Stitching her way up at garments’ conglomerate MAS
From humble beginnings on the factory floor, a strong commitment to fulfil an ambition nurtured since school days, and family and friends to support every step of the way, is what got Nilmini Haputhanthri achieve her goals and clinching a top-notch position in the apparel industry at MAS Holdings, today.
As Deputy General Manager (Technical) at Bodyline she has become one of the leading women in the apparel industry today and her incredible journey is being celebrated this Women’s Day for her hard work, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence and growth.

Ms. Nilmini Haputhanthri
Ms. Haputhanthri in an interview with The Sunday Times Business said that back “in 1993 I was at a crossroads between higher education, becoming a teacher, or seeking a job in the apparel industry. From a young age, I’ve always been interested in how clothing combines creativity and practicality. The apparel industry gives me the chance to blend art and engineering, and I was particularly drawn to the technical side of making clothes.”
“Working with well-known brands and finding new ways to improve garment construction has been a big motivation for me”, Ms. Haputhanthri said.
“As a woman who started from scratch, I bring a unique perspective to leadership and I’m interested in creating a positive and inclusive environment especially where women feel empowered,” she said.
As a role model, she inspires other women to break through obstacles and pursue their ambitions, no matter how impossible they may seem.
Ms. Haputhanthri has completed several diploma level courses regarding leadership management and finally end-up as a graduate in Master of Business Administration (MBA).
A mother of two, she has a son of 24 years and a daughter of 19, with whom she makes sure she finds time to spend with.
Ms. Haputhanthri’s husband and in-laws have also been very supportive of her progress in life. “My family is a key part of my life and they have always been supportive and taught me the value of hard work and resilience.” They have always celebrated my achievements and are a source of strength through my ups and downs.
She has marked her name in the apparel industry as a dynamic leader in technical innovation, product development, and garment engineering. Her work has ensured that the highest quality standards are maintained for some of the world’s most renowned brands, including Victoria’s Secret, Triumph, Lane Bryant and other emerging brands.
Ms. Haputhanthri’s journey is an inspiration for all women aspiring to break barriers and reach new heights in their careers. Starting out as a Trainee Team Member at MAS Holdings, within just a year she was promoted to a Trainee Supervisor.
The first major milestone was as Quality Assurance Executive in 2005 from when she kept climbing the ladder to being promoted to Assistant Manager – Garment Technology; Manager – Technical and then just last year she was promoted to her current position, as the Deputy General Manager – Technical at Bodyline.
She has also had extensive international experience that includes training and collaborations in Hong Kong, Thailand and India where she gained deeper insights into global industry trends, technology integration and best practices that she passes on to her teams through knowledge sharing.
“My family always wanted me to be a teacher. And I told myself, that I will be a teacher here at MAS, and that was one ambition that kept me going this entire time”, said Ms. Haputhanthri as she recalled all the colleagues she inspired and empowered during her tenure of 32 years at MAS.
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