I-Host 2025: A Landmark Conference for Sri Lanka’s Hospitality & Tourism Future

The Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA), together with NSBM Green University and the International Centre for Tourism & Hospitality (ICTH), hosted the inaugural International Hospitality & Tourism Conference – I-Host 2025 on 4th September at the NSBM Green University premises.

Carried under the theme “From Heritage to Horizons: Tourism and Education in Sri Lanka”, the event created a unique platform where students, academics, and professionals came together to discuss the evolving needs of the tourism and hospitality industry.

Two central areas shaped the program: Future-Ready Hospitality Graduates and Personal Branding for Success. The sessions featured thought-provoking perspectives from leading voices such as Darhs Gallage (City of Dream), Ishara Naufal (Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts), Dinesh Hettiarachchi (Mackson Hotels), Maheesha Ratnayake (Aitken Spence Hotels), and Niroshan Silva (Institute of Hospitality / Laughs Leisure), among other distinguished speakers.

Following the insightful keynote sessions and panel discussions, the conference introduced an inter-university quiz competition on tourism and hospitality subjects. This friendly yet competitive segment highlighted the knowledge and enthusiasm of Sri Lanka’s future professionals, adding a dynamic academic dimension to the event.

In addition, I-Host 2025 celebrated Sri Lanka’s cultural richness with traditional performances and offered valuable networking sessions that connected emerging graduates with experienced industry leaders.

This pioneering collaboration between SLHGA and NSBM Green University stands as a milestone in aligning academia with industry practice, while reaffirming the shared commitment to preparing Sri Lanka’s next generation of tourism and hospitality leaders for global success.

SLHGA extends heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Lasitha De Silva, who played a key role in the organization, and to Mr. Patrick Pereira, President of SLHGA, for his vision and leadership.

With I-Host 2025 setting a strong foundation, this initiative is set to grow into a lasting platform that inspires and empowers the future leaders of Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry.