My professional Journey
Nimalka Rathnayaka
"Every challenge is a chance to grow. Every story deserves to be heard. I’m here to make both happen."
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Professional summary
Dedicated health and wellbeing professional with 5+ years’ experience in dementia, mental health, and aged care. Passionate about inclusive support, safety, and continuous learning. Currently transitioning into health and safety and wellbeing coordination, combining frontline care with strategic insight.
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Career highlights
📘 Early Career in Sri Lanka – Department of Technical Education and Training
Roles: Training Officer | Librarian | Library Development Officer | Development Officer
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I began my professional journey in the Department of Technical Education and Training, Sri Lanka, where I developed a strong foundation in education management, administration, and professional development.
In my early roles, I covered office administration, budgeting, academic and non-academic training, and student affairs management. I coordinated with staff and students to ensure efficient daily operations and policy compliance across multiple training institutions.
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As a Librarian and Library Development Officer, I contributed to academic excellence by:
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Key achievements & learnings:
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🎓 Educational Journey in New Zealand
In 2018, I moved to New Zealand to further my education and completed a Level 7 Diploma in Business Management at Aspire2 International, Christchurch.
This programme enhanced my understanding of New Zealand business practices, leadership, compliance, and operational management—a valuable step toward my long-term goal of professional growth in workplace safety and quality systems.
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🩺 Healthcare Experience in New Zealand
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During the COVID-19 pandemic, I began working at Observatory Lifecare, Oamaru as a Healthcare Assistant (HCA). I completed my NZQA Level 3 Health and Wellbeing qualification and discovered my passion for caring for others and maintaining high standards of safety and wellbeing.
After a year, I joined Ryman Healthcare – Charles Upham Retirement Village, Rangiora, where I completed my Level 4 Health and Wellbeing qualification. I later transferred to Ryman Healthcare – Diana Isaac Retirement Village, Christchurch, where I continue to work.
Key responsibilities
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Providing person-centred care and emotional support to residents.
Providing
Monitoring and recording residents’ health and wellbeing.
Monitoring and recording
Maintaining infection control, hygiene, and safety procedures.
Maintaining
Collaborating with nurses, clinical managers, and support staff.
Collaborating
Assisting with new staff orientation and mentoring.
Assisting
Achievements & learnings:
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🛡Across all my roles—whether in education or healthcare—I have consistently valued safety, quality, and people development.
My combined background in administration, training, compliance, and care delivery aligns closely with the responsibilities of a Health and Safety Coordinator.
Future Direction – Workplace Health & Safety Focus
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I bring transferable skills such as
Strong administrative and policy implementation abilities.
Experience in risk awareness, safe work practices, and wellbeing support.
Excellent communication and leadership skills from training and team coordination.
I am now actively working toward transitioning into a Workplace Health and Safety role, applying my experience to promote safer, healthier, and more compliant workplaces across industries.
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Connect with me
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