Ravichandran Krishnakumari is more than just a success story—she is a trailblazer, a woman who has shattered barriers to carve out a place for herself in leadership within an industry that once confined her to the shadows of manual labour. Her rise from plantation worker to management at the Idulgashinne Bio Tea Garden is a powerful testament to the resilience of women, the transformative power of Fairtrade, and the strength that comes from within.
From Humble Beginnings to Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling
I was born in 1995 in the remote village of Namunukala, in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka. Like many families in our community, mine was deeply rooted in the tea plantation sector. Coming from a family of plantation workers, I was the eldest of two siblings, and from a young age, I understood the challenges my parents faced working on the tea plantations. Despite this, I was determined to pursue my education and carve out a different path for myself.
Determined to change my future, I focused on my education and excelled in school, completing my Advanced Level (A/L) studies in Arts. I chose subjects like Music, Political Science, and Tamil, which reflected my diverse interests beyond the expectations set for women in my community.
In 2018, I married Dayalan, who is also from the plantation workers’ community at Idulgashina Bio Tea Garden. For the first two years of our marriage, I devoted myself to being a homemaker, focusing on my family and settling into my new life. But deep down, I knew I wanted to do more!
A New Chapter: Discovering Leadership Potential
In 2020, I decided it was time to take control of my future, and I seized the opportunity to join the Tea Processing Centre at Idulgashina as a Factory Worker, starting in the Rolling and Shifting rooms, stepping into a space that was traditionally dominated by men. Where others saw limitations, I saw possibilities. It didn’t take long for my leadership potential to shine through. I was elected as the Women’s Representative on the Fairtrade Premium Committee, advocating for factory workers. This role was just the beginning.
Soon I was appointed Secretary of the Committee and in 2023 was also named as one of the Top 10 Skilled Workers by the Factory Management. I was then entrusted with additional responsibilities as an Assistant Supervisor, marking a significant step in my career progression- something very few women in my community had achieved. But my journey was far from over.
A Transformative Milestone and Breaking Barriers for Women
In 2024, my hard work and dedication paid off when the Idulgashina Estate Management evaluated my performance and recognised my leadership skills. I was promoted as Assistant to the Fairtrade Officer, transitioning into middle management. For a woman from a plantation background to step into this role was a radical shift—not just for me, but for all the women in my community. It showed that women could rise to leadership positions, make strategic decisions, and inspire others to do the same.
In this role, I now receive a structured salary with travel and medical allowances and full access to provident fund benefits.
Creating Pathways for Change: Professional Growth and Aspirations
In my current role as Assistant to the Fairtrade Officer, I assist in organizing workplace meetings, conducting awareness training sessions, and maintaining Fairtrade-related records. Through my journey, I’ve had the privilege of participating in various training programs organized by Fairtrade NAPP, including FTO training, gender strategy consultations, and workplace compliance sessions. These have provided me with valuable knowledge and skills, helping me grow both personally and professionally.
Beyond my work, I have several passions. I love athletics and have always enjoyed staying active. I also took sewing classes through Fairtrade, and this skill has been incredibly fulfilling. In addition, I’ve had the opportunity to study computer technology at the Idulgashina Fairtrade IT Centre, which has given me tools that I now use in my everyday work.
I’ve also received first aid training as part of the Factory Occupational Health and Safety Committee, which is important to me because ensuring the well-being of my colleagues is a priority. Another skill I’ve developed is proficiency in Tamil-Sinhala translation, something that I cherish as it helps bridge communication gaps in our diverse community.
Being in this role has taught me that gender leadership is not just about individual empowerment. It’s about creating platforms where women can influence and drive change in their local communities and beyond.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Family, Work, and Aspiring for More
While my professional responsibilities have grown, my family remains at the heart of my life. I currently live with my husband’s family, and together we care for our daughter. My husband, Dayalan, works in cultivation at Idulgashina Bio Tea Garden and also drives an auto-rickshaw part-time. He’s been an incredible support, especially when it comes to raising our daughter. While I manage my professional duties, Dayalan ensures she’s well looked after after school, allowing me to focus on my work.
Balancing work and home life isn’t always easy, especially with my commute, which starts at 7:00 AM and ends after 5:30 PM. But with the support of the estate management, who provide me with flexible departure times, I’m able to catch the last bus home. It’s not always smooth, but with determination and the support of my family, I’ve found a way to make it all work.
As I look ahead, I am committed to furthering my growth. I’m determined to improve my English skills, and I hope to take courses that will allow me to continue breaking barriers for myself and my community. Gaining the support of workers is easy for me because I come from the same background—they see me as one of them. My vision is clear—I want to lead Fairtrade Premium Projects that will empower more women, educate workers, and inspire the next generation of female leaders.
This is my journey, and it’s only just beginning.
