Speakers - CRDWC 2025

Biography

I am an aspiring cancer researcher and innovator, currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences at York University Toronto Canada. I migrated to Canada in 2023 to pursue higher education and explore more opportunities in the biological research field. My scientific journey began as a teenager at the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where I conducted molecular biology research on cancer stem cells from 2017 to 2022. My work earned international recognition, including a gold medal for a research poster presentation and a bronze medal for a life science research project at the International Conference of Young Scientists. In 2024, I was selected to present my research at Western University’s Student Research Conference and the International Conference on Research in Science, Engineering, and Technology. Through my cancer research, I founded DragonCure, a biological startup developing an anti-cancer nutraceutical derived from dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus), specifically targeting chemo-resistant bCSCs. The formulation aims to offer a natural, effective alternative with fewer side effects than conventional chemotherapy. I am actively advancing my product through lab development at the Science Discovery Zone labs collaborating with Toronto Metropolitan University. Additionally, I am working with the Health Innovation Hub at the University of Toronto to further develop and scale my startup. Beyond my cancer research, I am passionate about child health research and eager to contribute to initiatives that promote pediatric well-being. With a vision to revolutionize cancer treatment through natural, science-driven solutions, I continue to push the boundaries of innovation in the field of cancer therapeutics.