A Childhood of Dreams Amid Challenges

Born in Sri Lanka on December 10, 1985, Thanuji Ranasingha came into a close-knit family as the youngest of two children. Her full name, Ranasingha Arachchillage Thanuji Chathurangika Sandamali Ranasingha, is a reflection of her Sri Lankan heritage; long, traditional, and symbolic of family blessings, but she prefers the simplicity of Thanuji Ranasingha.

From a young age, life tested her. Economic hardships, frequent moves, and family challenges shaped her character, yet they never dimmed her dreams. She dreamed of owning a home, of exploring the mysteries of the world, and of making a positive impact. By the age of ten, Thanuji had developed a love for learning that would define her path. Her teenage aspirations were bold and diverse, from scientist to writer, archaeologist to politician, all fuelled by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the world.

University and the First Turning Points

After excelling in her Advanced Level exams, Thanuji pursued Environmental Science at university, a field that perfectly aligned with her passion for nature. Her university years were transformative, intellectually, socially, and personally. She thrived in an environment that nurtured her curiosity, surrounded by friends who became lifelong companions.

Her academic excellence was undeniable: she graduated with first-class honors and distinction for her research thesis. A Research Assistant position was offered to her, but life’s circumstances, heartbreak and financial responsibilities, led her to make a difficult choice: she declined, seeking immediate stability rather than a long academic path.

Public Service and Family Life

Thanuji then joined the Sri Lankan Administrative Service in 2012, earning respect and prestige in the public sector. She married in 2013, and by 2017, she and her husband had two children. Life was calm, stable, and comfortable, yet she felt an inner yearning. While her career allowed her to develop exceptional skills in communication, leadership, and project management, she realized she had not fully pursued her true passion: environmental sustainability.

In 2021, amid political and economic upheaval in Sri Lanka, the decision became clear. Thanuji and her husband wanted a peaceful, stable environment to raise their children. Coupled with her desire to reconnect with her environmental journey, they made the courageous decision to move to Canada, leaving behind the comfort and security they had built over a decade.

Rebuilding Dreams in a New Land

On September 14, 2023, Thanuji arrived in Canada with her husband and children. She enrolled in a Master’s in Environmental Sustainability at the University of Ottawa, returning to school after ten years. The transition was daunting: cultural differences, new educational systems, and technological gaps created challenges, yet she faced them head-on.

Early mornings and late nights became routine as she balanced coursework, household responsibilities, and her children’s needs. Her husband’s unwavering support provided both encouragement and comfort, even as he took on extra work to support the family.

Through perseverance, Thanuji not only excelled academically but also gained practical experience in her field. She worked as a Policy Assistant at Ottawa Riverkeeper and then at the Canadian Wildlife Service, where she developed expertise in environmental policy, communication, and analysis. She also contributed to the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Science marketing team, learning storytelling and content creation, skills that complemented her environmental expertise.

The Road Ahead

In May 2025, Thanuji graduated, a moment of triumph and reflection. Yet, even after earning her degree, she faced new challenges: navigating immigration rules, financial constraints, and the uncertainty of the job market. Still, she remained steadfast, drawing strength from mentorship programs and supportive connections in Canada.

Thanuji’s journey reflects the essence of Women Who Thrive: resilience, courage, and the relentless pursuit of growth, even when the path is uncertain. Her story reminds us that thriving is not only about personal achievement but also about the family, support systems, and sacrifices that make it possible.

Thriving isn’t about certainty. It’s about choosing courage, especially when the cost is high

What’s Next?

Today, Thanuji continues to move forward with confidence and determination. She has joined the Women for Nature Mentorship Program, where she is being guided and supported by experienced mentors who help her navigate opportunities, sharpen her skills, and build her professional network. With each step, she is taking charge of her journey, fearlessly embracing new challenges, pursuing her passion for environmental sustainability, and creating a path not just for herself, but for her family.

Her story is still unfolding, and with resilience, courage, and the right support, the best chapters are yet to come.

Want to Support Thanuji?

Thanuji is now actively seeking a position in the environmental sector, eager to apply her expertise and passion for sustainability. Know someone looking to hire in this field? You can connect her to opportunities, refer her, or simply spread the word.

Follow her journey and support her next steps by connecting with Thanuji on LinkedIn or reach out to us directly to see how you can help. Every connection, referral, and word of encouragement makes a difference.