Hilmy is a renowned expert in micro and small business development, particularly in the agriculture, rural, and women's SME sectors. With a national and international reputation, his vision is to create a favorable environment for economic growth, especially in rural areas, and to empower women in this key sector.
His interdisciplinary background in agribusiness management, agricultural economic development, education, and sustainable development equips him to work across a broad spectrum of development initiatives. He has successfully developed strategies, programs, and partnerships for governments, NGOs, and communities at both international and national levels.
Hilmy's recent achievement as Country Director of the USAID-funded IESC Implemented Farmer-to-Farmer Sri Lanka Program showcases his expertise in supporting Sri Lankan agribusinesses and financial service providers. His in-depth knowledge of the country's horticulture value chain, coupled with his focus on access to finance for women and youth, has enabled him to identify and address key challenges, policy gaps, and opportunities for service facilitation.
Since 2018, Hilmy has been deeply involved in Sri Lanka's agriculture and agribusiness sectors, working on various regional, sector-specific, and national-level programs. His experience as a technical service provider, post-program evaluator, and country director has provided him with valuable insights and skills.
His professional relationships with multinational and bilateral agencies, including ADB, USAID, USDA, GIZ, Democracy International, IESC, Tetra Tech, Palladium International, World Vision Lanka, and Land O' Lakes, have offered him the opportunity to contribute to their projects and assignments.
Hilmy has also been actively involved in the local civil society landscape. He has led and chaired the SIYB Association of Sri Lanka and other relevant entities. Additionally, he has served on the Project Advisory Committee of the SLIATE Higher National Diploma in Project Management program and has contributed to the development of SIYB modules and materials.