A Tribute to Rochelle Rodé de Silva: A Guiding Light Beyond the Title

Today, I write not for any occasion or assignment, but from a place of genuine gratitude. Only today, I came to know that Ms. Rochelle Rodé de Silva , Group Director – Marketing at Asiri Health, has stepped away from her role. Though I was never officially under her direct leadership, she left an unforgettable mark on my life—both professionally and personally.

Our paths crossed during one special project: the ICA Marathon in Colombo, where Asiri Health proudly partnered as the official medical sponsor. I had the opportunity to work closely with her during this event. From the outset, she was incredibly supportive, generous with her time, and filled with enthusiasm.

During one of our conversations, I casually shared my dream of organizing a free OPD medical service for children in orphanages. What was just a spark of an idea in my heart, she turned into a feasible vision. She gave me countless ways to bring that CSR project to life and motivated me with her unwavering belief in community impact.

Thanks to her guidance and support, the branding for the ICA Marathon made waves across Colombo. It became more than just an event—it became a powerful collaboration where people couldn't distinguish whether the credit belonged more to the Indian Cultural Association or to Asiri Health. That’s how strong the partnership became under her influence.

Unfortunately, just days before the launch of the CSR initiative we had so carefully prepared, I had to step away from Asiri under difficult circumstances—a story for another time. Even though I left suddenly, I knew the event would be a success. We had planned it down to the last detail, and I trusted the team.

What I never expected was what happened next.

After my departure, I went through one of the darkest times in my life. Battling depression, isolated from friends and colleagues, I found myself withdrawing completely. Rumors swirled, gossip spread, and my confidence shattered. I was under medication, barely functioning, and trying to disappear from the world.

And then, out of nowhere, came a message from Ms. Rochelle.

She didn’t ask what had happened or echo the questions others had. She simply prayed for me and sent me words of encouragement. Not once, not twice—but every single day. Her words weren’t official. They weren’t about the workplace. They were purely human. She reminded me:

"Nilanga, remember—you have a purpose to fulfill. Find it."

Those simple words, spoken with sincerity, changed my life.

I never asked her for a job back. She never gave me updates on official matters. But what she gave me was far more valuable—hope, strength, and a reason to keep going. Slowly, I began to rise. I explored new paths, built myself up again, and each time I reached a new milestone, she was the first person I wanted to share the news with.

She may think she didn’t do much. But to me, she gave me my life back. Her quiet strength, her genuine kindness, and her belief in people—even when the world turned away—make her one of the most remarkable individuals I’ve ever known.

Today, I am regaining my stability. I have a vision to transform Sri Lanka into a medical tourism hub within the next 10 years, and I’m walking that path with purpose. And in every step, I carry a piece of the strength Rochelle gave me.

To Ms. Rochelle Rodé de Silva—you were more than a colleague. You were a sister, a mentor, a friend, and in the darkest of times, a guiding angel. Wherever you are, I know you will be a blessing to everyone you work with.

Thank you for being the light I didn’t even know I needed.

Wishing you nothing but happiness and success ahead. I hope our paths cross again soon.