- Kushani Sandagiri Makes History as First Sri Lankan Woman to Earn Engineering Degree from Memorial University
From a young age, Kushani Sandagiri displayed a natural talent for problem-solving.
Her curiosity as a child often led her to take apart her dolls, toy helicopters, and action figures—not to break them, but to figure out how they worked. That inquisitive spirit would eventually guide her toward a field where few women in her country dare to venture: engineering.
In Sri Lanka, engineering is still largely seen as a man’s profession. But one teacher in high school recognized Kushani’s potential and encouraged her to pursue a career in the field.
“I want other Sri Lankan girls to realize that they can do this too,” Kushani says.
That single voice of encouragement, combined with the support of classmates along the way, helped her push past social norms and forge her own trail.
On May 29, during Memorial University’s spring convocation at the St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre, Kushani made history as the first Sri Lankan woman to graduate from the university’s Bachelor of Engineering program.
“This milestone is deeply personal,” she reflects. “Yes, it’s a personal achievement—but more importantly, it’s a step forward for others. If I can inspire even one girl, it’s worth it.”
A Journey Across Continents
Kushani’s road to success was far from smooth.
She began her studies in Sri Lanka, enrolling in a chemical engineering technology diploma, which included internships that offered hands-on industry experience. One such internship placed her on an oil tank inspection team—an environment where female engineers were virtually unheard of.
“People were surprised to see me there,” she recalls. “But my supervisor stood up for me, and that moment reminded me I had a place in this profession.”
Determined to pursue her dreams further, Kushani made the courageous move to Canada, arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador as an international student with no immediate network or community.
Adapting to a new country brought its own set of challenges: financial burdens, academic pressure, cultural adjustments, and a deep sense of responsibility toward her family back home.
“There were times when I could barely afford tuition,” she says. “I was also sending money, groceries, and medicine to my family during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. It was incredibly hard but I knew it was all part of the journey.”
A Sense of Belonging
Despite the obstacles, Kushani found a supportive academic community that helped her persevere.
She built strong relationships with fellow students and faculty, grounded in trust and respect. One mentor stood out in particular Dr. Kelly Hawboldt, professor of process engineering.
“Dr. Hawboldt gave me the freedom to explore. She opened the lab and said, ‘This is your space. Experiment. Learn.’ That kind of trust made a lasting impact on me.”
Now a proud engineering graduate, Kushani is passionate about helping other young women especially those from underrepresented backgrounds find their own path in science and technology.
“Your background, your hardships, your dreams they’re not things to hide. They’re your strength. Own them,” she says.
Kushani Sandagiri has not only earned a degree she has shattered a barrier. And through her determination and resilience, she’s offering a guiding light to the next generation of Sri Lankan girls who dare to dream big.
