WAJINIE MAHANAMA JOINS DRAGONS OF ASIA JURY

Wajinie Mahanama, Client Services Director at MullenLowe Sri Lanka, has been selected as a jury member for the Dragons of Asia 2026 Awards. Marking her first time on the panel, she expressed excitement at celebrating inspiring regional work, learning from fellow jurors, and recognising creativity shaping Asia’s marketing industry.  

Wajinie Mahanama, Client Services Director at MullenLowe Sri Lanka, has been named as a jury member for the prestigious Dragons of Asia 2026 Awards, a recognition that underscores her growing influence in the region’s marketing and communications landscape. The appointment marks her debut on the judging panel of one of Asia’s most respected platforms for creative excellence, and she has spoken of her excitement at the opportunity to engage with some of the most innovative campaigns emerging from across the continent.  

For Mahanama, the honour is both professional and personal. “This will be my first time on the jury, and I’m truly looking forward to reviewing and celebrating some of the most inspiring work coming out of the region,” she said, reflecting on the significance of the role. Her words capture the sense of anticipation that accompanies the chance to evaluate projects that not only demonstrate creativity but also embody strategic thinking and cultural insight.  

The Dragons of Asia Awards have long been regarded as a benchmark for marketing effectiveness and creativity, recognising campaigns that push boundaries while resonating deeply with audiences. Mahanama’s selection highlights the increasing visibility of Sri Lanka’s advertising talent within the broader Asian context. It also reflects the industry’s recognition of her expertise in client services, where she has consistently championed work that balances innovation with impact.  

She emphasised the energising nature of the process, noting how the awards provide a window into the evolving dynamics of the industry. “It’s always energising to see the creativity, strategic thinking, and cultural insight that continues to shape our industry across Asia,” she remarked. Her perspective underscores the importance of cultural nuance in campaigns that aim to connect with diverse audiences across the region, a factor that has become increasingly critical in a globalised marketplace.  

Equally, Mahanama expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with fellow jurors, many of whom bring varied experiences and perspectives from across Asia’s marketing and advertising sectors. “I’m excited to learn from fellow jurors while recognising the incredible talent pushing boundaries in our field,” she said. This spirit of collaboration reflects the ethos of the Dragons of Asia Awards, which not only celebrate achievement but also foster dialogue among industry leaders.  

Her appointment comes at a time when Asian advertising is experiencing a surge of creativity, with brands and agencies experimenting with new formats, digital platforms, and storytelling techniques. As a juror, Mahanama will be part of the process that identifies and honours the campaigns setting new standards for effectiveness and originality.  

For MullenLowe Sri Lanka, her selection is also a moment of pride, signalling the agency’s growing role in shaping conversations about creativity and effectiveness beyond national borders. It positions Mahanama as both a representative of Sri Lanka’s advertising community and a participant in a wider regional narrative about innovation and cultural resonance.  

As the Dragons of Asia 2026 Awards approach, Mahanama’s presence on the jury adds another dimension to the celebration of creativity, ensuring that voices from across the region are part of the dialogue that defines excellence in marketing. Her enthusiasm and commitment suggest that her contribution will be both insightful and impactful, reinforcing the awards’ reputation as a platform that honours not just campaigns, but the ideas and people behind them.