About me
Hello! I'm Thanne Kanuwegedara Gayan Asela Jayathilaka, but you can call me Gayan. Born and raised in the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka, I’ve always been drawn to the fascinating world of computer-aided designs and graphic design. From an early age, I found joy in unraveling the mysteries of both computer hardware and software. My journey began with a knack for assembling computers, installing operating systems, and troubleshooting issues with a determined self-reliance, often with a little help from the vast resources of the internet.
In 2010, I delved into the realm of Adobe Photoshop, sparking a lifelong passion that soon expanded to include Adobe Illustrator, Premiere Pro, After Effects, and InDesign. Through relentless self-study and practice, I honed my skills and began offering my services on platforms like Upwork (formerly oDesk) and Fiverr by 2014.
After completing my Advanced Level studies, I embraced photography and cinematography, continually refining my craft. A highlight of this journey was securing the Runner-up position at the 2017 Canon Photomarathon in Colombo, Sri Lanka. In 2015, I embarked on an academic pursuit, earning a BSc in Engineering from the South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, graduating with Second-class upper division honors in 2020. During my university years, I also immersed myself in architectural design, mastering tools like Adobe Revit and Autodesk AutoCAD, and established the university's media unit, Agni Edge.
In 2018, I expanded my Fiverr portfolio to include architectural design and visualization. To date, I have completed over 200 architectural projects and more than 100 graphic design projects, collaborating with clients worldwide. Post-graduation, I continued my freelance work and eventually became a full-time virtual employee for CNI Engineering in 2021. This role has allowed me to gain extensive experience in engineering, architecture, and graphic design.
At CNI Engineering, my responsibilities span from creating detailed engineering reports and marketing materials using InDesign to designing stunning architectural house models, Light Gauge Steel designs using Scottsdale software tools, and structural sheds. I also conduct solar PV system modeling, solar analysis, and energy simulations using point clouds. Being part of a dynamic startup, I've had the opportunity to wear multiple hats, adapting and growing with the company.
In 2021, I married my wonderful wife, who is pursuing an academic career. In 2024, we relocated to New Zealand for her PhD studies. Armed with a three-year working visa, I am now eager to bring my skills and expertise to the New Zealand community. With a passion for design and a wealth of experience, I am committed to delivering exceptional services and making a meaningful impact in this beautiful country.