23/01/2021
Hi there! My name is Promodha and I’m the founder/owner of PJ’s Café. You don’t usually see my face around here, but today marks one year since we launched, and I figured now is a good time as any to say hello. When I first began formulating the plans for the café, I knew it would be tough, but I had no idea just how difficult it would really be. The past year has been nothing short of crazy! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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When we opened, I was filled with excitement — I hoped to share with you some my favourite dishes and a different café experience. But, when COVID hit and the first lockdown followed, like most small businesses, we didn’t know what hit us. We struggled to pay our staff and our bills, but I listened to my heart and did everything possible to keep my business going.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We pulled through, albeit barely, but 2020 made me a stronger person — a fighter. I now know that I can face anything that comes at me in the future. And I’m willing to bet that this sentiment holds true for so many of you. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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PJ’s Café and I wouldn’t have gotten through 2020 without the help of so many people. Such heartfelt thanks to my amazing family and brother-in-law, Dharshan Munidasa, Nayana Ellepola, agath Kosmodara, Achala, Shihaam, Kitcha, Uncle Romesh, and Dinithi. Not forgetting all of you, my customers, particularly the Canagasabe family, Shimazie, Hasitha, Ms. Asha, Mr. Stephan, Mr. Jerome and his family. Much love. I would be amiss not to mention my mother — the source of my strength and inspiration. She entered the business world when I had to let go of most of my staff and didn’t have any support for sales. She took on the role of chef with our Sri Lankan food and avurudhu sweets, while one of my staff, Shahid (you were a lifesaver!), and I delivered.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
2021 will no doubt have its own set of challenges, but I can’t wait to share what we have in store. I hope you’ll stick around and come along for the ride as we take on a new year of endless possibilities!