Governor’s Message

Governor: Keshala Fernando-Dissanayake,
Eastern Canada Region, 2026 – 2028

About ‘Kesh’

Keshala has been a dedicated member of Soroptimist International of Cambridge since February 2009. She immigrated to Canada as a baby in the 1970s and grew up witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by women. She is a proud mother of two amazing daughters and is grateful for the support of her husband.

She holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree and an MBA with a specialization in Labour Relations, Organizational Design, and Marketing. Later in life, she pursued studies in interior decorating. She currently works in operations and client relations management, bringing together her strategic background, professional experience, and creative vision to lead effectively and help others thrive. Her academic foundation, entrepreneurial experience, and management expertise shape her leadership style; strategic, compassionate, and grounded in building systems that support people and communities.

Creativity has always been an important part of her life. She has a deep love for interior design and organization, finding beauty in efficiency and purposeful spaces. She also enjoys gardening, artistic endeavours, travel, and participating in team sports which are experiences that continually inspire her and broaden her appreciation for the strength and resilience of women in communities around the world.

Her commitment to volunteerism extends beyond Soroptimist. She previously worked with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and has served within the School Board community, as well as volunteering with Bridges and Healthy Heart Day initiatives, always with the goal of keeping people healthy, empowered, and educated. She is also a proud soccer, basketball, and cheerleading mom, supporting youth development both on and off the field and court.

Keshala believes deeply in Soroptimist’s mission to empower, educate, and elevate women and girls. Through the Live Your Dream Awards, scholarships, advocacy, and education programs, she has witnessed the profound and lasting impact of investing in women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals. Having served on and worked alongside numerous committees, she understands the ripple effect that occurs when one individual is supported.

This work matters and she is honoured to serve alongside Soroptimists who believe in the power of women helping women.