Dileepa Perera began her career as a banker in 2011. Both she and her husband were working full-time, and during the first three years of their daughter’s life, Dileepa’s parents looked after her. With long work hours, Dileepa often returned home late. During those moments, her daughter would become restless, and the grandparents showed her children’s videos to calm her.
Dileepa does not blame her parents, as they did their best. However, over time, she realised that she was missing the precious childhood moments of her daughter. She remembered how her own mother had always been present during her childhood and felt a strong desire to be the same kind of mother to her child.
This realisation led her to an important decision — choosing time with her daughter over earning a higher salary.
While continuing her banking job, Dileepa pursued a preschool diploma and trained as a teacher. In 2023, she stepped out in faith and left her banking career. Though her income reduced significantly, she did not feel discouraged. Within four months, she received an opportunity to work as a primary teacher at her daughter’s school, which allowed her to spend more time with her daughter.
Dileepa chose faith-based parenting by praying with her daughter and reading Bible verses together. During difficult moments, Isaiah 54:13 strengthened her faith:
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.”
Today, Dileepa continues her parenting journey with faith, presence, and purpose.
