By Zanita Careem
The Ambassador of the United States of America to Sri Lanka is extremely popular, and her extraordinary ability to lead Sri Lanka through difficult economic times has left an indelible mark on the minds of the people here.
During her tenure in Sri Lanka, she has not only represented the United States, but also demonstrated her commitment, compassion, and tremendous support for Sri Lanka to achieve prosperity and take its rightful place in the world.
Although some media reports say that American Ambassador Julie Chung will soon be leaving Sri Lanka, we expect her to remain in office as Ambassador until early next year.
Q: Your Excellency, could you share with us your career in diplomacy?
How did it all start and what brought you to Sri Lanka?
Ambassador Julie Chung: It’s an interesting journey. I originally wanted to be a journalist. I was involved in my high school and college newspapers and had a great passion for journalism. However, while I was in college, I came across an advertisement for a State Department scholarship program. The opportunity to travel abroad, serve my country, and connect with different cultures appealed to me, so I applied and was accepted. This led me to the Foreign Service, where I have had the privilege of representing the United States in various capacities.
Although I didn’t become a journalist, my work as a diplomat often reflects that role. I talk to people, observe and report on the situation in the countries I work in, and relay that information to Washington. Asia has been an important part of my career, and although Sri Lanka is my first posting in South Asia, it is an important country in the wider Indo-Pacific region. I am really pleased to be here.
Q: What were your first impressions of Sri Lanka? Did you feel an immediate connection?
Ambassador Julie Chung: Absolutely. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the beauty of the country. I remember walking through my garden surrounded by colorful birds and tropical plants that left a lasting impression on me. I wear a scarf today designed by local artist Darshana Wijesinghe that symbolizes the brightness and beauty of Sri Lanka. However, shortly after I arrived, Sri Lanka faced significant economic challenges and protests. Despite these hardships, the resilience of the people of Sri Lanka has been inspiring and gives me hope for the future of the country.
Q: What challenges and opportunities have you faced as a woman in the diplomatic field?
Ambassador Julie Chung: When I joined the State Department, there were few women in leadership positions, which made it difficult to find mentors.
Even today, only about 20% of U.S. ambassadorships are held by women, despite the gender balance in the diplomatic corps. This disparity underscores the challenges women face in advancing their careers, and I am committed to tackling this issue through mentoring and support.
It is encouraging that there is a strong female presence in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Sri Lanka. I particularly admire Foreign Minister Aruni Wijewardane, whose poise, strength and leadership are truly commendable.
However, around the world, female leaders still face double standards. They are often judged more harshly than their male counterparts, either for being too tough or too weak, and their appearance is scrutinized in ways that men are not.
Q: Do you think these are global challenges?
Ambassador Julie Chung: Yes, they are. Women in leadership positions face similar double standards around the world. In New Zealand, for example, the former Prime Minister was asked how she balanced her role with her family responsibilities – a question that is rarely if ever asked of men.
This problem is not limited to a particular region; it is a global challenge that requires continuous efforts to address.
Q: Can you tell us about some of your most significant achievements?
Ambassador Julie Chung: When I look back on my career, a few moments stand out. One was in Vietnam, where I helped build an American corner in Haiphong, a city that was heavily bombed during the war. Transforming a place of conflict into a place of learning and friendship was deeply rewarding. Another notable experience was in Colombia, where I supported a woman who had been rescued from the clutches of a terrorist group.
Comforting her and helping her process her trauma was a profoundly meaningful experience.
At the height of the economic crisis, our team at the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka worked tirelessly to support the country, from providing fertilizer to USAID to helping small businesses secure financing. Ultimately, diplomacy is about the human connections we make, and those are the accomplishments I value most.
Q: How have you dealt with the challenges and obstacles in your career?
