Harshi L. Hettige

Stories ground my work. Raised across the Philippines, the US, and Sri Lanka, I grew up surrounded by stories that sparked my creativity and commitment to global citizenship. My artist-and-teacher family taught me that intentional words and visuals can shape the way we understand the world.

With 15+ years of experience across Africa, Asia, Central America, the UK, and the US, I specialize in:

  • Strategic communications

  • Impact-driven branding & messaging

  • Narrative development & creative ideation

  • Project and team management

  • Collaboration & good vibes

I led the ONE Campaign’s Brand team for years, managing the creative vision and tone of high-profile, award-winning advocacy campaigns globally and locally. I prioritized intentional tone & visual direction and authentic storytelling to meet audiences where they are, leading to higher engagement and resonant content.

Since obtaining an MPA in International Public & Nonprofit Management & Policy from NYU’s Wagner School of Public Service in 2012, I have gained experience at large-scale advocacy organizations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, grassroots organizations in Sri Lanka and Guatemala, and fast-paced creative agencies.

Along the way, I’ve served as a manuscript editor, provided digital content direction for a podcast, published blogs, developed travel guides, and continued to write poetry and prose. I was selected as an Asia Foundation LankaCorps Fellow and I am on the Board of Directors for the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop in Washington DC, supporting equitable access to creative programming.

I believe the best ideas emerge through conversation, and my favorite work happens alongside teams where creativity, purpose, and joy coexist.

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