The Unlikely Hero of Sri Lanka’s Startup Scene: How WSO2’s CEO Defied Conventional Wisdom
Sanjiva Weerawarana, the co-founder and CEO of WSO2, has been a thorn in the side of conventional wisdom for two decades. Against all odds, he built a successful software company in Sri Lanka, a country often overlooked by the global tech community. And now, his company is about to be acquired by private equity giant EQT for a staggering $600 million.
But Weerawarana’s story is not just one of entrepreneurial success; it’s also a tale of defiance, resilience, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. From the early days of WSO2, when he faced pressure to relocate to the US, to his decision to drive for Uber to challenge social norms, Weerawarana has consistently gone against the grain.
A Dinosaur in the Making
WSO2’s journey began in 2005, when Weerawarana founded the company with a vision to build an open-source enterprise software provider. Despite being based in Sri Lanka, a country with limited tech infrastructure, WSO2 quickly gained traction, with customers like Samsung, Axa, and AT&T.
But as the years went by, Weerawarana faced increasing pressure to relocate to the US. Investors, customers, and even competitors pressured him to move to a more "convenient" location. But Weerawarana remained resolute, convinced that WSO2 could thrive in Sri Lanka.
And thrive it did. WSO2 grew rapidly, with revenues exceeding $100 million annually. But the company’s success was not without its challenges. Weerawarana faced skepticism from investors, who questioned his ability to build a successful tech company in Sri Lanka.
The Power of Vision
Weerawarana’s vision was not just about building a successful company; it was about creating a legacy. He wanted to show that it was possible to build a tech company in Sri Lanka, despite the odds. And he did just that.
WSO2’s success is a testament to Weerawarana’s unwavering commitment to his vision. He refused to compromise on his values, even when it meant facing resistance from investors and customers. And his determination paid off.
The Unlikely Hero
Weerawarana’s story is not just one of business success; it’s also a tale of personal courage. He has faced challenges and obstacles at every turn, but he has always remained true to himself.
In 2017, Weerawarana started driving for Uber to challenge social norms in Sri Lanka. He wanted to show that anyone, regardless of their background or occupation, could do anything they set their mind to.
The Avinya Foundation
Weerawarana’s philanthropic efforts are just as impressive as his business success. He founded the Avinya Foundation, which supports economically disadvantaged children through vocational education programs.
Conclusion
Sanjiva Weerawarana’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about achieving financial goals; it’s also about staying true to oneself and challenging conventional wisdom. WSO2’s acquisition by EQT is a testament to Weerawarana’s vision and determination. And his philanthropic efforts are a testament to his commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
In a world where conformity is often the norm, Weerawarana’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone who dares to dream big and challenge the status quo.
