A Sri Lankan student with an impressive background in marketing is looking forward to applying her expertise and expanding her knowledge during her internship.
Ruvangi Wijekulasuriya recently secured the position of Digital Marketing Intern at the premium New Zealand honey company Bee Positive. The internship is centred on social media marketing and brand engagement.
“I’ll focus on optimising website content, enhancing search engine rankings, and developing strategies to boost online visibility. This role allows me to apply my previous experience while gaining valuable insights into the New Zealand business landscape,” says Ruvangi.
Ruvangi has more than nine years of experience in marketing and market intelligence. She progressed from Market Analyst to Manager Projects at Brandix, an apparel company operating in nine countries with over 60,000 employees.
“At Brandix, I managed high-level projects and led the research team to drive business growth,” she says.
Ruvangi came to New Zealand to gain international exposure. She says one of the most rewarding aspects of studying at Future Skills has been the opportunity to engage with a diverse community of students and lecturers from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
“Interacting with individuals from different countries has not only broadened my perspectives but also enriched my learning journey, fostering a deeper appreciation for global viewpoints,” she says.
She chose Future Skills because it’s renowned for delivering high-quality, industry-relevant education and offering NZQA-recognised qualifications.
“The institution’s core values, developing the whole person, fostering lifelong learning, and contributing to the community deeply align with my own beliefs,” says Ruvangi.
She has previously gained a Bachelor of Business (Marketing & Management) from Edith Cowan University, Australia, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from The Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK.
Outside of work and study, Ruvangi is a passionate squash player, who has represented Sri Lanka at the national level.
After graduation, she aims to pursue a career in digital marketing and business development in New Zealand.
“My goal is to apply my experience to contribute to an innovative organisation and help drive impactful growth strategies.”
Her advice to prospective students is to make the most of networking opportunities.
“Future Skills provides an excellent platform for learning, growth, and building industry connections, so be proactive in engaging with peers and mentors. Above all, seize every opportunity that comes your way and maintain a determined mindset. Challenges are an inevitable part of the journey, but perseverance and a positive attitude will lead to success.”
“My best advice would be to talk to others. Students might get some insights unexpectedly during a coffee meeting with their friends which might be helpful for their paper.”
“The institution’s core values, developing the whole person, fostering lifelong learning, and contributing to the community deeply align with my own beliefs.”
“The best thing about studying at AIC is the classroom environment and the interactive way of learning which allows one to explore themself.”
"My goal is to integrate my industry experience with my academic knowledge to create meaningful business solutions.”
“This isn’t just a job - it’s the New Zealand dream I hoped for when pursuing my master’s.”
“Rest days were few and far between as I balanced work at the hotel, my internship, and peer tutoring.”
"It felt like a good opportunity to try something new."
“This role represents a meaningful opportunity made possible through the support and recommendations of the AIC Employability Team.”
“Don’t be afraid to show who you are while growing in a new environment.”
“Without my tutor, I couldn't have thought of higher studies."
“Perfecting the art of welding has been one of my main goals.”
“I am so proud and captivated because I got a good job.”