Ambassador Julie Chung: Being the only woman or minority in a room can be daunting, and I have often struggled with my confidence and dealt with what is commonly referred to as “impostor syndrome.” There have been moments when people thought I was there to help rather than lead, which was disheartening. However, over time, I have learned to build my confidence and assert myself with knowledge and composure. Misinformation and personal attacks, including racist or sexist comments, have also been obstacles. However, I remain focused on maintaining my integrity and continuing to be proud of the work we do.
Admire the batiks of Jezima Mohamed in Matara
Q: You are often considered a fashion icon. How does that make you feel?
Ambassador Julie Chung: I would not call myself a fashion icon, but I enjoy promoting local designers and showcasing Sri Lankan talent.
I have purchased pieces from artisans like Sonali Dharmawardena, Darshi Keerthisena of Buddhi Batiks and Jezima Mohamed of Jez Looks Batik in Matara and I love supporting emerging designers like Hirushi Jayatilake. By wearing their creations I showcase the incredible talent here in Sri Lanka. I also love wearing saris, although I still need help getting dressed! Yes, like all women, I like fashion
Q: Who was the most inspiring woman in your life and why?
Ambassador Julie Chung: My mother has always been my biggest inspiration. She was a journalist in Korea, but after we immigrated to the United States, she had to start from scratch and started working as a dishwasher.
Despite these challenges, she learned English, continued her education, and became a librarian, where she dedicated herself to helping others. Her resilience, dedication to her family, and commitment to the community are qualities I deeply admire.
Loves diving
Q: How do you relax when you are not working?
Ambassador Julie Chung: I recently visited an Ayurvedic wellness centre which was incredibly restorative. I enjoy meditating, doing yoga and spending time in nature, which helps me maintain a balance between physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. Exercise is also important to me, whether it is walking or jogging in one of Colombo’s parks.
Reading is another passion of mine, a love instilled in me by my mother, a librarian.
Q: Are you also a music lover?
Ambassador Julie Chung: Yes, I have a wide range of musical tastes. I like classical music because I played the piano as a child, but I also like jazz, hip-hop and rap. During my time in New York City, I got to know many small jazz clubs that I still have fond memories of.
Q: How do you manage to balance all these activities with your demanding career?
Ambassador Julie Chung: It is challenging, especially with the many evening events that one has as a diplomat. There is no perfect balance, but I do my best to prioritize different aspects of my life as needed. While I don’t have a strict schedule, I try to maintain a mental balance.
Q: What are your favorite and least favorite Sri Lankan dishes?
Ambassador Julie Chung: I love Sri Lankan food, especially ‘lunu miris’ which I put on everything. I like all kinds of Sri Lankan cuisine, from egg hoppers to coconut roti. Watalappam is one of my favourite desserts and I have been lucky enough to try homemade versions made by my Muslim friends. There is so much more to explore and I am always excited to discover new dishes.
Q: What are some of your impressions of Sri Lanka?
Ambassador Julie Chung: From hiking Adam’s Peak and Horton Plains to diving into the depths of Hambantota to explore Asia’s oldest shipwreck, which is over 3,000 years old, I have been able to experience the rich cultural and natural beauty of this country. I am optimistic about Sri Lanka’s future and have been deeply touched by the resilience, pride and sense of humor of its people. During my time here, I look forward to delving even deeper into the unique aspects of Sri Lankan culture.
My Christian faith is a fundamental part of my personality and gives me strength and resilience in the face of challenges. I begin each day with a prayer, asking for blessings and guidance for Sri Lanka, its future and its people. This daily practice strengthens my core values and gives me stability.
Although my faith is very important to me, I have great respect for the religious diversity that exists in Sri Lanka. I have had the privilege of visiting mosques, cathedrals, Buddhist and Hindu temples, which has broadened my understanding and appreciation of different faiths. The opportunity to practice one’s faith openly and freely in this country is truly wonderful.
Being able to celebrate my faith not only reconnects me with my identity, but also makes me recognize the wonderful diversity that exists in Sri Lanka. It is this diversity, coupled with my own spiritual practice, that enriches my life and deepens my connection to the community around me.
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