On The Buzz this week I speak to Shawn Mendis, a distinguished legal expert and political figure in Australia. Mendis shares his unique insights into the intersection of law and politics, shedding light on how these fields can foster stronger international relationships between Australia and Sri Lanka. With his extensive experience in both law and governance, Mendis discusses the trusted legal frameworks that help bridge cultural and professional gaps, from immigration and corporate law to cross-border collaborations. This conversation delves into how political leadership and legal expertise are shaping the future of bilateral relations.

1. Can you tell us about your professional life in Australia and what keeps you occupied?
I am the principal solicitor at Shawn Mendis Lawyers, where we focus on areas like business law, wills and estates, family law, and migration law. My day-to-day involves representing clients in court, mediation, and providing them with legal solutions that address their unique challenges. Beyond that, I am deeply involved in community work, something I’m passionate about. For example, we’ve partnered with local sports clubs and organizations like the Cancer Council Australia to offer legal support. Outside the office, I’m always working to foster strong relationships with my clients and the broader community, ensuring we provide excellent service while also staying ahead with innovative legal solutions.

2. You’ve always maintained a strong connection to your Sri Lankan roots. What has inspired you to do so, and why is it important to you?
My connection to Sri Lanka is an essential part of who I am. Although Australia is my home now, Sri Lanka remains my motherland, and the values I grew up with still guide me. I’ve always felt it’s important to give back to both communities—here in Australia and in Sri Lanka. Staying involved in cultural events and community initiatives helps me maintain that bond while also contributing to the Sri Lankan diaspora. It’s a way for me to honour my heritage and ensure I’m making a difference in both the places I hold dear.

3. Do you have any aspirations to enter politics in Australia?
I’m already involved in politics, especially through my work with the Liberal Party as a community engagement committee member. The party’s values, particularly around personal responsibility and economic opportunity, resonate with me. As an ambassador for the Sri Lankan community, I’ve helped integrate and empower our people here in Australia, connecting resources and organizing key cultural events like the Sri Lankan Independence Day. While I don’t have any immediate plans to run for office, I find fulfilment in being involved in initiatives that bridge communities and bring about positive change. For me, it’s less about holding a formal position and more about making an impact where it matters most.

4. You’ve built strong relationships with prominent figures in Australia. How have you facilitated engagement between them and the Sri Lankan community?
I’ve been fortunate to develop relationships through various community events, legal partnerships, and local sponsorships. These connections have allowed me to bridge gaps between Australian and Sri Lankan communities, particularly in areas of business, culture, and sports. A recent example is when Sri Lankan pop icons Mr Rookantha Goonatillake and Ms Chandralekha Perera received a recognition award at the Victorian Parliament. I played a role in facilitating that moment, alongside figures like Hon. Evan Mulholland, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, and Hon. John Pesutto, the Opposition Leader. Whether it’s through legal services or cultural events, my goal is always to foster mutual understanding and growth between these two vibrant communities.

5. What motivated you to pursue a career in law?
My journey into law was inspired by my father, who ran a successful law firm in Australia, Mendis & Gibson Lawyers. When his business partner passed away, I realized I needed to step up and help manage the business. This was the moment I decided to pursue law seriously. My background in accounting gave me a strong foundation, but law allowed me to further support individuals and businesses in meaningful ways. It’s a career that aligns with my desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, and today, I’m proud to be a partner at Mendis & Gibson Lawyers.

6. Who has been your greatest inspiration throughout your journey?
Without a doubt, my parents have been my greatest inspiration. My father’s dedication to his legal practice and his unwavering commitment to helping others showed me the importance of hard work and integrity. My mother has always been my constant source of strength and encouragement, motivating me to keep pushing forward even in challenging times. Their values shaped my worldview and are the cornerstone of both my personal and professional life.

7. What are your goals for the future?
Looking ahead, I want to continue growing Shawn Mendis Lawyers and expand our community involvement. We’ve been growing steadily, and I envision a larger, more innovative practice that remains focused on client needs. On a personal level, I aim to strengthen relationships across different industries, both in Australia and Sri Lanka, and use my platform to contribute to community initiatives in a meaningful way.

8. As someone who frequently travels between Australia and Sri Lanka, what do you think Sri Lankan youth are missing out on, and how can they work on building a personal brand?
Sri Lankan youth often miss out on opportunities for global exposure. Building a personal brand takes networking, confidence, and adaptability. I encourage them to focus on improving their skills, embracing new technologies, and staying connected to both local and international communities. Volunteering, internships, and even building a professional social media presence can go a long way in establishing a strong reputation, whether they want to succeed in Sri Lanka or abroad.

9. What are your views on the upcoming presidential election in Sri Lanka?
The upcoming presidential election is a pivotal moment for Sri Lanka. It offers the country a chance to tackle its challenges and create real progress. The focus should be on economic stability, youth development, and national unity. Sri Lanka needs a strong leader with the integrity to drive meaningful change and restore trust in its institutions. I’m hopeful that the election will bring about positive outcomes for the long-term well-being of the nation.

10. As a young leader in society, what would you say to inspire those reading this column to stay in Sri Lanka and contribute to its development?
Sri Lanka has immense potential, and its future lies in the hands of its youth. By staying and contributing to the country’s growth, young people have the power to create real, lasting change. Whether it’s through entrepreneurship, community projects, or working in established industries, there are countless opportunities to make a difference. My advice is to stay resilient, be innovative, and always consider how you can contribute to Sri Lanka’s progress. There’s no limit to what you can achieve by dedicating yourself to the betterment of your homeland