Message from the Chief Guest Madam Shiranthi Rajapakse
I wish to thank Petronella Fernando for her dedication to the Sri Lankan culture, music and traditions although she lives away from Sri Lanka for many years.
I am aware that Petronella now serves the United Nations, New York in dedication to peace of all nations and still finds time for music within her busy life schedule. I trust that you will enjoy this evening of music titled 'Oba Nisa' presented by Petronella.
I extend my very best wishes for her continued success.
Message from the Guest of Honor Jayantha Dhanapala
It is a genuine pleasure to contribute this message in connection with Petronella Fernando's musical performance in Colombo this evening.
Petronella Fernando has been able to nature her extraordinary musical talents while pursuing a successful professional career in the United Nations and he duties as a wife and a mother. With her remarkable voice, her rich repertoire of Sinhala and English songs and her innovative lyrics Petronella has been a cultural ambassadress for Sri Lanka abroad representing Sri Lanka at many United Nations events and other international cultural shows.
I was especially impressed by Petronella's response to the Tsunami tragedy that Sri Lanka suffered in December 2004 when she composed a special song to raise donations for the relief and rehabilitation of her fellow citizens. Today's performance is major step in Petronella's promising musical career and I wish her all success.
