Bernadine Jayasinghe Educating Beyond Borders

Bernadine Jayasinghe’s story is not simply one of achievement, but of evolution. Beginning her entrepreneurial journey at 18, her life has taken her through entrepreneurship, media, education, training and leadership-experiences that gradually shaped a deeper purpose: developing people. Today, as Founder and Managing Director of the Institute of Essential Studies (IES) and Founder of EvolvingSkills.org, Bernadine advocates for something she believes the modern world urgently needs: developing the human being behind the qualification, designation and technology.
Her work spans generations-from school and university students to entrepreneurs, professionals and leaders-helping people strengthen the human skills that shape both success and life. With a particular focus on bridging the gap between education and the workplace, and helping organisations understand and empower Gen Z and Gen Alpha, her work prepares people for a rapidly evolving world. At its heart is Discover the Magic Within: helping individuals recognise their potential, grow with purpose and create meaningful impact. Having trained, coached and inspired more than 100,000 people, her work explores communication, emotional intelligence, confidence, adaptability and leadership. But beneath all of these is a simpler question that continues to guide her journey: Who are we becoming while we are busy becoming successful?

Words - Sachini Perera

You were recently recognised with the Inspirational Educator Award at the House of Lords, UK Parliament. What did that moment represent to you-personally, professionally and as a Sri Lankan educator?

It was a beautiful moment, but what surprised me was where my mind went. I wasn’t thinking only about the award. I was thinking about the journey-the 18-year-old who started without knowing where life would lead, the people who trusted me, the opportunities that opened doors, and even the disappointments that quietly redirected me. And standing there as a Sri Lankan made it even more meaningful. It reminded me that the size of the place we come from should never determine the size of what we believe is possible for our lives. But I have also learned not to confuse recognition with purpose. Awards recognise a moment; purpose is what you continue doing when nobody is applauding. Some of my greatest rewards have come quietly-when someone meets me years later and says, “You probably don’t remember me, but something you said changed something in my life.” Those moments keep me grounded. Ultimately, I don’t want simply to be remembered for what I achieved. I hope I am remembered for what I helped others believe they could achieve.