Prathibha Liyanaarachchi, the reigning Miss World Sri Lanka, has been featured on the cover of Happinez, one of Sri Lanka’s leading Sunday lifestyle magazines, in an extensive interview exploring her journey, ambitions, and plans for creating impact.

Appearing on the June 21, 2026 edition, Prathibha opens up about the experiences that shaped her long before winning the national title. As the eldest of seven siblings, she credits responsibility, resilience, and determination as the foundations of her success, describing her upbringing as a constant lesson in perseverance and gratitude.

She also shares her opinion on what the Miss World Sri Lanka crown represents to her. While calling the title an incredible honor, she emphasizes that it is ultimately a platform for service, inspiration, and positive change.

A significant part of the conversation focuses on her passion for preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Prathibha highlights her Beauty With a Purpose initiative, inspired by the country’s traditional artisans and craftspeople. Through the project, she supports sustainable opportunities for women while helping preserve skills and traditions passed down through generations.

The entrepreneur, model, technical designer, and founder of Hoop The Label also discusses the importance of living with purpose. She argues that success should not be measured solely by personal achievements, but by the number of lives positively impacted along the way.

One of the magazine’s standout quotes captures the philosophy guiding her reign:

“For me, success becomes truly meaningful when it empowers others to believe in their own potential, pursue their dreams, and elevate their lives.”

Prathibha also speaks candidly about confidence, leadership, and the pressures of social media. She encourages young women to recognize that confidence is developed through action rather than something people are born with, while emphasizing empathy and compassion as essential qualities of modern leadership.

Looking ahead to the Miss World Festival, she says she hopes to leave a legacy as a change maker who used creativity, action, and purpose to uplift others. Her message to young Sri Lankan girls is equally clear: trust yourself, dream boldly, and never allow circumstances to define your future.

The cover feature offers readers a closer look at the woman behind the crown as Prathibha Liyanaarachchi prepares to represent Sri Lanka at Miss World’s 75th Anniversary celebrations in Vietnam, August 9 to September 5.