Appreciations
View(s):She steered the company through very rough seas
Christine Fernando
April 24, was a sad day for the greater family of United Tractor & Equipment (popularly known as UTE) as one of its key members, Christine Fernando, bid goodbye to this world to be with her Maker. She was suffering from health issues during the latter part of her life. It was her wish that the final rites should happen within 24 hours of her passing, and her family granted her wish by cremating her within a few hours of her demise.
Christine Fernando (nee Thambimuttu) was known as ‘Mrs. Fernando’ to the customers, suppliers and staff of UTE. She had her primary education at Holy Family Convent Bambalapitiya, after which she pursued her passion as a teacher in elocution and English drama. In the late 80s she became a TV news presenter and acted in several English plays.
She joined United Tractors, the local Caterpillar dealer in the early 90s, a company owned by her husband’s family. Initially she went through the ranks of Senior Manager and General Manager, to finally become the Managing Director/CEO. UTE’s survival was very much based on the construction industry and the company underwent an economic crisis during the time of the civil war. It was at this time that Mrs. Fernando came to the rescue. She had a lot of ‘common sense’, and combined with her analytical thinking, was instrumental in uplifting the company, to make sure that it survived through the difficult times.
Although she did not possess an MBA, her understanding of business-related matters was truly incredible. She was able to make accurate predictions of the business trends, which undoubtedly were responsible for the company’s success. The skills of a ship captain are shown not when the sea is calm but when it is rough. Mrs. Fernando steered UTE through very rough seas. It is my opinion that the company would not have survived, if not for her leadership.
Mrs. Fernando was a task master but treated her staff in a fair manner and with a lot of compassion. She understood the personal struggles of the employees and helped them financially whenever she could. She was my superior, and I draw a parallel to my relationship with her as to that between a coach and a player, or that between a teacher and a student.
Rest in peace Mrs. Fernando, my guru and mentor. It is comforting to know that you are not in physical pain anymore. You will be fondly remembered and always held in high esteem by the UTE family.
Ex-employee of UTE
She was an inspiration, a guide and source of unending love
Nanda Liyanage (née Abeywickrama)
It has been a year since the passing of a remarkable lady, Nanda Liyanage, who left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Born into the Morawaka Muhandiram Abeywickrama family as the eldest, she carried forward her lineage’s legacy with grace, intelligence, and fortitude. Her early years at St. Mary’s Convent in Matara, where she excelled as a hosteller and exemplary student, laid the foundation for a life of purpose and achievement.
Nanda was a woman of strength and forthrightness, embodying a smart disposition that inspired admiration. Her marriage to the dashing Nandapala Liyanage was a union of over sixty years, marked by mutual love and respect, an adoring couple whose bond was cherished by all who knew them. Together, they raised three children—late Prof. Uditha Liyanage, Deepani and Dhammika—instilling in them values that shaped them into worthy citizens. She took immense pride in seeing her grandchildren—Manuri and Isuri Dias, Chaturi and Anuka Liyanage and great- grandson Manek grow up, nurturing them with love and wisdom.
A year has passed since she departed from our midst, yet her legacy continues to touch countless lives. Known for her boundless compassion, she was a guiding light for many—helping individuals find their life partners, offering motherly affection to those in need, and nurturing children with values of honesty and hard work. Through her wisdom and warmth, she shaped young minds into worthy citizens, leaving behind a community forever grateful for her selfless love and unwavering support.
Beyond her family, Nanda was a beacon of kindness and generosity. Her home became a sanctuary for erudite priests from across Sri Lanka and overseas, relatives and friends from distant places and even giving abode for vendors at the Mount Lavinia Sunday fair offering accommodation and hospitality with devotion and empathy alongside her husband P.L.N. Liyanage. Together, they were custodians for Buddhist hermitages and exemplified piety through their unwavering commitment to religious values.
Nanda’s sharp intellect and ever-graceful presence remained undiminished throughout her life. To those fortunate enough to call her family—including Sriyani, myself, Menaka and her beloved grandchildren—she was more than a mother-in-law; she was an inspiration, a guide, and a source of unending love.
As we reflect on her extraordinary life one year after her passing at the age of 97 in May 2024, we honour her legacy of compassion, strength and devotion. May her journey through Samsara be brief, and may she attain the supreme bliss of Nirvana.
Rohith Dias
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