was viewed as a profession reserved for women are fading fast. Across international runways and pageants, male models are increasingly making their mark. Among them is Haran Raminshan, a young man from Jaffna whose rise from a small northern town to international recognition offers a story of persistence, discipline and determination.

Born on June 18, 2005, Haran spent his childhood in Jaffna and completed his education at Avarangal Nadarajah Ramalingam Vidyalayam. From a young age, he showed a strong interest in the arts, taking part in dance, acting and television presenting. Those experiences helped build the confidence that would later guide him toward modeling.

While social media expanded his horizons, it was encouragement from his brother that pushed him to pursue the profession seriously. Despite his success in modeling, Haran says his long-term ambition remains acting, with hopes of establishing himself in both Sri Lankan and Indian cinema.

After leaving school, he committed himself fully to the industry. He adopted a disciplined routine that included daily fitness training, runway practice, posture development and strict dietary control. Determined to compete professionally, he gradually transformed both his appearance and skill set while building a portfolio through photoshoots, commercial assignments and voice-over work.

Seeking formal training, Haran made a demanding journey from Jaffna to Kandy three times a week to study under renowned modeling instructor D. Shan Mallawa. The commitment reflected his willingness to invest in his craft despite the distance and challenges involved.

His breakthrough came in November 2025 when he travelled to Manila, Philippines, to represent Sri Lanka at the Mister Glam International 2025 competition. Competing against contestants from more than 35 countries, Haran secured a place in the global Top 10 and earned international recognition through several special awards.

Among the honours he received were the Culture Ambassador title, Best Performance on Stage award and recognition from the International Achievers Book of World Records. Achieving such success without major institutional backing or extensive mainstream media exposure made the accomplishment even more significant.

While national recognition remained limited, his hometown responded differently. Upon his return to Jaffna, residents organised celebrations, traditional performances and community receptions to welcome him home. The reception reflected local pride in a young man who had carried the Sri Lankan flag onto an international stage.

Rather than viewing his success as a personal achievement alone, Haran sought ways to create opportunities for others. After being appointed a National Director, he turned his attention toward developing the modeling industry in Northern Sri Lanka.

His answer was the creation of the Stylo Rami Model Academy.

Managing much of the groundwork himself, Haran secured premises, completed administrative requirements and launched the academy in Jaffna on March 7, 2026. The first intake consisted of 20 students.

The academy aims to provide structured modeling education in a region where such opportunities have traditionally been limited. Haran personally guides students through professional photoshoots, grooming sessions and runway training while helping connect them with national and international competitions.

He has also expanded his efforts beyond Jaffna by conducting modeling workshops in different parts of the country. These programmes provide aspiring models with training, practical experience and recognised certification.

Perhaps most importantly, Haran’s journey has challenged long-standing social attitudes. In many conservative communities, modeling has often been viewed with skepticism, particularly for young men. Questions such as “Should young men pursue modeling?” or “What will society say?” remain common.

By reaching international platforms while maintaining strong ties to his community, Haran has demonstrated that modeling can be a legitimate profession and pathway for personal development.

His story is also a reminder that talent often emerges far from the country’s traditional centres of influence. While much of Sri Lanka’s fashion and entertainment industry remains concentrated in Colombo, Haran has achieved international recognition largely outside that spotlight.

Today, he is focused on expanding his presence at international fashion events, fulfilling his responsibilities as a pageant director and identifying new talent through future projects.

“I was born in Sri Lanka, I proudly represented Sri Lanka, and I won recognition in the Philippines,” he says.

His message to young people remains simple.

“There are no limits. Do not place limits on your dreams.” 

Stylo Rami Model Academy has announced auditions for its talent development and pageant platform,  Sri Lankan Upcoming Model 2026 (SUM 2026) , aimed at discovering new modeling talent from across the country.

The Jaffna audition will be held on  June 28, 2026 , and is open to both male and female contestants under separate categories. The programme is supported by a team of experienced beauty professionals, cosmetologists and fashion industry experts, while  Dr. Syed Ahmed Miranji Mohamed  will attend as Chief Guest.

Participants who complete the training and competition programme will receive an internationally recognised  ISO-certified certificate .

Applicants can register by sending their name, age and three recent photographs via WhatsApp to 074 337 3497.