Thriving through flexible study

“I’m originally from Sri Lanka where I started my career in the banking and education sectors,” she says. “I’ve worked in banking operations, customer service, HR, training, counselling and lecturing.”

After years of supporting others through mentoring and teaching, she wanted to challenge herself with international study. 

“When I was searching for places to study, I found NMIT. It’s in a beautiful city called Nelson. It reminded me of home,” she says.

Sithari enrolled in the Master of Applied Management at NMIT and appreciated how the programme was flexible enough to fit her needs. 

“I really wanted to do a general master’s because I wanted to study different subjects. I took electives in healthcare, IT and management.”

NMIT gave her the support she needed to thrive.  

“There were moments of doubt and pressure, but I reminded myself that growth often comes through discomfort,” she says. “The tutors were amazing, really supportive. The overall environment had such a positive impact on me. It honestly feels like my second home here in New Zealand.”

While studying, Sithari also worked as a study support assistant at NMIT.  

“That role meant a lot to me. I got to support fellow students, especially those who were new to New Zealand or returning to study like I was. It felt incredible, meaningful, to be able to guide others, share encouragement and build a strong sense of connection within the student community.”

Her research focused on the impact of culture in New Zealand’s banking sector. 

“I personally met with managers from eight or nine banks in Nelson. Their support helped me succeed in my thesis, and that research continues to support my work today.”

The hard work paid off when Sithari was awarded academic excellence at graduation. 

“It was a proud and emotional moment for me.”

Sithari now works for Auckland-based financial advice firm Smart Advisor as a Business Development Manager. In this role she supports client relationships, manages public relations and develops their social media strategy, and builds networks within Sri Lankan and broader multicultural communities across New Zealand. She continues to lecture and counsel students in Sri Lanka and has recently taken on a role as assistant media coordinator with a Sri Lankan newspaper.  

Despite her busy schedule, Sithari is also continuing her academic pursuits by pursuing a PhD in Business Administration and Management.

While her career continues to flourish, she reflects on how the right environment helped her succeed.

“Studying in a regional city gave me the freedom and calm I needed. I really love the culture in Nelson, the supportive people, and how stress-free it felt. I really want to tell everyone that NMIT was not just a place to study. For me, it also helped me to grow my passion for helping and mentoring others. I’ll always be grateful to NMIT for the opportunities it gave me.”

Learn more about the Master of Applied Management at NMIT.