Kavinya Dissanayake (OH 2020)

Today we pay tribute to the brave individuals who serve(d) our country, and we are proud to highlight the journey of one of our own – Kavinya Dissanayake (OH 2020).

Kavinya’s story is one of determination, resilience, and breaking barriers. She graduated with a Bachelor of Business from UNSW Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy last year, while successfully juggling her 4-year degree with military training, and commissioning into the Australian Air Force. It was Haileybury’s focus on time management that helped her balance it all.

Her journey began back in Year 10, when she was 16 years old, starting the two-year process of applying to join the Air Force. By Year 12, she received the incredible offer to enlist. Now, as a Logistics Officer in the Air Force, Kavinya has proven that there’s more than one path to success, especially for women in the military.

Kavinya is also a fierce advocate for women in leadership and STEM. As a young female in a traditionally male-dominated field, she draws inspiration from senior female officers who carry themselves with strength and grace. She aims to inspire others, particularly girls, to pursue their dreams and to challenge the status quo.

A proud daughter of parents who migrated to Australia, Kavinya grew up with the values of giving back and embracing the privilege of being Australian. Her parents worked tirelessly to send her and her sister to Haileybury, where she was part of the first cohort to graduate from the City campus. Kavinya’s love for Haileybury runs deep—she’s a proud advocate for the education and community that shaped her.

She was honoured to be the guest speaker at the City campus’s International Women’s Day celebration, where she shared her story and encouraged young women to follow their passions without limits.

Thank you, Kavinya, for your service to the Australian military and your ongoing commitment to giving back to the Haileybury community. Your journey is a powerful reminder that the sky is the limit—especially for women daring to lead, innovate, and inspire.