Mr. C. Chakradaran

Mr. Chakradaran, affectionately known as Chak, has been recognized for his extensive contributions to the legal and business communities, culminating in his appointment as an Eminent Senior Advisor to the Board by the Sri Lanka Business Council UAE (SLBC). His career spans several significant roles and achievements:

  1. Legal Career and Education: Mr. Chakradaran began his career as an advocate in Sri Lanka after being admitted to the Sri Lankan Bar Association in 1966. He later moved to Dubai in 1979 after a successful tenure that included lecturing on commercial law at the Ceylon Law College in Colombo.
  2. Contribution to Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): He played a pivotal role in the establishment of DIFC, advising on laws and legislation during its initial setup. His expertise was instrumental in reviewing contracts and agreements crucial to the DIFC's development.
  3. Legal Practice: Mr. Chakradaran is renowned for his expertise in maritime casualty and litigation support, representing prestigious clients such as P&I clubs, insurers, and reinsurers in complex, multi-jurisdictional disputes. His practice extends to various areas including construction contracts, commercial agencies, and arbitration proceedings.
  4. Leadership and Affiliations: He has held key positions such as Chairman of the Board of Directors at the DIFC Arbitration Centre LLC and served as the Sri Lanka Representative at the ICC International Court of Arbitration. His memberships include the International Bar Association (IBA), highlighting his global influence in legal matters.
  5. Education and Recognition: Mr. Chakradaran's legal acumen is underpinned by his education at Ceylon Law College, where he graduated with first-class honors and received a scholarship for his academic achievements.
  6. Languages and Expertise: Fluent in English, Mr. Chakradaran advises on a wide range of legal issues spanning environmental regulations, sovereign immunity, and laws impacting transportation and commerce across the Gulf, Middle East, and South Asia regions.
Mr. Chakradaran's appointment as an Eminent Senior Advisor underscores his enduring commitment to advancing legal standards and fostering international business relations, particularly within the UAE-Sri Lanka business landscape. His career exemplifies a dedication to excellence and leadership in law and business.

Mr. Farook Kassim

Farook Kassim has had a remarkable career marked by entrepreneurial achievements and significant contributions to various business ventures and organizations.

Early Life and Education:
  • Farook Kassim was born in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 1958.
  • He attended Royal College in Colombo, where he was involved in rowing, highlighting his early interests and activities.
Career and Business Ventures:
  • 1975: Moved to Dubai.
  • 1978: Co-founded Expolanka Holdings Ltd, which grew to become Sri Lanka's largest publicly listed business by 2022.
  • Founding Partner:
    • Albogari Trading Co. LLC
    • Albogari IGL DMCC
  • Chairman:
    • Esanjo Ventures, focusing on trade, investment, and precious metals.
Professional Engagements:
  • Chairmanship and Directorships:
    • Chaired JadoPado.com.
    • Served as a non-Executive Director of Al Baraka Bank, South Africa.
Community and Organizational Contributions:
  • Founding and Leadership:
    • Co-founded the Sri Lanka Business Council in Dubai in 1991.
    • Elected and served as Chairman of the board three times.
  • Trustee:
    • World Memon Organisation.
  • Support for Community:
    • Recognized as a pillar of strength for the Sri Lanka Business Council and the Sri Lankan community in the UAE.
Education and Personal Achievements:
  • Graduated from Harvard Business School’s OPM (Owner/President Management) program in 2005, indicating a commitment to ongoing learning and leadership development.
Farook Kassim's journey illustrates a deep involvement in business, significant leadership roles in both corporate and community settings, and a dedication to fostering economic and social ties within the Sri Lankan and broader business communities in Dubai and beyond. His diverse portfolio of ventures and contributions highlights his influence and impact over several decades.

Mr. Gamini Kannangara

With over four decades of business experience, Mr. Gamini Kannangara currently holds the position of Managing Director of Trico Maritime (Pvt) Limited, successfully running the parent company in Sri Lanka and its network of over 25 branch offices as well as over 40 agencies worldwide.

Mr. Kannangara has also ventured into a public private partnership with Sri Lanka Customs with successful implementation and continued operation of the recently established Export Facilitation Center located in Colombo 13.

In 2019, Mr. Kannangara was recognised by the World Customs Union through Sri Lanka Customs on World Customs Day for his steadfast dedication to the trade and assistance provided to Sri Lanka Customs over the last four decades.

In addition to his leadership role at Trico Maritime, Mr. Kannangara also leads Frico International LLC, a company established in 1983 that specializes in logistics services to Sri Lanka, Philippines, Indonesia, and Nepal. He also leads Trico Travels and Tours and Reemal Trading. He has been a stalwart of the Sri Lankan community based in the UAE for over the last 40 years.