BOC Youth Loan fuels success: Isiri Galagama’s inspiring entrepreneurial journey

Isiri Galagama

Isiri Galagama’s journey is one of resilience, ambition, and a strong belief in her dreams. From a young age, she envisioned herself as more than just a student navigating the corridors of academia; she dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur, creating something meaningful that would leave a lasting impact on the world. Today, standing at the helm of a thriving business that exports coir products, she is living proof of the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of the BOC Youth Loan Scheme offered by the Bank of Ceylon. 

Growing up in a small town in Sri Lanka, Isiri was no stranger to challenges. Her family, though supportive, had limited resources, and the dream of building a business seemed distant and unrealistic. Yet, she remained undeterred. “Since childhood, I dreamt of starting my own business,” she recalls, reflecting on the long hours she spent reading about successful entrepreneurs and experimenting with coir products. “I always believed that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.”  

While pursuing her studies at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Isiri began to take her entrepreneurial aspirations more seriously. Inspired by her love for coir products, she decided to take the leap and launched Ojil Private Limited. Armed with little more than an idea and an unshakable belief in her vision, she faced her first major hurdle, funding. 

Starting a business requires more than just passion; it demands resources, strategic planning, and financial backing. “I was so passionate about my idea, but I had no idea where to begin when it came to finances,” she admits. It was at this crossroads that a friend introduced her to the BOC Youth Loan Scheme, a program designed to empower young entrepreneurs like herself. The scheme, launched by the Bank of Ceylon, provides financial support and essential advisory services to young individuals aspiring to start or expand their businesses. 

Encouraged by the possibilities the loan scheme offered, Isiri took a bold step and applied. The process, she recalls, was both exciting and nerve-wracking. “I was stepping into unknown territory. I didn’t know if my idea was good enough, or if I had what it takes to turn it into reality,” she says. However, with Bank of Ceylon’s guidance and encouragement, she quickly realised she wasn’t alone in her journey. 

The loan approval was a pivotal moment in Isiri’s life. It provided her with the financial boost needed to scale her operations, invest in quality raw materials, and explore opportunities beyond Sri Lanka’s borders. “Receiving financial support from BOC enabled me to expand my business into export markets,” she explains. Today, her coir products are making their way into international markets, a feat she once thought impossible. 

The bank provided her with crucial insights into financial management, marketing strategies, and growth planning. “Bank of Ceylon didn’t just hand me the money and leave me to figure things out on my own,” she says gratefully. “They guided me every step of the way, from how to manage my finances wisely to planning for long-term sustainability.” 

Despite having the financial backing, Isiri’s journey was not without its share of obstacles. She had to learn the nuances of running a business, from managing supply chains to meeting international quality standards. There were moments of doubt and setbacks that tested her resolve, but she remained steadfast. “Starting a business is not easy. It requires commitment, patience, and the ability to bounce back from failure,” she says. 

Over time, Isiri’s dedication began to bear fruit. Her brand gained recognition for its commitment to sustainability and quality, attracting a loyal customer base both locally and internationally. As her enterprise grew, so did her confidence. “Looking back, I realise that every challenge I faced was an opportunity to grow and learn,” she reflects. 

Isiri’s story is more than just an entrepreneurial success; it is an inspiration for countless young Sri Lankans who harbour dreams of their own. Her experience underscores the importance of having the right support system and resources to turn aspirations into reality. “Without Bank of Ceylon’s support, my journey would have been much harder,” she acknowledges. “Their trust in my vision gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward.” 

Today, Isiri is not just focused on growing her business but also on giving back to the community. She conducts workshops and mentoring programs for aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help others embark on their journeys. “I want to show young people that if I can do it, so can they,” she says with a smile. “Success is within reach if you’re willing to put in the effort and seek out the right opportunities.” 

As she looks to the future, Isiri remains optimistic about what lies ahead. She envisions expanding her product line, entering new markets, and continuing to innovate in the field of organic personal care. “There’s always more to achieve, more dreams to chase,” she says. 

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple but powerful: “If you have a dream, pursue it relentlessly. Seek help, find the right mentors, and never stop learning. Bank of Ceylon is an excellent place to start because they not only provide financial support but also the guidance needed to succeed.” 

Isiri’s journey is a reminder that dreams are achievable, no matter how distant they may seem. With the right blend of determination, support, and strategic planning, young entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka can turn their visions into reality, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps. 

For those aspiring to embark on their own entrepreneurial journey, Isiri offers a final word of encouragement: “Take the first step. Believe in yourself, and remember that the path to success begins with a single decision.”