My "why" is rooted in a deep belief that sustainable growth happens when communities unite to uplift one another. After decades of working in international development and humanitarian sectors, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful connections, shared knowledge, and collaboration can transform lives and businesses. Through the NIA platform, I’m driven to create a vibrant network in Sri Lanka where business owners do not compete in isolation but grow together, supporting one another, exchanging opportunities, and building long-term value. I do what I do because I believe in empowering others to succeed and strengthening community-driven progress.
Unique Selling Proposition
1. Community-Focused & Relationship-Driven
We build trusted relationships—not just contacts—among Sri Lankan business owners and professionals. Our focus is on collaboration over competition, leading to genuine referrals and long-term partnerships.
2. Professionally Facilitated Meetings
NIA groups are led by trained facilitators who keep meetings productive, engaging, and strategically focused—saving members time and ensuring every session adds value.
3. Technology-Enabled 24/7 Connectivity
With NIA’s app and online tools, members can connect, refer, and grow their businesses any time, beyond the monthly meetings, making networking more efficient and accessible.
4. Results-Oriented Referral Culture
We focus on measurable outcomes—referrals, collaborations, and revenue growth. Our success is based on helping members grow their businesses consistently.
5. Sri Lanka-Centric with Global Reach
NIA Sri Lanka bridges local businesses with global referral and partnership opportunities, creating a platform that blends local trust with international access.
About me
My name is Pamatheesan Kopalapillai, and I serve as the Director and Partner for Network in Action (NIA) in Sri Lanka. With over 22 years of experience as an international development and humanitarian practitioner, I have led strategic initiatives across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe, focusing on disaster management, economic development, community resilience, and social impact through multimillion-dollar programs and public-private partnerships.
Alongside my development work, I founded the Kopa Foundation, a community development charity organization based in Batticaloa, demonstrating my commitment to humanitarianism and community advancement.
Moreover, I enjoy playing games and engaging in athletics. I am a former sprinter, a current Rotarian, and a cricket fan, all of which highlight the importance of teamwork, commitment, and networking.
As a passionate community builder, my mission with NIA is to help connect business owners across Sri Lanka into a trusted network that fosters collaboration, generates high-quality referrals, and drives collective economic success. I believe we grow stronger when we grow together through meaningful connections, shared values, and strategic partnerships.