A new era for Sri Lanka’s travel media began with the launch of the Travel Journalists Alliance (TJA) on 20th October 2025, marking the first-ever collective of media professionals dedicated to promoting the country’s tourism industry across print, digital, and broadcast platforms.
Conceptualised by veteran journalist Claude Gunasekera, the Alliance brings together editors, writers, photographers, and content creators from mainstream newspapers, trade publications, and social media platforms to enhance Sri Lanka’s global visibility as a premier travel destination.
“This Alliance represents a new chapter for travel journalism in Sri Lanka,” said Claude Gunasekera, Founder and Secretary of the Travel Journalists Alliance. “By working together, we can share stories that inspire travel while upholding ethics, authenticity, and sustainability in tourism reporting.”
The inaugural meeting appointed the Alliance’s first executive committee, led by:
President: Sanath Weerasuriya – Travel Editor, Sunday Times & Daily Mirror
Vice Presidents: Steve Morrel (The Island), Dinushka Chandrasena (Travel Talk Asia), Geethika Weerakoon (Serendib News), Mohamed Rasooldeen (Colombo Times)
Secretary: Claude Gunasekera (Lankapuvath/ LankaTourguide)
Treasurer: Zanita Careem (The Island)
Head of Digital Media (English): Melkishya Andrew (The Morning)
Head of PR: Nelum Buddhadasa (newsasia.lk)
Patron: Virosh Perera – Director, Marketing & Communication
The Travel Journalists Alliance aims to serve as a unified voice for Sri Lanka’s travel media community, fostering collaboration and professionalism while promoting responsible storytelling that supports the nation’s tourism growth.
