Biography of Chalana Perera: Founder of RETRACE™ Hospitality -Entrepreneur
Introduction to Chalana Perera
Chalana Perera is a visionary entrepreneur and thought
leader focused on regenerating hospitality and tourism. He is the founder of
RETRACE™ Hospitality, a consultancy based in Sri Lanka that emphasizes
sustainable and regenerative practices within the hospitality industry. With a
career that spans Europe and Sri Lanka, Chalana brings a unique perspective on
how the tourism sector can evolve through responsible and mindful development.
From Europe to Sri Lanka: A Journey of Transformation
Chalana's career began in Europe, where he was involved in
hotel development for institutional investors and international brands such as
citizenM Hotels and YAYS Aparthotels. His work in Europe provided him with
valuable insight into the international hospitality landscape. However, the
challenges facing Sri Lanka's tourism industry, especially in the wake of the
pandemic and political turmoil, motivated him to return to his roots and
contribute to his home country's recovery.
Education and Early Career
Chalana's academic background includes a degree from the
prestigious Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL), Switzerland, where he studied
Hospitality Management. He also earned certifications in Commercial Real Estate
Development from the International Faculty of Finance in London. This strong
foundation in hospitality and real estate development set the stage for his
transition into a thought leader in sustainable tourism.
Understanding the Challenges in Sri Lanka's Tourism
Sri Lanka, with its rich cultural heritage and biodiversity,
has long been a top destination for travelers. However, the country's tourism
industry faced significant challenges, from political instability to the global
pandemic. While these crises attracted global attention, Chalana recognized
that the deeper issues, such as climate change and ecosystem degradation, were
even more critical to address for the long-term success of the sector.
The Vision Behind RETRACE™ Hospitality
RETRACE™ Hospitality was born out of Chalana's desire to
regenerate communities, ecosystems, and lifestyles in Sri Lanka through
sustainable tourism. His consultancy focuses on providing tailored solutions
that prioritize the responsible management of natural resources, sustainable
development practices, and a balance between people, planet, and profit.
A Focus on Regenerative Tourism
At the heart of RETRACE™ Hospitality’s mission is the
concept of regenerative tourism, which goes beyond sustainability to focus on
creating positive, lasting impacts on both communities and the environment.
Chalana advocates for nature-based solutions and ecosystem regeneration as
critical components in reshaping the tourism industry to be more mindful and
conscientious.
The Role of Stakeholders in Regenerative Practices
Chalana emphasizes the importance of collaboration among
stakeholders, including property owners, investors, small and medium
enterprises, and government agencies. His approach involves working closely
with all these groups to ensure that hospitality and tourism projects not only
generate economic value but also contribute to the social and environmental
well-being of the region.
Empowering the Local Community
One of Chalana's key goals is to empower local communities
by ensuring they benefit from tourism in a sustainable way. By guiding tourism
businesses on how to balance profitability with community welfare, Chalana is
helping create a tourism model that enhances the livelihoods of locals while
preserving cultural and ecological heritage.
Financial Prudence and Strategic Advisory
Drawing on his experience in hotel investments, Chalana stresses the importance of financial prudence in tourism development. He believes that responsible financial management is fundamental to ensuring that hospitality and tourism ventures can remain viable in the long term while meeting sustainability goals. Through RETRACE™ Hospitality, he provides strategic advisory services that help businesses manage cash flows effectively while prioritizing responsible development.
Biography of Chalana Perera: Founder of RETRACE™ Hospitality -Entrepreneur /sustainable and regenerative tourism/startup/age/net worth/RETRACE™ Hospita
Partnerships with Global and Local Organizations
Chalana’s expertise and influence extend beyond individual
projects. He collaborates with global and local organizations such as the Sri
Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, and various
tourism development agencies. These partnerships are crucial for driving
large-scale change and implementing regeneration strategies across the nation’s
tourism sector.
A Climate-Conscious Tourism Advocate
Chalana’s commitment to sustainability is evident in his
leadership in climate initiatives. He became Sri Lanka's first signatory to
Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency and The Future of Tourism Coalition. These
initiatives reflect his dedication to addressing the urgent climate challenges
faced by the tourism industry and advocating for a global shift towards more
sustainable and climate-conscious travel practices.
International Recognition and Public Speaking
Chalana is a recognized thought leader in sustainable
tourism, frequently invited to speak at international forums and conferences.
He has presented at prestigious events such as MIPIM, ITB, and the Young
Hoteliers Summit, as well as appeared on podcasts focused on sustainable
travel. His insights into the future of hospitality and tourism have earned him
a respected voice in the global conversation on sustainability.
Moving Forward: The Future of Regenerative Tourism
Looking ahead, Chalana remains committed to his mission of
transforming the hospitality and tourism sectors in Sri Lanka and beyond. With
the support of RETRACE™ Hospitality, he continues to drive projects that
integrate regenerative practices into the heart of the tourism industry.
Through these efforts, Chalana aims to ensure that tourism is a force for
good—contributing positively to the economy, society, and the environment for
generations to come.
Timeline for story
Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) - Studied Hospitality
Management.
International Faculty of Finance, London - Earned
certifications in Commercial Real Estate Development.
Europe Career - Worked in hotel development for
institutional investors and international brands.
Post-Pandemic Return to Sri Lanka - Returned to Sri Lanka to
contribute to tourism recovery.
Founder of RETRACE™ Hospitality - Established consultancy
focusing on sustainable and regenerative tourism.
Advocate for Regenerative Tourism - Promoted regenerative
tourism to create lasting community and environmental impacts.
Collaboration with Stakeholders - Worked with property
owners, investors, and government agencies to drive sustainable practices.
Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency - Became Sri Lanka's
first signatory to this global climate initiative.
International Speaker - Presented at prestigious events like
MIPIM, ITB, and Young Hoteliers Summit.
Ongoing Commitment to Regenerative Tourism - Continues
transforming hospitality with RETRACE™.
