Michael

What made you start Gem Mountain Resort, and what do you want it to be like?

In April of 1998, at the age of 21, I embarked on my first journey to Sri Lanka, a trip that left me utterly amazed and filled with wonder. The country felt like a real-life Shangri La, with its bustling cities and pristine tropical jungles. During my many years of visiting Sri Lanka, the people there showed me incredible kindness, and I developed a deep affection for the place. Eventually, I found my second home in the enchanting City of Gems, Ratnapura. It was here that my career and passion for sustainability flourished, thanks to the abundant opportunities this magnificent location provided.

Having been so positively impacted by Ratnapura and its wonderful community, I’ve always wanted to give something back and contribute to the city’s well-being. Gem Mountain Resort represents my heartfelt desire to show my gratitude and appreciation to Ratnapura for being exceptionally kind to me.

With Gem Mountain, I aim to create a haven that reflects the splendor of this extraordinary region and elevates Ratnapura to the recognition it truly deserves. I envision a place that not only embraces the natural beauty and allure of the City of Gems but also offers a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation for visitors from all walks of life.

In essence, Gem Mountain Resort is my way of saying ‘Thank you’ to Ratnapura, as I wholeheartedly strive to contribute to its prosperity and showcase the magnificence of this remarkable destination to the world.

Are there any challenges you anticipate facing during the project, and how do you plan to overcome them?

Ensuring the success of our project hinges on the selfless dedication of our team members. Our primary challenge lies in assembling the ideal team to fill the numerous positions required for the project’s success. Finding individuals who not only possess the necessary skills but also embody a selfless and committed attitude is crucial.

To overcome this challenge, we have devised a comprehensive recruitment strategy. We will actively seek out talented and passionate individuals within the Ratnapura region, tapping into the pool of motivated people residing in this remarkable area. By fostering strong relationships with local communities, educational institutions, and industry networks, we aim to attract the right talent that aligns with our values and vision.

Moreover, we believe in creating an appealing work environment that fosters a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By offering competitive salary, opportunities for personal growth, and a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, we intend to entice individuals who are not only skilled but also genuinely enthusiastic about contributing to the project’s objectives. In conclusion, our success lies in the hands of the remarkable individuals who will join us on this journey. We are optimistic about meeting any challenges that may come our way in Ratnapura.

What do you say to the local community that doesn’t want to see development and tourism come to Ratnapura?

As an avid nature lover, I share a deep appreciation for the beauty and uniqueness of this region. I understand the apprehension towards potential changes that may impact the environment and the local way of life.

Allow me to shed light on our vision and approach for the project. Our goal is not just about development for development’s sake or simply catering to tourism. Instead, our vision revolves around striking a delicate balance between progress and preservation. We have no intention of cutting down trees or paving roads carelessly. On the contrary, we plan to work closely with experts to create a diverse and thriving garden with native plants, offering visitors an unparalleled experience found in few other places in the world. We aim to bring more people and foreign investment to Ratnapura in a responsible and sustainable manner, ensuring that the essence of the local communities and their natural surroundings remain at the forefront.

One of the significant challenges we aim to address through our project is the issue of local people leaving Sri Lanka to seek work opportunities abroad. We are committed to creating a positive impact on the community by providing viable job prospects and encouraging the best and brightest to stay in their homeland and contribute to its growth.

Our goal is to empower the next generation to have access to more opportunities while staying within their local communities. By promoting sustainable tourism and showcasing Ratnapura’s extraordinary fauna, flora, and its wonderful people, we hope to generate a win-win for Ratnapura’s thriving local economy.

In conclusion, we invite open dialogue and collaboration with the local community to ensure that our project aligns with your values and concerns. Together, we can work towards a shared vision of Ratnapura’s future—one that thrives through sustainable development, celebrates nature’s treasures, and allows the best and brightest to remain in Sri Lanka, contributing to the growth of their motherland.