Sanjeewi Bandara, known as Zanji Aj, is a multi-talented Sri Lankan entrepreneur, fashion designer, model, and actress. Born in Gem Hill village, she overcame early hardships and used them as motivation to succeed. Initially studying Finance and working in banking, she faced repeated rejections in her career, which fueled her desire to explore more creative outlets.
In 2016, she founded Sansudi Fashion, initially designing party and bridal dresses for private clients. As her business grew, Zanji transitioned into modeling to showcase her designs, and by 2019, she began walking the runway. She later expanded into acting, appearing in TV commercials by 2020. Today, she is known for her authenticity and grace both on the runway and in front of the camera.
Zanji’s approach to her work is grounded in a commitment to storytelling, whether through design, modeling, or acting. She maintains a disciplined lifestyle, combining healthy habits with creative expression. Her entrepreneurial skills, honed through her banking background, also play a crucial role in managing her business, as she balances her creative vision with strategic planning. While managing multiple careers, she remains selective about the projects she takes on to maintain focus and balance.
Her journey is shaped by values of creativity, authenticity, and a desire to inspire others. Zanji believes success is about continuous growth and enjoying the journey, rather than reaching a destination. She advises aspiring models and entrepreneurs to stay true to their unique voice, take calculated risks, and continually learn and grow.
Her story highlights the power of discipline, self-belief, and an unwavering commitment to living life on her own terms, all while embracing multiple roles in a world that often asks women to choose just one.
Photo Credits: Ranga Edirisinghe Photography
About Modeling & Fashion:
Q: How did your journey in the fashion industry begin, and what inspired you to pursue modeling?
A: First, I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity, even though I still feel like just a speck of dust in the field. My journey began in 2016 with my business, where I designed and created party and wedding dresses. From there, I gradually stepped into modeling in 2019, which felt like a natural extension of my passion for fashion. What inspired me most was the chance to express creativity, connect with people, and grow through each new experience.”
I discovered a deep love for the industry and the creative process behind it. As a designer, I was immersed in the world of fashion. Naturally, I gravitated toward modeling as a way to showcase my own designs and connect with the industry on a personal level. Modeling allowed me to experience the fashion world from a different perspective. Over time, it became a way to express myself beyond the sketchpad and design room.
Q: What has been your most memorable photoshoot or runway experience, and why?
A: While I prefer photoshoots, especially bridal ones, due to the time flexibility, my most memorable runway experience was definitely my very first show. It was unforgettable because I was so new to the whole runway scene, and the combination of excitement and nervousness made it a rollercoaster experience. I had only done two runway shows, but that first one stands out because of the adrenaline and the newness of the experience.
Q: How do you prepare for shoots and fashion shows — mentally, physically, and creatively?
A: For photoshoots, especially bridal shoots, I focus a lot on getting into the right mindset to portray grace and elegance. Physically, I ensure I stay in good shape by following a regular exercise routine and maintaining a balanced diet. Mentally, I visualize the shoot beforehand, thinking about the angles, the look, and how I want to feel in front of the camera. For runway shows, since I haven’t done many, I rely heavily on rehearsals and take them step-by-step, focusing on my walk, posture, and confidence.
Q: Who are your fashion icons or mentors, and how have they influenced your style?
A: I admire both designers and models who blend creativity with authenticity. Someone like Coco Chanel, for instance, who managed to shape fashion on her terms, is a huge inspiration. In terms of mentors, my journey as a fashion designer and model has taught me that it’s not just about following trends but about creating a signature style. My mentors in the design space have influenced how I approach modeling—learning how to adapt, push boundaries, and stay true to myself.
Q: How do you balance personal style with trends and client requirements in your modeling career?
A: It’s important to stay true to my personal style, especially as a designer. However, I also understand that modeling often requires adapting to trends and the needs of clients. I try to find a middle ground by adding personal touches to my look, even when I’m working with someone else’s vision. Whether it’s a particular pose or a slight adjustment to the outfit, I believe that maintaining my own authenticity helps me stand out.
TV Commercials & Acting:
Q: How did you transition from modeling to acting in TV commercials, or did both paths run together?
A: The transition felt very natural for me because both modeling and acting share the core skill of knowing how to express emotion and connect with an audience. I’ve always been comfortable in front of the camera, so acting in commercials felt like natural progression. I love being versatile, and TVC work allows me to express different people, which is something I enjoy exploring.
Q: What challenges do you face when performing in front of the camera compared to the runway?
A: When it comes to TV commercials, the most significant difference is that the energy is more intimate and personal. It’s less about the runway’s dramatic walk and more about conveying a story through subtle expressions and gestures. It’s essential to capture the essence of a brand or product in just a few seconds, which requires a different type of focus than the necessary energy and timing on the runway.
