From Colombo to Vegas: Sri Lankan talent shines at WCOPA
The World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) is known globally as the Olympics of performing arts, but Sri Lankans came to know of it more closely when Natharie Wickramasinghe, representing Team Sri Lanka at WCOPA 2026, in Las Vegas, earned a Bronze Medal in the Ethnic/Folklore Dance category. Behind Sri Lanka’s WCOPA journey is Sri […]
The World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) is a prestigious global event, akin to the Olympics, celebrating exceptional talent in performing arts. In 2026, Sri Lankan performer Natharie Wickramasinghe made history by clinching a Bronze Medal in the Ethnic/Folklore Dance category, representing Team Sri Lanka at the WCOPA in Las Vegas. This achievement is a testament to the tireless efforts of Sri Lanka-born Chris Rajendra, who has been instrumental in nurturing and promoting Sri Lankan talent internationally.
Chris emigrated to the United States in 2007 and has dedicated himself to the pageant and performing arts industry since 2002. His passion for discovering and promoting talent led him to introduce WCOPA to Sri Lanka in 2015, providing a much-needed international platform for Sri Lankan performers. Sachini Ayendra made history as the first Sri Lankan candidate to represent the nation at WCOPA in 2015, marking the inception of Team Sri Lanka's journey.
Chris has served in various leadership roles, including National Director for Team Sri Lanka from 2015 to 2018, and has recently returned to the position for the 2026-2027 term. This commitment to identifying, developing, and promoting Sri Lankan talent on a global stage has been a consistent theme throughout his career. His industry experience spans retail, insurance, financial services, and business development, with a clear focus on sales, marketing, leadership, and client relations.
Today, Chris Rajendra holds the position of Sales Executive at Hilton Grand Vacations. He is set to launch the application process for Team Sri Lanka 2027, offering another opportunity for talented Sri Lankan performers to represent their country on the global stage. The 2027 WCOPA will also take place in Las Vegas, USA, promising another thrilling display of Sri Lankan talent from July or August 2027.
Through his multifaceted career, Chris continues to combine his leadership skills, extensive network, and passion for talent development, providing a platform for Sri Lankan performers to showcase their abilities to the world.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
