Dr. Shanika Arsecularatne is said to be the youngest Sri Lankan to be qualified by the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. Born to parents who are both professionals in different industries where her father Priyan is a Civil Engineer whilst her mother Ramani is a Professor of Cosmetology. Shanika was educated till her O/L’s at Holy Family Convent, Colombo 04 and thereafter attended Asian International School to complete her studies. Whilst in school her favorite subjects included chemistry and mathematics and her main interests were in the fields of fashion and beauty.

Was being a medical doctor always on your bucket list? Or did you have any other ambitions as a small child?

Yes. I’m a good listener and empathic by nature. I was also an active member of the school community service club and did a lot of voluntary work at orphanages, nursing homes and hospitals for the aged. It gives me an immense satisfaction to be of help to another person in need. Hence why I chose the field of medicine.

As a student, who were your role models and why? Who influenced you?

My mom has been my biggest role model. She has taught me to be courageous, persistent and to never give up until I reach my goals.
I’m a fan of biographies and self-development books. Out of the many books, whichI’ve read, Mother Theresa has influenced me the most for her empathy and service for humanity, and I also admire Sir Richard Branson and Donald Trump for advice on entrepreneurship and successful management of businesses.

Tell me about your career? How it all started and why you chose Aesthetic Medicine as your main discipline?

I did my internship in Pediatrics and surgery at the General Hospital Hambanthota. After completing my internship I pursued my postgraduate studies in Aesthetic Medicine. I’m the youngest SriLankan to be qualified by the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine and aesthetic medicine gives me the opportunity to combine two of my greatest passions:  Beauty and Medicine. It’s a new field in Medicine that is high in demand.

Apart from all of this, leaving the doctor part of you out, what are your other interests?

Travelling- I have travelled to nearly 30 countries so far
Reading autobiographies and self motivation books
Photography – especially nature
Music and Latin dancing

By Migara Wijesinghe