Nov 13, 2015
Vancouver, BC - At an early age, Dushan Karunasena knew he wanted to start his own business. The native Sri Lankan – who earned a degree in agriculture – grew up interested in everything from architecture and painting to décor and fashion. Eventually, the well-travelled designer’s creative pursuits led him to Canada where his dream to be his own boss trumped the intimidating challenges of running his own business.
Among other things, Dushan was particularly skilled at floral design and aspired to start a floral boutique where he could create elegant and modern displays. Unfortunately, his first attempt at this business idea struggled. Then he found the Self-Employment Program at Langara Continuing Studies and what he learned turned his business around.
“The program gave me a great business foundation and showed me the steps I needed to take. The marketing instruction helped me focus my business’ direction and showed me that my creative work would be best suited for the wedding and event industry,” he said.
Dushan rebranded his business, naming it Dushan Flowers, and consulted with his instructors on how to develop strong relationships and valuable business connections within the wedding industry. In subsequent years, Dushan Flowers earned award nominations, television and magazine features, and most importantly, substantial growth in the business.
Dushan’s passion and creativity still drives his work, something his business – and his clients – surely benefit from. “I get a great sense of satisfaction hearing reviews from my brides and grooms on how my floral displays played a huge role in making their wedding day perfect.”
The value of his Continuing Studies experience at Langara isn’t lost on Dushan either, “I knew I needed some help. The Self-Employment program gave me the skills, support, connections, and confidence I needed to achieve my dream.”
About Langara
Located in beautiful Vancouver, B.C., Canada, Langara College provides University, Career, and Continuing Studies education to more than 21,000 students annually. With more than 1,700 courses and 130 programs, Langara’s expansive academic breadth and depth allows students of all ages, backgrounds, and life stages to choose their own educational path.
Learn more.
Rolf Savella
Communications Officer
604.323.5961
rsavella@langara.bc.ca