Q: What motivated you to start your own business while managing your modeling and acting career?
A: As a fashion designer, I wanted to create something that reflected my personal style and vision. Owning a small business allows me not only to design but also to be in control of my creative direction. It’s challenging but rewarding, and I love the freedom it gives me to build something from the ground up, while still pursuing my other passions in modeling and acting.
Q: How do you balance creative work with the business side of entrepreneurship?
A: It’s all about time management and setting boundaries. While I’m deeply passionate about the creative side of design, I also understand that a business needs strategy and structure. I set aside specific times for business tasks—such as managing orders and marketing—while reserving other times for creative work. It’s a constant balancing act, but one that I’ve come to enjoy.
Q: Has your experience in the fashion or entertainment industry helped you in your business ventures? If so, how?
A: Yes, absolutely. The connections and insights I’ve gained through modeling and acting have been invaluable in my business. I understand the importance of branding, presentation, and the way products or services should be communicated to the public. My experience with visual storytelling as a model has also influenced how I approach the design and marketing of my business.
Q: What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a young entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
A: The biggest challenge has been finding the right balance between the creative and business aspects of my work. At times, it can be challenging to focus on the administrative side when I’m so passionate about the creative process. Overcoming this challenge has meant getting organized, setting clear goals, and outsourcing where necessary, so I can focus more on what I love.
Q: How do you see your brand/business evolving in the next 3–5 years?
A: In the next few years, I’d love to see my brand grow internationally, perhaps expanding into new markets and collaborating with other designers or influencers. I also plan to incorporate more sustainable practices into my designs, as eco-conscious fashion is a passion of mine.
Personal Insights & Advice:
Q: How do you manage time and energy across modeling, acting, and running a business?
A: I don’t take every single photoshoot that comes my way, because I don’t want to be super busy or lose focus. In my business, I wear many hats—I’m the owner, designer, marketer, administrator, and handle customer relations. That responsibility means I have to be very selective with outside work. I only accept projects that genuinely add value, whether in modeling or acting. In acting, too, I’ve taken only a few opportunities—both locally and internationally, mostly short side roles. I don’t say yes to every character or location if the travel or duration doesn’t suit me. This way, I can balance all three areas without being stuck in the middle and still enjoy what I do. “I also like to take my time to recharge, which helps me balance my energy and give my best in modeling, acting, and business
Q: What keeps you motivated during challenging times in any of your careers?
A: The love I have for what I do keeps me motivated. Whether it’s modeling, acting, or running my business, I’m passionate about the creative process and the ability to express myself in different ways. Also, knowing that I’m building something meaningful and growing personally keeps me focused during tough times.
Q: How do you define success across such diverse fields?
A: “I still feel like a baby in all these fields. My business began in 2016, followed by modeling in 2019 and acting in 2020. As a result, I’m still learning and growing every day. For me, success is not about reaching a destination—it’s about progress, gaining experiences, and enjoying the journey while improving step by step.”
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring models or entrepreneurs, what would it be?
A: Stay authentic and believe in your unique voice. There’s a lot of noise in the industry, but if you stay true to yourself, your passion will shine through. Don’t be afraid to take risks and always strive to learn and grow.
Q: Beyond achievements, what personal values or passions guide your journey in all three fields?
A: My journey is guided by creativity, authenticity, and the desire to inspire others. I believe in staying true to my vision and embracing the challenges that come with pursuing multiple passions. Whether I’m designing, modeling, acting, or running a business, I always aim to be kind, humble, and grateful for the opportunities I have.
Zanji Aj’s narrative is not one of instant success; instead, it is about taking planned steps, turning failures into lessons, and never giving up on believing in herself. From finance lecture rooms to making her first clothes, from audit reports to runway lights, from early rejections to international campaigns, every step of her journey has been based on discipline, courage, and vision.
I want to thank the people who gave me hardships, who tried to take advantage of me, and who spoke badly behind my back. They became my greatest teachers. They taught me how to survive, how to stand stronger, and how to truly understand people.
Sanjeewi Bandara (Zanji Aj)
Photo Credits: Pamudya Mestiyage
Zanji is still guided by the same qualities that have helped her achieve her goals since childhood: creativity, honesty, and a desire to inspire others. She is now looking forward to a growing business, new partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability.
Her story shows that you don’t have to fit into just one box. You may study finance, design dreams, be a face on a billboard, and still be yourself. The main point of the Zanji Aj narrative for readers is that you can construct a life and a career entirely on your own terms, regardless of where you start.
