Nearly three decades after leaving his coastal hometown with little more than a dream, Prasanna Weerasooriya has emerged as a recognized force in global fashion—proving that determination and sacrifice can indeed turn impossible ambitions into reality.
Born in Yakdehimulla, Unawatuna, Galle, and educated at Richmond College, Weerasooriya grew up with limited financial resources but an unshakable passion for modeling and the tourism industry. Family members recall that his fascination with fashion was evident from childhood, even when opportunities in Sri Lanka remained scarce.
In 1996, he made a bold decision: travel to Italy alone and build a foundation for his future. What he did not know then was that he would one day stand at the center of the international fashion world.
The Road to Milan
Life in Italy was far from glamorous at the start. Weerasooriya worked tirelessly, saving every penny instead of spending on entertainment. His discipline and persistence eventually allowed him to launch his own venture—a milestone he calls a blessing from God.
“I came to Italy like an ant, but today I feel like a giant,” Weerasooriya reflects. “My happiness is beyond words.”
Historic Fashion Shows on the Global Stage
In 2019, Weerasooriya achieved a landmark success by organizing a grand international fashion show in Milan in collaboration with partners from Dubai. The Rock Star Fashion Show featured approximately 150 top models and 12 designers from multiple countries. Critics hailed it as a historic moment—the first major fashion show independently organized by a Sri Lankan in Milan without institutional support from his home country.
The event drew global attention. Designers and models from the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Dubai, and France soon reached out to collaborate, marking a turning point in his career. Since then, he has successfully organized four to five international fashion shows in Milan, each attracting strong attendance and positive reviews.
More than 60 photographers and journalists from major Italian newspapers and television channels have covered his events, helping build his reputation as a reliable international fashion show organizer.
Beyond Glamour: Fashion as a Platform for Growth
According to Weerasooriya, fashion shows are far more than glamorous spectacles—they are powerful platforms for global collaboration. They bring together designers from different countries to showcase creations, connect with buyers and investors, and build international partnerships. Some individual pieces featured at these events can cost between 400,000 and 1,500,000 Sri Lankan Rupees, reflecting deep craftsmanship and creativity.
He credits much of his success to the unwavering support of his wife, Palricic Aieman, who played a crucial role in building their company into a recognized Italian brand. Together, they overcame challenges in a highly competitive industry.
Remarkably, Weerasooriya achieved all of this without financial backing from investors in Sri Lanka, relying instead on hard work, determination, and strategic partnerships.
A Vision for the Homeland: ‘Fashion with Sri Lanka’
Today, Weerasooriya’s greatest ambition is to bring his hard-won experience back to Sri Lanka. He is currently preparing to organize a major international fashion event in his home country titled Fashion with Sri Lanka.
The upcoming show aims to create employment opportunities, promote local designers, and connect Sri Lanka’s fashion industry with the global market. His mission is simple: empower young Sri Lankans and help them showcase their talents to the world.
A Message to the Youth
“Success is not impossible,” Weerasooriya says. “With courage, discipline, and determination, anyone can achieve greatness. I want the young people of Sri Lanka to believe in themselves and use their talents to make their country proud.”
About Prasanna Weerasooriya
Prasanna Weerasooriya is an internationally recognized fashion show organizer based in Milan, Italy. Born in Galle, Sri Lanka, he has produced multiple acclaimed international fashion events and is now working to bring global fashion platforms to his homeland.
